Page:The Whisper on the Stair by Lyon Mearson (1924).djvu/110

 He jumped in. “Hustle,” he shouted. The car turned the corner on two wheels and nearly ran down a traffic policeman. It was out of sight before the policeman had a chance to reach into his pocket and pull out a summons.

“Well, I might be needin’ it fer somewan else,” muttered the guardian of the city’s traffic. He kept it out where he could get to it again quickly in case it was necessary.

“I’m going to burgle a little to-night, Eddie, “ [sic]announced Val. He was sitting with the driver, in front. Eddie looked at him impassively. Nothing that his amazing employer said to him startled him. He could have announced that he was going to work and it would scarcely have shocked the callous, impervious Eddie.

“That’s not included in your contract, Eddie, so you can stay in the apartment and keep the home fires burning until I get back,” he continued. “Not that I don’t think the exercise wouldn’t do you some good. A little night work, such as I propose⸺”

“Beggin’ your pardon, sir, but I decline to stay home,” interrupted Eddie. “If you think that I’m going to slave my life away for you and then, when there is a chance for a little recreation, be left at home like a cook, why⸺”

“You’re waxing impertinent, Edward,” said Val severely. “I really ought to discharge you. Your recommendations said nothing about your being a good burglar. How do I know that you’re any good at the job—this is something that requires experience. You can get a good chauffeur or valet anywhere, but where can you get an efficient burglar Eddie, have you ever burgled?”

“No, sir,” replied Eddie. “But I’m willing to learn.”