The next morning the high-born guests of the Grand Babylon were
aroused by a rumour that by some accident the millionaire
proprietor of the hotel had remained all night locked up m the lift.
It was also stated that Rocco had quarrelled with his new master
and incontinently left the place. A duchess said that Rocco's
departure would mean the ruin of the hotel, whereupon her
husband advised her not to talk nonsense.
As for Racksole, he sent a message for the detective in charge of
the Dimmock affair, and bravely told him the happenings of the
previous night.
The narration was a decided ordeal to a man of Racksole's
temperament.
'A strange story!' commented Detective Marshall, and he could not
avoid a smile. 'The climax was unfortunate, but you have certainly
got some valuable facts.'
Racksole said nothing.
'I myself have a clue,' added the detective. When your message
arrived I was just coming up to see you. I want you to accompany
me to a certain spot not far from here. Will you come, now, at
once?'
'With pleasure,' said Racksole.
At that moment a page entered with a telegram. Racksole opened
it read:
'Please come instantly. Nella. Hotel Wellington, Ostend.'
He looked at his watch.
'I can't come,' he said to the detective. Tm going to Ostend.'
'To Ostend?'
'Yes, now.'
'But really, Mr Racksole,' protested the detective. 'My business is
urgent.
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