Page:Fletcher - The Mortover Grange Affair.pdf/275

 He was looking round for Levigne. So, too, were Curtoise and the barrister, both obviously annoyed and embarrassed. Presently, on the case being called, the barrister rose, his voice full of mournful apology and explained that he was in a difficulty; certain absolutely necessary papers which were to have been brought up from Derbyshire last night had not arrived, though it was possible indeed, fully expected—that the person who was bringing them might arrive at any moment. If his lordship would be so indulgent as to

"Better take the next case and defer your application until this afternoon," interrupted the judge.

"If your lordship pleases!" murmured the barrister, and sinking into his seat, turned a reproachfully expectant eye on the door. Wedgwood's eye followed his, but he saw no sign of Levigne, and presently he made his way to Curtoise's side in the well of the court.

"Was it Levigne who was to bring up those papers from Derbyshire?" he asked, under cover of the beginning of the next case.

"Yes!" replied Curtoise. "He should have been at my office with them first thing this morning."

"Papers relating to the colliery?" persisted Wedgwood.