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CHAPTER V. MR. JULIUS P. HERSHEIMMER

WELL," said Tuppence, recovering herself, "it really seems as though it were

meant to be."

Carter nodded.

"I know what you mean. I'm superstitious myself. Luck, and all that sort of thing.

Fate seems to have chosen you out to be mixed up in this."

Tommy indulged in a chuckle.

"My word! I don't wonder Whittington got the wind up when Tuppence plumped

out that name! I should have myself. But look here, sir, we're taking up an awful

lot of your time. Have you any tips to give us before we clear out?"

"I think not. My experts, working in stereotyped ways, have failed. You will bring

imagination and an open mind to the task. Don't be discouraged if that too does

not succeed. For one thing there is a likelihood of the pace being forced."

Tuppence frowned uncomprehendingly.

"When you had that interview with Whittington, they had time before them. I have

information that the big coup was planned for early in the new year. But the

Government is contemplating legislative action which will deal effectually with the

strike menace. They'll get wind of it soon, if they haven't already, and it's possible

that that may bring things to a head. I hope it will myself. The less time they have

to mature their plans the better. I'm just warning you that you haven't much time

before you, and that you needn't be cast down if you fail. It's not an easy

proposition anyway. That's all."

Tuppence rose.

I think we ought to be businesslike. What exactly can we count upon you for,

Mr. Carter?" Mr. Carter's lips twitched slightly, but he replied succinctly: "Funds

within reason, detailed information on any point, and NO OFFICIAL

RECOGNITION. I mean that if you get yourselves into trouble with the police, I

can't officially help you out of it. You're on your own."

Tuppence nodded sagely.

The Secret Adversary