This seemed a little strange, and Mr.Winslow, with a slightly anxious look in his face, went into the inner office in order to consult his junior partner.

Mr.
Vassall offered to go round to the hotel and interview Mr.Pettitt.
"'I was beginning to get anxious myself,' he said, 'but did not quite like to say so.

I have been in over half an hour, hoping every moment that you would come in, and that perhaps you could give me some reassuring news.

I thought that perhaps you had met Mr.Schwarz, and were coming back together.' "However, Mr.Vassall walked round to the hotel and interviewed the hall porter.

The latter perfectly well remembered Mr.Schwarz sending in his card to Prince Semionicz.
"'At what time was that ?' asked Mr.Vassall.
"'About ten minutes past three, sir, when he came; it was about an hour later when he left.' "'When he left ?' gasped, more than said, Mr.Vassall.
"'Yes, sir.