"Excuse me," the host said, and opened it.
Caw caught sight of the key in the box, forgot his manners, and leapt forward, laying his hand on the lid.
And Alan went white as death. "Turn the key, Caw," he said hoarsely, "and take it away." Partially recovering himself, he apologised to the girl. "It was too rude of me, but something reminded me that I should be betraying a trust by opening the box now. Please try to forgive me."
She was very kind about it, for there was no mistaking his distress.
Presently she and the doctor departed. Alan dropped into a chair and handed the message to the wondering Teddy.
"Read it aloud. Listen Caw."
Teddy read:—
"Handed in at Fenchurch Street, 11:20 a. m. Alan Craig, Grey House, Loch
Long. For life's sake don't ever try to open Green Box—Friend."
CHAPTER XXI
In the train, nearing London, Alan and Teddy yawned simultaneously, caught each other's eye, and grinned.