At the Updyke Detective Agency, twentieth floor of the Universal Exchange, he asked for Updyke personally and was ushered in. The two shook hands cordially and at once got down to business.
"Do you know William Parkins—one of my special partners?" questioned Villard.
"I'd say I do—what's up?"
"I can't find him."
"Where have you looked?"
"Called at his apartment—he'd gone from there, leaving a check for a month's rent!" replied Villard.
"When?"
"Early this morning—left no word—but paid the month's rent in advance—which was unusual."
"Um—any reason to be anxious about him?"