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HERE'S that taxi?" Titheredge demanded of Peters in the hall. The latter stood near the vestibule talking with two workmen, who, in overalls and with their tool-kits slung over their arms, turned lowering faces toward him.

"Taxi, sir?" Peters started in surprise and then opening the door he peered out. "Just drawing up at the curb, sir. Now then, you two, move one side there and let the gentleman pass."

"Who are these men?" Titheredge paused.

Peters hesitated for a moment and seemed to turn a shade more pale.

"They say they were sent for to do a bit of carpentering, sir, but I tell them there must have been some mistake; they've got the wrong address I imagine, sir,"

"Nothin' doin'!" The burlier of the two men stepped forward determinedly. "Someone telephoned to the boss yesterday to send a couple of us up here at half-past seven sharp this morning to hang a big picture; said it would have to be spiked to the wall. We're paid for our time."

The attorney turned and looked searchingly at the cowering butler before addressing the truculent workman.

"There's no mistake; but the work can't be done now. 23