Read "The Weight of the Crown" by Fred M. White online for free on Textopian. Full text with search, annotations, highlights, and AI-powered reading aids.
With a new object uppermost in his mind Lechmere left Merehaven House and took his way into Piccadilly. The roads were almost deserted now, save for a solitary foot-passenger and a dingy night cab. One of these crept along presently, and Lechmere ordered the driver to take him to Fleet-street. In contrast with the West End there was bustle and animation enough in the street that never sleeps. It was near to the hour when the great morning papers went to press; there were lights everywhere, and the hoarse rattle of machinery. Lechmere came at length to the offices of the 'Mercury' and demanded to see the editor. The request was an unusual one at so late an hour, and the clerk asked if the visitor had as appointment.
"I have no appointment at all," Lechmere said. "But at the same time I am going to see the editor. Give my card to Mr. Hunt, and say that I will not detain him many moments."