“Not at home.”
“Oh, I think so. Dr. Jerdan will see me.”
“Don’t see anyone but by appointment.”
“Dr. Jerdan will see me. Go and tell him so.” The door was shut in his face. After a moment or two he began knocking again. It was made plain to all the Chatham Park Road that something was happening at the Ferns and here and there a curtain fluttered.
Superintendent Bell got out of the car. “You stay here, son,” he said. “Don’t stop the engine.”
But before he reached the house, the door was opened and Reggie Fortune saw a sleek man who smiled with all his teeth. “So sorry you have been waiting,” he purred. “I am Dr. Jerdan’s secretary. What can I do for you?”
“Dr. Jerdan will see me.”
“Oh, no, I’m afraid not. Dr. Jerdan’s not at home.”
“Why say so?” said Reggie wearily. “Dr. Jerdan, please.”
“You had better tell me your business, sir.”