"But he always does call, doesn't he?"
"He has for the last few days."
"Then why not to-day?"
"I cannot imagine. Perhaps he couldn't."
"You don't suppose anything has happened to Lola, do you?"
"Who can tell?"
"You are right; it was a foolish question," admitted the financier, accepting the rebuke gracefully. "Still, I cannot help being anxious and wondering."
"Of course not."
"If only that miserable inspector would turn up and you could get your license! It is absurd that you cannot send a message, a man of your experience!"
"I am as sorry about the delay as you are," Bob answered. "Perhaps I am more so. Nevertheless I am not going to break the rules. Besides, were we to call O'Connel, it might arouse suspicion and get him into trouble. It is far better to leave the calling to him."