'Know any one there?'
'Yes, I know a good many soldiers who have jobs there just now.'
'Then I guess you can help by saving me time. Do you happen to be acquainted with any one in the Ordnance Department?'
Lavendale reflected for a moment.
'Yes, I know a man there,' he admitted. 'It's just as well to warn you, though, that they're absolutely fed up with trying new shells and powder.'
The little man smiled—a queer, reflective smile, filled with some quality of self-appreciation which seemed at once to lift him above the whole world of crazy inventors.
'Your friend there now,' he asked, 'or will he be taking his British two hours for lunch?'
'He never leaves the building after he gets there in the morning,' Lavendale replied.
Mr. Daniel H. Hurn signed his bill and laid down an insignificant tip.
'You through with your luncheon?' he inquired. 'Right! Then what about taking me along and letting me have a word with your friend?'