A very unexpected and exasperating thing happened—comical too, after a fashion, especially after the event.
We were seated over our supper in the coffee-room of our hotel, when a scared-looking waiter informed us that both the English Herren were wanted downstairs.
"By whom?" we asked in some surprise.
"By the police," said the man; "should he invite them upstairs, or would we step below into the entrance hall?"
Jack and I looked at one another. What did this mean?
"We will come down," said Jack; and to the great hall below we descended. Here an astonishing spectacle greeted our eyes: a group of policemen in uniform; a man in civilian garb, presumably an interpreter; and—Mr. James Strong!
CHAPTER XXXVIII
ARRESTED
"Yes," observed Mr. Strong, upon our appearance, "these are the very men. Tell the police, Mr. Interpreter, that these persons have robbed me; the robbery was effected while en route from Russia; they are, I believe, in possession of a work of art belonging to myself; their luggage had better be searched."
I was absolutely speechless with surprise. This was certainly the most audacious act I had ever heard of. I did not know whether to be more furious or amused.