The operator hesitated.
"That is to say, if there is no rule in your office to forbid it," added the duke.
"There is no rule to prevent it, your grace. My time is up, and I was about to go home to supper, that was all. I will send your grace's message, if you please," the operator explained, as he took his seat again.
The duke hastily dashed off the following message:
Lone, N.B., October 31st, 6 P.M.
To J.A. Setter, Police Station, Old Church Court, Kensington, London: Shall leave for London by this midnight express-train. Is she quite well? Answer immediately. Hereward.
The operator took the message with a bow. The click of the instrument was soon heard, as the message, with the speed of light, flew on its errand.
"Will you remain here until I can receive an answer?" inquired the duke, as soon as the sound ceased.
"I should be happy to accommodate your grace; but if there should be no answer, say up to twelve o'clock?" suggested the young man.
"In that case I should not ask you to remain; as you must know by my telegram that I am to take the train for London at that hour."