“Yes, of course,” came the answer shortly. “Well?”
“Oh nothing. Are you feeling better?”
“I don’t know what you mean.” This in restrained, quite unmistakable tones. “My headache’s gone, if that’s what you mean.”
“Ye-es,” said the Prime Minister, wondering what on earth to say. “Yes.... Oh it’s gone, has it?”
“Yes it has; I’ve told you that already.” Then after a pause, “Look here, I’m really very busy. I’ve got three men here about that absurd concession. You gave me a free hand, and I can’t wait. Hope I’m not rude. It’s really very kind to ask after my health. You’ll be in the House at twelve?” And the telephone suddenly rang off.
Dolly was in a stupor; he did what he always did, when things perplexed him: he sent for Edward.
“Edward,” he said, “that cracked Dissenter has got three men in his house and is talking about the oil concession to them! Oh lord!”
The Prime Minister was evidently frightened and troubled, but he did not seem less frightened and more troubled than the occasion warranted. He couldn’t make Repton out: there seemed to be another change.
Edward answered simply: “Why that makes three more who know,—that’s all.”
“Do get a taxi,” said the Prime Minister, “and see what you can do.” And he waited anxiously till Edward returned.