“Bad news!” The Australian’s face pales as he speaks. “Tell it at once, sir.”
“Thomas Uliman and his wife are both dead.”
The Australian bows his head upon his hand and remains silent.
“I can furnish you with dates and addresses that will enable you to make personal investigation. In fact, I am every moment expecting a visit from the gentleman who was Mr. Uliman’s legal adviser.”
“Ah,” sighs the Australian, “he may tell me where to find my little daughter.”
“I have also,” resumes the Chief, “a brief report from Mr. Vernet.”
At these words Walter Parks leans forward.
“May we hear it?” he asks anxiously.
“Mr. Follingsbee, sir,” says the office-boy at the door, in obedience to orders. And then Mr. Follingsbee enters.
“I think,” says the Chief, after performing the ceremony of introduction, “I think that we may waive all other business until Mr. Ainsworth’s anxiety has been, in a measure, relieved.”