The boy put down his book and eyed me steadily.

“He left this morning.”

“The president?”

“His secretary.”

“Suddenly, perhaps?” I said.

He slowly nodded his head several times, still gazing at me.

“How long have you been here?” I asked.

“Two weeks.”

“Do you care for it?”

Instead of answering he got up, took the name I had written on the pad, and disappeared through the door to the left. Almost at once he stood holding it open and beckoned me to enter.