“It’s sure to come out later. I don’t understand——”
“I am aware of that, Mr. Dewson! On the following morning, if I do not mistake you, Mr. Brandon’s friends call upon me, and the meeting is arranged?”
“That’s it! We’re supposed to be hushing it up, see? But it kind of leaks out!”
“Precisely. At what hour will Mr. Brandon be supping?”
“Say half-past eleven.”
“It is an appointment.”
Captain O’Hagan bowed to the leopard lady, looking challengingly into her eyes—turned from Messrs. Brandon and Dewson, and walked to the door. Upon Brandon’s tongue unutterable things trembled. Mr. Dewson was not entirely at his ease.
—————
III.
THE BOOM.
Captain O’Hagan entered Varano’s at half-past eleven on Wednesday evening. No more need be said. A sensation amongst the guests is understood.