"I don't like to disturb the serenity of this happy family group,"
he said, "but I am inclined to think that a certain gentleman,
standing not far from a certain young lady's taxicab, belongs to a
certain department of our great city government. And from his
unflattering lack of interest in me, that he--"
Elinor half rose, terrified.
"Not the police, Jim?"
"Sit down," he said, in a tone Lily had never heard him use before.
And to Lily, more gently: "I am not altogether surprised. As a
matter of fact, I have known it for some time. Your esteemed
grandfather seems to take a deep interest in your movements these
days."
"Do you mean that I am being followed?"
"I'm afraid so. You see, you are a very important person, and if
you will venture in the slums which surround the Cardew Mills, you
should be protected. At any time, for instance, Aunt Elinor and
I may despoil you of those pearls you wear so casually, and--"
"Don't talk like that, Jim," Elinor protested. She was very pale.
"Are you sure he is watching Lily?"
He gave her an ugly look.
"Who else?" he inquired suavely.
Lily sat still, frozen with anger. So this was her grandfather's
method of dealing with her.
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