instructions to reserve me my usual table. I am assisting the French Police in an important case. The fee —” he paused—“is considerable. Are you ready, Miss Ganges?”
“Quite ready,” said Tuppence, her stylo poised.
“We will start with that special salad of Shrimps that they have here. Then to follow—let me see, to follow —Yes. Omelette Blitz, and perhaps a couple of Tournedos à l’Étranger .”
He looked up, catching the Duke’s eye.
“You will forgive me, I hope,” he murmured. “Ah! yes, Soufflé en surprise . That will conclude the repast. A most interesting man, the French prefect. You know him, perhaps?”
The other replied in the negative, as Tuppence rose and went to speak to the head waiter. Presently she returned, just as the coffee was brought.
Tommy drank a large cup of it, sipping it slowly, then rose.
“My cane, Miss Ganges? Thank you. Directions, please?”
It was a moment of agony for Tuppence.
“One right, eighteen straight. About the fifth step, there is a waiter serving the table on your left.”
Swinging his cane jauntily, Tommy set out. Tuppence kept close beside him, and endeavored unobtrusively to steer him. All went well until they were just passing out through the doorway. A man entered rather hurriedly, and before Tuppence could warn the blind Mr. Blunt, he had barged right into the newcomer. Explanations and apologies ensued.
At the door of the Blitz a smart landaulette was waiting. The Duke himself aided Mr. Blunt to get in.