Then, as soon as the sergeant had withdrawn, he added:
“Now, what can I do for you?”
“The question is, what can I do for you,” was the reply, in the unmistakable tones of Nick Carter, the great detective.
The inspector's face changed. He smiled broadly.
“Bless me!” he exclaimed. “Why did you assume a disguise in order to come here, Nick?”
“Oh, I happened to be rigged out when I received your message, so I came along just as I was.”
“Then you are busy now?”
“Yes.”
“I'm sorry that you are not free.”
“Why?”