"Let me now return it in kind.

If you wish to examine Mrs.Lester's flat why not seek the permission of Scotland Yard ?" "My good fellow, I have spent a valuable hour this morning in persuading the Home Secretary that the less Scotland Yard interferes in my behalf the more effectually shall I be protected.

I don't want any detective within a mile of my house or office.

But, as I have told you already, explanations must wait--You, Bates, look a man who can hold his tongue.
Do so, and with Mr.Theydon's permission I'll make it worth your while when this storm has blown over--Now, give me that key." Theydon was silenced, if not convinced.

He realized, of course, that he must make a full confession to the Criminal Investigation Department before the sun went down, but argued that he might as well see the present adventure through.
Soon he and Forbes were standing at the door of No.17.Forbes curbed his impatience sufficiently to permit of any one who happened to be in the interior answering the summons of the electric bell.