"A middle-aged man with the upper button of his waistcoat off?" she asked sharply.
"I—I can't say as to the button."
"I am expecting one of my lawyers. It must be he. He was to have a button off."
"I'll look him over again," said Poopendyke.
"Do. And be careful not to let the Count catch a glimpse of him. That would be fatal."
"No danger of that. He went at once to old Conrad's room."
"Good! I had a note from him this morning, Mr. Smart. He is Mr. Bangs of London."
"May I inquire, Countess, how you manage to have letters delivered to you here? Isn't it extremely dangerous to have them go through the mails?"
"They are all directed to the Schmicks," she explained.
"They are passed on to me. Now go and see the Count. Don't lend him any money."