"Well, if nothing else will satisfy you; but I hope I may change my dress?"
"I have no objection to that, only you must submit to my presence meanwhile."
"No apologies, Herr Müller, between men! Will you be so good?"
And he led the way, the officer following on his steps. In the library, which opened out of the billiard-room, an assistant officer was waiting, who now joined them.
"You are very cautious, Herr Müller," said Philip over his shoulder,
"My duty, Herr Schmidt!"
He touched Philip's arm, and said in a low voice, "If you will give me your word of honour to make no attempt at escape, which would moreover be quite fruitless, I can"--and the inspector made a sign over his shoulder--"spare you at least this escort."
"No attempt at escape!" said Philip laughing; "oh! Herr Müller, I can think of nothing else. I would vanish through the floor or the walls if I only could."
The officer could not help smiling.
"Go back into the vestibule again, Ortmann," he said.