14

TRAPPED

I caught my breath sharply. I did not say anything. I felt that I did not
understand the inspector sufficiently yet to speak. He seemed to be pleased
with my reticence. At all events, his manner grew even kinder as he said:

"This Sears is a witness we must have. He is being looked for now, high and
low, and we hope to get some clue to his whereabouts before night. That is, if
he is in this city. Meanwhile, we are all glad-I am sure you are
also-to spare so distinguished a gentleman as Mr. Grey the slightest
annoyance."