"Forget? Of course not."

Still doubtfully, Blessington left the room and closed the
door.

Once alone, Chilcote walked slowly back to the table, drew up
his chair, and sat down with his eyes on the white cloth, the
paper lying unheeded beside him.

Time passed. A servant came into the room to remove the
breakfast. Chilcote moved slightly when necessary, but
otherwise retained his attitude. The servant, having finished
his task, replenished the fire and left the room. Chilcote
still sat on.

At last, feeling numbed, he rose and crossed to the fireplace.
The clock on the mantel-piece stared him in the face. He
looked at it, started slightly, then drew out his watch.
Watch and clock corresponded. Each marked twelve o'clock.
With a nervous motion he leaned forward and pressed the
electric bell long and hard.

Instantly a servant answered.

"Is Mr. Blessington in the study?" Chilcote asked.

"He was there, sir, five minutes back."

Chilcote looked relieved.