“Yes, Monsieur Carter, a total stranger.”
“Do you recall him? Can you describe him?”
“Only that he is a man of good build, quite dark, and with a beard.”
“The beard cuts no ice,” said Nick, taking the note from Patsy. “If engaged in such deviltry as this suggests, he would have called here in disguise. I will keep this note, Mr. Perrot, and look into the matter.”
Perrot signified his consent with a bow, a smile, and numerous gestures.
“Pardieu!” he exclaimed. “As you will, Monsieur Carter. I wondered if I ought to give it to ze police.”
“You have done better,” Nick assured him. “Now, Mr. Perrot, about the costume hired by Mrs. Archie Waldmere.”
“Ha, I remember!” said Perrot. “Madame is one fine lady. It was ze lace costume of Night.”
“That’s the one,” bowed Nick. “Do you remember when she engaged it?”
“One week to-day, Monsieur Carter. Wait—I will be sure. I will show you ze entry.”