Florence ConfrontedLawton, the new butler, expressed surprise at having to answer the door to the police at such a late hour. Not only was this their second unannounced call of the day, but it was now after 9 p.m. and most of the household was preparing to retire for the night.
“Is your visit absolutely necessary, Inspector Norris? Do you know what time it is?”
“I'm well aware of the time, Lawton. This is police business and I must speak with your mistress this very minute. No arguments now, there's a good man. Go and tell her we're here.”
In the gaslit glow of the doorway, Lawton's face bore an almost ghostly pallor as he replied, “I'm sorry, but that won't be possible. Mr. Bellhaven has not as yet returned from his office, and the mistress does not wish to be disturbed.”
Norris cast
