“Go on,” he ordered. A little uncertainly she led the way. She tapped at a door and at a summons to enter pushed it open.

“Well, Rena,” said a soft voice. “Have they gone?”

Labar pushed by the maid into the room. “No, Mrs. Gertstein,” he replied. “We are still here.”

The woman lounging in a big divan chair regarded him dumbly. He laid down his hat and stick and nodded to the maid. “You may go,” he said.

With wondering eyes she withdrew. As the door closed the woman on the chair drew herself up stiffly. “What is the meaning of this intrusion?”

“It means that your maid is a bad liar,” he said. “Need I introduce myself? I fancy you know me. I am Detective Inspector Labar.”