And from sheer relief Barraclough began to laugh—and laughed solidly for ten miles of the journey.
CHAPTER 11.
OUTLINING A PROGRAMME.
Richard Frencham Altar was exceedingly affable in the car. It was a big, comfortable, Rolls saloon, and he sat between Van Diest and the American. Laurence occupied the seat next to the driver.
He had tried to say a few words to Auriole before taking his place in the car but she had merely shrugged her shoulders and entered a waiting taxi. The two vehicles drove in opposite directions, from which it would appear that her task in the affair was accomplished.
"I hope I shall see some more of that young lady," he remarked. Van
Diest nodded gloomily and Hipps jerked out:
"Probably will."
After that they drove in silence.
"Forgive me for criticising your methods," said Richard at last, "but shouldn't I be blindfolded or something? I'm familiar with all these roads and could walk back without even asking the way."
"There might be difficulties."