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 stimulate that interest into anxiety until he was better informed.

He pursued the subject apologetically as soon as he was in the cab with his nephew.

“Sorry I made you bolt your food,” he said. “I hate lying to women if it can be avoided. The Shermans, who are staying with me, know Beaumanoir—traveled in the same ship with him. It would have excited remark to mention our destination.”

Forsyth, who had experience of his uncle’s methods, perceived that he was being pumped, and he had no objection. Having summoned this wily man-hunter to his assistance, he was not foolish enough to expect results without full disclosure.

“I understand your reluctance to disturb the Shermans,” he replied. “Beaumanoir has spoken several times about them—in fact, he seemed rather unduly excited when he first heard from me that they were at your house. I have thought that he might be épris of Leonie, though, as I have not seen them together, I can form no opinion whether the attraction is mutual.”

The General, having acquired his information, relapsed into silence, which was only