When they passed the gardens they came to Sun Court; and as they paused before a stately mansion, Ezra said:
“But why here? Surely my grandfather has nothing to do with this business.”
Pennington laughed.
“Don’t be too sure of that. He is a man much desirous of the government’s advancement, and he does not hesitate to use whatever means he can to serve that purpose.”
The speaker ascended the steps and gave a sharp rat-tat-tat upon the heavy knocker; then he turned and looked down at the boy, who remained upon the brick walk.
“Another thing,” said he. “You will find him a man not easily satisfied.”
“I know that,” replied Ezra.
“Your explanation as to how you came to part with Abdallah’s dispatch will have to be very much more complete than the one you gave me,” said Pennington, rubbing his hands together in a satisfied way. “He will not tolerate evasion of any sort, especially in the presence of those whom he is entertaining to-night.”
“He has guests, then?” said the boy.
Before Pennington could reply, the door opened. A grave servant stepped aside in the brightly-lighted hallway, and they entered. And as the door closed behind them, from a room to the left of a hall came a great voice roaring: