"It is my wish," he continued, "to remain in this neighbourhood for
a short time--perhaps a fortnight and perhaps a month. I should
value your introduction to the hotel here, and the extension of
such hospitality as may seem fitting to you, under the circumstances."

"As Mr. Hamar Lessingham?"

"Beyond a doubt."

There was a moment's silence. Philippa's face had become almost
stony. She took a step towards the telephone. Lessingham, however,
held out his hand.

"Your purpose?" he enquired.

"I am going to ring up the Commandant here," she told him, "and
explain your presence in this house."

"An heroic impulse," he observed, "but too impulsive."

"We shall see," she retorted. "Will you let me pass?"

His fingers restrained her as gently as possible.

"Let me make a reasonable appeal to both of you," he suggested.
"I am here at your mercy. I promise you that under no circumstances
will I attempt any measure of violence. From any fear of that, I
trust my name and my friendship with your brother will be sufficient
guarantee."