Ledsam," he said, after a brief pause, "I have given you
almost carte blanche to explore my domains here. Concerning the
launch, however, I think that you had better ask no questions at
present."
"You are using it to-night?" Francis persisted.
"Will you come and see, my venturesome guest?"
"With great pleasure," was the prompt reply.
Sir Timothy glanced at his watch.
"That," he said, "is one of the matters of which we will speak at
a quarter to twelve. Meanwhile, let me show you something. It
may amuse you as it has done me."
The three moved back towards one of the arched openings which led
into the ballroom.
"Observe, if you please," their host continued, "the third couple
who pass us. The girl is wearing green--the very little that she
does wear. Watch the man, and see if he reminds you of any one."
Francis did as he was bidden. The girl was a well-known member
of the chorus of one of the principal musical comedies, and she
seemed to be thoroughly enjoying both the dance and her partner.
The latter appeared to be of a somewhat ordinary type, sallow,
with rather puffy cheeks, and eyes almost unnaturally dark. He
danced vigorously and he talked all the time. Something about
him was vaguely familiar to Francis, but he failed to place him.
"Notwithstanding all my precautions," Sir Timothy continued,
"there, fondly believing himself to be unnoticed, is an emissary
of Scotland Yard.
Pages:
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274
275
276
277
278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289