The paper was brought to the Baron’s bedroom the following morning, and when he read the references to Gaunt a grim smile came to his face, but his attention was attracted to the front page of the Daily Herald, and he uttered an exclamation of anger when he had mastered the advertisements that appeared there.
“So Gaunt has declared war,” he muttered, and threw the paper impatiently away.
But shortly afterwards he rang the bell, and ordered a copy of each morning newspaper, only to find that the majority of them contained similar advertisements. It was his intention to send for Sherren, but that was unnecessary, for his satellite arrived just as he was finishing breakfast. For a long time they discussed the situation gravely, and it was the Baron who suggested the next move.
“What is the name of the man who forged the cable?” he asked of Sherren.
“Davis. I expect that he will arrive at Plymouth this morning, and I have arranged that Weiss should wire him to come to London at once.”
“Bien. I wish to see Weiss this afternoon, and it would be as well if you try to get hold of Davis yourself.”
“I will find out what time the special arrives at Paddington, and will meet him. The difficulty to my mind is how we can expose Gaunt’s share in the Amanti business without giving Weiss away,” Sherren remarked hoarsely.
“You may safely leave that in my hands. By the bye, are you in touch with the directors of the Amanti Mining Company?”
“Yes. The chairman is a personal friend of mine.”
“Excellent. And do you think that you could persuade this friend to do what you asked?” the Baron asked significantly.