living in Exeter when we met last. Well, I had Paddington
watch for your return, and my messenger--"

"Your spy, you mean," said Mallow angrily.

"Certainly, if you prefer the term. Well, your spy--I mean
my spy, reported that you were back, so I came on here. Are
you going out?"

"I was, but if you wish to arrest me--"

"Nonsense, man. I have only come to have a quiet chat with
you. Believe me, I wish you well. I have not forgotten the
old Eton days."

"I tell you what, Jennings, I won't stand this talk from any
man. Are you here as a gentleman or as a detective?"

"As both, I hope," replied the other dryly, "but are we not
wasting valuable time? If you wish to go out this evening,
the sooner we get to business the better. Will you answer my
questions?"

"I must know what they are first," said Cuthbert defiantly.

Jennings looked irritated. "If you won't treat me properly, I
may as well leave the matter alone," he said coldly. "My
position is quite unpleasant enough as it is. I came here to
an old schoolfellow as a friend--"