"I grieve to say," he continued, "that there is but one upon whom our suspicions can now fall with any shadow of probability--one who is now absent, for I thought it well not to summon him to this council; and before naming him, I must recall to you, Elfwyn, and to you, Herstan, the solemn oath we have all three taken to disregard all appeals of natural affection, and to ascertain the truth, God being our helper."