He was on his way to the pantry to dismiss François to his home when the bell sounded. He stopped François with a gesture.
XII
"Don't open the door for a minute," he said in a low voice. "Evie, will you come tomorrow night—no not tomorrow. Today is Monday, come on Friday."
"Yes, dear." She was glad to escape.
"Through there," he pointed. "François, let mademoiselle out by the pantry door after you have answered the bell."
Who was the visitor? People did not call upon him except by invitation—except Steppe. And Jan Steppe came slowly and suspiciously into the hall. Ronnie scarcely noticed the doctor who followed him.
"Why were you keeping me waiting?" he growled.
"François could not have heard the bell," answered Ronnie easily.
"That's a lie." He looked round the room and sniffed. "You had a woman here, as usual, I suppose?"