"Did you think I had come from the Eye ?" He knew it was a vile pun, but it seemed exactly the sort of thing one says in a nightmare.
The inspector laughed, and passed on; then returned, looking rather searchingly at Ronnie.
Ronnie thought it well to explain further.

"As a matter of fact, my friend," he said, "I have come from Central Africa, where I have been sitting round camp-fires, in company with asps and cockatrices, and other interesting creatures.

I am writing a book about it--the best thing I have done yet." The inspector had read and enjoyed all Ronnie's books.

He smiled uneasily.

Asps and cockatrices sounded queer company.
"Won't you have a cup of coffee, sir, before going out into the fog ?" he suggested.
"Ah--good idea!" said Ronnie; and made his way to the refreshment room.
It was empty at this early hour, and quiet.