In a moment he heard that familiar young voice, with its exaggerated accent.
“This is Mr. Ellinger speaking.”
“Thomas!” cried the old gentleman.
The boy gave a sort of gasp. Then, with his unfailing genius for doing the wrong thing, he assumed an airy and offhand tone.
“Hello, Uncle James!” he said jauntily. “I didn’t know that you were back in town again.”
“See here!” shouted the old gentleman, in a tremendous voice. “Is it true—this abominable thing I saw in the papers? Is it you?”
“Yes,” replied Tommy.
“Yes?” repeated his uncle’s voice, incredulous. “Yes? You did a thing like that? Good God! Explain yourself, Thomas!”
“I can’t!” said Tommy.
There was a brief silence.