“Ah, there you are, Battle. You’ll be relieved to hear that there’s nothing seriously wrong with O’Rourke.”

“I never thought there would be much wrong with Mr. O’Rourke,” said Battle.

“He’s had a strong hypodermic administered to him,” said the doctor. “He’ll wake perfectly all right in the morning. Perhaps a bit of a head, perhaps not. Now then, young man, let’s look at this bullet wound of yours.”

“Come on, nurse,” said Jimmy to Loraine. “Come and hold the basin or my hand. Witness a strong man’s agony. You know the stunt.”

Jimmy, Loraine and the doctor went off together. Bundle continued to throw agonised glances in the direction of Superintendent Battle, who had been buttonholed by George. The Superintendent waited patiently till a pause occurred in George’s loquacity. He then swiftly took advantage of it.