CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
THE COOK-GENERAL
From where he stood, in the shelter of a shop-door, some twenty yards away, Wedgwood was able to witness all the little details of the meeting between Nottidge and his correspondent, and he speedily became aware that the lady was somewhat shy, if not suspicious, and needed indisputable assurance of Nottidge's good faith. He saw Nottidge produce what was obviously a card-case and present a card; he witnessed certain gestures on Nottidge's part which were pantomimic of asseverations of honesty and confidence. And eventually, after an exchange of speech between the two which occupied some minutes, Nottidge led his newly-made acquaintance in the detective's direction, and Wedgwood purposely stepped into the full glare of a neighbouring lamp. But the young woman did not see him; she was giving all her attention to Nottidge.
"This is my friend," said Nottidge as they came up. "You can rely on his———"
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