De Rothan's eyelids seemed to close a little.
"My house, monsieur, is not a museum."
"But I am told there is a unique curio to be seen in it, a thing of particular, local interest——"
"Indeed! You surprise me."
"Not at all, sir, not at all. It is a gentleman who was stolen yesterday out of Darvel's Wood. I am sure you will oblige me in the matter."
De Rothan's figure seemed to lengthen. His nostrils dilated, and his eyes became very bright and staring.
"Sir, I fail to understand you. Nor do I love impertinence."
"Nor I, Monsieur de Rothan. I expect Mr. Jasper Benham to dine with me to-night. It will be courteous of you to produce the gentleman, and to deliver him over to me."
"You are talking nonsense."
"I'll wager that I am not."