He looked up in surprise.
"I can't manage sooner," he said, defending himself. "You know I don't waste time."
He was still off the scent; and even she herself was only now, for the first time and as yet dimly, realising her own mind.
"I have to do everything myself," he said. "Dear old Carlin can't walk a step alone, and the Board"—he paused, remembering that Harry Dennison was on the Board—"well, I find it hard to make them move as quick as I want. I had to fix a date, and I fixed the earliest I could be absolutely sure of."
"Why don't they help you more?" she burst out indignantly.
"Oh, I don't want help."
"Yes, but I helped you!" she exclaimed, leaning forward, full again of animation.
"I can't deny it," he laughed. "You did indeed."
"Yes," she said, and became again silent.
"Apropos," said he. "I want to bring someone to see you this afternoon—Baron von Geltschmidt."