"I really think I've thought through every permutation the human mind is capable

of. I wish you'd reassure Father of that."

 

"I will, sir."

 

Mr Cardinal seemed to relax a little. He prodded once more his attaché case -

which I felt inclined to keep my eyes averted from - and said: "I suppose you've

been wondering why I never let go of this case. Well, now you know. Imagine if

the wrong person opened it."

 

"That would be most awkward, sir."

 

"That is, of course," he said, sitting up again suddenly, "unless Father has

come up with an entirely new factor he wants me to think about."

 

"I cannot imagine he has, sir."

 

"No? Nothing more on this Dupont fellow?"

 

"I fear not, sir."

 

I did my best not to give away anything of my exasperation on discovering that a

task I had thought all but behind me was in fact still there unassaulted before

me.' I believe I was collecting my thoughts for a renewed effort when the young

gentleman suddenly rose to his feet, and clutching his attaché case to his