“You must excuse my telling you. No class of man can understand better than you, that families may not choose to publish their disagreements and misfortunes, except on the last necessity. I do not dispute that you discharge your duty in asking me the question; you will not dispute my right to withhold the answer. Good night.”

Again he turned towards the wicket, where the satellite, with his eye upon his chief, remained a dumb statue.

“At least,” said Mr. Inspector, “you will not object to leave me your card, sir?”

“I should not object, if I had one; but I have not.” He reddened and was much confused as he gave the answer.

“At least,” said Mr. Inspector, with no change of voice or manner, “you will not object to write down your name and address?”

“Not at all.”