What does this
mean, if not that Lord Wrexborough distrusts the police?"
"Well, you see, the police seemed to be unable, or unwilling, to do
anything in the matter. Of course, this may have been due to the fact
that the traffic was so skilfully handled that it defied their
inquiries."
"Take, as an instance, Chief Inspector Kerry," continued Irvin. "He
has exhibited the utmost delicacy and consideration in his dealings
with me, but I'll swear that a whiter man never breathed."
"Oh, really, Mr. Irvin, I don't think for a moment that men of that
class are suspected of being concerned. Indeed, I don't believe any
active collusion is suspected at all."
"Lord Wrexborough thinks that Scotland Yard hasn't got an officer
clever enough for the dope people?"
"Quite possibly."
"I take it that he has put up a secret service man?"
"I believe--that is, I know he has."
Monte Irvin was watching Margaret's face, and despite the dull misery
which deadened his usually quick perceptions, he detected a heightened
color and a faint change of expression. He did not question her
further upon the point, but:
"God knows I welcome all the help that offers," he said. "Lord
Wrexborough is your uncle, Miss Halley; but do you think this secret
commission business quite fair to Scotland Yard?"
Margaret stared for some moments at the carpet, then raised her grey
eyes and looked earnestly at the speaker.
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