He had hardly been gone five minutes when the police-car arrived, and the inspector got out. He was shown into the dining-room at once.
"I'm afraid I'm a bit late," he said. "I got detained. Now, what are the plans, inspector? We're all of us pretty well in your hands."
"It'll have to be to-night," Michael said. "Can you manage it?"
"Yes, I've arranged for the Flying Squad from Norchester to be here. That's all right," the inspector answered. "I take it we've got to try and find this other entrance?"
"We're only waiting for you, to start," Michael answered. He looked inquiringly at Peter- and Charles. "Are you game to come and help us?"
"Not only game to, but all bursting with enthusiasm," Charles said. "You don't mind, do you, Celia?"
"Not if Mr. Draycott is going to be with you," she said. "If anyone else comes to inquire, what shall I tell them?"
Charles repeated what he had said to the Colonel. "And I think Margaret ought to retire to her room," he added. "If anyone happened to look in at the window and see her the game would be up."
"All right," Margaret agreed. "I'll stay upstairs till you get back. You'll return here, won't you, Michael?"
"Yes, if I may," he said. "Sorry you've got such a dull morning ahead of you, but it'll be all over by to-night."