After waiting for some time in an outer office he was shown in. The moment he asked his question Mr Cunnington grasped the situation.
“I very much regret, sir, that it is not my habit to give information to a second party concerning the dismissal of any of my assistants. If the young lady applies for her character, she is perfectly entitled to have it.”
“But I apply for her character,” said Max promptly.
“You are not an employer, sir. She has not applied to you for a situation.”
“No; but I may surely know the reason she has left your service?” Max pointed out. “Her brother, who is abroad just now, is my most intimate friend.”
Mr Cunnington stroked his dark beard thoughtfully, but shook his head, saying:
“I much regret, Mr Barclay, that I am unable to give you the information you seek. Would it not be better to ask the young lady herself?”
“But she has left, and I have no idea of her address!” exclaimed Barclay. “Can you furnish me with it?”
The head of Cunnington’s, Limited, took up the telephone receiver and asked for a certain Mr Hughes, of whom he made inquiry if Miss Rolfe had left her address.
There was a wait of a few moments, then Mr Cunnington turned and said: