But it was much nearer five minutes before they returned, and then Larose perceived instantly from her heightened color that Lady Ardane was upset in some way.
“Mr. Larose,” she said quickly, and the detective knew instinctively that she was speaking against her inclinations, “Senator Harvey is right and you are not justified in asking these gentlemen for permission to go through their belongings.” She shook her head. “I cannot support your request with mine.”
The detective masked all signs of his bitter disappointment, and accepted his defeat with a pleasant smile. “All right,” he said quietly, “I'm only sorry I bothered you,” and he held open the door for her to pass out.
He closed the door after her, and returned to his position before the table. “Well, gentlemen,” he said dryly, “if
