“Ah, Vernet, good morning,” said his affable chieftain. “Are you ready for a bit of business?”
“Certainly, sir.”
“I don’t think it will be anything very deep, but the young fellow insisted upon having one of my best men; one who could be courteous, discreet, and a gentleman.”
Van Vernet, who had remained standing, hat in hand, before his chief, bowed deferentially, and continued silent.
“There are no instructions,” continued the Chief. “You are to go to this address—it’s a very aristocratic locality—and act under the gentleman’s orders. He wants to deal with you direct; the case is more delicate than difficult, I fancy. I am only interested in the success or failure of your work.”
Taking the card from his outstretched hand, Vernet read the address.
“A. Warburton.
No. 31 B—— Place.”
“When shall I wait upon Mr. Warburton?”
“At once. Your entire time is at his disposal until the case is finished; then report to me.”
Vernet bowed again, turned to go, hesitated, turned back, and said: