They found themselves in a busy office, consisting of a single room down the length of which a wooden rail interposed between visitors and employes.
"I wish to see Mr.Whitmore," Mrs.Collins informed one of the office boys.
"Hasn't come down yet," the boy replied.
"Is he often away as late as this ?" "No ma'am," said the boy.

"He's usually here at nine o'clock." "Has Mr.Beard been here this morning ?" "Not yet.

But he telephoned he'll be here at twelve o'clock." Ward consulted his watch.

It was a quarter past ten.

He questioned the boy but was unable to obtain any information as to the possible whereabouts of his employer or his secretary.