He smiled which hardly seemed apropos. Why does George sometimes
smile when I am in my most serious moods.

As we stepped out of the hotel, George gave my arm a quiet pinch
which served to direct my attention to an elderly gentleman who,
was just alighting from a taxicab at the kerb. He moved heavily
and with some appearance of pain, but from the crowd collected on
the sidewalk many of whom nudged each other as he passed, he was
evidently a person of some importance, and as he disappeared within
the hotel entrance, I asked George who this kind-faced, bright-eyed
old gentleman could be.

He appeared to know, for he told me at once that he was Detective
Gryce; a man who had grown old in solving just such baffling
problems as these.

"He gave up work some time ago, I have been told," my husband went
on; "but evidently a great case still has its allurement for him.
The trail here must be a very blind one for them to call him in.
I wish we had not left so soon. It would have been quite an
experience to see him at work."

"I doubt if you would have been given the opportunity. I noticed
that we were slightly de trop towards the last."

"I wouldn't have minded that; not on my own account, that is. It
might not have been pleasant for you. However, the office is
waiting. Come, let me put you on the car."