Page:Bailey - Call Mr Fortune (Dutton, 1921).djvu/42

Rh all that. Sound scheme. Ve-ry sound scheme. Well, I expect you'll be glad to be rid of Leopold, what? I conceive I can put the fear of God into him now. Free hand, don't you know. Let's take him on."

It was announced to the Archduke Leopold that the Hon. Stanley Lomas of the Criminal Investigation Department desired to confer with him. The Archduke, who was drinking tea, was pleased to receive Mr. Lomas. He also received Reggie. "Dr. Fortune? You have something to tell me?"

"There is no change, sir."

"No change yet! And you gave me such hopes this morning. These are anxious hours, Mr. Lomas."

"I can imagine it, sir. But I hope to relieve some of your anxieties. I believe we shall discover who was responsible for last night's outrage."

"So! And so soon! But you are wonderful, you English police. You will sit down, Mr. Lomas." He looked at Reggie, whose lingering naturally surprised him. "Is there anything more, Dr. Fortune?"

"Dr. Fortune is part of my evidence, sir," said Lomas.

"Is it possible? But you interest me—you interest me exceedingly. Permit me one moment." He slid out of the room.

Lomas turned in his chair and lifted an eyebrow at Reggie, who was settling his tie before an old