“There must be no delay. These letters must be decoded without any loss of time. Let me see, who is the man? There is a man⁠—connected with the British Museum. Knows all there is to know about ciphers. Ran the department for us during the War. Where is Miss Oscar? She will know. Name something like Win⁠—Win⁠—”

“Professor Wynward,” said Battle.

“Exactly. I remember perfectly now. He must be wired to, immediately.”

“I have done so, Mr. Lomax, an hour ago. He will arrive by the 12:10.”

“Oh, very good, very good. Thank Heaven, something is off my mind. I shall have to be in town today. You can get along without me, I suppose?”

“I think so, sir.”

“Well, do your best, Battle, do your best. I am terribly rushed just at present.”