Page:Richard Marsh--The goddess a demon.djvu/91

Rh not breathe a word of it to any other living soul. You will go straight home, and you will say nothing to any one; and you will know nothing either."

"But—but where is Mr. Philip, sir?"

"What business is that of yours? I take it that he is free to regulate his movements without consulting you. Whatever concern you may feel, you will not allow a hint of it to escape you—that is, if you have your master's interests at heart!"

There came an imperious rapping at the door.

"Who's there?"

"It's I—Inspector Symonds, of the Criminal Investigation Department. Be so good, Mr. Ferguson, as to open the door."

"There, Morley, is some one who will be glad to listen to what you have been telling me, but if you have the least regard for your master's reputation, not to mention his neck, you will see him further first. You're not forced to speak a word unless you choose; I shouldn't choose; and here's something to help you not to choose."

I handed him a wine-glass full of brandy. He swallowed it so fast that it set him coughing. There came the knocking at the door again.

"Open this door, Mr. Ferguson!"

"With pleasure. You seem to be in a hurry, sir. Possibly you are not aware that these rooms