E Phillips Oppenheim

The Great Secret E Phillips Oppenheim

I laid my papers down upon the broad mahogany counter, and exchanged greetings withthe tall frock-coated reception clerk who came smiling towards me."I should like a single room on the third floor east, about the middle corridor," I said. "Canyou manage that for me? 317 I had last time."He shook his head at once. "I am very sorry, Mr. Courage," he said, "but all the rooms in thatcorridor are engaged. We will give you one on the second floor at the same price."I was about to close with his offer, when, with a word of excuse, he hurried away tointercept some one who was passing through the hall. A junior clerk took his place, andconsulted the plan for a moment doubtfully."There are several rooms exactly in the locality you asked for," he remarked, "which aresimply being held over. If you would prefer 317, you can have it, and I will give 217 to ourother client.""Thank you," I answered, "I should prefer 317 if you can manage it."He scribbled the number upon a ticket and handed it to the porter, who stood behind withmy dressing-case. A page caught up the key, and I followed them to the lift. In the light ofthings which happened afterwards, I have sometimes wondered what became of theunfortunate junior clerk who gave me room number 317.