“Are you addressing me, sir?” said the prisoner haughtily.
“Won’t do, Dale; the game’s up,” said the inspector, smiling. Then to Sir Mark:
“I am sorry for you, sir, but this is no case for bail.”
“But I will be his security for any amount,” cried Sir Mark, who crushed down the belief that he had been deceived.
“Yes, of course, of course,” cried the prisoner.
“No good, Mr Dale. You can renew the application to the magistrate,” said the inspector.
He made a sign, and after a furious burst of protestations the prisoner gave up.
“Communicate with Garner of Ely Place at once for me, Sir Mark,” he said at parting. “It will be all right. Comfort Myra, and tell her it’s an absurd mistake,” he continued as Guest was looking at a letter the detective officer held for his perusal; and then he turned indignantly as Barron held out his hand.
Sir Mark was about to take it when Guest struck the hand down.
“How dare you?” began the prisoner.