“Morning, sir. You had my card, I see. I’ve called about the attempt made here the other night.”
“Attempt?”
“Yes, sir; the burglary.”
“How did you know there was an attempt?”
“Oh, we get to know a little, sir. We’re a body of incompetent men that every one abuses, but we find out a few things a year.”
“You heard of this, then?”
“Yes, sir, and we were a bit surprised that you didn’t communicate with us. Seems strange, sir.”
“Strange, yes, my man, but have we not had horrors enough?”
“Yes, sir, but—”
“Well,” said Mr Girtle impatiently, “you have heard of it, then? What do you wish to do?”