Hunterleys became at once thoughtful. The whole matter was becoming clear to him.
"I see," he observed. "This is a warning to me to take my departure. Is that so?"
The Commissioner beamed and nodded many times.
"You have a quick understanding, Sir Henry," he declared. "Your departure to-night, or early to-morrow morning, would save a good deal of unpleasantness. I have fulfilled my mission, and I trust that you will reflect seriously upon the matter. It is the wish of the high personage whom I represent, that no inconvenience whatever should befall so distinguished a visitor to the Principality. Good day, monsieur!"
The official took his leave with a sweep of the hat and many bows. Hunterleys, after a brief hesitation, walked out into the sun-dappled street. It was the most fashionable hour of the afternoon. Up in the square a band was playing. Outside, two or three smart automobiles were discharging their freight of wonderfully-dressed women and debonair men from the villas outside. Suddenly a hand fell upon his arm. It was Richard Lane who greeted him.
"Say, where are you off to, Sir Henry?" he inquired.
Hunterleys laughed a little shortly.
"Really, I scarcely know," he replied. "Back to London, if I am wise, I suppose."
"Come into the Club," Richard begged.
"I have just left," Hunterleys told him. "Besides, I hate the place."