“I must telephone,” she said suddenly, stopping as if to turn back into the building. “Father will be very anxious.”
“The booths in the building must be closed,” he said. “We’d better try a drug store.”
Accordingly they made their way to the nearest, and the girl went to the booth. The door was shut for a long time.
While he was waiting, Orme glanced through the brilliant window. In the light of an electric lamp across the street he discerned faintly a motionless figure; without hesitation he crossed the pavement, recognizing Alcatrante more clearly as he left the dazzle of the store.
The minister did not budge. His face, as Orme approached, was cold and expressionless.
“Senhor,” exclaimed Orme, “does your trade include murder?”
“Not at all. Why do you ask, Mr. Orme?”
“Because only a lucky intervention has saved you from the murder of a young lady and myself.”
“You are exaggerating, my dear sir.” Alcatrante laughed.