The Mystery of the Blue Train

He flung himself moodily into a large, leather-covered chair. A damned hole—that was what he was in. Yes, a damned hole! And ways of getting out of that damned hole were not too promising.

Pavett appeared with a discreet cough.

‘A gentleman to see you—sir—Major Knighton.’

‘Knighton, eh?’

Derek sat up, frowned, became suddenly alert. He said in a softer tone, almost to himself: ‘Knighton—I wonder what is in the wind now?’

‘Shall I—er—show him in, sir?’

His master nodded. When Knighton entered the room he found a charming and genial host awaiting him.