probably it's nonsense. By the way, I've had
orders from our employers to leave it alone so you'd do me a kindness
by saying nothing of this visit."

"All right," she replied listlessly. "But I don't see----"

"It's solid in my head that a muddle has been made--and between you and
me, I'm going to sift it out."

"I shouldn't," said Auriole. "You won't be thanked for disobeying
orders."

"Must take a chance of that," he answered. "Only learnt yesterday what
it was all about and the size of the deal has got me gasping."

"Pretty tremendous, isn't it?"

"Big enough to be worth taking some private trouble over. You don't
imagine Barraclough would have deputed anyone else to get the
concession?"

She shook her head.

"Neither do I. But if it isn't that why does his crowd sit still and
grin?"

"I suppose they don't know of his capture."

"Maybe. 'Tany rate, it's what our folk believe. I have my own views."

"Tell me."

"They're a trifle too fantastic for publication yet awhile." He rose
and buttoned his gloves. "There's to be a meeting at Lord Almont's
flat this morning. I'm going to hang about and study character."

"Better not be seen."

"Trust me. I'll take cover in the motor show rooms on the street level
and watch 'em as they come out."

"Hm! Goodbye." And she held out her hand.

"Au 'voir. You look a bit down this morning."

"Don't feel up to much."

He scanned her face quizzically.

"Those tender feelings haven't revived, have they?"

"What do you mean?"

"For friend Barraclough?"

"Idiot," she retorted. "As if I had any feelings."

"He's a decent looking chap."

"Oh, go away," she said.

And he went--smiling.

Auriole waited until the front door closed, then picked up the
telephone receiver and gave a number.

"I want to speak to Lord Almont Frayne. Oh, is it? Good morning.
Yes, that's right. A. B. was kidnapped last night at twelve thirty.
They've taken him to Laurence's house in Totteridge. What? Yes,
perfectly satisfied. One of their agents, a man named Harrison Smith,
has been here a minute ago. He seems to be suspicious about something.
Thinks you all seem too contented. He'll be hanging about outside your
flat this morning. Yes, that's all. Oh, Lord Almont, wish you'd
explain the situation to me--can't understand it at all. Wouldn't make
any difference. No, but what was to be gained by letting Anthony
Barraclough be kidnapped? If you won't say it