“Whom have you told?”
“Mr. Gaston Goulard.”
“How did you happen to inform him?” asked Nick, both surprised and suspicious.
“He called here this morning. He frequently stops with his automobile when on his way to business to take Miss Bailey to the telephone exchange. She had gone before he arrived, however, and I then told him about Mr. Lamont, thinking he might know the man, or suggest some explanation for his absence.”
“Is Mr. Goulard friendly with Miss Bailey?” Nick inquired, with brows knitting slightly.
“Yes, sir, but only in a paternal way, I think. He is much older than she, and I imagine that he is interested in her only because of young Mr. Mantell, the son of his business partner. Mr. Mantell is deeply in love with Helen.”
“What did you tell Mr. Goulard about the assault?” Nick inquired.
“Only what I have stated to you.”
“That her assailant was pursued by the stranger?”
“Yes, sir.”