He expected no important revelation from this point, as Natalie could not have returned home, yet there might have been a telephone communication, or some other occurrence of interest to furnish a clue.

Sexton was instructed to report the result of his investigation at the earliest moment possible.

This accomplished, nothing remained for West to do, but sit down and wait for something else to happen.
The delay was shorter than he anticipated.

There was a sharp ringing of the bell, the police operator responding quickly.
"Police Headquarters.

What's wanted?
McAdams; no he is not in just now.