Inspector Michel,
Detective Force,
Police Headquarters.
"Kindly follow me, gentlemen!"
De Naarboveck walked quietly up the grand staircase, his hand on its superb wrought-iron balustrade.
The two men followed in silence.
The baron opened the smoking-room door, saw it was empty, entered, signed to the policemen to follow, and closed the door.
"To what do I owe the honour of your visit, gentlemen?"
De Naarboveck's tone was icy.
Inspector Michel spoke.
"You must pardon us, Monsieur. Only a matter of the most serious importance—exceptionally serious—could have brought us to your house at so late an hour.... We hold a warrant, and, with your permission, we shall proceed to make an arrest."
De Naarboveck looked fixedly at the policemen.