CHAPTER V

WITHIN an hour from the time Alfred had entered his office that
morning he was leaving it, in a taxi, with his faithful secretary
at his side, and his important papers in a bag at his feet.
"Take me to the Sherwood," he commanded the driver, "and be
quick."

As they neared Alfred's house, Johnson could feel waves of
increasing anger circling around his perturbed young employer and
later when they alighted from the taxi it was with the greatest
difficulty that he could keep pace with him.

Unfortunately for Jimmy, the outer door of the Hardy apartment
had been left ajar, and thus it was that he was suddenly startled
from Zoie's unwelcome embraces by a sharp exclamation.

"So!" cried Alfred, and he brought his fist down with emphasis on
the centre table at Jimmy's back.

Wheeling about, Jimmy beheld his friend face to face with him.
Alfred's lips were pressed tightly together, his eyes flashing
fire. It was apparent that he desired an immediate explanation.
Jimmy turned to the place where Zoie had been, to ask for help;
like the traitress that she was, he now saw her flying through
her bedroom door. Again he glanced at Alfred, who was standing
like a sentry, waiting for the pass-word that should restore his
confidence in his friend.