The Crooked House

Copyright, 1921, by
EDWARD J. CLODE
PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A Strange Riddle
Monsieur Tranter! A moment!
The Right-Honorable John Tranter swung round, latch-key in hand. Behind him, an enormous figure emerged, with surprisingly agile and noiseless steps, from the shadow of the adjoining house—a figure almost grotesque and monstrous in the dim light of the street lamp. The very hugeness of the apparition was so disconcerting that John Tranter drew back with a startled exclamation.
Good Lord! Monsieur Dupont? You in London?
Monsieur Dupont described circles with his country's largest silk hat.
I in London! An event, my friend, in the history of your city!
He laughed softly, and replaced the hat on his head. They shook hands warmly.
This is a delightful surprise, Tranter said, turning back to the door. Come in.