"Thank you, Mr. Franklyn, but one does not always wish to be advised even by one's legal adviser. Just now I should be obliged by your confining yourself to answering questions. Perhaps you will be so good as to tell me where I am most likely to find John Ireland, that immaculate policeman?"
"When I left him he was just going to Makell's Hotel to make inquiries as to Cyril's whereabouts upon his own account."
"Then I will go to Makell's Hotel to make inquiries of John Ireland upon my account."
"In that case you must excuse me if I come with you. I warn you again, that if you are not careful you may do Cyril more mischief than you have any notion of."
"I shall come too."
This was Miss Wentworth. Miss Strong bowed.
"If you will, you will. Evidently the man on the doorstep is not likely to serve me as an adequate protection against my friends."
Miss Strong put on her hat and mackintosh in what was probably one of the shortest times on record. Miss Wentworth generally dressed more quickly than her friend; on such an occasion she was not likely to be left behind. The curious procession of three passed through the door and down the steps in Indian file, Miss Strong first, Mr. Franklyn last.
At the bottom of the steps stood Mr. Hollier. The leader looked him up and down.
"Is your name Hollier?"