“Have you been kind enough to want me?”
“I really meant that you looked——” she made a large gesture.
“No, no—not fat,” Reggie protested. “Only genial. I expand in your presence.”
“Well—round,” said Miss Amber. “And my presence must be very bad for you.”
“No, not bad for me—only crushing.”
“Well, I did sometimes notice you were away. And I want you now. For a friend of mine. Will you help her?”
“When did I ever say No to you?”
“Bless you,” said Miss Amber. “It’s the Carwell case.”
“Oh, my prophetic soul,” Reggie groaned. “But what in wonder have you to do with the Carwell case?”
“I know Nan Nest. She’s the girl Mark Carwell is going to marry.”