"Burnt to a cinder and scattered to the four winds." Ruxton emitted a sound like a laugh deprived of all mirth.
"The drawings?" The commander's eyes were gravely enquiring.
"Not a drawing or tracing saved. Not a single working plan. Complete. Oh, yes, complete. But——"
"But?" The concern had deepened in the officer's eyes.
Ruxton shrugged.
"We have duplicates and triplicates of everything, besides the originals. They must take us for babes or—imbeciles."
The officer was relieved. He even smiled.
"A good many do that. Well, they have told us their intentions pretty plainly. They'll get no second opportunity unless they've a staff of miracle workers. Shall you be present at the enquiry this afternoon, Sir Andrew?"
Sir Andrew signified assent. Then he asked:
"What about the inquest?"