“Who is that? What is it?” rapped out Dr. Romain irritably.
“Don’t let any one disturb us, Inspector!” called out Horace Trevert to Inspector Humphries, who had opened the door.
Bude’s face appeared in the doorway. He had a short altercation with the Inspector, who resolutely interposed his massive form between the butler and the room.
“What is it, Bude?” asked Robin, going to the door.
“It’s a letter for Miss Trevert, sir!” said Bude.
“Well, leave it in the hall. Miss Trevert can’t be disturbed at present ...”
“But ... but, sir,” the butler protested. Then Robin noticed that he was trembling with excitement and that his features were all distraught.
“What’s the matter with you, Bude?” Robin demanded.
Humphries had stood on one side and Robin now faced the butler.
“It’s a letter from ... that Jeekes!” faltered Bude, holding out a salver. “I know his writing, sir!”