Pagina 36 de 657

"This is a very unexpected turn of affairs," said I; "and what

then?"

"Well, I found my plans very seriously menaced. It looked as if

the pair might take an immediate departure, and so necessitate

very prompt and energetic measures on my part. At the church

door, however, they separated, he driving back to the Temple, and

she to her own house. 'I shall drive out in the park at five as

usual,' she said as she left him. I heard no more. They drove

away in different directions, and I went off to make my own

arrangements."

"Which are?"

"Some cold beef and a glass of beer," he answered, ringing the

bell. "I have been too busy to think of food, and I am likely to

be busier still this evening. By the way, Doctor, I shall want

your co-operation."

"I shall be delighted."

"You don't mind breaking the law?"

"Not in the least."

"Nor running a chance of arrest?"

"Not in a good cause."

"Oh, the cause is excellent!"

"Then I am your man."

"I was sure that I might rely on you."

"But what is it you wish?"