"I have come to search the premises." In his astonishment the servant insensibly relinquished his hold of the door knob and Britz stepped into the hallway, closing the door behind him.
"You can't come in here!" exclaimed the servant, recovering from his surprise.

"Get out!" Britz displayed the search warrant.
"If you attempt to interfere with me I shall place you under arrest," he threatened.
The perturbation of the servant increased.

Being a dutiful and watchful employe, his first impulse was to repel this nocturnal invasion of the house.

But something in Britz's stern attitude convinced him that the unwelcome visitor would forcibly resent any interference.
"Can't you wait until Mr.Beard comes ?" the servant appealed.
"Mr.Beard will not be here to-night," Britz informed him.
The detective's voice had penetrated to the lighted sitting-room, for it was answered with a painful gasp, followed by the swish of skirts.

A moment later the heavy curtains which overhung the doorway parted, revealing a woman's form sharply outlined against the background of light.