Tommy nudged Tuppence in the ribs.
“Exactly,” said the doctor between his teeth. “As I feared. Some friend of the Leigh Gordon woman’s. It’s getting very difficult. I shall have to take steps—”
He left the sentence unfinished. Tommy and Tuppence heard the door close. There was silence.
Gingerly, Tommy led the retreat. When they had reached a little clearing not far away, but out of earshot from the house, he spoke.
“Tuppence, old thing, this is getting serious. They mean mischief. I think we ought to get back to town at once and see Stavansson.”
To his surprise Tuppence shook her head.
“We must stay down here. Didn’t you hear him say he was going to take steps? That might mean anything.”
“The worst of it is we’ve hardly got a case to go to the police on.”
“Listen, Tommy. Why not ring up Stavansson from the village? I’ll stay around here.”
“Perhaps that is the best plan,” agreed her husband. “But, I say—Tuppence—”
“Well?”
“Take care of yourself—won’t you?”
“Of course I shall, you silly old thing. Cut along.”
It was some two hours later that Tommy returned. He found Tuppence awaiting him near the gate.