"I guess it's a talk to the man who shoots the bull in the ring," Hipps replied, and added: "That substitute trick has exploded and the chap who pulled it has done a guy."
Mr. Torrington and Cranbourne exchanged glances.
"Am I to understand that Mr. Frencham Altar has found your hospitality too oppressive?" he asked.
"Put it how you like, but that's a side show," came the answer. "We're here on business."
Nugent Cassis had recovered some of his self-possession and remarked crisply:
"We are very busy, Mr. Hipps."
"And since the light came into the temple, Nugent Cassis, we've been busy ourselves. Struck me one or two little matters need adjusting."
"Your treatment of the substitute for example," said Cranbourne.
"Not unlikely, but that job'll keep, and it's in hand already under
Laurence."
"Dear me, we are being very frank, are we not?" murmured Mr. Torrington.