"Your Majesty was missed by us four hours ago. That is what brought me here."
"You come from the palace?"
"Yes, sir. As head of the special department, I have to be there every night."
"I'm sorry to have given you so much trouble."
"Oh, not at all, sir."
And then, a cab having been summoned, he led the way out.
No one was by; the street had not a soul in it, and the King knew that once more foresight and care were watching over him.
"I have paid the cabman, sir," said the inspector, as he closed the door. "And, sir, would you kindly say where he is to go?"
There was a hint of discretion in the man's tone.
"Ah, yes," said the King, "to be sure—yes. Tell him to stop at the park gates."