‘I deeply regret it,’ said Merton, ‘though, for my purpose, it is the merest providence.’
‘What do you mean, sir?’
‘Your subordinate has doubtless told you all that I told him?’
The chief nodded.
‘Do you—I mean as an official—believe me?’
‘I would be glad of proof of your personal identity.’
‘That is easily given. You may know Mr. Lumley, the Professor of Toxicology in the University here?’
‘I have met him often on matters of our business.’
‘He is an old college friend of mine, and can remove any doubts you may entertain. His wife is a tall woman luckily,’ added Merton to himself, much to the chief’s bewilderment.
‘Mr. Lumley’s word would quite satisfy me,’ said the chief.