Felix stared at his companion open-mouthed.
‘By Jove!’ he said. ‘You amaze me. How in thunder did you get on my track?’
Burnley smiled.
‘It is our business to know these things,’ he answered, ‘I knew all about how you got the cask away from the docks also.’
‘Well, thank Heaven! I told you the truth.’
‘It was the wise thing, Mr. Felix. I was able to check your statements as you went along, and I may say I felt really glad when I heard you were going to be straight. At the same time, sir, you will realise that my orders prevent me being satisfied until I have seen the contents of the cask.’
‘You cannot be more anxious to recover it than I am, for I want my money.’
‘Naturally,’ said Burnley, ‘but before we discuss the matter excuse me a moment. I want to give my fellows some instructions.’
He went out and called the men together. Sergeant Hastings and Constable Walker he retained, the rest he sent home in the car with instructions to return at eight o’clock in the morning. To Broughton he bade ‘Good-night,’ thanking him for his presence and help.
When he re-entered the study Felix made up the fire and drew forward the whisky and cigars.