Britz motioned the others not to leave their chairs, hoping that whoever was seeking admittance would conclude that the apartment was unoccupied and leave.

But the banging continued until finally the detective was moved to open the door.
A man burst into the room, brushing past Britz and precipitating his figure into the sitting room.
"Luckstone!" exclaimed Collins, bounding out of his chair.
The lawyer gazed angrily from his client to Britz.
"What does this mean ?" he demanded.
"It means that Mr.Collins has dispensed with your services and is ready to confide in me," answered the detective with calm assurance.
Luckstone's eyes narrowed on Collins.

The latter nodded a weak assent to the detective's words.
"I've been searching for you all evening," the lawyer burst forth excitedly.

"Called up your house, went to the club and finally took a chance on finding you here.

I was afraid something like this might happen.