Mr. Howell entered and shook my hand in his free-and-easy English manner.
"Glad to see you."
"Welcome back again."
He had quickly mastered Norwegian, and we always talked together in that language.
"I was just writing a note to you, Mr. Howell, to request the favour of an interview with you; you have forestalled me, perhaps for the same purpose."
"I—suppose so," answered the Englishman, hesitating. "I should like to say a few words to you in confidence, with regard to the robbery at Mr. Frick's."
He looked round as if to assure himself that we were alone.
"You can speak freely: we are alone; I was wishing to ask you a few questions about this same matter. You were, of course, in the house on the day, right up to seven o'clock."
"Quite right; but tell me, Mr. Monk, shall I be called as a witness in this case?"
"When the case comes before the court, there is every probability that you will be called to give testimony."