The Clue of the Twisted Candle · Chapter 15 (2/2)

Meredith’s plans were now in fair shape. He had decided upon the line of action he would take and in the pursuance of this he interviewed his Chief and the Minister of Justice.

“Yes, I have heard from my daughter,” said that great man uncomfortably, “and really she has placed me in a most embarrassing position. I cannot tell you, Mr. Meredith, exactly in what manner she has done this, but I can assure you she has.”

“Can I see her letter or telegram?” asked T. X.

“I am afraid that is impossible,” said the other solemnly; “she begged me to keep her communication very secret. I have written to my wife and asked her to come home. I feel the constant strain to which I am being subjected is more than human can endure.”

“I suppose,” said T. X. patiently, “it is impossible for you to tell me to what address you have replied?”

“To no address,” answered the other and corrected himself hurriedly; “that is to say I only received the telegram⁠—the message this morning and there is no address⁠—to reply to.”

“I see,” said T. X.

That afternoon he instructed his secretary.

“I want a copy of all the agony advertisements in tomorrow’s papers and in the last editions of the evening papers⁠—have them ready for me tomorrow morning when I come.”

They were waiting for him when he reached the office at nine o’clock the next day and he went through them carefully. Presently he found the message he was seeking.

B. M. You place me awkward position. Very thoughtless. Have received package addressed your mother which have placed in mother’s sitting-room. Cannot understand why you want me to go away weekend and give servants holiday but have done so. Shall require very full explanation. Matter gone far enough.

“This,” said T. X. exultantly, as he read the advertisement, “is where I get busy.”