"Beg pardon, sir," interposed Williams at this juncture, "but—"
"Did you not hear me tell you to let Mr. Mortomley know Mr. Forde wishes to see him?" said Mr. Werner, emphasising each word with painful distinctness.
"Yes, sir, but Mr. Mortomley is gone."
"Gone!" repeated Mr. Werner, while Mr. Forde remarked audibly, "I do not believe a word of it."
And Kleinwort, pulling his companion's sleeve, entreated him piteously, "To be impulsive not so much."
"Yes, sir, went away with Mrs. Mortomley in a cab an hour and a half ago."
"Where did he go to?" asked Mr. Werner.
"Don't know, sir. No orders were given to the cabman in my presence or hearing."
Mr. Werner stood silent for an instant, then he said, turning to Williams,