"The change is more apparent than real," he said. Then, as if the subject were dismissed, he turned the conversation abruptly. "I believe you wished to see me."
The attempt to put me in the position of seeking him, instead of being the one sought, irritated me more than the rude reception I had met on my arrival.
"I came," I said sharply, "because I had reason to suppose that you had something to say to me."
"I?" said Big Sam in polite surprise.
"Yes. I have just received two hundred and fifty dollars on the order you gave me the other day, and, for one thing, I'd like to know what to do with it."
"On an order from me?" inquired Big Sam suavely.
There was only the blank "no-sabby" mask of China on his face.
"Yes," I replied shortly. "It you've forgotten our interview in Peter Bolton's office, maybe this will remind you." And I laid before him the sheet of paper I had received from Kwan Luey.
Big Sam glanced at it, and I thought I saw behind the veil of his eyes the shadow of a frown. But if it was there, it was gone in an instant, and he replied blandly:
"Ah, you have proved fortunate in the lottery, then."