“Don’t place too much reliance in Burnham’s statement,” interrupted Hayden. “He made it when half delirious; better wait until he is in a condition to explain more fully the grounds for the animosity which, judging from his remark, exists between him and La Montagne.”
“A wise suggestion,” declared Maynard heartily. “Doctor, you have sense; now, Palmer, put down the telephone and let us investigate this matter ourselves without calling in the police, at any rate not now,” he added, seeing Palmer still kept hold of the telephone. “Suppose I go up to Mrs. Van Ness’ apartment and see if La Montagne is there, then I’ll come back and report what I learn.”
Palmer set the telephone back on the desk. “I’ll go with you,” he announced. “Siki’s here, Hayden; if you need aid in looking after Burnham just ring for him, or send him up for us. Come on, Maynard,” and he started for the door, Maynard keeping step with him. They found the corridor deserted as they walked down its length toward the staircase.
“Mrs. Van Ness’ apartment is on the next floor,” remarked Palmer. “No need of taking the elevator,” and in silence the two men mounted the stairs.
On reaching the top Maynard, who was slightly in advance of his companion, found the corridor blocked by several suit cases and a trunk. A man, standing by the freight elevator shaft, left off ringing the bell and hurried toward Maynard.
“Beg pardon,” he exclaimed, hauling the trunk to one side to permit Maynard and Palmer passing along. “I thought the elevator would be here now. Evening, Mr. Palmer,” and he touched his cap on recognizing the architect.
“Oh, Sam!” Palmer nodded affably to the taxi-driver. “Who’s moving out to-night?”
“The party in ‘41,’ sir; and he’s agoin’ to miss his train if he don’t look sharp;” Sam pushed back his cap to mop the damp red hair which tumbled down on his forehead. “He was to send the janitor up on the freighter for his things, but I bet he’s asittin’ in my car awonderin’ where I’m at; these here foreigners are mighty queer actin’ sometimes.”
Palmer laughed. “I’m glad ‘41’ is leaving; I shan’t be annoyed by his noisy parties over my head. Here’s the elevator now, Sam, good-night,” and not waiting for Sam’s response Palmer hastened after Maynard who had strolled down one of the wings of the building opening front the main corridor.
“Which way?” he inquired, turning about as Palmer reached him.