Doctor Q's mind, for the time being, at
least, seemed perfectly clear, and he had formulated a daring plan.
"Send Locke word that you will give yourself up," he was saying, "but
tell him that he must come to your apartment to get you. I will do the
rest."
Balcom left hurriedly and was driven directly home, where he got Locke
on the telephone and repeated the instructions that Doctor Q had
suggested.
"Am I to understand that you intend to turn state's evidence?"
questioned Locke, doubtfully.
"Assuredly," hastened Balcom.
"Then I'll be right over."
As Balcom hung up the receiver he chuckled sardonically. He was just
turning to an antique brazier to arrange for Locke's reception when Zita
was announced and at once admitted.
"I've failed, Mr. Balcom," she apologized, "failed miserably. Locke took
Mr. Brent away from me--and they ordered me never to return to the
house."
"You little idiot!" Balcom almost hissed. "I'll not tolerate a failure,
either. Get out!"
Although Zita almost went on her knees in her pleading to him, Balcom
was adamant, and finally she left in utter despair.
Outside, she telephoned to Paul to see if she might induce him to use
his influence in reinstating her in his father's good graces.
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