Potter looked irresolutely at Duncan, but before he could make up his mind to a definite course, the telephone bell in the library across the hall rang insistently, and with a hasty word of excuse Duncan dashed to answer it. Picking up the evening paper from the chair where Janet had dropped it, Potter read it hurriedly while awaiting Duncan’s return.
“Come on in the drawing-room, Paul,” called the latter from the doorway a few minutes later. “Janet has sent a hurry call for us,” and as he joined him the physician saw the butler’s broad back disappearing in the distance.
“Any news from Madame Yvonett?” he asked, as they started for the ballroom.
“Miss Graves has just telephoned no word has been received from Marjorie,” Duncan looked as anxious as he felt. “I wish to heaven she was here.”
“So do I; not only on your account, Duncan, but to settle one point once for all,” the physician paused doubtfully.
“What are you driving at?” growled Duncan.
“Your father has just told me that he has purchased the famous Maharajah ruby, and now has it in his possession....”
“Yes, he bought it to give to mother on their wedding anniversary tomorrow; goodness knows why she hates ostentatious display in jewels as in everything else.”
“Has your father spoken of his intention to buy the ruby?”
“No.”