“However,” Wolfe continued, “I have a deep repugnance to letting the police take from my house people who have been moved to consult me and who have not been formally charged with a crime. There is a back way out, leading to Thirty-fourth Street, and Mr. Goodwin will take you by it if you feel that you would like a little time to discuss matters.”
“No,” Aubry said. “We have nothing to run from. Tell him we’re here. Let him in.”
Wolfe shook his head. “Not in my house, to drag you out. You’re sure you don’t want to delay it?”
“Yes.”
“Then Archie, will you please handle it?”
I arose, told them, “This way, please,” and headed for the door, but stopped and turned when I heard Caroline find her voice behind me.
“Wait a minute,” she said, barely loud enough for me to get it. She was standing facing Aubry, gripping his lapels. “Paul, don’t you think — shouldn’t we ask Mr. Wolfe—”
“There’s nothing to ask him.” Aubry was up, with an arm across her shoulders. “I’ve had enough of Wolfe. Come on, Caro mia. We don’t have to ask anybody anything.”
They came and followed me into the hall. As Aubry was getting his hat from the rack I opened the door, leaving the chain bolt on, and spoke to Purley. “What do you know, they were right here in the office. That’s a break for you. Now if—”
“Open the door!”