I didn’t like the sound of this.

“Well,” I said doubtfully, “always glad to oblige, you know, but I’ve just had the dickens of a bicycle ride, and I’m a bit stiff and sore, especially in the—as I say, a bit stiff and sore. If it’s anything to be fetched from upstairs——”

“No, no, you don’t understand.”

“I don’t, quite, no.”

“Oh, it’s so difficult.... How can I say it?... Can’t you guess?”

“No. I’m dashed if I can.”

“Bertie—let me go!”

“But I haven’t got hold of you.”

“Release me!”

“Re——”