Then he left the counter and entered the back room. He dialed a number on the telephone.

Clyde Burke’s weary voice answered the call.

“Burbank,” said the attendant.

“Burke,” came the reply.

“Report. Where is V.?”

Burke’s voice was unintelligible for a moment. Then it became suddenly coherent. He poured out the story of Vincent’s pursuit of Rodney Paget.

“You’re hurt?” questioned Burbank tersely.

“Just out of the hospital — and they don’t know it,” came Burke’s reply.

“Can you get to the Metrolite Hotel?”

“Yes. I’m feeling better now.”