“I refer to Mrs. Madge Hurd-Babbington,� was the smiling reply.
CHAPTER XXXI.
A BAFFLING SITUATION.
It was in the afternoon of the second day after the events related in the preceding chapters that Nick Carter, seated at his desk in his study in Madison Avenue, reached for the telephone in response to a ring upon it.
“Hello,� he said. “Who is it?�
“Am I speaking to Mr. Carter?� came the reply.
“Yes.�
“This is Thomas—confidential servant to Mr. Carleton Lynne,â€� said the voice at the other end of the telephone.
“Yes? Well, Thomas, what is wanted?�
“A strange thing has happened here, sir, and if it is possible I wish you would come to the house at once in the interest of Mr. Lynne.�
“Certainly; I can go there if he wishes me to do so, Thomas. Did he ask you to telephone to me?�