‘Do you mean Mr. Vassilo Ivanoff?’
‘Of course I do. Why have you kept me so long at the door?’
‘I came immediately, sir,’ answered the frightened servant.
‘Very well. Now, is your master in?’
‘Yes.’
‘Take me to him, then.’
‘He is dining with some friends.’
‘Blazes and thunder!’ roared the official; ‘what do I care whether he is dining with friends or whether he isn’t? Conduct me to him. Men, follow me.’
The now speechless servant led the way to the dining-room, and close at her heels were the Judge and his men. As the intruders thus unceremoniously entered, Vassilo jumped to his feet, and his wife uttered a little cry of alarm, while the visitors looked aghast, for the presence of the Judge and the police with drawn swords was ominous.
‘Sorry to disturb you,’ growled the Judge gruffly.