“Well, of course, be careful,” answered her companion. Then after a pause he lowered his voice so the chauffeur could not overhear, and said: “I wonder, Gertrude, if you’ll permit me to make a remark—without any offence?”
“Why, certainly. What is it?”
“Well, to tell the truth, I don’t half like the look of that foreign servant of yours. He’s not straight. I’m sure of it by the look in his eyes.”
“How curious! Do you know that the same thought has occurred to me these last few days,” she said. “And yet he’s such a trusty servant. He’s been with me nearly two years.”
“Don’t trust him further, Gertrude, that’s my advice,” said his Highness pointedly. “I’m suspicious of the fellow—distinctly suspicious. Do you know much of him?”
“Nothing, except that he’s a most exemplary servant.”
“Where was he before he entered your service?”
“With Lady Llangoven, in Hertford Street. She gave him a most excellent character.”
“Well, take my warning,” he said. “I’m sure there’s something underhand about him.”
“You quite alarm me,” declared the widow. “Especially as I have these,” and she indicated the sealed parcel at her side.