There was nothing but ironical self-possession in the glance which took in the figures of Detective Barrant and Inspector Dawfield, revealed on the threshold of the opening door.
Barrant lost no time in coming to the point.

"I want to see your son," he said, entering and glancing quickly round the apartment.
"I am afraid that is impossible." "Why ?" "He is not here." "Where is he ?" "I think he has gone to London." Barrant was plainly taken aback at this unexpected piece of news.

"When did he go ?" he demanded.
"Yesterday evening." Barrant cast a look at Dawfield, which said plainly: "He's had word of this and bolted." His glance returned to Austin.

"Can you tell me where he is staying in London ?" "I have not the least idea," returned Austin negligently.
"Does he not live with you ?" "As a rule--yes." "What is your London address ?" Austin took a card from his case and laid it on the table.

Barrant picked it up, glanced at it, and said: "Is your son likely to be there ?" "He may be, but he said nothing to me about going there.