human
Richard, I said solemnly,
gpt
Why, no! said he.
human
I came right into the garden when I saw you from the drive.
gpt
Does anybody know you are coming?
human
Not a soul! declared Dicky.
gpt
Why all this mystery?
human
Listen! I said rapidly.
gpt
Something awful has happened. Peaches is a prisoner. Your intuition was right. She--we need your help, and need it badly.
human
Is she hurt? he asked.
gpt
A prisoner? What in the name----
human
I want you to get a big powerful automobile and have it at the entrance of the park at twelve o'clock to-night. As soon as you arrive, park your car, and come to the foot of that trellis over there. When you get there give the whistle you used to call Peaches with. If you get an answer, wait for us. If after half an hour you don't hear anything, call me on the telephone first thing in the morning. Is that clear?
gpt
Yes--but Great Scott! What's wrong?
human
Never you mind, except that something is very wrong here. Markheim is an unspeakable beast, and Mr. Pegg is trying to force Peaches into going through with the marriage in spite of what she has found out. He has locked her in her room, which opens into mine.
gpt
Well, why not unlock her, then? he asked with stupid masculine simplicity.
human
Haven't you got a key?
gpt
I have, I said.
human
But I have given him my word not to unlock it to let her out!
gpt
But you'll break your word!
human
Not at all! I disclaimed the suggestion.
gpt
Not at all. However, I made no promise in regard to the window. And with your assistance----
human
I get you! cried Dicky, springing to his feet.
gpt
Twelve sharp to-night it is. And I'd better be off now before the old boys get back from town and spot me--eh, what?
human
Yes,