“Yes, I hardly dare believe it. You alive, here at my mercy?”

“Oh, dear no, not yet,” said Lupin.

“Yes,” said Guerchard, in a decisive tone. “And ever so much more than you think.” He bent forwards towards him, with his hands on his knees, and said, “Do you know where Sonia Kritchnoff is at this moment?”

“What?” said Lupin sharply.

“I ask if you know where Sonia Kritchnoff is?” said Guerchard slowly, lingering over the words.

“Do you?” said Lupin.

“I do,” said Guerchard triumphantly.

“Where is she?” said Lupin, in a tone of utter incredulity.

“In a small hotel near the Star. The hotel has a telephone; and you can make sure,” said Guerchard.

“Indeed? That’s very interesting. What’s the number of it?” said Lupin, in a mocking tone.