“Of course it is. But it’s the sort of foolishness I’ve been aching for all my life. I knew something was going to happen. I broke my hand mirror night before last. Two times seven years’ bad luck. Now he has me, I’ll wager he’s half frightened out of his wits. But what made you think of the yacht?”
“We forced the door of your room, and I found the note. Has he told you what makes those infernal beads so precious?”
“No. I can’t figure that out.”
“No more can I. Did he threaten you?”
“Yes. Would I enter the launch peacefully, or would he have to carry me? I didn’t want my gown spoiled—it’s the only decent one I have. I’m not afraid. It isn’t as though he were a stranger. Being your father, he would never 94 stoop to any indignity. But he’ll find he has caught a tartar. I had an idea you’d find me.”
“Well, I have. But you won’t get to Hong-Kong. The minute he liberates me I’ll sneak into the wireless room and bring the destroyers. I didn’t notify the police from a bit of foolish sentiment. I didn’t quite want you mixed up in the story. I had your things conveyed to the consulate.”
“My story—which few men would believe. I’ve thought of that. Are you smoking?”
“Smoking, with my hands tied behind my back? Not so you’d notice it.”
“I smell tobacco smoke—a good cigar, too.”
“Then someone is in the passage listening.”