'About going down there to-morrow morning——' he began.
'Young man,' Mr. Hurn interrupted impressively, 'you've done your best for me and it's only right you should have your reward. You may accompany me to this place, wherever it is.'
Lavendale laughed softly, a laugh which his companion absolutely failed to understand.
'All right,' he agreed, 'I'll take you down in my car. I'll be at the hotel at nine o'clock.'
'At five minutes to ten, if the General is punctual,' Mr. Hurn promised, 'you shall see the most wonderful sight you have ever witnessed in your life.'
II
Punctually at nine o'clock on the following morning, Lavendale brought his car to a standstill before the front door of the Milan Hotel. Mr. Hurn, looking, if possible, shabbier and more insignificant than ever, was waiting under the portico. He clambered at once to the seat by Lavendale's side.
'Haven't you any apparatus to bring, or anything?' the latter inquired.
Mr. Hurn smiled.
'Not a darned thing!'