The master of the house stepped aside, holding his light on high.
"Miss Fabrizi is my guest," he said, quietly, "so no explanations are necessary. This man is but doing his duty, and, therefore, Mr. Blake, I fear I shall have to offer you the poor hospitality of my roof until the law permits you to leave."
"Impossible, sir! I—"
"I regret that we have never met before; but you are welcome, and I shall do my best to make you comfortable." He waved his hand commandingly toward the open door.
"Thank you, but I can't accept, really."
"I fear that you have no choice."
"But the idea is ridiculous, preposterous! I'm a busy man; I can't shut myself up this way for a week or more. Besides, I couldn't allow myself to be forced upon strangers in this manner."
"If you are a good citizen, you will respect the law," said La Branche, coldly.
"Bother the law! I have obligations! Why—the very idea is absurd! I'll see the health officers and explain at once—"
The old gentleman, however, still waited, while the watchman took his place at the top of the steps as if determined to do his duty, come, what might.