Is it against the law to use a telescope in Portsmouth ?" The man made a few notes in his pocket-book.

Then he opened the trapdoor and stood on one side.
"No one is allowed out here, sir," he said.

"The hotel people are to blame for not having the door locked.

I shall have to make a report but I have no doubt that your explanation will be accepted.

Will you be so good as to descend, please ?" Granet struggled to his feet and turned towards his companions.
"The fellow's quite right," he decided.