The secretary put his attaché case down on the lounge again.
“Of course, that would be most improper, Miss Trevert,” he said. “But your question embarrasses me. It embarrasses me very much ...”
“What are you keeping back from me, Mr. Jeekes?” the girl demanded imperiously.
The secretary mopped his forehead with his handkerchief. Then, as though with an effort, he spoke.
“There is a lady, a French lady, who draws an income from Mr. Parrish ...”
The girl remained impassive, but her eyes grew rather hard.
“These payments are still going on?” she asked.
Jeekes hesitated. Then he nodded,
“Yes,” he said.
“Well? Was she blackmailing ... him?”