ELBERT did not welcome the prospect with open arms. Nature had
not designed him for such a task. All the same, Maw was imaged clearly
in his mind as one whose word was law.
At the best of times, Elbert’s obedience to that word was apt to be
grudging. And to-night, with murder lurking outside in the darkness, he
was full of a disgusted reluctance at having to face such a prospect.
Even in circumstances wholly favourable to it, the countenance of
Elbert was not attractive; to June at this moment it was very much the
reverse. She felt that its owner was not to be trusted an inch.
Meanwhile her mind was growing very active. Miss Babraham’s name and
address, that magic omen, was like an elixir; it quickened the blood,
it strengthened the soul. If only she could bear her treasure to Park
Lane all might yet be well!
Urged by this spur, native wit sprang to her aid. The first thing to be
done was to get clear of present company. She was haunted still by the
likeness to Fagin’s kitchen; but also there was a recollection of the
fact that a Tube Station was only a few yards along the street. That
was the haven wherein salvation lay.
Pressing hard upon the hope, however, was the dismal knowledge that
only one penny remained in her pocket. This sum could not take her to
Park Lane, unless that Elysium was close at hand. Alas, it was not at
all likely. Her ignorance of London was so great, moreover, that she
would need help to find her way there; and in the process of obtaining
it in her present state of weakness she might be caught by new perils.
For it was only too likely that Keller was lurking outside in the fog,
waiting to spring upon her and tear the Van Roon from her grasp at the
first chance that arose.
Beset by such problems, June felt that she was between the devil and
the deep sea. Perhaps the best thing she could do was to dash along the
street to the Tube, and then put herself in the hands of the nearest
policeman. But even to attempt such a feat was to run a grave risk.
Elbert, in the meantime, scowling and disgruntled, was bracing himself
under further pressure from Maw to brave the perils of the night. June
felt, however, that it would be wise not to saddle herself with this
reluctant champion if it could be avoided. To this end, she was now
able to pluck up the spirit to ask what was the best means of getting
to Park Lane.
Maw did not know, but Elbert when appealed to said that she could take
the Tube to Marble Arch, or she might turn the corner at the end of the
street and pick up a bus in Tottenham Court Road.
How much was the fare? Twopence, Elbert thought. Alas, June had only
a penny. She was painfully shy about confessing this difficulty, but
there was no help for it.
“Don’t you worry, Miss. Elbert is goin’ to see you all the way.” And
Maw fixed a savage eye upon her son.
Much as June would have preferred to forego the services of this
paladin, Maw’s ferocious glance settled the matter finally.
“And you’ll carry the pawcel for the lidy,” said Maw, as Elbert,
scowling more darkly than ever turned up the collar of his overcoat.