Scudder passed him with a single flashing look, and Murray went on across the street, where he imparted to Bill Hobbs what had happened. They were still debating the matter, when the doorway was darkened—and Murray looked up to see Claire Lee.
She had already met Bill Hobbs, and had displayed much interest in his activities. But now she responded to Willyum's greeting with only a faint smile, and turned to Murray a gaze that was distinctly troubled.
"Doctor Murray," she said, a trace of color in her cheeks, "will you take me up to Morongo Valley in your car—right away?"
Murray was taken aback by this flat request.
"I—why, Miss Lee, what do you mean? Your father can't travel yet——"
"It's not a question of my father," she said, biting her lip. "Here is a note that he asked me to hand you——"
She extended a paper, which the astounded Murray took and opened. The note was brief:
My dear Doctor Murray:
Please do as Claire says—and don't delay or ask questions.
TOM LEE.