“But it isn’t all right, sir,” said the sergeant testily, and he gave his ear a scratch. “I don’t like giving up just for a check.”
Guest shivered.
“I’ve got as far as here, and I put it to you; the gentleman ought to have been in that thing, and he isn’t.”
“That’s plain enough,” said Guest hurriedly.
“Then where is he?”
“In the country, I suppose, collecting.”
“That’s your opinion, sir. P’r’aps your friend’ll speak. What do you say, sir?”
“Nothing,” said Stratton, with an effort.
“There is nothing to say,” said Guest sharply.
“Queer for this place to have all been screwed up—both, the door and the bath.”