“You hear it, Mr. Meidema?”
“Oh yes, Resident, I hear it,” replied the inspector, in a strange tone of voice.
“Very well, then,” continued his superior officer, “you will please to draw up your official report in accordance with that man’s evidence.”
“But, sir—” began the other.
“I will have no ‘buts,’ ” interrupted van Gulpendam, sharply. “All you have to do is to do your duty.”
“Have you any other commands for me, Resident?” drily asked the inspector, with a stiff bow.
“No, thank you—none at present.”
A few moments later the card parties were in full swing, and Laurentia, who was holding splendid hands, was in unusually high spirits, and exceedingly talkative.
“Humph,” muttered her husband, as he took his seat at his own table. “She is beginning rather early—rather too early I am afraid.”