“This is rum business,” growled Mr. White aloud, half unconsciously.
At that moment the door opened unexpectedly, and Smith entered.
Before Bruce had time to vociferate an order to his astounded servitor the man stuttered an excuse:
“Beg pardon, sir,” he said, “but Sir Charles Dyke has called, and wants to know if you will be disengaged soon.”
CHAPTER XXIII
THE LETTER
Quick on the heels of the footman’s stammered explanation came the voice of Sir Charles himself:
“Sorry to disturb you, Bruce, if you are busy, but I must see you for a moment on a matter of the utmost importance.”