An expression of horrified dismay overspread his features.

His first reply was almost incoherent.

He held the receiver away from him and turned towards his brother.
"George," he gasped, "the greatest tragedy in the world has happened! My ape is stolen!" His brother looked at him blankly.
"Your ape is stolen ?" he repeated.
"The skeleton of my anthropoid ape," the Professor continued, his voice growing alike in sadness and firmness.

"It is the curator of the museum who is speaking.

They have just opened the box.