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diff --git a/16168-h/16168-h.htm b/16168-h/16168-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c3d734f --- /dev/null +++ b/16168-h/16168-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,9666 @@ +<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"> +<html> +<head> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=ISO-8859-1" /> +<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Master Mystery, by Arthur B. Reeve and John W. Grey</title> + <style type="text/css"> + /*<![CDATA[ XML blockout */ + <!-- + p { margin-top: .75em; + text-align: justify; + margin-bottom: .75em; + } + h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6 { + text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ + clear: both; + } + h3 {margin-top: 4em; margin-bottom: 2em; } + hr { width: 33%; + margin-top: 2em; + margin-bottom: 2em; + margin-left: auto; + margin-right: auto; + clear: both; + } + + hr.full { width: 100%; + margin-top: 0em; + margin-bottom: 0em; + margin-left: auto; + margin-right: auto; + clear: both; + } + pre {font-size: 8pt;} + table {margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;} + + body {margin-left: 10%; + margin-right: 10%; + } + .blockquote {margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; } + + .author {text-align: right; margin-right: 5%; margin-top: -1em; } + .center {text-align: center;} + .smcap {font-variant: small-caps;} + .block {margin-right:30%; margin-left: 30%; text-align: justify; } + .photos {margin-right: 5%; margin-left: 5%; font-variant: small-caps; } + .photos p {margin: 1em 0; padding-left: 2em; text-indent: -2em;} + + a:link {text-decoration:none} + link {color:#0000ff; + text-decoration:none} + a:visited {color:#0000ff; + text-decoration:none} + a:hover {color:#ff0000} + .figure, .figcenter, .figright + {padding: 1em; margin: 0; text-align: center; font-variant: small-caps;} + .figure img, .figcenter img, .figright img + {border: none;} + .figcenter {margin: auto;} + .figright {float: right;} + + div.trans-note {border-style : dotted; border-width : 1px; + margin : 3em 15%; padding : 1em; } + --> + /* XML end ]]>*/ + </style> +</head> +<body> +<h1>The Project Gutenberg eBook, The Master Mystery, by Arthur B. Reeve and +John W. Grey</h1> +<pre> +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at <a href = "https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a></pre> +<p>Title: The Master Mystery</p> +<p>Author: Arthur B. Reeve and John W. Grey</p> +<p>Release Date: July 1, 2005 [eBook #16168]</p> +<p>Language: English</p> +<p>Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1</p> +<p>***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE MASTER MYSTERY***</p> +<p> </p> +<h4>E-text prepared by Charles Aldarondo, Eva Sweeney,<br /> + and the Project Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team<br /> + (https://www.pgdp.net)</h4> +<p> </p> +<hr class="full" /> +<p> </p> +<p> </p> + <h2>THE</h2> + + <h1>MASTER MYSTERY</h1> + + <h4 class="smcap">novelized by</h4> + + <h2>ARTHUR B. REEVE</h2> + + <h4 class="smcap">and</h4> + + <h2>JOHN W. GREY</h2> + + <p> </p> + + <h4><i>From Scenarios by Arthur B. Reeve<br /> + in Collaboration with John W. Grey and C.A. Logue</i></h4> + + <p> </p> + + <p> </p> + + <div class="block"> + <h4 class="smcap">profusely illustrated with + photographic reproductions taken from + the houdini super-serial of the same + name. a b.a. rolfe production</h4> + </div> + + <p> </p> + + <p> </p> + + <p> </p> + + <p> </p> + + <h4 class="smcap">new york</h4> + + <h4>GROSSET & DUNLAP</h4> + + <h4 class="smcap">publishers</h4> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <p class="center">Published May, 1919</p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h4>PHOTOGRAPHIC REPRODUCTIONS FROM THE<br /> + HOUDINI SUPER-SERIAL</h4> + + <div class="photos"> + <p><a href="#image309">the automaton, the iron + terror</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image310">locke comes upon startling + evidence</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image311">in the path of the deadly + acid</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image312">the fight in the cafe after the + escape from the acid</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image313">the hag aids balcom in his nefarious + plans</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image314">eva is imprisoned in the chinese den + upon de luxe dora's orders</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image315">locke in the coil of the + garotte</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image316">the escape from the garotte</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image319">in the clutches of the iron + terror</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image320">reviving from the effects of + chlorine gas, locke is much surprised to see it is zita who + has resuscitated him</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image321">locke is bound in the "death + noose"</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image322">locke perfects his explosive-gas + bullet firing-arm to use against the automaton</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image308">bound at last</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image317">"and i will marry her in spite of + you," paul told locke</a></p> + + <p><a href="#image318">locke foils the conspirators</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="trans-note"> + <p>The last two photos in the above list appear to be from a + scene that does not occur in this text.</p> + </div> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <p> </p> + + <p> </p> + + <h2>THE MASTER MYSTERY</h2> + + <h3>CHAPTER I</h3> + + <p>Peter Brent sat nervously smoking in the library of his + great house, Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>He was a man of about forty-five or -six—a typical, + shrewd business man. Something, however, was evidently on his + mind, for, though he tried to conceal it, he lacked the + self-assurance that was habitually his before the world.</p> + + <p>A scowl clouded his face as the door of the library was + flung open and he heard voices in the hall. A tall, spare, + long-haired man forced his way in, crushing his soft black hat + in his hands.</p> + + <p>"I <i>will</i> see Mr. Brent," insisted the new-comer, as he + pushed past the butler. "Mr. Brent!" he cried, advancing with a + wild light in his eyes. "I'm tired of excuses. I want justice + regarding that water-motor of mine." He paused, then added, + shaking his finger threateningly, "Put it on the + market—or I will call in the Department of Justice!"</p> + + <p>Brent scowled again. For years he had been amassing a + fortune by a process that was scarcely within the law.</p> + + <p>For, when inventions threaten to render useless already + existing patents, necessitating the scrapping of millions of + dollars' worth of machinery, vested interests must be + protected.</p> + + <p>Thus, Brent and his partner, Herbert Balcom, had evolved a + simple method of protecting corporations against troublesome + inventors and inventions. They had formed their own + corporation, International Patents, Incorporated.</p> + + <p>Their method was effective—though desperate. It was to + suppress the inventor and his labor. They bought the sole + rights from the inventor, promising him glittering royalties. + The joker was that the invention was suppressed. None were ever + manufactured. Hence there were no royalties and the + corporations went on undisturbed while Brent and Balcom + collected huge retainers for the protection they afforded + them.</p> + + <p>Thus Brent Rock had come to be hated by scores of inventors + defrauded in this unequal conflict with big business.</p> + + <p>The inventor looked about at the library, richly paneled in + oak and luxuriously furnished. Through a pair of folding-doors + he could see the dining-room and a conservatory beyond. All + this had been paid for by himself and such as he.</p> + + <p>"Sit down, sir," nodded Brent, suavely.</p> + + <p>The man continued to stand, growing more and more excited. + Had he been a keener observer he would have seen that under + Brent's suavity there was a scarcely hidden nervousness.</p> + + <p>Finally Brent leaned over and spoke in a whisper, looking + about as though the very walls might have ears.</p> + + <p>"My dear fellow," he confided, "for some time I have been + considering your water-motor. I will return the model to + you—release the patent to the world."</p> + + <p>He drew back to watch the effect on the aged inventor. Could + it be that Brent was lying? Or was it fear? Could it be that at + last his seared conscience was troubling him?</p> + + <p>At that exact moment, up-stairs, in a private laboratory in + the house, sat a young man at a desk—a handsome, + strong-faced, clean-cut chap. All about him were the scientific + instruments which he used to test inventions offered to + Brent.</p> + + <p>A look of intent eagerness passed over his face. For Quentin + Locke was not testing any of Brent's patents just now. Over his + head he had the receivers of a dictagraph.</p> + + <p>It was a strange act for one so recently employed as manager + of Brent's private laboratory. Yet such a man must have had his + reasons.</p> + + <p>One who was interested might have followed the wire from the + dictagraph-box in the top drawer of the desk down the leg of + the desk, through the very walls to the huge chandelier in the + library below, where, in the ornamented brass-work, reposed a + small black disk about the size of a watch. It was the + receiving-end of the dictagraph.</p> + + <p>Suddenly the young man's face broke out into a smile and + without thinking he stopped writing what the little mechanical + eavesdropper was conveying him from below. He listened intently + as he heard a silvery laugh over the wire.</p> + + <p>"Oh, I didn't know you were busy. I thought these + flowers—Well, never mind. I'll leave them, anyway."</p> + + <p>It was Eva Brent, daughter of the head of the firm, who had + danced in from the conservatory like a June zephyr in + December.</p> + + <p>"My dear," Locke could hear the patent magnate welcome, "it + is all right. Stay a moment and talk to this gentleman while I + go down to the museum."</p> + + <p>Locke listened eagerly, glancing now and then at a + photograph of Eva Brent on his own desk, while she chatted + gaily with the inventor. It was evident that Eva had not the + faintest idea of the hard nature of the business of her + father.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile, Brent himself had left the library and passed + through the portièred door into the hall. He did not turn up + the grand staircase in the center of the wide hall, but + hurried, preoccupied, to a door under the stairs that opened + down to the cellar.</p> + + <p>He started to open it to pass down. As he did so he did not + hear a light footstep on the stairs as his secretary, Zita + Dane, came down. But he did not escape her watchful eye.</p> + + <p>"Mr. Brent," she called, "is there anything I can do?"</p> + + <p>Brent paused. "Wait a moment for me in the library," he + directed, as he turned again to enter the cellar.</p> + + <p>He closed the door and Zita watched him with an almost + uncanny interest, then turned to the library to join Eva and + the new-comer.</p> + + <p>Down the cellar steps Brent made his way, and across the + cellar floor, pausing at the rocky wall of the foundation of + the house blasted and hewn out of the cliff on which it towered + above the river. A heavy steel door in the rock wall barred the + way.</p> + + <p>Brent whirled the combination and shot the bolts, and the + door swung ponderously open, disclosing a rock-hewn cavern. + Three walls of the cavern were lined with shelves containing + inventions of all kinds—telegraph and telephone + instruments, engine models, railroad-signaling and safety + devices, racks of bottles containing dangerous chemicals and + their antidotes—all conceivable manner of mechanical and + scientific paraphernalia. It was literally a Graveyard of + Genius—harboring the ghosts of a thousand inventors' dead + hopes.</p> + + <p>Brent entered hastily and went directly to a shelf. There he + picked up a model of a motor. He blew the dust from it and + examined it approvingly.</p> + + <p>Suddenly he saw something that caused him to start. He + looked down at his feet. There was a piece of paper on the + floor.</p> + + <p>He picked it up and read it, and as he did so he started + back, frightened—then angry. He looked about at the + rock-hewn cavern walls—then read again:</p> + + <blockquote> + <p><span class="smcap">Brent</span>—This is my last + warning. If you persist in your course you will be struck + down by the Madagascar madness.</p> + + <p class="author">Q.</p> + </blockquote> + + <p>Under his breath, Brent swore. Again he looked about the + cavern, then turned hurriedly, picked up the motor, passed out + the steel door, clanged it shut, and locked it.</p> + + <p>No sooner had Brent shut the door, however, than it seemed + as if the very face of the outer rocky wall of the cavern began + to move—to tilt, as if on hinges.</p> + + <p>If a human eye had been in the Graveyard of Genius at that + instant it would have sworn that it perceived in the inky + blackness of the tilting rock a passage, and in the shadows of + that passage a huge, weird, grotesque figure peering in.</p> + + <p>Then the tilting rock door closed again, as the figure + disappeared down the rocky passage on the opposite side—a + menace and a threat to the owner of Brent Rock, insecure even + in his millions.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER II</h3> + + <p>When Brent arrived back at the library he had quite + recovered his poise, at least to the eyes of those in the + library. Zita had joined Eva with the old inventor, Davis.</p> + + <p>As Brent entered, Davis uttered an exclamation of joy at the + sight of his motor. For the moment Brent almost glowed.</p> + + <p>"Along with your invention," he beamed, as he handed the + model to the old man, "I am going to release many others to the + world."</p> + + <p>All this not only Locke was noting, but Zita, too, appeared + to be an almost too interested listener.</p> + + <p>The others were chatting when Zita heard a noise in the hall + and hurried out. She was just in time to see a rather + hard-visaged man, with cruel, penetrating eyes. It was Herbert + Balcom, vice-president of the company.</p> + + <p>Zita whispered to him a moment and Balcom's hard face grew + harder.</p> + + <p>"Go up-stairs—watch <i>him</i>," he ordered, passing + down the hall.</p> + + <p>Balcom entered the library just as Davis was about to leave, + hugging close to him his brain child. Davis clutched it a bit + closer at sight of the other partner.</p> + + <p>A glance would have been sufficient to show that Brent was + secretly afraid of his partner, Balcom, and that Balcom + dominated him.</p> + + <p>"Go to the gate with him, my dear," whispered Brent to his + daughter, who was clinging to his arm, convinced of the + goodness of her father, ignorant of the very basis on which the + Brent and Balcom fortune rested.</p> + + <p>Balcom's mouth tightened as he came closer to Brent, + menacing, the moment they were alone.</p> + + <p>"How long has this double crossing been going on?" sneered + Balcom, jerking his head toward the door through which Eva had + just gone with the inventor, and shoving his face close to + Brent's.</p> + + <p>"It's not double crossing, Balcom," Brent attempted to + conciliate, "but—"</p> + + <p>"No 'buts,'" interrupted Balcom, with deadly coldness. "Keep + on, and you'll have the government down on us for violating the + anti-trust law. What's the matter? Have you lost your + nerve?"</p> + + <p>As Balcom almost hissed the question, up in the laboratory + Locke was now writing furiously in his note-book, when he was + interrupted by a knock at the door. He whipped the dictagraph + receiver off his head and jumped to his feet, hiding all traces + of the dictagraph in the desk drawer. Then he moved over to the + door, unlocked it, and flung it open.</p> + + <p>"Oh, I hope I haven't interrupted you in any important + experiment," apologized Zita, innocently enough.</p> + + <p>"Nothing important," camouflaged Locke.</p> + + <p>Though Locke did not seem to notice it, another would have + seen that Zita cared a great deal for him.</p> + + <p>"May I come in?" she asked, wheedling.</p> + + <p>"Certainly. I am charmed, I assure you."</p> + + <p>While Zita was gushingly effusive, Locke was correct and + formally polite as he bowed his acquiescence. Zita felt it.</p> + + <p>For a moment she stood looking at a half-finished experiment + on the laboratory table, then finally she turned to Locke with + a calculated impulsiveness.</p> + + <p>"Why do you treat me so coldly," she asked, "when you know I + admire your wonderful work?"</p> + + <p>"Really, Miss Dane," he apologized, "I didn't mean to be + rude."</p> + + <p>Yet there was an air of constraint in his very tone.</p> + + <p>"Do you know," she flashed, "I can't help feeling that you + are so brilliant—you must be something more than you + seem."</p> + + <p>Locke suppressed a quick look of surprise. Was she trying to + worm some secret from him? He masked his face cleverly.</p> + + <p>"Indeed, you must be imagining things," he replied, quietly, + turning and strolling toward the window of his laboratory.</p> + + <p>The moment his back was turned Zita picked up the photograph + of Eva on the desk. For a moment she stood glaring at it + jealously.</p> + + <p>Out of the window Locke smiled. For, down on the gravel + path, walking slowly toward the gate to the Brent Rock grounds, + he could see Eva and Davis.</p> + + <p>The smile faded into a scowl. He had seen a young man enter + the gate. It was Paul Balcom, son of Herbert Balcom, and Paul + was engaged to Eva—thus giving Balcom a stronger hold + over Brent.</p> + + <p>Locke knew enough about Paul to dislike him thoroughly and + to distrust him. Had Locke been able to see over the hedge he + would have confirmed his suspicions. For Paul had actually + driven up to Brent Rock in the runabout of as notorious a woman + as could have been found in the night life of the + city—one known as De Luxe Dora in the unsavory half-world + in which both were leaders. Had his dictagraph been extended to + the hedge he would have heard her voice rasp at Paul:</p> + + <p>"Your father may make you pay attention to this girl, Paul, + but remember—you had not better double cross me."</p> + + <p>Paul's protestations of underworld fidelity, would have + added to Locke's fury.</p> + + <p>However, Locke had not seen or heard. Still, it was + unbearable that this fellow Paul should be engaged to a girl + like Eva. Tall, dark, handsome though he was, Locke knew him to + be a man not to be trusted.</p> + + <p>Paul hurried up to Eva, not a bit disconcerted at the near + discovery of his intimacy with Dora. And, whatever one may + believe about woman's intuition, there must have been something + in it, for even at a distance one could see that Eva mistrusted + Paul Balcom, her fiancé. Locke scowled blackly.</p> + + <p>Paul thrust himself almost rudely between Davis and Eva. + Again Davis shrank, as he had from the young man's father, then + bowed, excused himself, and hurried off, hugging his motor to + him, while Paul took Eva's hand, which she was not any too + willing to give him. Locke watched, motionless, as the couple + turned back to the house.</p> + + <p>Somehow Eva must have felt his gaze. She turned and looked + upward at the laboratory window. As she saw Locke her face + broke into a smile and she waved her hand gaily. Paul saw it + and a swift flush of anger crossed his face. He pulled Eva + abruptly by the arm.</p> + + <p>"Let's go into the house," he said, almost angrily.</p> + + <p>Seeing the action, Locke also turned from the window to + encounter Zita, still watching. Without a word he left the + laboratory.</p> + + <p>While this little quadrangle of conflicting emotions of + Locke, Eva, Paul, and Zita was being enacted the two partners + in the library were disputing hot and heavy. As they argued, + almost it seemed as if Balcom's very face limned his + thoughts—that he desired Brent out of the way, as a + weakling in whom he had discovered some traces of conscience + which, to Balcom, meant weakness.</p> + + <p>Balcom leaned forward excitedly. "I do not intend to let you + wreck this company because your conscience, as you call it, has + begun to trouble you," he hissed.</p> + + <p>Brent's hand clutched nervously. He was afraid of + Balcom—so much so that he fought back only weakly.</p> + + <p>Locke was down in the hallway just in time to meet Eva and + Paul as they entered.</p> + + <p>"Oh—do you know, I'm so glad—I think my father + is the most kind-hearted of men," Eva trilled to Locke, as she + recounted what had happened in the library with Davis.</p> + + <p>Locke listened with restrained admiration for the girl, + whatever might have been his secret opinion of her father or of + the story he already knew.</p> + + <p>On his part, Paul did not relish the situation, nor did he + take any pains to conceal it. He shrugged and turned away.</p> + + <p>"Come," he said, with a tone of surly authority, "I think I + hear my father in the library."</p> + + <p>Eva looked back swiftly at Locke and smiled as Paul led her + toward the library door. But that, also, made Paul more + furious.</p> + + <p>"Why do you make me ridiculous before that fellow?" he + demanded.</p> + + <p>"I'm sorry," replied Eva, in surprise. "I didn't meant to do + that."</p> + + <p>Vaguely Paul understood. The girl was too unsophisticated to + have meant it. Somehow that made it worse. Though she did not + know it, he did. Unknown to herself, there was a response in + the presence of Locke which was not inspired in his own + society. He hurried her into the library.</p> + + <p>It was as though the entrance of Paul and Eva had been + preconcerted. The partners, in their dispute, stopped and + turned as the young people entered and moved over to a divan. + Balcom lowered his voice and plucked at Brent's sleeve as he + nodded toward the couple.</p> + + <p>"I could trust you better if they were married within a + week," suggested Balcom.</p> + + <p>Brent recoiled, but Balcom affected not to notice.</p> + + <p>"Then I will believe that you are dealing fairly with me," + he emphasized.</p> + + <p>Brent studied a moment, then nodded assent. Balcom extended + a cold, commanding hand and the partners shook hands.</p> + + <p>Outside, Locke had paused, about to enter the library. The + pause had been just long enough for him to hear—and it + was a blow to him. He watched, dazed, as the two older men + walked over to the younger couple; then he turned away, heart + sick.</p> + + <p>"My dear," began Brent, as he patted the shoulder of the + girl, the one spot of goodness that had shone in the otherwise + blackness of his life, making him at last realize the depth to + which lust of money had made him sink, "we were just saying + that perhaps it would be advisable to—er—hasten + your marriage to Paul—say—perhaps next week."</p> + + <p>The words seemed to stick in his throat.</p> + + <p>As for Eva, she felt a shiver pass over her. Without knowing + why, she drew back from Paul, at her side, shrank even closer + to her father, trying not to tremble. Did Paul realize it?</p> + + <p>Brent felt the shudder with a pang. He leaned over. "Promise + to do this—for my sake," he whispered, so low that there + was no chance of the others hearing. "By to-morrow all may be + changed."</p> + + <p>There was something ominous about the very words.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER III</h3> + + <p>Brent had no intention of keeping the promise which Balcom + had extracted from him by a species of moral duress that + afternoon.</p> + + <p>In fact, already he had gone too far in his plans for + restitution—or was it self-preservation?—to turn + back. It was late in the night that he himself secretly + admitted to the house a tall, dark-haired stranger who + evidently called by appointment.</p> + + <p>"Well, Flint," he greeted, in a hushed tone, "what was it + you asked to see me about?"</p> + + <p>Flint replied not a word, but impressively tapped a bundle + which he carried under his arm and began to undo the cord which + bound it.</p> + + <p>Brent looked startled, then caught himself. He had known + Flint for some time—an adventurer, more or less + unscrupulous, who had been the foreign representative of + International Patents.</p> + + <p>Flint took off his coat and threw it on a chair with an air + of assurance that seemed to increase Brent's anxiety, then + began again to untie the bulky package.</p> + + <p>"Just a moment, Flint," cautioned Brent, stopping him.</p> + + <p>With an air of uneasy secrecy Brent hurried to the door that + led from the dining-room to the conservatory and bolted it + securely. Then he made sure that the door to the library was + bolted.</p> + + <p>As he did so he did not see his secretary, Zita, watching in + the hall, for the footsteps of Locke, approaching, had caught + her quick ear and she had fled.</p> + + <p>"Locke!" called Brent, hearing his laboratory, manager. + "Under no circumstances allow me to be disturbed to-night."</p> + + <p>"Very well, sir," responded Locke.</p> + + <p>Just then the light step of Eva was heard on the stairs.</p> + + <p>"What's the matter, father?" she asked, still upset by the + events of the afternoon. "Is there anything wrong?"</p> + + <p>"No, my dear, nothing," hastily replied Brent. "In the + morning I shall have something to say to you. Now run along + like a good girl."</p> + + <p>Dutifully Eva turned. Brent watched her out of sight. Then + with a keen look at Locke he pulled out a paper from his pocket + and handed it to the young scientist, who read:</p> + + <blockquote> + <p><span class="smcap">Brent</span>,—This is my last + warning. If you persist in your course you will be struck + down by the Madagascar madness.</p> + + <p class="author">Q.</p> + </blockquote> + + <p>Locke looked up from the scrawl in alarmed perplexity.</p> + + <p>"What does this mean?" he queried.</p> + + <p>Brent merely shook his head cryptically.</p> + + <p>"Study this message. I shall have something very important + to tell you in the morning."</p> + + <p>As Brent turned back into the library he paused a moment and + looked after Locke, hesitating, as if he would call him back. + Then he decided not to do so, turned, and carefully locked the + door from the dining-room into the hallway.</p> + + <p>Eva was waiting at the head of the stairs as Locke, + perplexed by the strange actions of his employer, came up.</p> + + <p>"What <i>is</i> the trouble?" she repeated, anxiously. + "Please tell me. Is there anything wrong?"</p> + + <p>"No—nothing," reassured Locke, in spite of his own + doubt. "Everything is all right."</p> + + <p>"I hope so." Eva lingered. "Good night."</p> + + <p>Locke bowed admiringly. But there was the same restraint in + his look that had been shown in the afternoon.</p> + + <p>"Good night," he murmured, slowly.</p> + + <p>Eva quite understood, and there was a smile of encouragement + on her face as she turned away and flitted down the hall to her + room.</p> + + <p>Outside, Zita had hurried from the house to the nearest + public telephone-booth and was frantically calling Balcom at + his apartment.</p> + + <p>"Mr. Balcom," she repeated, breathlessly, as the junior + partner answered, "Flint has returned. I have seen him."</p> + + <p>"The devil!" exclaimed Balcom, angrily, then checked himself + before he said any more. "Keep me informed."</p> + + <p>Abruptly he hung up.</p> + + <p>It was scarcely a moment later that Paul Balcom entered the + Balcom apartment, admitted by a turbaned black suggestive of + the Orient.</p> + + <p>Paul was surly and had evidently been drinking, for he + shoved the servant roughly out of the way as he strode toward + his father.</p> + + <p>Apparently outside Paul had overheard and had gathered the + drift of what Balcom had been saying. Or perhaps, from his own + sources of information, he already knew. At any rate, as Balcom + turned from the telephone, father and son faced each other + angrily.</p> + + <p>"Brent's lying," exclaimed Paul. "That marriage to me must + take place to-morrow."</p> + + <p>Talking angrily, sometimes in agreement, at others far + apart, the two left the room.</p> + + <p>Back in the dining-room by this time Brent had rejoined + Flint and now watched him eagerly as he took the last wrappings + from the package which he had carried so carefully.</p> + + <p>As the last wrapping was stripped from it, on the table + before them lay a small steel model, perhaps three feet + high—a weird-looking thing in the miniature shape of a + man, designed along lines that only a cubist could have + conceived—jointed, mobile, truly a contrivance at which + to marvel.</p> + + <p>Brent gazed incredulously at the strange thing. "An + automaton!" he exclaimed.</p> + + <p>"More than that," replied Flint, calmly.</p> + + <p>Flint unrolled a chart of the human nervous system and + spread it out on the table. Pointing to the brain, he leaned + over tensely, and whispered:</p> + + <p>"This model is merely a piece of mechanism. But the real + automaton possesses a human brain which has been transplanted + into it and made to guide it."</p> + + <p>For a moment Brent listened incredulously, then sat back in + his chair and laughed skeptically. But even Flint recognized + that there was a hollowness in the laughter.</p> + + <p>"Do you mean to tell me," demanded Brent, "that a human + brain has been made to control a thing of no use except as a + terrible engine of destruction?"</p> + + <p>"Not only possible," reiterated Flint, "but it is true."</p> + + <p>"Oh, Flint," rallied Brent, with a sort of uneasiness, "you + can't tell <i>me</i> that!"</p> + + <p>"Believe it or not," insisted the adventurer, "I have been + in Madagascar and I know."</p> + + <p>For a moment Brent paused at the vehemence of Flint's + answer. What had Flint to gain by misrepresentation? A thousand + images of the past flitted through Brent's brain. Then slowly a + look of terror came over Brent's face. Suppose it were indeed + true—this Frankenstein, this conscienceless inhuman + superman? Brent gripped himself and composed his features and + his voice.</p> + + <p>"But this thing," he rasped. "What does this prove?"</p> + + <p>"Oh, this is merely automatic—a piece of + mechanism—a model which I stole. It works when it is + wound up—not like the real one. Look."</p> + + <p>Flint put a pencil in the little steel hand of the model and + pressed a lever as he held a piece of paper under the pencil. + Brent leaned over, fascinated.</p> + + <p>Instantly the tiny hand began to trace on the paper one + letter—the simple letter "Q."</p> + + <p>As the hand finished the tail of the "Q" Brent gripped the + table for support. His eyes bulged and stared wildly.</p> + + <p>"My God!" burst from his lips. "It is the + warning—Q!"</p> + + <p>For minutes Brent strove to regain his composure.</p> + + <p>Nor was Flint less impressed than the man before him.</p> + + <p>What would have been the emotions of both if they had been + able to penetrate with the eye through the rocky cliffs on + which the stately mansion of Brent Rock stood would have been + hard to say.</p> + + <p>For, down in a rock-hewn cavern, not many hundred yards away + and below them, reached by a secret entrance from the shrubbery + of the cliffs near the shore, already had congregated several + rough characters. They were playing cards and drinking, now and + then glancing furtively at the passage entrance, as though they + were expecting the arrival of some one or something.</p> + + <p>Suddenly came a dull metallic clank through the passage, + strangely echoing. At once all leaped to their feet, at + attention, not unmixed with awe and fear that sat strangely on + their desperate features. What was it that they, who feared + neither God nor man, feared?</p> + + <p>They strained their eyes, looking into the passage that led + darkly away into blackness.</p> + + <p>Dimly down it now could be seen two gleaming spots of light, + points in the Cimmerian darkness. They seemed to be growing + larger and coming nearer as with each hollow reverberation the + dull metallic thuds increased.</p> + + <p>Faintly now could be made out in the blackness a huge, + stalking figure, having the shape of a man, with gigantic, + powerful shoulders, powerful arms, a thick body, hips, and + thighs that spelled terrific strength, legs and feet that + suggested irresistible force.</p> + + <p>"The Automaton!" escaped involuntarily from all lips.</p> + + <p>Slowly, irresistibly, the horrendous figure stalked forth + into the dim light. There it paused for a moment—a figure + of steel, larger than most men, yet not so large but that it + might have incased a man. And yet its motions, its every + action, were like nothing mortal. Even these hardened denizens + of the underworld shuddered.</p> + + <p>In its hand the Automaton carried a five-branched + candlestick, for what purpose none seemed to know. Yet all + bowed and quaked at every pantomime motion of the figure, ready + to do the bidding of the least motion of their inhuman + master.</p> + + <p>Still holding the candlestick with its five huge yellow + candles before him, the Automaton stalked forward to the table + and impressively deposited the candlestick on it, then stepped + back a pace and waved his ponderous hand at the assembled + emissaries, who scarcely repressed their own abject terror.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER IV</h3> + + <p>At a motion from the Automaton a dark-skinned Madagascan + stepped forward and lighted the five candles. At once a dense + smoke began drifting from the candles.</p> + + <p>The men looked at one another, showing an uncomfortable fear + of what the negro and the Automaton were doing. Even the negro + edged away fearfully and all crouched back, afraid of the + fumes.</p> + + <p>A moment later the Automaton, with a mighty blast of air, + snuffed all the candles at once, then, without a word, picked + up the candlestick and stalked off through the passage on the + opposite side of the den from the entrance, the passage that + led to the Graveyard of Genius.</p> + + <p>A few moments later the secret rock door from this passage + into the Graveyard swung open and the Automaton stalked in, + going carefully, noiselessly, now. Across the floor he walked + to the steel door, which he swung open, then on out into the + cellar of Brent Rock and up the steps to the door under the + stairs that led to the hallway of the great house.</p> + + <p>In the hall the Automaton halted beside a small stand on + which stood a candlestick exactly like the one he carried. + Quickly he picked up the original candlestick and replaced it + by the one he carried. Then he set the original back of the + portières, and with a glance at the library door turned back to + the cellar, closing the door noiselessly behind him.</p> + + <p>Down the steps he went, toward the open door of the + Graveyard of Genius. Beside the door was the fuse-box of the + lighting system of the house.</p> + + <p>The Automaton reached out and began rubbing sharply at the + insulation of the feed wires.</p> + + <p>Up-stairs, in the dining-room, Brent had by this time flung + off his coat and was examining with Flint the curious model the + adventurer had brought from Madagascar. Brent was very excited + and questioned Flint eagerly.</p> + + <p>"I tell you, Flint," cried Brent, at length, huskily, as he + seized a pen and dipped in into the ink, "the time has come for + me to do what I have long intended. I am going to do now what I + should have done years ago."</p> + + <p>Brent started to write feverishly:</p> + + <blockquote> + <p><span class="smcap">Quentin Locke</span>,—I have + done you a great injury about which you know nothing, but I + am willing to—</p> + </blockquote> + + <p>His hand had scarcely traced the last word when the room was + plunged into absolute darkness.</p> + + <p>Down in the cellar the Automaton had succeeded in rubbing + off the insulation of the feed wires. There was a flash of + light as he laid his steel hand over the two feed + wires—then darkness.</p> + + <p>In the dining-room Brent and Flint, already keyed to the + highest pitch, leaped to their feet with an exclamation of + terror.</p> + + <p>Late as it was, Locke was working in his laboratory on the + second floor of the house when the lights winked out. Surprised + for the moment, he ran out into the hall.</p> + + <p>Already there was the butler, groping about with a + candle.</p> + + <p>"What's the matter, Quentin?" asked a breathless voice + behind them.</p> + + <p>It was Eva in a filmy dressing-gown. Locke turned to vision + a creation of loveliness in the candle-light which set his + heart thumping.</p> + + <p>"Nothing," he reassured. "Just the lights short-circuited, + that's all. I'll see."</p> + + <p>Just then the dining-room door opened and Eva saw her + father, disheveled and preoccupied, stride out and take the + five-branched candlestick from the hall table. Nervously he + began to light the candles. They sputtered a bit and he turned + quickly, still holding the candlestick, as the smoke drifted + away from them all.</p> + + <p>"Fix the fuses in the cellar," he directed the butler.</p> + + <p>"Is anything—really the matter—father?" implored + Eva.</p> + + <p>"No, no, my child," he answered, hastily. "Go back to bed. + And, Locke, please don't let us be disturbed."</p> + + <p>He was about to say more, then decided not to do so, and + turned back into the dining-room.</p> + + <p>Again Brent carefully locked the door to the dining-room and + rejoined Flint.</p> + + <p>He had placed the candles on the table, not noticing in the + half-light that the smoke from them was growing denser as they + burned down.</p> + + <p>The smoke drifted over as the draught carried it. Flint + coughed and moved a bit, his hand at his throat.</p> + + <p>Brent seized the pen again and was about to write, when the + smoke from the candles drifted into his own face. He, too, + coughed.</p> + + <p>Uneasy, Brent glanced over at Flint. Flint laughed, a bit + hysterically.</p> + + <p>"What the devil's the matter?" demanded Brent, with lowered + brows, a strange dryness in his throat.</p> + + <p>Flint was now leaning forward on his elbows and laughing + foolishly, stupidly. It was a queer laugh, and struck terror + into Brent as he himself coughed and clutched involuntarily at + his throat. Brent stared at Flint.</p> + + <p>"What is it?" he repeated, anxiously. "Have you suddenly + gone mad, man?"</p> + + <p>But there was no reply. Instead, Flint laughed all the more + madly.</p> + + <p>Brent was more than startled. If he could have seen himself + in a glass he would have seen that he was already wide-mouthed + and disheveled. Suddenly the smoke again blew in his face. He + coughed again. His head reeled.</p> + + <p>Then, in a flash, it all dawned on him.</p> + + <p>He shielded himself from the candles. But it was too + late.</p> + + <p>"My God!" he exclaimed, starting up. "The Madagascar + madness!"</p> + + <p>Brent looked about wildly. He rushed to Flint and shook him. + But Flint only laughed. He turned and moved toward the candles, + reaching out for them. But even as he did so his hand + faltered.</p> + + <p>He stopped and passed his hand across his tightening + forehead. Slowly over his face came a stupid expression. He + felt himself going, without power of retraining himself. His + lips twitched and he swayed.</p> + + <p>Then he began to laugh uncontrollably.</p> + + <p>Flint rose and clapped him on the shoulder. Then both + laughed foolishly, loudly.</p> + + <p>They were beyond help. It was the laughing madness.</p> + + <p>Outside, in the hall, Eva and Locke had been standing, + talking for a moment, when suddenly, below, they heard a + terrific noise in the cellar. Involuntarily Eva's hand clutched + Locke's arm. Locke drew a revolver and, in spite of Eva's + fearsome caution, hastened down the cellar stairs.</p> + + <p>About in the blackness of the cellar he groped until his + foot touched something soft, a mass on the floor. He bent over. + It was the butler, in a heap, unconscious, but still + breathing.</p> + + <p>There was not a sound, not another being in the cellar.</p> + + <p>Together Eva and Locke helped the now half-conscious man to + his feet and pushed and pulled him up the stairs; as slowly he + recovered his power of speech.</p> + + <p>"What was it—tell us?" urged Locke.</p> + + <p>"I—I went down to fix the fuses—as the master + ordered," muttered the butler, incoherently. "A huge + figure—steel hand—it flung me across the + floor—the last I remember."</p> + + <p>He passed his hand over his head as though recollection even + was too horrible for description.</p> + + <p>Locke listened a bit doubtfully, then sent the butler on his + way to bed, while Eva could scarcely restrain her fears.</p> + + <p>Over to the dining-room door Locke strode and listened. + There was nothing but the sound of merriment inside, of + uncontrollable laughter. Could it be that Brent and Flint were + drinking? He dared not betray a fear to Eva. Instead he + knocked.</p> + + <p>At that moment he could hear the sound of some heavy body + falling; then more laughter as Brent in his hysteria struck the + model of the automaton to the floor.</p> + + <p>With the model, unnoticed by Brent, now fluttered to the + floor the letter he had been writing. But the madman paid no + attention to that now as it sifted through the air and + fluttered under the sideboard.</p> + + <p>"Mr. Brent," called Locke, "please open the door."</p> + + <p>Instead of an answer came a loud and insulting laugh, + followed by an incoherent mouthing of words. Eva looked + startled, blanched. It was so unlike her father. For the moment + Locke was piqued. But he tried not to show it as he turned away + from the door.</p> + + <p>"I am your father's employe," he said, sadly, "and it is his + privilege, I suppose, to laugh at me." He hesitated.</p> + + <p>"Oh, but, Quentin—Mr. Locke—I'm—I'm so + sorry. Surely he could not have meant it."</p> + + <p>At the head of the stairs Locke tried to smile.</p> + + <p>"Don't worry," he said, repressing his feelings. "It will + make no difference between us. Good night."</p> + + <p>They parted, Eva closing her door for a sleepless night, + Locke to work far into the night in his laboratory until sheer + exhaustion overcame his feelings.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile, in the dining-room, the two men kept terrible + vigil, hour after hour, oblivious of time, in wild and wanton + laughter—maniacal abandon.</p> + + <p>A terrible blow had been struck and Reason was tottering on + her throne.</p> + + <p>Two men had been stricken by an unknown hand—stark, + stark mad.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER V</h3> + + <p>"Father—please—open the door!"</p> + + <p>It was early the following morning that the butler with + frightened face had called Eva Brent to tell her that her + father and Flint had been locked in the dining-room all night + and were still laughing madly.</p> + + <p>Eva had hurried down-stairs, encountering Zita as she ran. + It was true. She could hear the voices inside. Nor could she + get any answer from the two men.</p> + + <p>"Oh—Zita—please—can't something be + <i>done</i>?" Eva implored.</p> + + <p>With a hasty word Zita hurried away just as Herbert Balcom + himself entered the house from the street.</p> + + <p>In utter surprise Balcom nodded at Zita as she poured forth + the story of what had been discovered in the morning, then + pushed past her in high excitement.</p> + + <p>"What's wrong?" he asked as he came upon the butler and Eva + still knocking excitedly at the dining-room door.</p> + + <p>Eva was almost in a panic as she answered, "Father and Mr. + Flint have been in there laughing ever since last night."</p> + + <p>Balcom tried to comfort her. But somehow his sympathy sent a + cold shudder through the poor girl.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile Zita had encountered Locke hurrying down at the + sound of the commotion. To him she told the story, again hurt + that his interest was solely for Eva, not in herself.</p> + + <p>Locke paused long enough to seize an umbrella from the rack, + rip the cover off, and break out a rib, to which he tied a + piece of string while he hurried to the group at the door.</p> + + <p>"Break down the door and call the police," ordered + Balcom.</p> + + <p>The butler reached for a chair and was about to swing it + over his head to break down the door.</p> + + <p>"Stop!" interrupted Locke.</p> + + <p>The young scientist knelt down, inserted the umbrella steel + through the keyhole, and bent it by the string as he fished + about with it on the other side to find the bolt. Meanwhile the + butler telephoned frantically for the police.</p> + + <p>It was at this height of excitement that Paul Balcom + entered. A moment's talk with Zita, and he, too, joined the + group.</p> + + <p>Sympathetically he spoke to Eva, but Eva scarcely responded + in the fashion of a girl to the man whom she was going to + marry. Her attention was riveted on Locke, who was kneeling + before the door. Paul saw it and an ominous scowl crossed his + face.</p> + + <p>Carefully Locke worked the umbrella steel and the string + until he had caught the bolt. Then he shot the bolt back and + rose to his feet. All watched him expectantly as he threw open + the door.</p> + + <p>Such a sight as met their eyes one could scarcely + picture.</p> + + <p>There were Brent and Flint at the + table—laughing—laughing. The candles had long since + burned out. On the floor lay the automaton model.</p> + + <p>"Father!" cried Eva, running to him.</p> + + <p>But there was no look of recognition on Brent's face.</p> + + <p>"Don't you know me? Speak to me! Father!"</p> + + <p>Instead, Brent merely patted her shoulder and laughed + hollowly. Eva, on her knees by him, sobbed and smoothed his + head by turns.</p> + + <p>Locke, bending over Flint, found him in much the same + condition.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile, Balcom and Paul had picked up the model of the + automaton and exchanged a quick glance.</p> + + <p>"This man Locke's actions are suspicious," exclaimed Balcom, + hastily. "He was in the house last night."</p> + + <p>Outside they could hear the arrival of the detectives + summoned by the butler.</p> + + <p>"Go to Eva," nudged Balcom to Paul.</p> + + <p>A moment later the butler entered with the detectives.</p> + + <p>At the sight of the automaton model in Balcom's hands the + butler cried out:</p> + + <p>"That is what attacked me last night—only + larger—much larger!"</p> + + <p>All eyes were now on the butler. Quickly Balcom took + advantage of the situation thus created. Locke, also, left + Flint and moved over to the group examining the model. As he + did so his eye caught a piece of paper under the sideboard. He + was about to pick it up when he realized that all were looking + at him. Quickly he covered his discovery and faced them.</p> + + <p>"This man is the stranger in the house," cried Balcom, in + anger. "Arrest him and make him explain."</p> + + <p>It was the work of only an instant for the chief detective + to step up to Locke and slip the bracelets on his wrists.</p> + + <p>"Don't!" cried Eva.</p> + + <p>"Please—my dear—your father," remonstrated + Paul.</p> + + <p>At that instant Brent was seized with another violent fit of + coughing and laughter. Eva, distracted, was half fainting.</p> + + <p>Thus, with Locke handcuffed, Balcom and Paul were + triumphant.</p> + + <p>Locke saw his chance. But the handcuffs prevented him from + using his hands. In the instant that all were diverted toward + Brent, with incredible deftness Locke slipped his hand from the + cuffs, one link of which fell open as if by magic, through a + secret all his own. He reached down and picked up the paper + under the sideboard and read it. It was the letter Brent had + been writing and served only to increase his perplexity. He + read it again, then crushed it into his pocket, and before any + one had discovered his trick had slipped his hand back into the + cuffs and they were locked again.</p> + + <p>At that very moment the telephone rang and the chief of the + detectives answered. As he did so a perplexed expression + crossed his face and he walked over quickly to Locke.</p> + + <p>"I—beg your pardon," he apologized as he began to + unlock the handcuffs.</p> + + <p>"Here, my man, what are you doing?" interrupted Balcom.</p> + + <p>"I know my business. You lay off," growled the + detective.</p> + + <p>A moment later Locke, with a slight smile on his handsome + face, was answering the telephone.</p> + + <p>Not a soul save the detective, even yet, suspected the true + identity of Locke, even as he answered over the telephone with + a respectful, "Yes, sir."</p> + + <p>The fact of the matter was that the message had come most + opportunely. It was from the chief of the Department of Justice + himself, ordering Locke to stay at the house until he had + secured the evidence that would allow the department to proceed + against the company under the anti-trust law. That, then, was + the explanation of the secret dictagraph which Locke had + installed, the explanation of his apparent faithlessness to his + employer.</p> + + <p>But weightier matters were now on Locke's mind. Here he was + faced by the case of his life, involving the happiness of the + very girl whom he had so soon come to love. His incentive was + double—love and success: triple—above all, + justice.</p> + + <p>By this time the household themselves were sufficiently calm + to help Brent to his bedroom and Flint to a guest-chamber.</p> + + <p>Balcom was about to follow, when Locke, returning from the + telephone, touched him on the shoulder and shoved the threat + message which Brent had given him the night before under the + face of the junior partner.</p> + + <p>"Read that," he demanded.</p> + + <p>Balcom read, controlling his features admirably, if control + were necessary.</p> + + <p>"What's the meaning of this?" he demanded, coldly.</p> + + <p>"Were you in Madagascar lately?" shot back Locke.</p> + + <p>Locke could not be sure whether or not Balcom suppressed a + start. At any rate, he did not conceal anger at the + insinuation.</p> + + <p>"Certainly," he replied. "With my son I cruised through the + Mozambique Channel and touched at Madagascar last summer. + Why?"</p> + + <p>Locke nodded and the detective made a note of the reply.</p> + + <p>"What do you mean to insinuate by that question?" demanded + Balcom.</p> + + <p>Without reply Locke shrugged nonchalantly and smiled.</p> + + <p>Not ten feet away, in the conservatory door, Paul listened, + and his face darkened as he clenched his fists.</p> + + <p>There was a murderous glare in Paul's eyes as Locke + unconcernedly withdrew, whispering to the detective, who nodded + deferentially to the young scientist who had been assigned by + the Department of Justice, strangely, to the very case which + now he realized in some unknown way must concern himself and + the very mystery of his own identity.</p> + + <p>So wore along the morning, with growing mystery and + excitement.</p> + + <p>It was not long before the Brent family physician was + summoned, and after a careful diagnosis pronounced Brent in a + hopeless state as far as his own science was concerned. Eva was + by this time more than frantic. The consolation of Paul seemed + to add to her nervousness. She was almost distracted when she + heard Balcom and the doctor discussing the case in low tones in + her father's room.</p> + + <p>"Don't you think, Doctor," she overheard, "that he would be + far better off in a sanitarium?"</p> + + <p>She shuddered as the doctor agreed with Balcom, and Balcom + sought to persuade her that the course was best. Even the + solicitations of Paul annoyed her. Paul was more than vexed at + this new repulse from his bride-to-be. His anger knew no bounds + as he caught sight of Locke, who had overheard and showed his + doubt over the whole proposal for the care of Brent. He plucked + at his father's sleeve and nodded toward Locke.</p> + + <p>Balcom needed no prompting from his crafty son.</p> + + <p>"I'll have you understand, Locke," he cried, his face + growing apoplectic red, "that I am in charge here now. Your + services are no longer required."</p> + + <p>"I quite understand," returned Locke, quietly. "We shall + see."</p> + + <p>Balcom stormed down from the room to the telephone, where, a + moment later, he telephoned to an asylum, asking them to send a + conveyance with nurses, keepers, and whatever paraphernalia was + necessary to take care of his partner, Brent.</p> + + <p>"Is he violent?" demanded the doctor over the telephone.</p> + + <p>"Yes. Bring a strait-jacket," snapped back Balcom. "And the + sooner he is under your care the better."</p> + + <p>With that Balcom stamped out of the house.</p> + + <p>In Brent's room, Paul was attempting still to ingratiate + himself with Eva, who was growing more distant toward him with + every moment. Finally Paul could stand it no longer. He turned + on his heel and faced Locke angrily in the hall.</p> + + <p>"You'll regret this, confound you!" he ground out, as he + swung out of the room rapidly in a high state of feeling.</p> + + <p>Unconcernedly Locke turned on his heel.</p> + + <p>"Don't worry," he whispered to Eva. "I'll see that no harm + comes to your father."</p> + + <p>For answer, her own heart too full for words, Eva pressed + the hand of the young scientist. It was reward enough for + Locke.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile, at Doctor Shaw's sanitarium, to which Balcom had + telephoned with the permission of the doctor, elaborate + preparations had been completed for the reception and + transportation of Brent.</p> + + <p>It was perhaps an hour later that the ambulance, with three + white-uniformed attendants, pulled out, carrying all those + appurtenances necessary for the care of the insane, including + the strait-jacket which Balcom had so testily suggested.</p> + + <p>That same hour had seen intense activity in another quarter. + In the den of the Automaton, the hard-visaged emissaries had + been already roused by the entrance of the Automaton.</p> + + <p>Hasty directions had been uttered by the metallic, + phonograph voice of the monster, and already four of the most + desperate of the characters had hurried through the entrance + out on the cliffs. The Automaton himself had turned toward the + passage through the Graveyard of Genius to Brent Rock + itself.</p> + + <p>Thus it happened that when the ambulance from Doctor Shaw's + sanitarium came bowling along the road to Brent Rock as fast as + its motor would permit, the driver was forced suddenly to put + on the brakes to save himself from being wrecked by a huge log + that lay squarely across the road.</p> + + <p>No sooner had the attendants jumped out to remove the log + than four desperate men fell upon them from ambush, beat them, + and left them trussed up and unconscious, while they donned the + jackets and uniforms of Doctor Shaw's men, seized the + ambulance, and swung off again at a fast clip in the direction + of Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>Lulled into a false security, as her father slept now for a + time under an opiate, Eva was sitting beside him with loving + care when she heard the noise below of the arrival of the car + from Doctor Shaw's sanitarium. At once she was in wild alarm. + Nor was Locke off his guard. While Zita tried to reassure Eva, + Locke met the men.</p> + + <p>There were four of them, and as the first passed, Locke + halted him. The parley gave another a chance to push past, + while Locke held three at bay.</p> + + <p>A moment later there was a scream from Eva, who had hurried + from her father's room at the sound of the high voices. The + emissary had seized her.</p> + + <p>It was a signal for the other three, who leaped on Locke all + at once. With almost superhuman strength Locke seized one of + them and flung him over his head for a fall down the whole + flight of steps as he fought the other two single-handed.</p> + + <p>Even then the third came back to the attack and Locke was + forced to give back step by step down the stairs.</p> + + <p>Another scream from Eva.</p> + + <p>In the heat of the fray Locke caught a glimpse of her + battling on the landing above with the first emissary. It gave + him redoubled strength.</p> + + <p>Flinging the two men off and eluding the third, he leaped to + the chandelier in the hall and with a giant swing wrapped his + legs about the fellow struggling with Eva. Literally throttling + him, he pulled him backward over the balcony railing for a fall + clear to the lower hall.</p> + + <p>At the moment when Locke was actually subduing all of his + assailants the door to the cellar suddenly opened and the huge + figure of the Automaton strode out.</p> + + <p>With one blow of his steel fist the monster struck Locke + senseless, then turned and began ascending the grand + staircase.</p> + + <p>Almost paralyzed with fear, Eva screamed again and fled + through the nearest door, locking it. On strode the Automaton, + crashing down the door as if it had been a mere shell.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile the emissaries had seized Locke, still unconscious + and unable to resist. Feverishly they began to bind him in the + strait-jacket which they had taken from the ambulance. Then + they carried him and flung him roughly on the floor of the + library.</p> + + <p>Still screaming, Eva fled to the next room, again bolting + the door and piling furniture frantically to barricade it. + Again the Automaton rained blow after blow on the door. It + splintered, and his powerful fist began breaking and + overturning the barricade which the unfortunate girl had + improvised.</p> + + <p>Wildly she looked about. Only a closet now offered refuge. + The door was splintered through. She could see the terrible + face of the monster.</p> + + <p>In the library, Locke, recovering by this time, began + flopping and twisting, spurred by the muffled screams from + above-stairs as he worked with miraculous dexterity to release + himself from the strait-jacket.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER VI</h3> + + <p>Locke struggled with superhuman effort to release himself + from the strait-jacket in which he was held prisoner. The + throat-straps pressed against the neck muscles and the strain + on the straps could be heard like pistol-shots as the leather + stretched under his prodigous efforts.</p> + + <p>With every nerve keyed up and his reflexes answering his + keen brain, he swayed backward and forward, rolled from side to + side until his shoulder-blades were thrown completely out of + joint. The pain was intense, but he summoned every ounce of + strength at his command and finally succeeded in getting one of + his arms free by gradually working his body toward a settee, + where, with his elbow on the seat, he pushed his disjointed arm + over his head.</p> + + <p>Agony was written all over his face as at last with a final + effort he extricated his arms and was in a position to loosen + the straps which bound them, with his teeth.</p> + + <p>Nor was his labor over now. The canvas jacket cut into his + flesh and the buckles bruised his muscles. His body ached with + weariness, yet he clung to his task. Like a thing incarnate he + toiled as he realized the danger that confronted Eva.</p> + + <p>Up-stairs, the monster was pursuing Eva. The heavy oaken + doors were as straws to him, and he plunged through them as a + mad elephant dashes through a canebrake. Destruction lay in his + wake as he crashed through the improvised barriers which Eva + had constructed to delay his onslaught. A crouching, desolate + figure, she waited for what she knew to be her end. There was + only one barrier left between her and this engine of + destruction. It was only a moment now when she would be a + crushed, mangled mass. With terror in her heart she waited for + the thing to crash through the last remaining barrier, and even + now she could hear his ponderous step as he crossed the room + toward the door which would only momentarily stay his progress. + Her lips moved in prayer as she waited and the dread moments + seemed eons to her.</p> + + <p>Suddenly she heard a crash, and she could see the panels of + sturdy oak in the door give way as though they were egg-shells. + The gigantic fist of the monster crashed through and she could + discern the dim outline of the enormous head, and the glaring + eyes of fire looking toward her. With a shrill shriek she + raised her arms above her head and fell swooning to the floor + just as a pistol-shot rang out.</p> + + <p>Locke, disheveled and weak, had released himself from the + strait-jacket, and with the speed of a panther had ascended the + stairs. He saw the monster crashing through the last remaining + barrier, and without hesitation he fired at the thing as he + closed in. His one thought was to delay it or make it swerve in + its course momentarily, with the hope that by some chance Eva + might have time to escape. Could he only accomplish this, he + thought his mission successful, regardless of the outcome as + far as he himself was concerned.</p> + + <p>He pulled the trigger of his automatic again and again as he + rushed forward. By some strange trick of fate the figure reeled + for a second and one of its arms dropped swinging to its side. + The bullet had entered a joint. Had it in some way deranged the + mechanism, causing the Automaton to turn in its tracks and + confront Locke as he charged forward? Or was some human being + concealed in the armored creature and wounded?</p> + + <p>Eva, in her semi-conscious state, saw the mass of metal + charge toward Locke, and closed her eyes so as not to be a + witness to his end. She waited, dumb and helpless with fright, + and before her surged the meaning of this man's great sacrifice + for her. In the brief interval she realized that men of his ilk + were few. She realized that her interest in the young chemist + was more than a passing fancy and the truth was driven home to + her in his hour of peril. She closed her eyes and all before + her went blank.</p> + + <p>As the Automaton faced Locke voices could be heard in the + hall, and the gardener of Brent Rock, who had summoned aid, + came to Locke's assistance. Armed with clubs and garden tools, + the men charged the monster. Like a lion at bay, the thing + turned from its task of destroying Locke to face its new + enemies. <i>En masse</i> they attacked the Automaton, but it + shook them off, one by one, as a terrier would rats, and made + its way toward the grand staircase. Some of the gardener's aids + suffered broken bones, while others were left unconscious as a + result of the conflict.</p> + + <p>Locke picked himself up and rushed to Eva's side. He took + the prostrate form in his arms and looked down into her + beautiful face. The room was in ruins, and Eva slowly opened + her eyes and looked up at him. Her hand went out in a momentary + caress, but as she fully recovered consciousness she moved her + hand away lest he really know. She looked up at him gratefully, + and Locke, a little confused, took his arm from around her + waist. With boyish bashfulness he hung his head and asked her + if she was all right. The sound of his own voice amid the ruins + brought back his composure.</p> + + <p>"We must see about father. Perhaps something has happened to + him," said Eva, as she started toward the door.</p> + + <p>Locke looked after the girl, then followed her.</p> + + <p>Propped up in bed, Peter Brent presented a pitiable sight. + His glassy stare and shrill laugh like a coyote baying at the + moon sent cold chills down Eva's back as she entered the room. + This man, at one time a power in the business world, was only a + shell of his former self, and his inhuman laughter caused even + Locke to shudder a little as he entered the room.</p> + + <p>Eva walked over to her father and put her hand to his brow, + looking wistfully in his eyes for some sign of recognition.</p> + + <p>She kissed him on the forehead and called him, but he still + stared blankly ahead of him, unconscious of even her presence. + Locke felt the pulse of the patient and looked at the dilated + pupils.</p> + + <p>"There must be some antidote for this Madagascar madness, + and I shall move everything to find it," he said, as he looked + at Eva with determination.</p> + + <p>She turned toward him eagerly as he spoke and his words gave + her a little cheer. Eva continued her caresses, but the + demented man showed no signs of recognizing even his own + daughter.</p> + + <p>From another room the shrill laughter of Flint could be + heard as he raved in delirium. Bereft of reason, he fought an + unseen enemy.</p> + + <p>"Q did it, I tell you—it's Q," he raved and shrieked + in his insane way as he rocked back and forth in bed. He was + fighting his own conscience, and kept pushing some unseen thing + from him as he shook in a paroxysm of fright.</p> + + <p>The front-door bell rang and Balcom entered. He was suave in + manner, but this time he seemed a little excited as he gave his + hat and stick to the butler.</p> + + <p>"Tell Miss Brent I must see her at once," he ordered.</p> + + <p>As the butler turned to mount the stairs, Balcom reached his + hand up and rubbed his shoulder as though he were in pain. + Perhaps the gesture meant nothing, but a keen observer would + have noticed that his arm did not move with the freedom that + one would expect of a man of his frame and build. As he rubbed + his shoulder his eyes followed the butler up the stairs and his + lips tightened. He watched him until he was out of sight, then + turned and entered the library.</p> + + <p>As Balcom entered the library the door-bell rang and the + three ambulance men who had been overpowered by the emissaries + of the Automaton entered. Balcom approached them and hasty + explanations were forthcoming. In his suave manner he quieted + the most noisy of the trio, who by this time had found the + strait-jacket from which Locke had just released himself.</p> + + <p>"This looks like a put-up job to me," growled the driver, as + he confronted Balcom, holding the strait-jacket toward him. + "And I believe you know something about it."</p> + + <p>"My dear man, I am the person who telephoned for you to come + for my stricken partner," said Balcom, "and I still insist that + he is in dire need of treatment."</p> + + <p>As he spoke Eva entered the library in time to hear him. She + was followed by Locke.</p> + + <p>"My father shall not be taken from this house," she cried, + in reply to Balcom's orders to the attendants.</p> + + <p>As she spoke she turned toward Locke and looked at him for + his acquiescence. He quietly nodded toward her in an assuring + manner, and as he did so one might have noticed Balcom's face + cloud up with evil purpose. He was thinking of this young + whipper-snapper and his interference with his plans. As he + stood meditating he noticed that Locke was looking at him, so + he turned toward the young chemist and his whole expression + changed. A bland smile crept across his face as he spoke.</p> + + <p>"I was only suggesting that my partner be taken to an + institution, because I believed that he would receive better + treatment there." He addressed Locke, but looked toward Eva as + he did so. "Miss Brent should have trust in me. I have only her + interest at heart."</p> + + <p>"It would be better for Mr. Brent to stay here," said Locke. + "The treatment his daughter can give will be better than that + of an outsider."</p> + + <p>As he spoke he sauntered away with an air of finality, while + Balcom shrugged his shoulders and gave orders to the ambulance + men to go.</p> + + <p>Locke walked toward the dining-room, and there amid the + candle drippings and the wreckage of the night before espied + the miniature automaton. He picked it up and examined it + minutely as Balcom strolled in.</p> + + <p>Balcom's quick gaze caught what Locke was looking at, and he + approached the young chemist and sauvely said:</p> + + <p>"It seems almost unbelievable, Mr. Locke, that a giant form + like that could be endowed with a human brain."</p> + + <p>As he spoke he pointed toward the miniature automaton in + Locke's hands. Locke turned and faced him, his jaw tightening + with a snap.</p> + + <p>"Not unbelievable, but impossible, Mr. Balcom," he said. "I + believe that there is some one in this thing that attacks us + and calls himself Q."</p> + + <p>He eyed Balcom as he spoke, to see the effects of his words. + But if Balcom knew anything, he cunningly concealed it. Locke + walked to the table and closely examined the candles and other + stuff strewn about. He was looking for some clue to what had + caused the madness of Brent and Flint. The crumpled anatomy + chart lay on the floor, and as Locke stooped to pick it up Eva + entered and came toward him. She shuddered slightly as she + passed the miniature of the monster, and Balcom, with an air of + satisfaction, noticed her fear. He turned and was about to go + out, when the butler entered with the duplicate candlestick in + his hands.</p> + + <p>"Mr. Locke, in cleaning the hall I found this behind the + portières at the entrance to below-stairs," he announced. "I + was quite puzzled for a moment, for I knew the master had taken + it into the dining-room with him last evening."</p> + + <p>As he spoke he handed the candlestick to Locke, who quickly + compared it with the one on the dining-room table which + contained the burnt candles.</p> + + <p>In appearance the candelabra were identical. Locke with + great care examined every feature of them, looking for a clue. + He took one of the whole candles from the candlestick which the + butler had brought in and scraped the wax from in with his + penknife. He examined the particles carefully, then approached + the candlestick which stood on the table the fatal night, and + very carefully removed the wax from the stumps of candles which + were still in the sockets.</p> + + <p>"The Madagascar madness came from <i>that</i> candlestick," + he announced, with assurance, as he pointed toward the one on + the table.</p> + + <p>While he was so busily engaged Balcom was eying him + cunningly. He watched his every move and was most intent in + seeing just how the young man would prove his contention.</p> + + <p>"Good morning, every one!" came the clear voice of Paul as + he entered the room and crossed over to the side of his + fiancée. He was particular to ignore Locke in his greeting, and + as he approached Eva he bent over her hand and kissed it.</p> + + <p>A close observer would have noticed that the girl rather + drew her hand back from his caress.</p> + + <p>"I am so sorry about your father, Eva," whispered Paul. "I + trust the ailment is but temporary."</p> + + <p>As he spoke Eva thanked him mechanically for his + solicitations, while Balcom glanced at his son in + admiration.</p> + + <p>Locke, who was still engaged in looking at the candle + drippings through his pocket magnifying-glass, paid slight + attention to Paul, but glanced up in time to see that there was + a look of insincerity on his face.</p> + + <p>Could it be that this young scion of the Balcom fortune + could in any way be connected with the Automaton? Could this + man, this suave, polished gentleman, have any motive for + seeking the ruin or death of his fiancée? Locke seemed to be + busily engaged in his task, but he was making mental notes on + the conduct of young Balcom. He looked up finally and turned to + Eva.</p> + + <p>"Miss Brent, I find minute particles of some foreign + substance in the wax of these candles," he announced. "They + seem to be of organic origin and I am certain that they contain + the poison which has robbed your father of his mentality. I am + going to take them to a chemical laboratory where there will be + proper facilities to have them analyzed. Perhaps there is an + antidote that will restore your father's sanity."</p> + + <p>As Locke spoke he carefully wrapped up the particles of + drippings in a piece of paper and put them in his pocket. As he + did so, both Balcom and Paul exchanged hurried glances, and + Balcom left the group and started toward the hall.</p> + + <p>During all this procedure Zita, clad in a sumptuous morning + frock hardly befitting a secretary, was standing behind the + portières in the hall and listening intently to all she could + hear within the dining-room. As she heard Balcom's footsteps + she hurriedly turned and seemed to be going up the hall. He + looked after her and then called.</p> + + <p>She came toward Balcom with a nod of understanding, and, as + she approached, he led her to a corner of the hall and + whispered to her.</p> + + <p>"It is imperative that we get Flint out of the house + to-night. I can trust you to take care of this if I arrange the + details?"</p> + + <p>Zita quickly nodded acquiescence, looking furtively over her + shoulder to see if they were observed.</p> + + <p>"I will get him to your apartment," she hurriedly said, as + she looked up at him for further instructions.</p> + + <p>Balcom turned quickly from her, got his own hat and sack, + and departed, just as Locke came into the hall, bound for the + chemist's shop. He looked after the disappearing form of + Balcom, and then turned and noticed that he was being watched + by Zita. Zita in turn hastily entered the library, without + looking over her shoulder.</p> + + <p>"I wonder what her real position in this house can be," + mused Locke, as he took his hat and went toward the front + door.</p> + + <p>In the dining-room Paul was now standing close to Eva and + had taken her hand.</p> + + <p>"You know it was your father's wish that we be married," he + was saying, "and I know that he would be happy if we had the + ceremony performed at once."</p> + + <p>His eyes narrowed as he said this, but Eva was too + preoccupied to see it. With a shudder, ever so slight, she + looked up at his handsome face and spoke.</p> + + <p>"I will not even speak of marriage until my father recovers, + Paul, and I don't know how you can ask me to at such a + time."</p> + + <p>She was not thinking so much of her father as of a certain + young chemist who had risked his life for her. Why had fate + thrown him in her way, she wondered. What was there about + Quentin Locke that compelled her attention—that made her + feel secure when he was about? What was the difference between + the young chemist and Paul that she felt perfect trust in the + one whom she had known only a short time and distrust and + uncertainty in the other to whom she was about to be + married?</p> + + <p>She hung her head and went into the drawing-room, leaving + Paul standing there. He looked after her, and a slight smile + crossed his face as he thought of what a fool she was to think + that he cared for her. His self-assurance led him to believe + that the reason that Eva was not consenting to his proposal was + indeed because of her father's condition, for he little + dreamed, nor would his egotism permit him to believe, that + anything else could be the case.</p> + + <p>His mouth hardened in a subtle smile as he sauntered after + Eva to bid her farewell. He remembered that De Luxe Dora was + waiting outside for him in her speedster.</p> + + <p>He had made this paramour of his take him to the very door + of his fiancée's home, and there wait until he had paid his + respects to the moneyed lady who would make happiness possible + by supplying him with the funds to pursue his pleasures and + insure his father's hold on the International Patents, + Incorporated.</p> + + <p>Paul looked at his watch, then, after a few words of + condolence which would hardly sound sincere from any one less + gifted, made a hurried departure toward the corner where the + speedster was waiting.</p> + + <p>"Who was the funny gink that hurried by a little while ago?" + queried Dora, in the vernacular of her calling. "He gave me the + double O as though he had something on me."</p> + + <p>"That's a fellow we've got to look out for, kid," answered + Paul, in the same terms by which he was addressed, for, if + nothing else, Paul could be as much at home in the underworld + as in a mansion on the Drive. "Brent claimed that he was a + chemist before he went 'bugs,'" continued Paul, "but I have my + doubts; in fact, I'm very leery of him because I think he's a + fly cop."</p> + + <p>He took his place beside Dora, who started the car and + headed down-town.</p> + + <p>After Paul's departure Eva hurried to her father's room and + tried to comfort him. He was seated in a chair, staring blankly + ahead of him. He was quieter now, but his body twitched + nervously from time to time.</p> + + <p>The tears started to come to Eva's eyes as she saw her + father's plight, and she knelt down beside him and took his + hand in hers. She stroked it with her own hand and bent over + and kissed it. As she knelt, crying softly, she sobbed + half-aloud:</p> + + <p>"Why can't I confide in you, father? Why can't you advise + me? I don't love Paul Balcom and could never marry him. I know + I love Quentin Locke—I do—I do—"</p> + + <p>As she sobbed she bent over his hand and pressed it to her + lips.</p> + + <p>Peter Brent sat staring into space, staring like a graven + image.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER VII</h3> + + <p>After her brief encounter with Balcom in the hallway Zita + stealthily mounted to Flint's room.</p> + + <p>Flint's condition was unchanged. He lay sprawled out in a + huge arm-chair, his head swaying from side to side, as he + muttered and mumbled incoherently, while his leering smile + caused even Zita to shudder.</p> + + <p>She was, however, alive to the importance of her mission. + Steeling herself, she raised Flint from the chair and steadied + him with one hand while she tried to smooth out the wrinkles of + his clothing so that his mad condition would not be too + apparent when they went outdoors. It was a hard task, but Zita + soon accomplished it and, half supporting, she led him through + a door on the farther side of the room. They crept down a back + stairway and so away from the house.</p> + + <p>At times Flint stumbled and almost fell, and once that + insane laugh startled a passer-by, who started after them, then + changed his mind and proceeded on his way. It was then that + Zita's heart almost stopped beating. She realized that the + situation would be unexplainable to a stranger and she urged + the insane Flint on faster.</p> + + <p>Renewed hope came to her with each step. She had almost + relaxed her precautions when, suddenly, from a clump of bushes, + several men leaped out. They seized Flint, who merely started + babbling afresh. Zita, ignorant of what was really happening, + struck out right and left in the hopeless encounter, until one + of the men with a grin seized her wrist in his powerful grasp + and twisted it until she screamed with pain. Then she realized + for the first time that she had fallen into the hands of the + emissaries of the Automaton. Had Balcom planned it, or had that + mechanical monster taken advantage of what Balcom had + ordered?</p> + + <p>In the mean time, the other thugs, with Flint between them, + made off hurriedly. With a last push that almost threw Zita to + the ground, the last of them dashed into the shrubbery, and for + several moments Zita dazedly stood there as he crashed through + the underbrush, making good the escape and capture. Then she + turned and ran back to Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>Locke, in the mean time, had arrived at the laboratory of + his old friend Hadwell, the chemist, where he was warmly + welcomed.</p> + + <p>It was the usual dusty workshop of one devoted to one + idea—science—with no touches of comfort. Hadwell + fairly lived amid retorts, Bunsen burners, and reagents.</p> + + <p>He was a man of profound research, rather than the + commercial chemist, and it was from him that Locke, in earlier + days, had learned many lessons so well that now his career was + watched with interest by many distinguished men of science.</p> + + <p>Hadwell was delighted at the chance to examine the strange + scrapings of wax which Locke had dug out of the sockets of the + candlestick, the more so as they must contain some mysterious + poison. First he studied them under a powerful lens, then by + chemical reactions, until he made visible some peculiar + crystals. Locke himself was amazed as his friend worked.</p> + + <p>"You don't know it all—yet—my boy," smiled the + aged professor. "There's still something the old teacher can + add to your education, and I'm glad, Quentin, very glad, for it + will draw you closer to me again. I need you to carry on my + work when I must lay it down. I'm not positive," he continued, + "but I believe these crystals to be those of <i>Dhatura + stramonium</i>, and, as you say speed's the thing, we'll begin + by noting the effect of the stuff as a gas on that guinea-pig + over there."</p> + + <p>"Have you masks?" asked Locke, with true scientific + caution.</p> + + <p>"Yes—on the shelf. You're keen, Quentin. These fumes + can penetrate the tiniest aperture and, if my guess is right, + without a mask, you would quickly laugh yourself to death."</p> + + <p>"Don't, Professor, don't joke, for there is no joy in that + mad laughter. It is horrible, maddening, even to the hearer. + Let us get to work. The father of the girl I love may even now + be sinking to his death. We must determine the nature of this + deadly stuff, and then find an antidote."</p> + + <p>The chemist brought out the cage in which the guinea-pig was + placidly munching a lettuce leaf, and placed it in a convenient + spot on the table. Then, after Locke, as well as the professor, + had carefully adjusted the masks, the latter lighted a Bunsen + burner and applied the flame to the deadly crystals. A pungent + fume was given off and collected in a rubber bag, or cone, from + which a long tube protruded.</p> + + <p>This tube the chemist introduced into the cage. For a moment + there was no perceptible change in the animal's actions. Then + it stopped eating, sniffed at the strange odor, and commenced + to twitch violently. This twitching continued for several + minutes, when the creature started to revolve in circles, like + a Japanese dancing-mouse. Finally it became subject to spasms, + and, although the professor withdrew the tube, these symptoms + continued.</p> + + <p>"I was right!" he cried. "It is an especially poisonous + variety of that almost unknown Oriental drug, <i>Dhatura + stramonium</i>. I think I can find an antidote to it, also. To + work, my boy, to work!"</p> + + <p>One experiment after another resulted in failure, however, + and it was while they were so engaged that the telephone bell + rang and a feminine voice inquired for Locke.</p> + + <p>It was an excited Eva who called. "Quentin," she burst + forth, breathlessly, "what do you think has happened? The + strangest thing! Flint has escaped. Tell me what to do. Can't + you come to me at once? I need you."</p> + + <p>Locke needed no further urging. Important though the work of + finding the antidote was, Eva's call was more imperative to + him. He reassured her as best he could over the wire, for he + had no idea what had really happened. Zita, as might have been + expected, on her return to Brent Rock had been far too clever + to disclose the exact truth that Flint had been abducted, and + that while in her own charge.</p> + + <p>When she arrived at Brent Rock she had mounted by the same + stairway by which she and Flint had departed. Entering Flint's + room, she had raised the alarm and had acted her part so well + that Eva thought that she had discovered Flint's absence at the + precise moment at which Zita had cried out and she had come + running in answer to her call.</p> + + <p>Locke gave Hadwell a brief outline of what had just occurred + at Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>"Professor," he pleaded, "for Heaven's sake don't fail me. + Try as you never tried before to find the antidote for this + strange combination of poisons. Telephone me when you have + it."</p> + + <p>Locke seized his hat, and Hadwell redoubled his efforts to + fathom the toxic secret.</p> + + <p>At Brent Rock, in the mean time, everything was in + confusion, Eva was almost distracted, and, to add to her + discomfort, Paul took occasion to call.</p> + + <p>In the past few days her distrust of him, for she could call + it by no other name, had grown, and the furtive glances which + he exchanged with Zita, little trouble-maker, were not + reassuring. But when Eva's maid, motioning her aside, told her + that she had been a witness to the departure of Zita and Flint, + Eva's suspicions from a vague misgiving became a stern reality. + She longed for Locke's return and protection from the very man + to whom she was engaged.</p> + + <p>As Locke left the chemist's he noticed a light runabout + across the street, half hidden in the shadows. But he failed to + notice the evil face of De Luxe Dora peering at him from + beneath the rim of a well-pulled-down hat.</p> + + <p>"Huh!" she muttered. "We'll get his number and here's where + I go after it."</p> + + <p>Locke hailed a passing taxicab, gave a hurried direction to + the chauffeur, and jumped in. The taxi snorted, cut out open, + and jumped forward as the driver clumsily shifted the worn + gears. But out of the shadows there glided a low-hung runabout + with a purling motor that without effort kept Locke's taxi just + in sight without seeming to be following.</p> + + <p>At the time that the emissaries abducted Flint he had been + roughly handled and some of his clothing had been torn. But as + he had been incapable of the slightest degree of real + self-defense, the thugs had soon desisted beating him up, with + the result that he had escaped bodily injury except for a few + slight scratches.</p> + + <p>The emissaries of the Automaton led him by devious winding + paths down to the shore, and, half walking, half running, + pressing close to the high cliffs, they urged him forward.</p> + + <p>Soon they came to a cleft in the rock, and, with one hand + using a well-hooded electric torch to light the way, they + dragged the poor unfortunate into the cave entrance to the + den.</p> + + <p>This cave was a marvel of nature, hewn out of the solid rock + by countless tides, its dome lost in the darkness. It gave an + impression of immensity, while in many directions passageways + gave off from what might be called a main chamber.</p> + + <p>Flint was roughly thrown on a rock, where, head in hands, he + swayed backward and forward, now moaning, now chuckling, now + laughing outright. The echo of that laugh resounded hollowly in + the dismal place and must have notified the supreme master of + this underground world that his domain had been invaded.</p> + + <p>A metallic clanging in the distance, as of struck anvils, a + crunching, as the smaller rocks broke in twain under the + enormous weight of the iron monster, then far, far down the + passageway two points of fire—the eyes of the + thing—and with arms swinging like flails, from out the + passageway there stalked—the Automaton.</p> + + <p>Even the emissaries, slaves to this monster through fear, + and seeing it often, fell back in awe and consternation, so + terrible was its menace.</p> + + <p>It strode over to Flint and, pushing him backward, glared at + him with burning eyes that seemed to search his soul. The + monster then turned to one of the emissaries and, with a + sweeping gesture, gave a command.</p> + + <p>The emissary understood and immediately ran up one of the + passageways, returning in a few moments with a bottle which + contained a purplish mixture. At another sign from the + Automaton the emissary took a drinking-glass and poured out a + portion of the purple fluid. Then he forced the draught between + Flint's clenched teeth.</p> + + <p>A violent trembling shook Flint from head to foot, a shudder + of so exhausting a nature that after the spasm Flint, weakened, + reclined against the cold wall of the cave, his body in a + clammy perspiration. But gradually there came a change in his + dazed, mad eyes. The iris contracted and became more normal. + Even the leaden hue of his face slowly passed away. The face + muscles relaxed and gradually the light of reason appeared in + his eyes.</p> + + <p>In a questioning manner Flint gazed about him. He saw the + cave with its scintillating points of fire, as the man with the + torch gesticulated. He saw the emissaries, and the realization + that his position was perilous came to him. But it was only + when he saw the towering form of the Automaton that his blood + froze with horror and he made a frantic effort to escape the + very thing which he had feared existed in Madagascar and had + attempted to betray to Brent on the fatal night.</p> + + <p>It was useless. He was soon borne down by the thugs, who + stationed two of their number to guard him. Seeing the utter + hopelessness of any attempt to escape, Flint sat quietly, while + his crafty mind schemed for some other plan. Suddenly he saw + the bottle, the contents of which had restored his reason. + Reaching out slyly, he turned it around until he could read the + label, and then, even in his predicament, he exulted over his + discovery. It was the antidote. Like a flash came to him a + shrewd scheme to use the knowledge.</p> + + <p>An emissary who seemed to be a leader came over to him.</p> + + <p>"Flint," he snarled, "you get one chance—see? Beat it + back to Brent Rock and see that you get that Brent girl to come + to the place where we will turn you loose. Understand? If you + fail it means death. Think it over."</p> + + <p>Flint could only agree.</p> + + <p>They bandaged his eyes and quickly led him back over the + road by which they had come.</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/309.jpg" + name="image309" + id="image309"><img width="400" + src="images/309s.jpg" + alt="THE AUTOMATON, THE IRON TERROR" /></a> + the automaton, the iron terror + </div> + + <h3>CHAPTER VIII</h3> + + <p>Brent Rock was brilliantly lighted against Locke's coming. + At the foot of the great stairway a group of excited servants + had gathered, as if for mutual protection.</p> + + <p>"Not another day will I stay in this house," quavered the + cook. "What with crazy laughing and the other carryings-on, I'm + fair distracted."</p> + + <p>"Take shame to yerself, Mary Dolan, for yer gab of quittin', + with the master and Miss Eva in sore trouble," answered the + second girl. "But as you say," she continued, shaking her head, + "it's a gloomy old place, and if it wasn't for Miss Eva I'd not + be long in going myself."</p> + + <p>"'Ave you no loyalty?" asked the butler, turning on them + both.</p> + + <p>"Hould yer jaw, Johnny Bull," threatened the cook. "Indade + no foreigner can tell Mary Dolan her duty."</p> + + <p>So they wrangled back and forth, and the underlying cause of + all the discord was the old one—fear.</p> + + <p>Nor was Eva exempt from its baneful influence. She was here, + there, everywhere, allaying one servant's apprehension, + commanding another to perform some task in order to occupy that + servant's mind—but, for herself, she knew that the strain + would not lessen until Locke arrived. She ran up-stairs and to + a window from which she could obtain a better view of the drive + along which he must come.</p> + + <p>In a very short time, which, nevertheless, seemed an age to + her, Eva was rewarded, and she fairly flew down the stairs, out + of the house, and far down the drive. Locke's taxi stopped, he + leaped out, and, regardless of the chauffeur, took Eva's + hand.</p> + + <p>"Tell me quickly what has happened?" he inquired.</p> + + <p>From a distance Dora was a witness, exulting.</p> + + <p>"Paul stands a swell chance with her," she sneered.</p> + + <p>"Oh, I'm so glad you're here," confided Eva, letting down + just a bit of her restraint as, like a frightened child, she + told of what she had learned about the disappearance of + Flint.</p> + + <p>Locke dismissed the driver, and together they walked slowly + toward the house.</p> + + <p>Not only Eva, but the entire household was relieved by + Locke's presence. The cook rushed forward and, with a "God + bless you, sir!" would have embraced him had he not stepped + aside. Even the dignified old family butler tried to take his + hand, an unheard-of liberty on his part. For, unknowingly, all + had come suddenly to rely upon this quiet, unassuming young + man.</p> + + <p>Locke immediately asked to be shown to Flint's room in the + hope that Flint might have left some clue behind. But, although + they searched high and low, no success met their efforts.</p> + + <p>It was then that they faced their darkest moment. Feeling, + as they did, that they were encircled by hidden enemies, the + very air they breathed became a menace. Every attempt to find + the thread that might unravel the dark mystery proved futile. + It was not to be wondered at that they despaired. Even the + weird laughter of Eva's stricken father, echoing hollowly + through the house, seemed to be mocking their efforts.</p> + + <p>The Automaton's emissaries were anxious to do their job and + return to the cave, for, like rats, they preferred the security + best found underground. They did not lead Flint very far.</p> + + <p>At the edge of the Brent estate there was an Italian marble + fountain decorated with bronze dolphins and water-nymphs + disporting themselves. It was at this fountain that the men + halted Flint and, with a final warning, left him.</p> + + <p>For a few moments, such was his fear, Flint did not remove + the bandage from his eyes, but moved groping around until his + hand came in contact with the edge of the fountain. For a + moment he stood quietly, listening for sounds of the + emissaries. Then, as he heard nothing, he tore the bandage from + his eyes, gazed wonderingly around him until his mind grasped + his exact location, then, with a bound, started to run toward + Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>Had he noticed the bestial face of an emissary peering from + the shrubbery he would have been even more frightened. + Retribution, he would have known, would be swift and sure had + he disregarded their commands and moved in another + direction.</p> + + <p>As Flint left the fountain Balcom, suave and well groomed as + usual, was just giving his hat and stick to the butler when + Locke and Eva, returning from Flint's room, encountered him in + the hallway.</p> + + <p>"Oh, Mr. Balcom," exclaimed Eva, "Mr. Locke and I are at a + loss to account for Mr. Flint's disappearance! I told the + gardeners, and they have hunted for him all over the estate and + beyond, but he has disappeared as completely as though the + ground had swallowed him."</p> + + <p>Balcom expressed his utmost astonishment and at once + insisted on going to Flint's room to solve the mystery + himself.</p> + + <p>Eva and Locke went directly into the library, where Locke + for the first time had an opportunity to tell Eva the result of + his visit to the chemist. The fact that they had discovered the + nature of the toxin was in itself encouraging, and Eva felt + that, even now, she could see the glimmer of a silver lining to + the clouds.</p> + + <p>"If we can only locate Mr. Flint, Quentin," she murmured, "I + feel that much would be explained."</p> + + <p>Hardly had the words passed her lips when, breathless and + disheveled, Flint staggered up the stairs from under the + porte-cochère and into the hallway. Balcom, just descending + from his brief inspection of Flint's room, hailed him.</p> + + <p>"What has happened?" he demanded. "Don't go into the + library."</p> + + <p>"I've just escaped from the Automaton," shouted Flint, "and + I've found the antidote!"</p> + + <p>Before Balcom could stop him he rushed into the library, + Balcom following in a towering rage. Eva gave a startled little + cry at the wild intrusion and Locke moved closer to her.</p> + + <p>"Is the antidote that will restore your father's reason + worth ten thousand dollars to you?" demanded Flint; then, + before Eva could reply, added: "Speak quick! I've got to get + out of the country to-night."</p> + + <p>"Ten thousand!" gasped Eva. "Ten times ten thousand! Tell me + what it is."</p> + + <p>"Show me the money first," haggled Flint, "and remember I + must have the hard cash."</p> + + <p>"Just a moment, Eva," interrupted Locke. "Consider this + thing well. We can deal with this fellow as a final + resort."</p> + + <p>Eva looked from Locke to Balcom, her mind in a turmoil, as + the telephone-bell rang and Locke hurried to answer it.</p> + + <p>In the room now there was a conflict of emotions and desires + that fairly electrified the place. Eva ardently craved her + father's recovery at all costs. Flint's avaricious mind wavered + between a scheme nearing success and the possibility of failure + and the fear of the Automaton. Balcom strained to hear the + purport of the message that Locke was receiving.</p> + + <p>At the sound of the chemist's voice Locke was tense with + suppressed excitement.</p> + + <p>"I've found the antidote," hastened to report the + professor.</p> + + <p>With a cordial word of thanks Locke turned from the + telephone and faced the group in the room. As he made the + announcement, Eva almost embraced him in the flood of relief at + the thought of her father restored.</p> + + <p>"Eva," growled Balcom, "you forget yourself. As Paul's + father, I cannot countenance such actions."</p> + + <p>"Mr. Balcom," interrupted Locke, "I am sure you will be kind + in your criticism of Miss Brent. She has merely overrated my + service to her."</p> + + <p>"Paul shall hear of this," stormed Balcom.</p> + + <p>"If your son cares to take the matter up with me," returned + Locke, now on his dignity, "I am always to be + found—here."</p> + + <p>"Never mind," interposed Flint, who feared to see his chance + slipping, "I've got to get out of the country. Mr. Locke, your + antidote is probably valueless; mine is the certain one. Look + at me, Miss Brent. Am I not cured?"</p> + + <p>"You miserable sneak," scowled Locke, stepping over to him, + "we don't need your assistance now."</p> + + <p>"I'm dealing with Miss Brent," insisted Flint, + insolently.</p> + + <p>Eva, a bit nervous over Balcom's overbearing manner, + interposed. "Mr. Locke," she said, with just a touch of dignity + for effect on Balcom, "this is a matter of life and death, and + I am not in favor of permitting a proven antidote to be taken + out of the country by this—this man. I have every + confidence in you, but suppose—just suppose—that + your chemist friend is mistaken."</p> + + <p>Flint immediately saw his advantage and pressed it home. + "Are you going to let ten thousand dollars stand in the way of + your father's recovery?" he insinuated. "Here," he added, + taking pencil and paper from his pocket and writing + hurriedly.</p> + + <p>"Baker's dock," Eva read, as he handed her the paper, "until + five o'clock."</p> + + <p>Flint bowed decently enough to her, glanced upward, and, as + he thought of Eva's father lying stricken with the Madagascar + madness in the room above, an evil leer came over his fox-like + face. As he left he completely ignored both Locke and Balcom, + unless it was that the look in his eyes meant a sort of + sinister triumph.</p> + + <p>Locke followed him out of the library, and for a few moments + Eva and Balcom were alone.</p> + + <p>Balcom had been quick to realize that it would not further + his plans if he continued to antagonize this high-spirited + girl. He took another course. The kind and fatherly manner + which he could assume so readily was now apparent.</p> + + <p>"Eva, my dear child," he ingratiated, "I am really sorry for + the hasty way in which I spoke, but, aside from our duty to + International Patents, your marriage to my son has been my + greatest hope and ambition."</p> + + <p>"I can't see why you should wish a daughter-in-law of whose + actions you disapprove," retorted Eva, pointedly.</p> + + <p>It was a facer for Balcom and he quickly guided the + conversation into less dangerous channels.</p> + + <p>Eva's candid nature could not comprehend treachery of any + kind in others, and yet, although she was unable to put a name + to it, she had a vague feeling of insecurity in dealing with + her father's partner. This feeling had been heightened by + Balcom's actions. In speaking of the proposed marriage to Paul + he had come quite close to her. She shuddered, for, out of the + corner of her eye, only a few moments before, she remembered + him in the same position when Flint had handed her the address, + and she knew that Balcom had surreptitiously read it. Why had + he taken that underhand method when, if he had only asked + frankly to see the paper, she would have handed it to him + without hesitation or suspicion.</p> + + <p>Eva started to leave the library, but Balcom stopped her + with a gesture. "My dear," he said, "your father is stricken + with a deadly malady. His affairs are in your hands to protect + his interests. I must urge that you marry Paul at the earliest + possible moment."</p> + + <p>Eva scarcely knew what to say. "I can't," she blurted out, + then tried to cover her confusion and made it worse, + "only—as a last resort—to save my + father—Oh—good-by!" And she almost ran from the + room.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER IX</h3> + + <p>Meanwhile, as Flint left Brent Rock, his fear of the + Automaton returned to him with redoubled force. He had been + false to his mission. Nor had he even succeeded in his + treachery. A few minutes he had been certain that Eva would + come to Baker's dock at the time set, but now doubts began to + assail him. With her obvious faith in Locke, she might decide + on the chemist's antidote, and there was always a possibility + that it might restore Brent, in which case Flint realized that + his life would be forfeit to the Automaton.</p> + + <p>Nor were his fears unfounded. He had barely passed the + fountain where, half an hour before, he had been set free, when + an emissary came out from behind a neighboring tree and took up + his trail.</p> + + <p>De Luxe Dora also had waited only long enough to see Eva and + Locke enter Brent Rock, when she turned her runabout around and + drove rapidly back to Professor Hadwell's. She arrived there + just in time to meet an automobile coming from the opposite + direction and containing three emissaries of the Automaton.</p> + + <p>In answer to an inquiry, Dora pointed out the chemist's + house to them. They piled out, and their leader knocked at the + door, while Dora drove off.</p> + + <p>The chemist answered, and the leader produced a vial, glibly + lying as he handed it over.</p> + + <p>"The Williams Drug Company sent me to have this stuff + analyzed," said the leader. "I'll wait."</p> + + <p>As the professor admitted him he did not see the other two + men pressed close to the wall on either side of the door. The + moment the professor's back was turned they slinked after their + leader into the house. In a dark corner of the hallway they + crouched as their leader went into the laboratory with the + chemist.</p> + + <p>The professor sniffed at the vial, which contained nothing + but pure water, and in surprise turned to the emissary for an + explanation. But it was too late. The emissary dealt him a blow + with a blunt instrument that stunned him and, as he reeled back + and grasped at a table, the other thugs rushed from the hall + and rained blow after blow on his venerable head and beat him + to the floor. A convulsive shudder—a long-drawn-out + sigh—and he lay still.</p> + + <p>With barely a glance at him the emissaries set to work to + smash all the paraphernalia of the place, sparing nothing in + order to make sure that the antidote would be destroyed. Glass + tubes, retorts, bottles, even furniture were smashed to bits in + their orgy of ruin—and there, in the midst of the debris, + his life's work finished, lay the old chemist, dead.</p> + + <p>Tiring of their own efforts, the murderers at last desisted. + One of them went to the street door and peered out, but in a + moment was back with the others.</p> + + <p>"Quick—that fellow Locke is coming."</p> + + <p>He was right. Locke had immediately quit Brent Rock and had + come directly to the chemist's in the hope of forestalling any + further attempt by Flint to inveigle Eva into dealing with + him.</p> + + <p>The door had been left ajar and, although he thought it + strange, Locke was without suspicion and entered the hallway. + He called to his old friend, but the dead lips could not answer + and the emissaries would not.</p> + + <p>Greatly alarmed now, Locke strode to the laboratory. For a + moment he stood as though petrified as the horrid scene burst + upon his vision. He ran to the chemist and knelt beside his + battered body.</p> + + <p>With a rush the emissaries darted from their hiding-place + and were upon him.</p> + + <p>Although taken unawares, Locke was, in a measure, ready for + them. One he grabbed in a clever jiu-jitsu hold and sent him + hurtling through the air to crash in a heap in a far corner of + the room. Leaping to his feet, he beat another to the floor. + The third villain was of tougher fiber. Up and down the + laboratory they battled, stumbling over broken furniture, now + falling to the floor, where they rolled over and over, first + one, then the other gaining the mastery, while the broken glass + with which the floor was littered cut their clothing to ribbons + and bit into their flesh.</p> + + <p>Locke was slowly gaining the upper hand when the thug whom + he had thrown over his head recovered. The brute took the + situation in at a glance, saw his pal in trouble, and, sneaking + treacherously behind Locke, dealt him a terrific blow with the + butt of a revolver. Locke dropped to the floor as if pole-axed + and lay still.</p> + + <p>One of the thugs kicked him as he lay defenseless, and then, + spying a row of coat-hooks in an inner hallway, with fiendish + ingenuity directed the others who had joined him. They strung + Locke up by his thumbs so that he hung, half suspended, with + his toes just off the floor.</p> + + <p>As one of them searched him Locke was still unconscious. + They found nothing but a few bank-notes and the automatic + revolver that Locke always carried.</p> + + <p>Slowly Locke regained his senses. The agony of his strained + thumbs was almost unbearable. But he was not the man to give + up.</p> + + <p>By this time two of the emissaries had gone, leaving one, + who seated himself quite close to Locke, where he was examining + the revolver. With the stoicism of an Indian, Locke manfully + tried to evolve a plan by which he might escape. Like a flash + it came to him, but it was a plan so fraught with the + possibility of failure that he would not have decided on it + except for the agony of the strain on his thumbs.</p> + + <p>Directly opposite him and at a distance of four or five feet + was a door leading to a back alley. This door the emissary now + guarding him had locked as a precaution against surprise and + had carefully placed the key in his vest pocket.</p> + + <p>Locke weighed each detail of his plan and then, bracing his + feet firmly against the wall, he suddenly shot his lower limbs + forward and, like the closing of a pair of giant shears, he + wrapped his legs about the neck of the emissary and immediately + exerted enormous pressure with his knees.</p> + + <p>The emissary, taken totally by surprise, struggled to break + the hold, and Locke's thumbs were almost wrenched from their + sockets. But he held on grimly. Soon the thug's struggles + subsided, Locke released him, and he slipped to the floor.</p> + + <p>Locke was wearing a low-cut shoe. Strange that a man's life + may hinge on such a slight detail, but this fact enabled him to + work off his right shoe and his sock. He extended his bare + foot, and with his toes searched the pocket of the emissary for + the key to the door. Finally he found it.</p> + + <p>Locke held the key as firmly as he might between his toes + and, projecting his body by a muscular effort far away from the + wall, he managed to insert the key in the lock. He turned it. + The door was unlocked now. A swift downward movement of his + foot against the knob and the door swung open.</p> + + <p>He braced himself against its edge and, with his back firmly + pressed against the wall, relieved the strain on his thumbs. He + rested a moment and then, as it were, walked up the edge of the + door until his feet reached the top. Swinging one leg over the + door, by patient effort he was enabled to release one swollen + thumb, then the other. An instant later he dropped down and + leaned exhaustedly against the wall.</p> + + <p>While Locke was held in the room things had happened which + would have set him nearly crazy with anxiety. Eva, having heard + nothing from him, had become alarmed and had telephoned to the + chemist. This was at quarter to five, and she had supposed that + it was the chemist who answered her. In reality it had been an + emissary, and he had told her that the final experiment to find + an antidote for her father's malady had been really a failure + and that Locke had left some time before.</p> + + <p>After all that she had endured, this was almost the final + blow to Eva. She thought of Flint and Baker's dock and five + o'clock. There was no time to lose if she were to save her + father. So she pulled herself together, seized her hat and + cloak, and started for the door.</p> + + <p>Here Zita stopped her and offered to accompany her, but she + declined. She hastily asked the direction of Baker's dock from + the butler, and then ran out of the house and sprang to the + steering-wheel of her waiting car. With a whir of the starter + she was away.</p> + + <p>Flint had arrived at the dock long before and was now + slinking in and out among the crates and boxes as he sought + diligently for a safe hiding-place. But his nerves, none too + strong at the best, were now running riot, and nowhere could he + feel a sense of security so that he could remain quiet.</p> + + <p>It was while he was sneaking from one pile of bales to + another that an emissary hailed him.</p> + + <p>"Are you Flint?" he demanded.</p> + + <p>"Y-e-s," came quaveringly from Flint.</p> + + <p>"Well, there's a lady in the office asking for you."</p> + + <p>Such was the fascination of any of the emissaries of the + Automaton over Flint by this time that he followed the man + without question, particularly as he felt that he would be + spared, since the lady in the office could be none other than + Eva.</p> + + <p>Together they walked toward the entrance and, with an order + to wait, the emissary halted Flint close to a pile of crates + and left him. Flint dared not move. A premonition of impending + disaster must have come over him, for his knees shook and a + clammy sweat broke out on his forehead.</p> + + <p>Without sound a gigantic iron hand and arm protruded from + behind a crate and, for a moment, hung suspended over Flint's + head. Then, with a swift encircling movement, that hooklike arm + wrapped itself around Flint's neck and drew him into the + shadow. The mighty form drew the victim close—and it was + over.</p> + + <p>The Automaton picked up the body as though it had been a + mere feather-weight and stalked out to the waiting emissaries. + A trap-door was opened and Flint's body was dashed into the + river. Thus it was that all his scheming came to an end and his + secret from Madagascar, which he had told Brent, but which now + lay locked in that mad-man's mind, was stilled with Flint's + dead lips.</p> + + <p>At the chemist's shop Locke was by this time recovering from + the terrible ordeal through which he had passed. He bathed his + swollen thumbs, and by rubbing them was able somewhat to + restore the circulation. Then he stepped to the telephone and + gave the Brent Rock number.</p> + + <p>It was Zita who answered him.</p> + + <p>"Eva has gone alone to Baker's dock," she answered to his + inquiry, in half-triumphant jealousy.</p> + + <p>Locke did not wait to hear more. There was not a moment to + be lost. He rushed out, disheveled as he was, into the street, + slamming the door after him. It seemed hours before he could + find a taxicab.</p> + + <p>"Baker's dock!" he yelled. "And twenty dollars if you make + it in ten minutes."</p> + + <p>He did not know that the emissaries had robbed him of + everything, nor would it have made any difference, for he could + easily have fixed it with the driver through his police and + Secret Service connections.</p> + + <p>In the mean time Eva's car had met with misfortune, and she + had been compelled to stop. She jumped out and busied herself + with a missing cylinder.</p> + + <p>Locke's taxi was running smoothly and arrived at the dock + well within the time he had ordered. Locke jumped out and + started to pay. It was then that he discovered that he was + without money. The driver became angry and hard to pacify with + the story of the robbery, but Locke finally convinced him that + all was right with the Department of Justice.</p> + + <p>Locke walked through the gates to the dock and for a moment + stood nonplussed. This dock had none of the turmoil and bustle + naturally associated with docks when a steamer is about to + leave.</p> + + <p>He cautiously proceeded between the piles of merchandise + toward the end of the wharf. Of one thing he was now certain + and a prayer of relief came to his lips. He was there before + Eva and able to guard her from any danger that might arise.</p> + + <p>His eyes were keen, but he failed to notice the emissaries + who, from behind crates and bales, were watching his every + move. Nor did he see that fiend of iron, the Automaton, which, + standing rigid, glared at him from behind an enormous + packing-case.</p> + + <p>He continued down the wharf as, slinking like coyotes, those + sinister forms glided from hiding-place to hiding-place and + were never far from his heels. He reached the end of the wharf + and gazed up and down the dark river. Here and there he could + distinguish the colored lights that marked a tugboat or some + other small craft, but of a large steamer there was no sign. It + is rarely that a boat warps into a dock just a few moments + before leaving for foreign parts, and it flashed upon Locke's + mind that Flint had deceived them about his leaving for + Madagascar that night.</p> + + <p>He was still wondering what it could all mean when the + emissaries leaped upon him. Although weakened by his previous + battle, Locke proved no easy customer for them. Time after time + he struggled free from them and with arms working like + piston-rods for a while he kept them at a distance. But, like a + pack of wolves, they were not to be denied, and they finally + succeeded in holding him firmly.</p> + + <p>One of them brought leg-irons which he snapped around + Locke's ankles. Once again Locke managed to get one of his arms + free and, before they could prevent him, two emissaries lay + prostrate on the wharf. But that effort marked his last, for + the Automaton, stalking up behind him, pinioned his arms as + though he was a baby.</p> + + <p>An emissary now placed a pair of handcuffs on his wrists + and, to bind him more securely, fastened a chain that extended + from the handcuffs to the leg-irons.</p> + + <p>Two of the thugs now carried him to the edge of the wharf, + while a third attached a heavy weight to Locke's feet. Locke + realized his helplessness, realized that his death was + imminent. But he determined to rid the world of at least one + murderer. By a mighty effort he shook off his captors and, as + one rushed forward, he grabbed him in his manacled hands and + leaped with him into the river as they grappled.</p> + + <p>At the shore end of the wharf an emissary was leading Eva, + as she thought, to Flint.</p> + + <p>Locke and the thug sank immediately to the bottom of the + river and, under water, there ensued a terrific battle. Locke, + semi-helpless because of his shakles, had the greatest + difficulty in preventing the thug from breaking loose. But he + was determined that the fellow at least would pay for his + crimes with his life.</p> + + <p>The thug's struggles gradually became more feeble. Air + bubbles rose from his bestial lips and he became limp in + Locke's grasp. Locke released him and, feet first, he floated + upward, dead.</p> + + <p>Locke's lungs were almost bursting now as he struggled at + his chains; his senses reeled; he thought of Eva, and redoubled + his efforts. If he could only get rid of that great weight that + was holding him down. A singing came in his ears.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER X</h3> + + <p>As Eva hurried down the dock, looking for the renegade, + Flint she found herself cornered between the emissary and the + terrible Automaton himself. With a scream of terror she ran + until she came to a door that divided the dock into fireproof + sections. Through it she darted, the Automaton following + relentlessly.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile Locke, his lungs almost bursting and the blood + surging to his head, had managed to free himself from his + shackles and had floated to the surface of the water. As he + came up he swam to the piles of the dock just as several + boatmen saw him and hurried to his aid.</p> + + <p>They heard the screams of Eva, and all started running up + the dock, but not in time to capture the Automaton, who, warned + by the emissaries, crashed through the side of the dock house + nearest the shore and escaped.</p> + + <p>A moment later Locke, searching through the piles of boxes, + bales, and crates, found Eva, just recovering from her fright, + and in the joy of having saved her by his timely return forgot, + for the moment, to pursue the terrible villain, who managed to + reach a waiting closed car and was whisked away.</p> + + <p>Thus it was that after their return to Brent Rock, on the + following day Eva was ministering to her father, still + hopelessly insane through the failure to discover the antidote + to the madness.</p> + + <p>While Eva was engaged in her ministrations up-stairs Locke + was finishing some experiment in his laboratory. Down-stairs, + Balcom had just arrived in the hall, where he was met by Zita + with a report of what had happened the day before.</p> + + <p>"Tell it to me in the strong-room while I place this package + there," Balcom whispered, indicating the package which he had + brought.</p> + + <p>Together Balcom and Zita descended to the cellar and made + their way to the Graveyard of Genius as Zita poured forth her + story, unmindful of the fact that the butler had seen them go + down and was watching very skeptically. In the Graveyard Balcom + unwrapped a small model of a motor and placed it on the + shelf.</p> + + <p>Eva, having left her father, came upon Locke in the hall, + and there they stood talking for a moment, when the butler + approached apologetically.</p> + + <p>"Begging your pardon, Miss Brent," he reported, "but I just + saw Mr. Balcom go down to the strong-room with Miss Zita, and I + thought you might like to know."</p> + + <p>"Thank you," nodded Eva, dismissing the butler and trying to + show no concern in the matter.</p> + + <p>But Locke shot a quick glance at her as the servant left, + and it was evident that both felt the same suspicion, for Locke + immediately excused himself and hurried down-stairs.</p> + + <p>In the Graveyard Balcom and Zita were talking in subdued + tones as Zita whispered.</p> + + <p>"I suppose you know," she nodded, "that before Mr. Brent + went mad he wrote a confession with a list of these inventions + which International Patents has suppressed?"</p> + + <p>Balcom could scarcely conceal his rage. "Yes, I know it," he + replied, savagely. "That confession would cause a great deal of + trouble."</p> + + <p>Low as they were talking, they would have been even more + careful had they known that Locke was listening outside and + that, even as they turned to leave the strong-room, he had + sidled out of the way and was rejoining Eva in the library.</p> + + <p>Locke had scarcely told Eva what he had heard when she moved + over to the safe and would have tried to open it had he not + stopped her. For he had heard the other two coming from the + cellar, and even as it was they were at the hall door.</p> + + <p>"My dear," remarked Balcom as he entered and went to Eva, + "since your father is not likely to recover, I must ask you to + transfer all the company papers from his private safe to the + office of the company."</p> + + <p>Eva did not respond to the fatherly manner assumed by + Balcom. Instead she almost point-blank refused to do as he had + requested.</p> + + <p>Just then Locke, whom Balcom had almost ignored up to the + present, heard the noise of some one coming through the + conservatory. It was Paul Balcom, his coat on his arm, his + sleeves rolled up, and a tennis-racquet in his hand, as he had + come just from the courts.</p> + + <p>Paul glanced surlily at Locke, who bowed pleasantly to him, + as well he might, considering their relative positions in Eva's + real affections. Catching sight of his father with Eva, Paul + paused a moment.</p> + + <p>It was just at that instant that Balcom had been saying to + her: "Why don't you marry Paul, as you promised your father and + me? That would settle all the difficulties."</p> + + <p>Paul had suspected the nature of the conversation, though he + approached as if ignorant of it. Apparently catching the drift, + he deftly urged her, but Eva tactfully changed the subject, + greatly to Paul's chagrin and his father's ill-suppressed + anger.</p> + + <p>The suspense of the situation was relieved for Eva by the + nearer approach of Locke, who must have had some inkling of + what was going on. Paul and his father exchanged glances as the + young chemist and detective joined Eva, and it was evident that + no love toward him was wasted by either.</p> + + <p>"Excuse me," she apologized, walking away with Locke, "but + there is something very important that I must attend to for my + father's interests."</p> + + <p>Locke and Eva walked to the safe, while Balcom and Paul + watched like hawks.</p> + + <p>A moment later Eva was kneeling before the safe, after + giving Locke a paper which contained the combination numbers to + open the bolts. Locke glanced at it, then held it where Eva + could read:</p><span style="margin-left: 4em;">Combination of + Safe</span><br /> + <span style="margin-left: 4em;">Turn once left to + 40</span><br /> + <span style="margin-left: 4em;">Three right to 18</span><br /> + <span style="margin-left: 4em;">Once left to 40</span><br /> + + + <p>As Locke held the paper and Eva's slender hand spun the + combination lock, Balcom and Paul moved silently forward. + Although Locke was holding the paper with the combinations for + Eva, he heard them come up behind him and knew that they were + watching. With a quiet smile to himself he moved the paper over + so that they could see it, nor were they slow to take advantage + of the chance. Locke's mind was working fast, and he had a + purpose in what seemed to be carelessness or even + foolishness.</p> + + <p>A moment later Eva opened the safe and from it she took a + typewritten document of many pages.</p> + + <p>It read:</p> + + <blockquote> + <p class="smcap">Board Of Directors,</p> + + <p><span style="margin-left: 1em;">International Patents, + Inc.,</span><br /> + <span style="margin-left: 3em;">New York.</span></p> + + <p><span class="smcap">Gentlemen</span>,—In view of + the government's anti-trust investigation, I have prepared + this list of inventions we have suppressed. I think we + should discuss at our annual meeting the advisability of + surrendering our rights to these inventions, no matter what + may happen to the corporations we have been protecting.</p> + + <p class="center">Very truly yours,</p> + + <p class="author">Peter Brent.</p> + </blockquote> + + <p>Following this letter was a bulky paper, or rather set of + papers, which detailed the inventions and their history, + exposing some of the nefarious operations of the + corporation.</p> + + <p>Balcom, as he read the top letter, showed great agitation. + As Locke took the package from Eva, Balcom interrupted:</p> + + <p>"That's very dangerous," he said. "If it gets out, the + corporations are ruined."</p> + + <p>Locke scarcely replied. Instead, he very ostentatiously + replaced the document in the safe, refusing to intrust it + either to Balcom or to Paul, who withdrew sullenly, leaving Eva + alone with Locke in the library as Locke whirled the + combination of the closed safe door.</p> + + <p>It was perhaps half an hour later in the secret den of the + Automaton in the rock-hewn foundation of Brent Rock that the + emissaries were watching the arched and dark passage. Suddenly + there was the warning clank, and the huge steel monster strode + in.</p> + + <p>For some time he stood before the table, giving his + instructions by means of mysterious, cryptic motions.</p> + + <p>Meantime, above in Brent Rock, Locke had been busy, for he + had conceived an entirely new plan to capture the Automaton. It + was nothing short of an electric trap, and deadly in its + simplicity.</p> + + <p>From the wall switch Locke had led wires carrying the house + current. Already, also, he had let Eva in on his secret plan, + and she was all eagerness as he planted his trap.</p> + + <p>Before the safe, now, Locke paused, and there for a moment + twisted the combination so that he could get his correct + position. That done, he noted the place where he had been + standing, and removed a mat from the floor in front of the + safe. At that place he set in on the floor a fairly large iron + plate. To this iron plate he attached a wire, then replaced the + rug, but in such a way that a part of the plate was exposed, + though it would never be noticed.</p> + + <p>"If the Automaton attempts to open the safe," he remarked to + Eva, as he worked, "he will complete the electric circuit and + it will hold him until we capture him."</p> + + <p>"How clever!" Eva exclaimed, involuntarily.</p> + + <p>"Now for making my signaling connection to the laboratory," + continued Locke. "Then I must get some of my men up here from + the department."</p> + + <p>However, while Locke and Eva were busy arranging this + electric trap, they did not notice that they were being watched + by Zita, who had stolen into the conservatory and was eying + them eagerly from the protection of the fronds of a palm. Zita, + moreover, was greatly excited, as she gathered with her quick + perception just what it was that they were doing. Nor did she + wait to see the work finished, but stole out of the door and + away hurriedly.</p> + + <p>Locke had finished his preparations, and as he and Eva were + discussing the possibilities of what he had devised, he + remarked, in answer to her eager inquiry about his suspicions, + "I am sure we shall prove that there is a man inside the + terrible machine that attacks us."</p> + + <p>"Then you don't think it is really an automaton?" asked Eva, + with great respect for Locke's opinion, though it was + sufficiently in evidence that she was not at all convinced that + the monster was not really of steel and controlled by something + that resembled a human brain.</p> + + <p>Locke was non-committal. "This trap will tell us," was all + that he would say.</p> + + <p>Zita, hurrying out from the conservatory, and wishing to + waste not an instant in notifying Balcom, sought a near-by + telephone pay-station, and there in frantic haste she demanded + Balcom's number.</p> + + <p>It was some moments before Central could make the + connection, and then it was only to Zita's disappointment and + growing fear. The Madagascan servant of Balcom answered in the + absence of his master.</p> + + <p>"Is Mr. Balcom there?" asked Zita, adding, "Or Mr. + Paul?"</p> + + <p>The black shook his head. "Neither Mr. Balcom nor Mr. Paul + is at home," he replied.</p> + + <p>Zita was now thoroughly alarmed. Had she some connection + with the Automaton? Or was it her fear that either Balcom or + Paul might know more than they would care to have the + authorities know? Or was the Automaton really an iron monster, + after all?</p> + + <p>That and many other questions were surging through the minds + of all who had encountered this unique mystery.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XI</h3> + + <p>It was midnight when, far down in the rock-hewn cavern in + which the Automaton had his secret den, the steel monster and + one of his men stalked out through the arched passage that led + to the very cellar of the house above them.</p> + + <p>A few moments later the swinging rock door in the Graveyard + of Genius tilted and the two entered the strong-room, passing + across the room and out through the steel door into the cellar. + Up the cellar steps they proceeded until they reached the hall, + then noiselessly they crossed into the library. With his human + companion the monster approached the safe deliberately. Just as + deliberately the Automaton reached out to turn the handle of + the combination.</p> + + <p>There was a flash as the current passed through the arm of + steel to the foot of steel resting on the plate Locke had set + in the floor. A suppressed cry escaped from the henchman. As + for the monster, he strove with superhuman force to wrench + himself away from the electric trap.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile, up in his laboratory in the house, Locke and four + men from the Department of Justice had been waiting.</p> + + <p>"The Department expects us to get this evidence + <i>right</i>," he had emphasized as he gave them their + instructions.</p> + + <p>Hardly had he finished when a signal light which Locke had + arranged on the wall flashed, giving the information that the + trap had worked.</p> + + <p>Out of the laboratory all piled, running down the hall, + Locke paused only a second to tap on Eva's door, as she had + asked, if anything happened, so that she might be present at + the capture. An instant and Eva, too, had joined the + pursuit.</p> + + <p>Down in the library the Automaton struggled with the + current. As the rug was kicked aside, the emissary saw the wire + from the plate and quickly traced it to its source.</p> + + <p>The result was that in a few seconds the emissary had found + a wall switch and pulled it. Instantly the Automaton was + released from the power that held him.</p> + + <p>Quickly the man of steel raised and lowered his arms, as + though to be sure that he could do so, at the same time + indicating orders to his follower, who leaped to guard the + entrance to the room. Then the Automaton turned to open the + safe, making swift use of the remaining seconds before the + alarm might bring interference.</p> + + <p>In almost no time he had the safe open, reached in, and + seized a packet of precious papers, apparently. Then he turned + and was gone, regardless of the man whom he had sent to guard + him.</p> + + <p>In the hall, Locke's sharp ears had detected the approach of + the emissary. Not knowing whether it might be the villain + himself, he cautioned the men to wait an instant. The emissary, + coming along, crouching and listening, did not see Locke, and + thus Locke was able to seize him and with a spectacular throw + project him literally into the hands of the law in the person + of one of his own men, who snapped the bracelets on the + astonished thug as Locke, followed by Eva and the rest, ran on + to the library.</p> + + <p>No one was in the library as Locke ran in and looked about. + He turned toward the door to the hallway where the portières + were drawn. As he was standing there, looking about, the + portières moved behind him. Suddenly they were jerked aside + from their fastenings and flung over his head. As this + happened, the ponderous hand of the Automaton descended on + Locke's head and he sank to the floor as the portières wrapped + about him.</p> + + <p>When the department agents with Eva arrived, they were + merely in time to untangle Locke from the curtains. The + Automaton had fled safely.</p> + + <p>Although his head was still reeling from the blow, Locke + started to question the prisoner, but gave it up as a bad job + and hurried over to examine the safe, followed by Eva.</p> + + <p>Their dismay was mutual. Not only was the safe door open, + but the paper was gone.</p> + + <p>Question the emissary as they would, they could get nothing + out of him. Such men have keenly developed the gang instinct of + silence. They would sooner die than squeal.</p> + + <p>Even a night in jail failed to break the reticence of the + emissary, although he had been subjected to the most strenuous + third degree.</p> + + <p>Not only had his spirit not been broken, but the fellow was + keenly alert and planning a way to secure his own release.</p> + + <p>As a prison guard was taking the emissary back to his cell, + after a thorough quizzing by Locke in the warden's office, the + emissary whispered:</p> + + <p>"Want to make a piece of change—safe?"</p> + + <p>The guard looked about, saw that the coast was clear to + speak, but before he could do so the emissary spoke again.</p> + + <p>"Give me a piece of paper and a pencil."</p> + + <p>Quickly the thug scratched away at a note.</p> + + <p>"Deliver that," he said to the guard, handing him the note + he had written, "and you'll get something worth while."</p> + + <p>The guard nodded as he shoved the thug into his cell and + locked the door, then walked off, while the fellow watched + eagerly through the bars.</p> + + <p>Locke in the warden's office, unsuccessful in making the + prisoner talk, had evolved another scheme.</p> + + <p>"Put me in the cell next to him," decided Locke. "I have a + plan."</p> + + <p>It was while the false guard was reading the address on the + note that Locke and the warden entered the cell row. The guard + hastily stuffed the message in his pocket as Locke and the + warden passed up toward the empty next cell.</p> + + <p>Locke went through all the actions of one who was being + thrown into a cell, and the emissary in his own cell listened + without suspecting anything. Locke had arranged with the warden + to leave the cell unlocked, but no sooner had the warden left + than the guard, who had been observing, moved over and shot the + bolts.</p> + + <p>Here, then, was a predicament. Locke could not give the + alarm without putting the emissary in the next cell on guard. + Rapidly Locke revolved in his head scheme after scheme. He was + an expert on bolts and knew that at any moment he could release + himself. Should he do so now? Instead he concluded to wait + until the guard returned, for by the man's actions Locke was + sure that something queer was going on, although, naturally, he + did not know what it was. Accordingly Locke lay down on the + bunk in the cell and decided to wait.</p> + + <p>Some time later, at a deserted house not far from the + rock-hewn den of the Automaton, the false prison guard might + have been seen delivering the message which the prisoner had + written to two other emissaries of the Automaton.</p> + + <p>After a hasty conference they decided on their course of + action. Not only did he receive the money the prisoner had + promised him, but the emissaries gave him minute instructions + regarding the rescue which they planned. A cap and a pair of + goggles for the prisoner were given to the guard and he was + sent on his way.</p> + + <p>Scarcely had he gone when the Automaton himself entered the + deserted house, and under his direction one of the emissaries + wrote a note which he addressed to Eva. For, with Locke out of + the way, it was a splendid time to take advantage of the poor + girl.</p> + + <p>The note read simply: "Our prisoner has confessed. Meet me + at the Cliff House at eight o'clock," and bore the signature of + Locke.</p> + + <p>Thus, with their plans carefully laid, the Automaton and his + emissaries plotted, and soon a messenger was on his way to Eva + with the faked message.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile, as the day wore on, the treacherous guard + returned on duty at the prison, and at the first opportunity + made his way to the cell in which the emissary was locked. In a + hoarse whisper he told the fellow of the success of his mission + and of the plan, slipping to him the cap and goggles through + the bars.</p> + + <p>Locke had been waiting for hours impatiently on his bunk, + but now was all attention, though he was careful not to betray + it. As the guard left and the emissary was trying on the cap + and goggles, Locke came to his cell door. Now was the time to + act.</p> + + <p>He began working noiselessly and swiftly with the bolts, + deftly determining just how the tumblers fell until he was able + to slip the bolt. He peered into the next cell. The emissary + had retired to his own bunk to await the time of rescue. Locke + saw his chance, and at once began unlocking the cell door. As + the emissary heard him, he concluded that it was the guard come + to release him, and sprang from his bunk just as Locke entered. + He suspected nothing until a stray ray of light fell on Locke's + face. But then it was too late either for him to put up much of + a fight or to make an outcry. For with a swift blow Locke + disposed of him and carried the fellow, unconscious, into his + own cell, where he locked the door again, hurrying back to the + emissary's cell, where he donned the fellow's clothes, of which + he had stripped him, and appropriated the cap and goggles. Then + Locke waited for the rescue that was to lead, he was sure, + straight to the villains he wished to capture.</p> + + <p>At Brent Rock, the faked telegram from Locke had been + delivered and Eva was overjoyed to learn of his seeming + success. As it happened, Zita was in the library when the + butler brought the message in, and, all animation, was eager to + accompany Eva to the meeting-place. But Eva would not listen to + it.</p> + + <p>So, not many moments before eight that night, while Locke + was waiting in the jail for the rescuers, Eva climbed into her + speedster, eager to keep the appointment which she was + convinced would clear up the mystery.</p> + + <p>In the darkness outside the jail, by this time, was waiting + the false turnkey when an open car drove up with its motor + silenced. He had been expecting it and so was ready when a + heavily goggled man climbed out and signaled to him. In the + back of the car was another man, also goggled, while the + chauffeur, alone, had his face also well hidden by a cap over + his eyes and his collar pulled up.</p> + + <p>Understanding perfectly, the guard hurried into the jail, + making sure that the coast was clear, and down the cell row to + the cell where Locke was waiting impatiently, now dressed and + hunched up in a perfect imitation of the emissary. The turnkey + opened the door and whispered to Locke, who nodded gruffly, and + together they sneaked quietly out.</p> + + <p>With scarcely another word, outside, Locke leaped into the + waiting car and the four were off, leaving the false turnkey + chuckling over his cleverness and ready to make a get-away.</p> + + <p>Locke glanced furtively from the driver to the other two + passengers in the car as it sped along in the direction of the + cliffs. So far everything had gone fine. When would they begin + to suspect the substitution he had played on them? He revolved + rapidly in his mind just what he would do under various + circumstances.</p> + + <p>"Well, old pal," exclaimed one, clapping him on the + shoulders, "how does it seem to be out?"</p> + + <p>Locke replied with gruff heartiness, and the others now + began to remove their goggles. Locke, however, did not do the + same. They exchanged a glance.</p> + + <p>Already Eva had arrived at the Cliff House, had left her + car, and was approaching on foot, just as Locke with the now + thoroughly aroused emissaries swung into sight.</p> + + <p>With a shout to the driver, the two in the back of the car + leaped at Locke at once, and, as the car stopped, the chauffeur + joined them.</p> + + <p>Even prepared as he was, Locke was no match for three of + them, and, fighting furiously, all four combatants rolled over + and over as they came closer to the door of an old acid-mill + that adjoined the Cliff House.</p> + + <p>"We must keep him from saving the girl," panted the leader + of the emissaries to the others.</p> + + <p>Inside the old building stood some huge tanks of acid, and + as they rolled nearer and nearer to them it became evident that + Locke was in their power.</p> + + <p>Suddenly one emissary reached out and secured a coil of + rope, which he unwound quickly. The others, too, saw their + chance. It was fiendish. Round and round they wound the rope + until they had Locke well-nigh helpless. Then one of them cast + the end of the coil over a beam, all seized the end as it fell + on the other side, and Locke found himself dangling head + downward from the beam, suspended over the vat of acid.</p> + + <p>They were about to drop him into it when one, more alert and + more fiendish than the rest, cried out, "Look!"</p> + + <p>Through a window now they could see Eva, and back of her the + terrible figure of the Automaton, stalking. She had walked + directly into the trap, but the fight with Locke had delayed + the emissaries. Wildly now Eva was running over the lawn, full + in the direction of the acid-room from the Cliff House.</p> + + <p>"Quick!" directed the emissary. "She'll come in that door. + Fasten the rope on it. Then his own sweetheart will drop him + into the acid!"</p> + + <p>It was only a matter of seconds, as the screams of Eva came + closer and closer, for the emissaries to carry the rope and jam + it into the door through which pretty soon Eva would run to + take refuge from the pursuing Automaton. Then they slunk back + through a rear door, with muttered taunts to Locke, who + struggled in the tangle of rope as he felt the stinging fumes + of the acid below.</p> + + <p>Outside, Eva, who had realized at last that it was a trap + and had no thought that Locke might be anywhere about, fled + toward the acid-room, while the emissaries hid, ready to seize + her as she opened the door which was to plunge her lover into a + horrible death in the acid seething below him.</p> + + <p>CHAPTER XII</p> + + <p>Locke's case seemed at last hopeless. The cruel ropes bit + into his flesh and increased his agony, while the acrid fumes + from the seething acid were slowly stupefying that keen brain + of his.</p> + + <p>Backward and forward like a huge pendulum his body swayed, + and in an agony of suspense he watched the fatal rope. With + writhing body he swayed far out, and then he saw just one + chance.</p> + + <p>The emissaries had thrown the rope over a beam which was far + above Locke, and it seemed an impossibility for him to reach + it. For one less resourceful or with a physique less perfectly + developed, even to try would have been useless. But there was + one chance in a thousand, and he grasped it eagerly.</p> + + <p>Alternately contracting and relaxing his muscles, Locke + succeeded in swinging himself in an ever-widening arc. Nearer + he swung—back—and again nearer. Could he make it? + Back again and a terrific effort. He was gaining.</p> + + <p>There came to him the sound of running feet. In his fear and + agony he could have shrieked, but from his parched throat there + issued no sound. Friend or foe, for him it meant the same + fate—one touch on that knob and a torturing death by + fire.</p> + + <p>With bursting muscles he redoubled his efforts. In a long + sweep his body swayed out and up. Would he be in time? Those + pattering feet, they were coming nearer and nearer. There were + now but a few yards between them and that knob.</p> + + <p>A mighty swing, a monstrous heave, his fingers crooked + talon-like, and he touched the rafter, clutched—and + missed.</p> + + <p>Downward and backward, his mind now reeling in black + despair. He had tried and failed. This was the end. The sound + of footsteps had ceased. Well he knew that some one was at the + door. He tried to pray and then—he crashed against the + rafter. Mechanically he grasped at it and clung.</p> + + <p>The door flew open, and there stood Eva. All the horrors of + imminent death, even the pain of sorely tried muscles, were + momentarily forgotten in his relief at seeing her safe and + having saved himself. But not yet was he free. The emissaries + had been thorough in their work, but it was not many moments + before the last knot was loose and he dropped to the floor.</p> + + <p>Locke peered stealthily about. To all appearances everything + was clear. He placed his arm about Eva and they started to + steal out. Well they knew that, with such enemies, not for a + moment would they dare relax their caution. For them every + angle and nook was a temporary haven. Slowly they drew away + from the dread spot, and soon came to a more populous locality + where the lights of honest shops and peaceful homes gave them a + sense of greater security and brought a feeling of unreality to + the horrors through which they had passed.</p> + + <p>A taxi-driver hailed them, and in a short time they were + rolling along the Cliff Drive and had arrived at Brent + Rock.</p> + + <p>It was the following day that the old butler handed Locke a + letter addressed to International Patents, Incorporated, from + the Diving and Salvage Company. Locke was about to read it, + when Eva entered and they read it together.</p> + + <p>"We are reliably informed," read the letter, "that the Under + Seas Corporation is trying to obtain possession of the + self-liberating diving-suit which you control in our interest. + This must be prevented."</p> + + <p>Locke was immediately interested. At once it occurred to him + that here was a patent which the company had suppressed which + might prove of incalculable value.</p> + + <p>"This suit might be very valuable to the government," he + exclaimed to Eva. "I am going to try it myself."</p> + + <p>"Please don't," pleaded Eva. "It isn't worth it. It's not + worth the risk."</p> + + <p>Locke, however, realized that here was something of extreme + importance, and as he visualized to Eva the helplessness of a + deep-sea diver, his air-line cut, struggling in vain to release + himself and rise to the surface, he began to win her over.</p> + + <p>At the moment when Quentin and Eva were in the library, Zita + was taking advantage and was ransacking Locke's laboratory, not + with any definite purpose in mind, but searching in every nook + for some clue which might tell her what he was about.</p> + + <p>The speed with which she worked was extraordinary. Yet, + before she moved an instrument, a retort, a book, its position + was minutely studied, so that she could restore it to its + former place without any one suspecting that it had ever been + moved.</p> + + <p>It was while she was thus occupied that her eye fell upon an + instrument which aroused in her an excited interest. It was + very like the headpiece used by operators of telephones, and + she hastened to adjust it. In a moment it was as though she + were in the library. She could hear Locke's earnest laugh and + in it Zita could detect an undercurrent of tenderness. Her lips + compressed and her eyes hardened as she listened. Locke was + speaking about a letter and it seemed to be something + important. Zita was all ears.</p> + + <p>But Locke's next words which she heard were his decision to + test the diving-suit, and as she listened she became tense, for + this information she knew was important. The continued note of + tenderness in Locke's voice more infuriated Zita. She removed + the headpiece of the dictagraph, slammed it back into the desk + drawer from which she had taken it, and hurried out.</p> + + <p>In the library, Locke, having persuaded Eva, left her and + went down into the Graveyard of Genius, where he touched the + secret spring and the massive door flew open. He entered the + gloomy place and went at once to the shelf upon which lay the + self-liberating diving-suit. He took the suit down and examined + its every detail minutely. As he did so he became more and more + enthusiastic and he could find no fault with any of its + features.</p> + + <p>"It's entirely practical," he exclaimed to himself. "I'm + going to try it to-day."</p> + + <p>He closed the great door and remounted the stairs, carrying + the suit with him. But had he noticed the fiery eyes that had + watched him through the secret rock door of the cavern he would + not have been so eager to try the test he had in mind.</p> + + <p>By this time Eva had called her car, and together Locke and + Eva drove to the near-by cove, where there was a little launch + which he planned to use.</p> + + <p>Out into the river they sailed, Eva at the wheel, while + Locke busied himself over the sputtering engine. Soon they + arrived at a spot which was suitable for the test of the + suit.</p> + + <p>Locke had brought along the full equipment, and, while Eva + took charge of the air-pump, Locke donned the diving-suit. Soon + all was ready and Locke descended over the side, after + carefully instructing Eva in each detail. Eva started pumping, + while with her other hand she carefully paid out the air-line + and signal-cord.</p> + + <p>But in their close attention to the task in hand, neither + had noticed a low, knifelike launch that had followed them and + that was now hovering a short distance off.</p> + + <p>Locke was now walking over the shell-strewn bottom, + examining curious objects here and there. The tide was setting + in strongly and at times it was with difficulty that he kept + his feet.</p> + + <p>He had become satisfied that this particular suit filled all + the requirements of a first-class diving-suit, and he was about + to try its special, self-liberating feature, when his attention + was arrested by a vague mass which seemingly moved against the + current.</p> + + <p>This was so extraordinary that his first thought was of a + shark. He stopped in his tracks and became motionless, for it + is a well-known fact that these sea tigers rarely see an object + unless it is in motion. Still, the vague form slowly took on + more distinctness as in its course it gradually drew nearer to + him. It was then that Locke was almost overcome with surprise. + For there, groping his way toward him, was a diver, like + himself.</p> + + <p>What was this strange being doing there on the bottom of the + sea? Whence had he come? Locke could not guess. For, like Eva, + he had not noticed the other launch. It seemed impossible to + him. Still, to him, apart from curiosity at the appearance of + the other diver, the incident had no other interest. What had + he to fear from any man at the bottom of a peaceful harbor? + Locke moved nearer.</p> + + <p>The stranger allowed him to approach, stopped, even, as + though he were himself amazed at Locke's appearance, and Locke + made gestures to reassure the man of his good intentions.</p> + + <p>Locke was quite close now, and through the glass gate in the + other's helmet he could see his eyes. But in those eyes he + could see no responding friendliness. There was a murderous + hate instead. He tried to step back and place himself in a + position for defense, but he was too late. For, with a movement + amazingly rapid for one under water, the stranger leaped upon + him, at the same time drawing a long knife. There, under the + sea, commenced a battle royal.</p> + + <p>Locke was unarmed and so from the start was at a + disadvantage. The stranger seemed not so anxious to stab him as + to come to close quarters, and before Locke could prevent him + he had done so. With his left hand he grabbed Locke's lines, + while with the other, in which was the keen knife, he slashed + murderously.</p> + + <p>Locke tried to break his grip. But the other was not to be + denied. With one stroke he cut through both lines, pushing + Locke backward and himself springing free at the same time.</p> + + <p>Immediately Locke's helmet filled with sea water, while the + pressure became enormous. Locke tried to hold his breath, while + his hand searched for the liberating knob. He gave it one + twist. It worked perfectly. Locke's suit, including the helmet, + simply opened and fell from him.</p> + + <p>Propelled as much by the pressure that the water exerted as + by his own powerful strokes, Locke shot to the surface.</p> + + <p>The day was perfect and the bay was calm. For a few seconds + Locke floated, drawing the air into his starving lungs. Then he + raised himself and gazed about him. At first glance everything + seemed the same except for the fact that, whereas before his + own boat had been alone, there were now two. Then Locke heard + an agonizing call for help—from Eva.</p> + + <p>After he had gone over the side of their launch Eva was + naturally very intent upon keeping him plentifully supplied + with air. He had been down some time before, glancing about, + she had spied the other launch. But at the time she had thought + little of it. For her, all thought of danger was centered on + the man who was now risking his life many fathoms beneath her + from pure motives of patriotism.</p> + + <p>It was only, some minutes later, when she heard the grating + of another boat against the side of her own that she realized + that she herself stood in danger. But even at that moment her + thoughts were of Quentin, who now for the first time was wholly + dependent on her efforts alone. She looked up fearfully, and + what she saw fairly congealed the blood in her veins. Directing + a murderous emissary to board Eva's launch, in the cockpit of + the other boat stood the Automaton!</p> + + <p>Not for an instant did Eva cease her efforts at the pump. + But she shrieked with terror again and again. Now, to add to + that terror, the pressure on the air-pump suddenly ceased. From + the depths myriads of bubbles of air arose.</p> + + <p>Knife in hand, the emissary leaped aboard and came toward + her. Automatically, frantically, she still turned the useless + pump, while with her free arm she tried to ward off the poised + knife.</p> + + <p>Again her shriek for help echoed across the water—and + this time her call was answered.</p> + + <p>Had she gone mad? The voice that answered her was the voice + of the man she loved. Her brain reeled and she fell at the feet + of the murderous thug.</p> + + <p>Other cries, then shouts were now heard, for some fisher + folk were putting out off shore to discover what all the tumult + was about.</p> + + <p>The Automaton made a hasty gesture to the emissary, who + sprang back from his victim and leaped to his own launch, + where, with his assistance, there was barely time to haul + aboard the chief thug, who had been sent below to attack Locke. + The launch cast off and with ever-increasing speed headed down + the river.</p> + + <p>Locke was the first to arrive and climb over the side of the + boat. Dripping though he was, he took Eva in his arms and + bathed her face, while by this time other craft arrived and + friendly hands did all they could to care for them both.</p> + + <p>It was some minutes before Eva was restored and all headed + again to the shore, eager to help Locke.</p> + + <p>As he assisted Eva to land, and they waited for a carriage, + Locke hastily offered a boatman a liberal reward for the + discovery of the precious diving-suit, for it had been his + intention to present the patent to the government.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile some strange things had happened. Paul and his + father had quarreled over money, over De Luxe Dora, over Paul's + manner of life and his ill luck in winning Eva's + affections.</p> + + <p>At the same time Dora had become more insistent in her + demands for money to meet her extravagances, and Paul conceived + an idea of selling one of the patents to a rival company. + Strange to say, it had been the self-liberating diving-suit and + the rival company was the Under Seas Company.</p> + + <p>All this took place some time after the disappearance of the + Automaton and his precious crew.</p> + + <p>Some hours later that evening a telephone message came for + Locke from the boatman that the diving-suit had been recovered + and was being held by him.</p> + + <p>Locke replied that he would be down in an hour. But during + that hour other strange things occurred. For no sooner had the + boatman hung up his receiver than a pleasant voice hailed him + and he left his house to investigate. It was Paul Balcom.</p> + + <p>It was in a clever, insinuating, affable manner that Paul + approached the real object of his visit. His appeal was + cleverly worded, cleverly presented. The sole object was to + awaken the poor boatman's cupidity.</p> + + <p>The sum mentioned, no less a sum than five thousand dollars, + would mean luxury to the poor man. And all for what? Simply to + call up a stranger, a Mr. Locke, to tell him that the boatman + demanded more money since he had telephoned before, that the + cash was to be placed by him in an old packing-case from which + a stationary engine had been removed that morning. It was just + an exchange. That was all.</p> + + <p>"Sure I'll do that," the boatman told Paul, and Paul, + smiling craftily, gave him his hand to seal the bargain.</p> + + <p>The boatman went back to his quarters and again called Brent + Rock, making his new demands. Locke was tremendously indignant, + but he wanted the suit quickly to prevent its falling into + unscrupulous hands. He agreed and immediately started for the + dock.</p> + + <p>The boatman turned from his telephone and, picking up the + suit, regarded it curiously. "Five thousand dollars," he + muttered. "Five thousand dollars." And he shook his head + wonderingly.</p> + + <p>He was standing near an open window and was commencing to + fold the suit preparatory to taking it to the end of the dock + where lay the engine-case, when, without the slightest warning, + three emissaries of the Automaton, who had appeared just a + moment before on the dock, leaped through the window and felled + him to the floor. He struggled feebly, but it was no use, and a + final blow left him unconscious.</p> + + <p>The emissaries next grabbed the diving-suit and left + hurriedly by the way they had come. But they had not completed + what it was they sought to do.</p> + + <p>The old boatman was not as badly hurt as it seemed and was + able to drag himself across the floor with just strength enough + to pull the telephone from the table and call Brent Rock. Then + as weakness again overcame him he managed to blurt out a + message to Eva, who answered.</p> + + <p>"Don't let Mr. Locke come to the dock," he managed to gasp. + "He'll be killed." Then he collapsed and fainted.</p> + + <p>Eva tried frantically to get the boatman again on the wire, + but it was useless. Quickly a plan formed in her mind.</p> + + <p>If she could only intercept Locke before he reached the + dock!</p> + + <p>She dashed out to the garage, realizing that it was almost + hopeless, since Locke had been gone some time. Hoping against + hope, she jumped into her speedster and swung out and down the + road.</p> + + <p>The fact was that even as she sped along toward the cove + Locke was passing the arched gate of the dock.</p> + + <p>He called at the boatman's little shack. Of course there was + no reply. To all appearances it was deserted. Thinking to find + him at the very end of the dock where he had been told to place + the money, he proceeded to the engine-case.</p> + + <p>He was slightly surprised at not finding the boatman there, + but as that was no part of the agreement it engaged his + attention for only a moment. He started to withdraw the money + from his pocket, groping at the same time to see if the + diving-suit was actually in the case.</p> + + <p>He was bending over when suddenly there was a rush of men + behind him and a blackjack in the hands of one of the ruffians + just missed his head.</p> + + <p>He fought, but their numbers were overwhelming. Like a pack + of wolves they pulled him down.</p> + + <p>Locke was quickly bound with ropes and forced into the + engine-case. The cover was put on and they nailed it down + solidly. To make it doubly sure this time the case was then + lashed with ropes and they were knotted.</p> + + <p>Next the emissaries carried the case to a sloping landing + stage, preparatory to casting it into the river.</p> + + <p>It was at this moment that Eva came running down the dock in + wild search to intercept Locke. Wide-eyed, in the moonlight, + she paused at what she saw.</p> + + <p>The emissaries had given the packing-case its final shove. + Scraping, it slid down the incline and toppled overboard. There + was a great splash as it struck the water and immediately began + to sink in the depths.</p> + + <p>The engine exhaust had evidently protruded from the case, as + there was a hole in its side slightly larger than a man's hand. + To Eva's horror, though she had half expected it, she saw + actually a hand thrust forth from this hole as if waving + frantically.</p> + + <p>The box sank lower as it rapidly filled with water.</p> + + <p>Eva knew not what to do. Instinctively she knew that it was + Locke. It was as though he had waved a last farewell.</p> + + <p>Only the hand now showed above the surface. Finally that, + too, disappeared beneath the waves.</p> + + <p>Despairingly she turned to see if there was anything on the + dock with which she might help Locke—and she saw the + Automaton himself advancing from the shore toward her. She + turned. The emissaries on the other end of the dock cut off any + chance in that direction.</p> + + <p>Without a moment's hesitation Eva poised herself a moment on + the edge of the dock and leaped far out into the blackness of + the river.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XIII</h3> + + <p>The box that held Locke a prisoner was now undoubtedly + resting on the slimy bottom. Eva had totally disappeared. The + Automaton, convinced that at last he had rid himself of his + victims, waved away the emissaries and departed.</p> + + <p>Except for the tiny lights of ships on the river and the + staccato exhaust of a tugboat, the river flowed with nothing to + remind one of the two tragedies of only a few seconds ago.</p> + + <p>As far as the eye could see, the surface of the water was + unbroken. Then, suddenly, the scene changed. For from out the + water, as though hurled up by a catapult, shot a man's + body.</p> + + <p>It was Locke.</p> + + <p>By what miracle had he escaped from the watery grave?</p> + + <p>From the time he was a small boy the study of locks and + bolts, of knots and strait-jackets, of anything that could + restrain or bind a man, had held a marvelous fascination for + him, until now he was recognized as one of the world's greatest + experts on these subjects. The great lock concerns often sent + for him to test new inventions, and invariably he could point + to any flaw in the constructions of them that existed. As he + came to manhood his knowledge had grown apace until to many he + seemed a veritable sorcerer.</p> + + <p>It was by a trick known only to himself that he had been + able to extricate himself from his desperate plight at the + river's bottom. True, his flesh was lacerated. True, he was on + the verge of total collapse. But he lived.</p> + + <p>He made his way slowly toward the dock and was resting + against one of the piles when he heard a faint cry. He strained + his ears to locate the direction whence it came. Once again + that feeble call floated across the water, and in it there + sounded something vaguely familiar.</p> + + <p>He was more rested now and he swam farther under the dock. + Again came the cry. With a thrill now he recognized the + voice.</p> + + <p>"Eva!" he called, again and again.</p> + + <p>"Here I am," came back the echo.</p> + + <p>With a powerful stroke he breasted the current and in a + moment he was supporting her half-fainting body. Precarious + though their position was, Locke felt the thrill of her words. + The effect was to spur him on to fresh efforts.</p> + + <p>Eva had become stronger now. For a few moments he swam, in + order, if possible, to find some means by which they might + escape from the water and reach the dock.</p> + + <p>They had no way of knowing but that the Automaton and his + emissaries might still be lurking above, ready to thrust them + back into the water or to reserve for them some even more + terrible fate. But it was a risk that they realized must be + taken and at once. An attempt to swim to another dock could end + only disastrously.</p> + + <p>Locke soon returned with the cheering news that he had + discovered a ladder that came even to the surface of the water, + a landing for small boats. More than that, he had mounted the + ladder, and from a short survey he had seen no sign of their + enemies.</p> + + <p>Carefully aiding Eva, Locke swam to this ladder and soon + they stood upon the dock, safe.</p> + + <p>With great caution they moved toward the street and, without + harm, finally passed beneath the arched gates again and were in + the city street.</p> + + <p>Eva went at once to her father's room. His condition was one + of great weakness. The laughing madness had abated in so far + that the poor victim was so weak that the spasms could not + maintain a very violent form.</p> + + <p>Eva practised all those little kindnesses which are known + only to women, and tears were in her eyes as she stroked his + poor gray head.</p> + + <p>How terrible was it that, after all they had attempted, all + that they had suffered, they should still stand defeated in + their aim to get the antidote that would cure her father's + malady. However, the brave girl was not one to admit herself + beaten, and even as she sat there she was planning new ways to + discover who were her terrible adversaries and to bring defeat + to them.</p> + + <p>At Brent Rock the next morning an aged inventor named + Winters arrived before Locke was down-stairs, and was shown + into the library to wait.</p> + + <p>Locke soon descended from the laboratory and went into the + room to meet him. But Winters was so agitated that at first he + could hardly speak. It was some moments before he gained + control.</p> + + <p>"What can I do for you, sir?" inquired Locke, although he + knew the man must be one wronged by the patents company.</p> + + <p>"One of my inventions was returned to me, when I protested + once," the man replied, "but nothing has been done about two + others."</p> + + <p>"Please try to have a little further patience," pleaded + Locke. "Everything is being done to assure justice to all."</p> + + <p>"But, Mr. Locke," the man persisted, "I must insist on the + return or the immediate marketing of the two inventions now in + the possession of International Patents or I will—"</p> + + <p>He paused, for Eva had entered and was overhearing what + Winters was demanding.</p> + + <p>"I am sure that, as my father returned one of your + inventions," she interrupted, "he would wish me to return the + other two, and I shall do so at once. Mr. Locke, will you be so + kind as to get them?"</p> + + <p>Locke immediately left the room and descended to the + Graveyard of Genius for the two models.</p> + + <p>In the laboratory above were Balcom and Zita, for she had + told him of her discovery of the dictagraph. Balcom had the + headpiece firmly clamped over his head and was drinking in the + purport of the conversation down in the library.</p> + + <p>Zita was almost beside herself with curiosity, as Balcom + repeated only scraps of the conversation that went on below, + but finally the real subject of the whole matter was repeated + to her and she was satisfied at last. A peculiar look came into + her eyes. As for Balcom, one would have thought that a whole + world's treasure had suddenly been placed within his grasp. Yet + each was cautious not to betray too much to the other.</p> + + <p>Over the dictagraph came the words spoken by Eva, "Mr. Locke + and I will come to your workshop at eight this evening to + complete the transaction."</p> + + <p>Locke in the mean time had brought the two models into the + library and the inventor had almost danced with joy at seeing + the children of his brain again.</p> + + <p>Sent down by Balcom, Zita had been ordered to spy on Eva and + Locke. She had been nearly caught by Locke as he was returning + from the Graveyard of Genius, but had slipped behind a pair of + portières at the end of the hall and had emerged only when + Locke had entered the library. She had crept close to the door + and was listening.</p> + + <p>She, too, now heard the inventor exact a promise from Eva + and Locke not to fail to be at his workshop at eight that + night.</p> + + <p>Zita had but a second to glide backward from the door as the + inventor came out into the hallway where she stood. He gazed at + her in such a strange, fixed manner that an uncanny feeling + came over her. Then he passed out, just as Balcom came down the + stairs.</p> + + <p>"Why did that man look at me in such a strange manner?" she + queried of Balcom.</p> + + <p>A moment Balcom considered her, as though undecided to + speak, then made up his mind.</p> + + <p>"Because," he replied, slowly, "he knows the secret of your + birth, knows who you really are."</p> + + <p>Zita had no further chance to question Balcom, for at this + instant Eva and Locke, still carrying the inventions, were + leaving the library. Locke turned down again toward the + stairway leading to the Graveyard of Genius, while Eva, nodding + pleasantly to Zita and Balcom, mounted the stairs leading to + her father's room.</p> + + <p>Zita turned questioningly again to Balcom.</p> + + <p>"Half of everything that girl possesses rightfully belongs + to you," he whispered.</p> + + <p>Zita apparently did not understand. "What shall I do to + obtain my rights?" she asked.</p> + + <p>"Do as I say," returned Balcom, as he left quickly.</p> + + <p>It was some hours later that in the dark corner of the + Graveyard of Genius the huge rock slowly swung outward. There + was a clanging and clanking of metal. Two fiery eyes gleamed + through the aperture and out stalked the hideous monster, the + Automaton. With strange ominousness it went directly to the two + models which Locke had returned, took them, turned and went + back through the great gap in the wall from which it had come. + Again slowly the huge rock swung back into place.</p> + + <p>Locke, with some sort of intuition, had deduced that young + Paul Balcom by his very absence might have played a leading + part in all the events in which both Eva and himself had been + thwarted and almost killed. Accordingly he determined to find + and trail Paul.</p> + + <p>It was some time after the models had been stolen in his + absence that, in a taxicab, Locke, having gone from place to + place which he knew Paul frequented, at last caught sight of + him leaving a dance-hall of very ill repute. Paul was just + stepping into a car which whisked him off rapidly and Locke + gave an order to his own driver to follow him.</p> + + <p>They wove in and out of various streets and finally turned + up the Drive, where, after a few minutes, Paul's car came to a + stop before a palatial apartment-house and Paul alighted. + Looking up and down the Drive and seeing nothing to cause him + suspicion, Paul entered the house.</p> + + <p>Locke carefully noted the address, then leaned back in his + cab to await developments.</p> + + <p>Paul was taken to the third floor and there was admitted to + a gorgeous apartment.</p> + + <p>"I thought you'd never get here," languidly greeted the + feline De Luxe Dora.</p> + + <p>She led him to a chaise-longue seductively, taking care, + however, that he should see a pile of unpaid bills that lay + upon a table near it.</p> + + <p>Paul was not entirely at his ease and wasted no time in + coming to the point.</p> + + <p>"Look here, Dora," he began; "I know you can't run this + shack on air. I got your note this morning. I've been busy and + I've got an idea. I've made up my mind to take a couple of + those inventions the company owns and sell them. It means + coin."</p> + + <p>Dora's eyes gleamed avariciously.</p> + + <p>"Be patient," Paul added, "and I'll have you swimming in + gold."</p> + + <p>At this juncture three young fellows of the cabaret type, + better known as "lounge lizards," were admitted to the + apartment.</p> + + <p>Paul cast a glance at Dora which clearly spelled jealousy + and reproach. He knew the fellows. In fact, there were few + denizens of the underworld whom he did not know. Concealing his + vexation, he tried to greet them easily.</p> + + <p>The fellows returned the salutation hastily.</p> + + <p>"Say, Balcom," hastened one of them, "some one is on your + trail, shadowing you."</p> + + <p>Paul was startled and furious, but in this emergency it was + Dora who thought out the plan of action.</p> + + <p>"In a taxicab?" she repeated, as the others told what they + had seen outside. "Listen to me, Paul. Go to the window and + show yourself. Then leave the house. This fellow Locke will + investigate—and we'll tend to the rest."</p> + + <p>Paul moved to the window, opened it, and stepped out on a + small balcony. Dora slipped to his side and for a moment they + stood there gazing apparently at the view of the river. Then + they re-entered the apartment.</p> + + <p>"Now go, Paul," said Dora. "Whoever this fellow is, we'll + handle him."</p> + + <p>Paul started to get his hat, then stopped and from his + pocket drew out a small package.</p> + + <p>"I was going to use this elsewhere," he said, "but it might + come in handy to—"</p> + + <p>Dora reached for the package, but Paul withdrew it + hastily.</p> + + <p>"Careful, Dora," he admonished. "There's a small gas-bomb + inside."</p> + + <p>The five now conferred a bit and it was agreed that this + time the inquisitive Mr. Locke would surely trouble them no + more.</p> + + <p>"With Locke out of the way," promised Paul to Dora, "the + road to our fortune is clear."</p> + + <p>A moment later Paul left the apartment, descended in the + elevator, and jumped into a taxicab and was off.</p> + + <p>Locke from his cab had, of course, seen all this, had seen + Paul and Dora on the balcony and the departure. But he knew + nothing of the three men who had gone to the same + apartment.</p> + + <p>He waited until Paul passed out of sight, then stepped out + of his cab, making a careful calculation as to the exact + location of the woman's apartment, for he had determined to + find out about her. From the hall boy he learned that it was De + Luxe Dora, of whom he knew, and it was only a matter of seconds + when he was admitted.</p> + + <p>Dora swept over graciously toward him.</p> + + <p>"Will you answer me one question?" he asked, in answer to a + query from her.</p> + + <p>She nodded assent.</p> + + <p>"How long have you known Mr. Balcom's son?"</p> + + <p>"He is an old friend," she replied. "I'm expecting him to + return at any moment. Won't you be seated? Please excuse me + just a moment."</p> + + <p>Before Locke could say a word she had left the room. Left + alone himself, Locke took in all the details of the room and + again and again his eye wandered to a Louis XIV desk.</p> + + <p>Feeling certain that this woman was without doubt connected + in some way with the plots, he felt justified in opening the + desk to obtain evidence. He tiptoed over to it and tried to + open it. It stuck at first, but after one or two silent, + well-directed blows which he so well knew how to administer the + sliding panel stood unlocked.</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/310.jpg" + name="image310" + id="image310"><img width="400" + src="images/310s.jpg" + alt="LOCKE COMES UPON STARTLING EVIDENCE" /></a> + locke comes upon startling evidence + </div> + + <p>He glanced around. There was no one to be seen. He moved + back the panel. There was a flash and a tiny puff of smoke. + Locke coughed once, clutched at his throat, and lay gasping on + the floor.</p> + + <p>Immediately the three men rushed out, carrying ropes and + holding handkerchiefs to their nostrils. One ran to the window + and threw it wide open, admitting gusts of air to clear away + the fumes. The others began to bind Locke as De Luxe Dora + appeared in the doorway and calmly directed operations.</p> + + <p>On the roof of the apartment several moments later in the + just-gathering dusk five figures might have been seen. Three + men and a woman were conferring, while at their feet was a man + tightly bound and unconscious.</p> + + <p>In the background was a huge water-tank, with a ladder + leading to its brim.</p> + + <p>Suddenly the conspirators straightened up. They had come to + a decision. The three men lifted the unconscious figure and + bore it up the ladder. The tank was empty. One of the men + jumped down into it, while the others lowered their victim + after him. Then they passed down ropes.</p> + + <p>There were two spouts at the bottom of the tank through + which water was pumped. Also there were pipes running upward. + To these pipes they tied Locke. Then the men climbed out and, + as their last fiendish act, turned the water on.</p> + + <p>With a sneer Dora turned and led the way down-stairs + again.</p> + + <p>"They'll find his body when they have to clean the tank + again," she exclaimed.</p> + + <p>At Brent Rock, during the absence of Locke, Eva had donned + her street clothes, since it was nearing the hour of eight when + she and Locke were due to be at the inventor's workshop to + render the restitution. She went down-stairs and asked the + butler about Locke. But the man replied that Mr. Locke had not + yet returned.</p> + + <p>Eva was very uneasy by this time, and, thinking to save + time, was about to go down to the Graveyard of Genius to get + the models of the two inventions, when Zita came down the hall + carrying a fair sized package which she tried hard to conceal. + Eva greeted her and continued down to the cellar, as Zita, with + a sort of grim smile, left the house.</p> + + <p>Eva came to the great door, pushed the secret spring, and in + a moment was inside the gloomy place. She went directly to the + spot where the two inventions had been kept. They were + gone.</p> + + <p>Alarmed, she rushed up-stairs.</p> + + <p>Still Locke did not return. Nor did any word come from him. + It was now very near to eight. Eva decided to go, for surely + Locke would be there.</p> + + <p>When Zita arrived at the inventor's, in her hands was still + the mysterious package. She carried it gingerly, then raised it + to her ear. From within it there came a faint ticking sound. + What was it inside?</p> + + <p>She looked at her wrist-watch. It was still some minutes + before eight. She knocked at the inventor's door.</p> + + <p>The inventor at once admitted her. It was a neat little + workshop in which every detail had been thought out with + care—the home, one might say, of a methodical + workman.</p> + + <p>The inventor manifested some surprise at seeing Zita, but + politely asked her to enter, and offered her a chair. Zita + declined and plainly showed her nervousness.</p> + + <p>"Will you please give this package to Mr. Locke and Miss + Brent when they come at eight?" she asked.</p> + + <p>Winters agreed and accepted the package, looking quizzically + at her as he did so, just as he had earlier in the day.</p> + + <p>Zita, unable to control her curiosity, burst out with the + question uppermost on her mind.</p> + + <p>"Why do you look at me in such a strange manner?" she + queried.</p> + + <p>The inventor merely turned his gaze away and shrugged.</p> + + <p>"Mr Balcom tells me that you know the secret of my birth," + pressed Zita.</p> + + <p>The inventor looked up quickly. "Who did Mr. Balcom say you + were?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"He told me that I was Brent's daughter," replied Zita, + keenly watching the aged face.</p> + + <p>"Balcom lied to you," hastened the inventor.</p> + + <p>Already there was a ponderous tread on the stairs, but + Winters did not seem to notice it.</p> + + <p>"You are not Brent's daughter," he pursued, more slowly.</p> + + <p>The door opened swiftly and an emissary stood framed there, + a knife poised in his hand. Behind him stood the Automaton.</p> + + <p>"You are—"</p> + + <p>At that instant the inventor caught sight of the intruders. + With a look of horror in his eyes he threw out his hands to + protect himself, but he was too late. The knife whizzed through + the air and a second later pierced his throat. He fell to the + floor—dead.</p> + + <p>At the moment when the emissary, followed by the Automaton, + entered, Zita, watching her chance, managed to escape from the + room, stumbled, and almost half-fell down the stairs.</p> + + <p>Already, in the huge water-tank that stood on the roof of + the apartment of Dora, Locke had revived as he felt the water + and had found himself already half submerged, with the water + rapidly pouring in. At first he could not grasp his terrible + predicament, but before long the full horror of it burst on him + and he struggled madly to free himself. Since his body was + stretched at full length, it was impossible to use the ordinary + tricks of which he was master. His arms were bound, and he well + knew that to release one of them constituted his sole chance of + escape.</p> + + <p>He contracted his muscles and, inch by inch, he worked his + right arm free. By this time the water had risen until he was + fairly beneath its surface. Could he last long enough to free + himself?</p> + + <p>He worked frantically. Finally, with his lungs almost + bursting, he managed to free the other arm, then the rope that + bound his neck. To release his feet was, to him, child's play, + and he stood up.</p> + + <p>But the water had risen almost to the top of the tank before + he was able to grasp its brim and draw himself out.</p> + + <p>Once on the roof, there was only one thought in his mind. It + was nearing eight o'clock, and if Eva kept the appointment at + the inventor's he knew his adversaries well enough to be sure + that they would take advantage of his absence.</p> + + <p>He dashed down the stairs and out of the building. Dora and + her evil band could wait. He must reach the inventor's shop. As + the seconds sped, so increased his premonition that all would + not be well there.</p> + + <p>It was at the moment that Zita came flying down-stairs that + Locke burst into the hallway to the inventor's.</p> + + <p>Zita saw him. Above, she knew was the terrible Automaton and + his bloodthirsty emissary. More horrible yet, she had her fears + of the package that had been given her by Balcom to + deliver.</p> + + <p>"You must not go up there!" she cried, impulsively, flinging + her arms about Locke's neck.</p> + + <p>Locke tried to remove her arms as he questioned her. But + Zita either would not or could not tell more. Instead she + merely clung to him.</p> + + <p>Thus it was that Eva, determined at keeping her appointment + with the inventor at all costs, entered the hallway at just + this unpropitious moment. To her it looked as if Locke and Zita + were very familiar. Could it be that Quentin was such a cad? + She could not deny the evidence of her eyes.</p> + + <p>Indignantly she brushed past them and rushed up the stairs. + Locke called after her, but she refused to heed him. He flung + off the arms of Zita and dashed after her. But Eva was too + quick for him. She opened the door to the inventor's and went + in, slamming it behind her. The lock snapped. In an instant Eva + saw what she had fled into. There was the Automaton, near him + the emissary with the knife—and on the floor their victim + in a pool of blood. She shrieked and tried to escape. But the + lock had snapped. Besides, the emissary, now directed by the + monster, blocked her retreat.</p> + + <p>Outside, Locke pounded on the door, but could not open it. + It was of stout oak and would take some moments to break + down.</p> + + <p>The emissary circled in one direction. Eva turned, and there + was the Automaton advancing on her from the other side of the + room.</p> + + <p>On the table the clock-work bomb, delivered by Zita, whether + with full knowledge or not, ticked out the last few seconds + before its timing at precisely eight!</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XIV</h3> + + <p>Eva flattened herself against the door at her back. She + could feel and hear Locke pounding on the other side. She + thought that she would die of sheer terror.</p> + + <p>The Automaton raised his mighty fist, and Eva instinctively + ducked under the monster's arm. There was an inner room. Could + she reach it in time? Would the door be unlocked? At most she + could only try.</p> + + <p>The emissary tried to catch her, but she proved too quick + for him. She reached the door. It opened, and she flew into the + room, slamming and bolting it behind her.</p> + + <p>Now she could hear the thunderous blows of the Automaton + raining against the door. One huge fist of the monster crashed + through the panel. Eva crouched down in a far corner and closed + her eyes. At that instant the time bomb exploded and the house + was rocked to its foundations.</p> + + <p>Everything was demolished. One entire side of the house was + blown out. The door leading to the workshop which a moment + before Locke had been vainly striving to open crashed full upon + him and felled him, half-stunned, to the floor.</p> + + <p>The force of the explosion had dazed Eva. As for the + Automaton and the emissary, they had both been blown through a + gaping aperture in the wall to land in the garden beneath. Only + Zita, in the lower hallway, was totally untouched by the + catastrophe.</p> + + <p>Locke, dazed, crawled from under the door and made his way + into the demolished room in search of Eva, a cold fear gripping + his heart. How could any living thing have lived after such an + occurrence? But in another instant he saw her, as she half + swooned and staggered into the room.</p> + + <p>"Quentin!" she gasped.</p> + + <p>He caught her in his arms. But the next moment she + remembered what she had witnessed in the hallway below and she + drew herself away from him.</p> + + <p>"Go to the girl you really love," she scorned.</p> + + <p>"The girl—I really love?" repeated Locke; then there + ran through his mind what had happened, as though it had been + ages ago.</p> + + <p>He protested and tried to explain. But protestations and + explanations only made matters worse, as usual. Had she not + with her own eyes seen Locke in Zita's arms?</p> + + <p>"Eva," he persisted, manlike, "I swear that she was only + trying to save my life. I cannot help it if she—"</p> + + <p>Locke saw that his defense was only making an innocent + matter worse, and checked himself. His mind recalled that some + one had once said that a jealous woman believes a man guilty + until he proves himself innocent; when he has proved himself + innocent she merely still suspects. Eva's manner was very + constrained.</p> + + <p>At that moment a policeman, followed by Zita, entered, and + Zita, running up to Locke, cried, anxiously, "You're not + hurt—are you?"</p> + + <p>Locke answered in an annoyed negative.</p> + + <p>The policeman now questioned them very closely and examined + the dead inventor's body. Then he entered their names and + addresses in his note-book.</p> + + <p>Next the officer lead the entire group down to the garden. + There the horribly injured emissary was trying miserably to + crawl away.</p> + + <p>The Automaton had totally disappeared.</p> + + <p>Eva immediately ordered that the injured man be taken to + Brent Rock in her car. Then she turned sharply to Zita.</p> + + <p>"How did you come to be here?" she demanded.</p> + + <p>Zita was startled and confused. It lasted only a minute. + Then, her mind made up, she replied, defiantly:</p> + + <p>"I came here to discover the secret of my birth. I have been + told that I am Mr. Brent's daughter."</p> + + <p>Eva was stricken dumb with astonishment at this startling + claim, but Locke laughed outright.</p> + + <p>"What nonsense!" he scoffed. "Eva, don't listen to it."</p> + + <p>Zita glared at him and with a haughty nod to Eva swept out + of the garden.</p> + + <p>Eva was still frightfully indignant with Locke and insisted + on going home alone. However, they arrived at Brent Rock at + about the same time.</p> + + <p>The emissary had been placed on a lounge in the library and + a doctor was called. The case was quite hopeless and they + merely hoped to obtain a confession before he passed away.</p> + + <p>When Eva arrived she went directly to her father's room, + but, as he was receiving every attention from a trained nurse + and she could do nothing further to aid him, she returned to + the library.</p> + + <p>Locke, too, after changing his clothes, still wet from the + water-tank on the top of the apartment, also went to the + library.</p> + + <p>At his entrance the doctor glanced at him in a manner to + indicate that there was no hope of saving the man's life. Locke + went over to examine him. He was struck by the sly rascality of + the professional criminal, but he thought little of it at the + time. He tried to question the emissary, but, except for a + labored breathing, could extract no response.</p> + + <p>There were voices in the hallway. For a moment the dying man + showed some signs of returning consciousness. A crafty look + came over his face. What was he contemplating?</p> + + <p>The door opened and Balcom and his son Paul entered. Balcom + walked jauntily, but with a suavity of manner that was always + his. Paul looked at his best, except for the fact that he + carried his left arm in a silken sling.</p> + + <p>Balcom greeted them all, and at his voice the dying man + actually showed a sort of agitation. A strong shudder seemed to + pass through his body, then, like a spring suddenly uncoiled, + he sat up.</p> + + <p>He was fully conscious now and strove to rise to his feet. + It was a tremendous effort, but he succeeded, and stood + confronting Balcom, while the ominous light of hatred that + gleamed from his eyes as they encountered those of Balcom made + even that well-poised man recoil and shudder.</p> + + <p>With the muscles of his face working convulsively the dying + thug tried to speak. All those standing in the library realized + that it was to accuse, to denouce.</p> + + <p>However, the effort proved too great, and with a groan that + was ghastly the man fell backward on the couch, dead.</p> + + <p>Murdering brute that he had been, still to Eva and Locke he + now represented nothing but a stricken human being, with a + human soul, blackened and warped. But Balcom and Paul seemed to + show unmistakable signs of joy and relief. It was so evident, + Locke thought, that he turned to them.</p> + + <p>"Your coming seemed to have an unfortunate effect," he + hinted. "The man seemed to know one of you—at least."</p> + + <p>"Nothing of the kind," retorted Balcom, nettled.</p> + + <p>Locke turned to Paul and regarded his injured arm + questioningly. Paul, however, never lost his accustomed + aplomb.</p> + + <p>"I was hurt in an automobile accident," he explained, though + with what seemed to be a trifle of nervousness.</p> + + <p>Locke turned to the doctor. He was rubbing his hands, and + smiling, with great unction, an action very unbecoming, to say + the least, in a medical man who had just lost a patient. Taken + all in all, Locke felt he could now sense the web of conspiracy + tightening around him. The cards were still in the hands of his + enemies.</p> + + <p>He determined to incur any risk, to leave no stone unturned + in order to bring the criminal to justice, whoever he might be. + One thing encouraged him. The events seemed to have mollified + Eva. He made an almost imperceptible signal to Eva, who left + the room to dress for the street.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile Locke left the library and went to a private + telephone that connected the garage to the house. He ordered + the chauffeur to have a fast runabout ready for instant call. + Then, at the other telephone, he notified the coroner's office + of the death of the emissary.</p> + + <p>By this time Balcom, Paul, and the doctor came out of the + library, the doctor in high good humor, for had he not received + a huge fee? He left in his car.</p> + + <p>Balcom and Paul, however, were slower in going, and paced + the hallway in earnest conversation. Once they came to a dead + halt close to the stairway leading down to the Graveyard of + Genius. They listened intently. Evidently they came to a + decision on something, for they left the house very + hurriedly.</p> + + <p>Immediately Locke called for the runabout. Eva came running + down-stairs and in a moment they took up the trail of the + Balcom car.</p> + + <p>It seemed as if they traveled for miles, and Locke was + commencing to think that it was merely a wild-goose chase, when + Balcom's car came to a halt in one of the lower quarters of the + city, before a house that was apparently tenantless.</p> + + <p>To avoid discovery, Locke backed his car around a corner, + got out, and watched their movements from a safe distance.</p> + + <p>He saw Balcom, senior, alight, but Paul did not leave the + car. Locke was in some quandary what to do. To attempt to enter + the house without Paul's seeing him and raising the alarm + would, he realized, be impossible. Therefore he waited for + nearly half an hour before his patience was rewarded by seeing + Balcom come out of the house, jump into the car, and drive off + hurriedly with Paul.</p> + + <p>Locke walked to the house and looked closely over the + exterior. It was little different from others in the same + street. Then he walked thoughtfully back to Eva and they argued + pro and con about the advisability of attempting to enter.</p> + + <p>Locke insisted on entering alone, but Eva would not hear of + it. Therefore, it was decided that they would go in + together.</p> + + <p>When Balcom had alighted from his car half an hour before he + had merely stood for a moment in front of the door of the house + when, mysteriously, the door had opened.</p> + + <p>There was no one in sight. But he was so familiar with the + house that it might have been his own. He descended a flight of + stairs and stood before another door, where the same + door-opening process was repeated.</p> + + <p>Balcom entered a darkened room and for a moment seemed quite + alone. Then from out the shadows, with a little half run, half + lope, a strange figure of man came toward him.</p> + + <p>He was in reality large of frame, but stooped and bent with + age. An old frock-coat was wrapped about him. But the most + remarkable things about the man were a pair of weirdly + fascinating eyes with a mad glint in them and an enormous full + beard, snow white, that fell almost to his waist.</p> + + <p>At times the man talked rationally, in fact with the + forcefulness of a great savant. Then, abruptly, he would leave + off and the rest of his conversation was that of a babbling + child. He was seldom at rest, scampering here and there, not + unlike a bird-dog on a fresh scent. Seeking—always + seeking—what?</p> + + <p>Balcom grasped his arm in order to arrest his attention.</p> + + <p>"Doctor Q," he addressed him, "you can have the revenge you + have sought so long. Have you prepared everything?"</p> + + <p>The old man chuckled and wagged his head in senile fashion. + Balcom grabbed both his shoulders so that the old man was + facing him, and shook him slightly.</p> + + <p>"Your enemies are here," he emphasized. "Have you prepared + for their reception?"</p> + + <p>And then the haze beclouding the old man's brain seemed to + pass away and his next moments were lucid.</p> + + <p>"Ah, it's you, Balcom. You were just saying—"</p> + + <p>Balcom explained that Locke and Eva had tracked him and on + his departure would undoubtedly enter to investigate the place. + Doctor Q, for such was his odd name, understood now, and an + evil grimace distorted his wrinkled face.</p> + + <p>"Let them come," he growled. "I am prepared. Why, I have + even improved certain features of the Chair of Death."</p> + + <p>He led Balcom into an inner room where many electric bulbs + were dimly glowing. At their entrance two brutal-looking men + straightened up from their task and saluted Balcom with great + deference. Then they resumed their tasks as electricians.</p> + + <p>"Want to see her work, sir?" one of the pair asked.</p> + + <p>Stepping around a partition that separated the knife-switch + from the room in which stood the electric chair, Balcom + watched.</p> + + <p>The chair was of practically the same construction as the + chairs used in prisons for the supreme penalty, with electrodes + to connect at the head, arms, and legs of the man to be + electrocuted.</p> + + <p>"Stand back, sir," called one of the men as he shot the + switch home.</p> + + <p>Instantly a snapping sound was heard as the current surged + through, and the crackling sound such as the now familiar + wireless makes as the long sparks leap from pole to pole. It + was Force.</p> + + <p>A satisfied look came into Balcom's eyes and he warmly + congratulated the mad inventor, who followed him to the door + and watched him as he mounted the stairs to depart with his + son.</p> + + <p>Soon after the departure Doctor Q went to a strange-looking + instrument that seemed to have many of the characteristics of + the periscope. He pulled a lever, a panel opened, and + immediately the space directly in front of his street door was + revealed to him. He stood there, watching intently, much as a + spider watches for a fly.</p> + + <p>Soon Locke and Eva showed in the panel above. He next + pressed a button and saw the two enter. Then he went to a huge + divan on the other side of the room and whipped off a covering + that was concealing some gigantic thing beneath.</p> + + <p>It was the Automaton, prostrate, at full length, without + motion. At least it seemed so.</p> + + <p>The madman glanced around, and then glided into an inner + room from the larger one. He was just in time, for a moment + later Locke and Eva entered.</p> + + <p>They, too, glanced around fearfully. They saw the dread form + of the Automaton and, although it did not move, Locke would + have admitted he was ready to beat a retreat.</p> + + <p>It was uncanny, weird. In the dim light the monster seemed + to assume gigantic proportions. But he lay so still that their + jangling nerves became quieted. They even approached him, Locke + with automatic in hand in case the iron terror were shamming. + But there was no sign of life—or whatever it was that + animated this thing.</p> + + <p>Locke, handing his gun to Eva, determined to investigate + further. He went to the inner door and listened. But he could + hear no sound. He turned the knob and entered. He was amazed at + what he saw. But, as there was apparently no living thing + about, he took courage and entered farther. He took note of the + switches, saw the deadly chair, and was about to test the + apparatus to see if it could be possible that a practical + electric chair existed in the heart of a peaceful city, when he + heard Eva shriek in heart-rending terror.</p> + + <p>He rushed madly back to where he had left her. But as he + passed through the door some one dealt him a blow on the head, + and as though pole-axed he dropped to the floor.</p> + + <p>After Locke had left her to go into the inner room Eva's + fears revived and she wished to follow him. But she was ashamed + to have him think her a coward. She forced herself to remain + rooted to the spot.</p> + + <p>Her eyes had followed Locke through the doorway and her ears + were strained to hear the faintest sound from the other room. + In her anxiety about Locke's safety she even forgot the + Automaton, and, in turning the better to watch the doorway, she + drew nearer to the divan upon which the monster lay.</p> + + <p>It was this action that had brought her into peril. Slowly + one of the monster's arms commenced to move, and before Eva + could spring away she was enfolded in his deadly embrace. It + was that that made her shriek madly, wildly, in utter + terror.</p> + + <p>Then she saw Locke running through the door to her, saw him + struck from behind, and she fainted.</p> + + <p>The Automaton, evidently thinking Eva dead, let her limp + body slip to the floor. For a moment it towered over her, as + though contemplating whether to trample on her or no. At this + juncture an emissary distracted its attention and the terror + left her lying there without further injury.</p> + + <p>The Automaton now assumed command of Locke's + electrocution.</p> + + <p>Under its direction the emissaries picked up Locke's body + and placed it in the electric chair. They slit his trousers so + that the deadly electrodes might form a better contact with his + flesh. His sleeves were rolled back for the same reason. Next + the headpiece was firmly adjusted. Now all the straps were + tightly clinched.</p> + + <p>The Automaton waved his arm.</p> + + <p>A man stepped to the switch.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XV</h3> + + <p>There was a moan from the front room. Eva was recovering + from her faint. The Automaton indicated to the emissary at the + switch to do nothing until he had found out what was going + on.</p> + + <p>Locke had, meanwhile, recovered consciousness and realized + his awful position. Here was a situation which, on its face, + seemed unescapable. Yet Locke would not give in.</p> + + <p>Straining every effort, he tried to extricate himself before + the deadly current could sever the thread of life. Seconds + seemed ages. Still he tried.</p> + + <p>With a mighty effort he strained every muscle of his + gigantic chest and the very straps that held him groaned from + the force of his muscular exertion. Even now the death-man was + at the switch and it was barely a question of seconds or + heart-beats between him and death.</p> + + <p>With a quick twist of his giant shoulder he threw his whole + weight against the chest strap and it parted. Lurching forward, + he freed his head and neck from the cruel straps, which snapped + and parted.</p> + + <p>The death-man paused for a fraction of a second to see what + caused the commotion in the chair. To that pause Locke owed his + life. With a final supreme effort he threw himself on the floor + just as the knife-switch swung into position and the wicked + blue flame of death leaped across the head electrodes.</p> + + <p>Once freed, he catapulted himself across the room and with a + vicious upper-cut sent the emissary sprawling unconscious to + the floor. Without a thought of himself he rushed into the next + room where Eva now stood in panic, glued to the spot, in fear + of the Frankenstein monster that would crush her in its + grasp.</p> + + <p>With murderous mien the thing crossed the room slowly, until + only the table stood between her and destruction.</p> + + <p>Like a wild animal Locke hurled himself into the room and + with a master stroke of quick wit flung the heavy oaken table + over at the monster. Then he seized Eva, and before the monster + could turn in its tracks, half dragged, half carried her from + the room.</p> + + <p>In the hall further difficulty confronted Locke, for the + place was well guarded. Several henchmen darted forth from dark + corners of the murky place and would have intercepted him.</p> + + <p>As the first approached, Locke, with a quick jiu-jitsu + thrust, hurled him for a fall that would have broken the back + of a less hardy man. The next one was just turning the top of + the stairs, and Locke, quick to take advantage of the + situation, adopted the only means of escape.</p> + + <p>He seized the man bodily about the waist and, lifting him + over his head, threw him upon his other oncoming foe. The + result was that the two were flung down the stairs.</p> + + <p>"Run!" he cried to Eva in a voice that was a command.</p> + + <p>Without waiting he picked her up and carried her over the + sprawling mass of legs and arms to safety below.</p> + + <p>Once outside, he felt a little embarrassed at having the + beautiful girl in his arms and he half murmured an apology as + he placed her feet gently on the ground.</p> + + <p>Life at Brent Rock was far from monotonous.</p> + + <p>Like a great game of checkers, the various members of the + establishment were being moved about, guided by some strange + hand, it seemed.</p> + + <p>Now one, then another seemed to gain the advantage, and as + each strove for control of the vast fortune, the battle of wits + surged back and forth.</p> + + <p>Balcom was playing a game, it was plain. But to what extent? + Sometimes it seemed as though Zita was his aide and would stop + at nothing to succeed. Again it was that Zita played the game + alone, still fostering her secret but hopeless love for Locke. + Again it seemed as if Paul were playing the game, either alone + or with some one else.</p> + + <p>Just now it was apparent that Balcom and Zita, for their own + ends, whatever might be the identity of the Automaton, planned + a coup for themselves.</p> + + <p>During one of Locke's absences Zita had secured access to + his laboratory, and while looking around had discovered the + dictagraph hidden in the desk drawer. Often Balcom and Zita, + either together or alone, had taken advantage of the + discovery.</p> + + <p>It was at a time when both were using the mechanical + eavesdropper on Locke and Eva in the library that Locke + suddenly decided to return to the laboratory, without saying + anything about it.</p> + + <p>Zita's quick ear heard him down the hall.</p> + + <p>"Quick!" she warned. "Some one is coming!"</p> + + <p>She sprang toward the closet door, which stood ajar, and in + an instant Balcom was with her. The two were concealed in the + closet as the laboratory door opened and Locke entered.</p> + + <p>Locke walked to his table of test-tubes and picked up one + containing mercury. What prompted this action he did not know. + Perhaps it was his fascination for the elusive metal. Perhaps + it was some subconscious feeling. At any rate, he held it aloft + and gazed at it in the light. As he did so a strange thing + happened. Reflected in its surface on the glass, yet distorted + like a convex mirror, he could see the door of the closet open + just a crack and the evil faces of Balcom and Zita peer + out.</p> + + <p>He did not move nor did he in any way betray what he saw, + but nonchalantly set the tube of precious metal down and + pretended to seek something from the table. He turned slowly + and retraced his steps to the library below, where he entered, + holding his fingers to his lips in warning to Eva not to speak. + He walked quickly over to a writing-desk, took a pencil, and + began to write.</p> + + <p>"Balcom and Zita are listening on the dictagraph. Pretend to + quarrel with me."</p> + + <p>Eva read in amazement as he wrote. Quickly she comprehended. + Then they walked silently until they were almost under the + chandelier which held the transmitter of the dictagraph.</p> + + <p>"I have something I want to say to you, Mr. Locke," began + Eva, with a wink and a smile at him, "and it grieves me to say + it."</p> + + <p>"What is it?" asked Locke, with distinct anxiety, winking + back.</p> + + <p>"I am afraid I shall have to dispense with your services," + continued Eva, as she reached out her hand and gave Locke's a + little squeeze.</p> + + <p>Up-stairs, Balcom and Zita listened intently, their heads + close together so that each could catch every word. Balcom was + nodding with satisfaction. Each looked at the other as though + they could hardly believe their ears.</p> + + <p>"But I have tried to serve and protect you," protested + Locke, as his face wreathed in smiles at Eva, who was carrying + the deception off perfectly. Then he added, plaintively, "I am + sorry that I have failed."</p> + + <p>"Your protection has led me into danger," returned Eva, in + her best voice to denote anger, "and your seeming interest is + out of place—and, besides, <i>Mr.</i> Locke, Paul Balcom + does not like your being here. You know he is the man I am to + marry."</p> + + <p>As she said this, Eva looked roguishly at him. Locke's face + clouded a little, although he knew it was only in a joke.</p> + + <p>"But, Miss Brent," he continued to protest, "I had + hoped—"</p> + + <p>"Not another word, Mr. Locke," interrupted Eva, as she edged + very close to him and gazed into his eyes. "Please leave this + house at once—I hate you!" And, not suiting the action to + the word, she reached out and gave his hand a squeeze that told + more than words what her true thoughts in the matter were.</p> + + <p>Locke leaned over and was on the point of kissing her when + she held up her hand and pointed to the receiver above in the + chandelier as if it really had eyes as well as ears. He looked + up and was forced to check a laugh lest it be heard by the + listeners above.</p> + + <p>In the laboratory, Balcom had heard enough. He turned to + Zita, and with a hurried command told her to go + down-stairs.</p> + + <p>"Keep an eye on him and tell me where he goes," was the + parting instruction of Balcom as the two separated on the + stairs at the very time that Paul blustered in the front + door.</p> + + <p>"Morning, Governor," nodded Paul, as he gave his hat to the + butler.</p> + + <p>"A very good morning, Paul," emphasized Balcom, quite + unctuously, as he went on to tell his son of the supposed + quarrel between Eva and Locke which he had overheard.</p> + + <p>A light of triumph came into Paul's eyes. Eva's happiness, + even her life, meant nothing to him. She was merely a means to + his own evil ends and he now felt sure that he held her in his + grasp. Besides, in so far as such a selfish nature can care for + another human being, Paul cared for De Luxe Dora. There was a + fascination for him in her tigerish, unscrupulous nature that a + good woman could never inspire.</p> + + <p>And now, as he eagerly listened to his father, he visualized + new motor-cars, a yacht, rivers of champagne, a life of mad + gaiety with his favorite pals, men and women.</p> + + <p>Locke, in the library, was laughing quietly with Eva over + the success of the ruse. But there was, notwithstanding, an + undercurrent of seriousness running through their thoughts. + For, although they had scored against their adversaries in + misleading them as to their intentions, both realized that + Balcom was a tremendously clever man, astute and wise beyond + the average in the ways of the world, and that the slightest + lack of caution, the smallest flaw in the acting of the parts + they had elected to play, would inevitably lose for them the + advantage they had gained.</p> + + <p>They went into the most minute details of the plans they had + formulated, and they realized that in order to keep the wool + pulled over Balcom's and Paul's eyes it was necessary that they + separate, at least apparently, for a few days. Locke gave out + that he was to seek evidence in the lower quarters of the city, + while Eva was to play the game at home. It was to Eva that the + more difficult role fell.</p> + + <p>Locke bade her an affectionate farewell and left by a door + opposite to the one leading to the main hallway, where the + voices of Paul and his father were now audible.</p> + + <p>Eva opened the hallway door and greeted Paul, feigning + delight and chiding him for his long absence—which had + not been even a day—intimating that there must be some + woman in whom he was interested. She made a pretty show of + jealousy.</p> + + <p>Paul, wearing his vanity on his sleeve, was delighted and + his eyes shone with satisfaction. He took a step forward and + attempted to take Eva in his arms. But she evaded him + playfully, while he pursued her. Finally she could bear no + more. The game revolted her. She made the excuse that she must + attend her father, and ran up-stairs.</p> + + <p>So a day or two passed, days which were sheer torture to + Eva. Paul called every day, bringing her little gifts, and it + must be acknowledged that he showed exquisite taste.</p> + + <p>They took long walks together. On horseback they cantered + all over the country. Friends called, and it was at such times + that Eva found her only relief from Paul's attentions. Many a + rubber of bridge she played just to escape being alone with + him.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XVI</h3> + + <p>At last, late one afternoon, the faithful old butler + announced to Eva privately that Locke was on the wire and + wished to speak to her.</p> + + <p>Eva almost ran to the telephone, and her hand shook with + sheer joy as she took the receiver.</p> + + <p>"Yes, everything is moving along even more rapidly than I + expected," replied Locke to her eager inquiry. "Whenever Paul + leaves Brent Rock he goes directly to a miserable café and + there I see him with a number of people of the underworld. He + seems to have a great deal of influence over them. I'm sifting + all the clues, and as soon as I unmask him I will send for + you."</p> + + <p>Eva gave him a brief outline of how she had fared in his + absence and an account of her father's condition, which was now + very bad. Everything the doctor had done seemed to be without + effect.</p> + + <p>Locke assured her that he hoped soon to lay hands on the + antidote that would restore Brent to health and sanity, and + begged Eva to be brave in the mean time.</p> + + <p>When the conversation was over Eva felt certain that no one + had overheard what she and Quentin had said. But she was + mistaken, as she was to learn at her cost. For, far down in the + bowels of the earth, in the den of the Automaton, an emissary + had tapped in on the telephone wire and had heard every + word.</p> + + <p>Down-town, among the haunts of Paul, on the west side, was + the Black Tom Café. Every attempt had been made to make the + place bizarre. About the walls were palings that represented a + back fence, along which crawled painted black cats in every + conceivable state—a rather odd conceit for a cabaret.</p> + + <p>Although the sun had not yet set, the electric lights were + already agleam. On a raised platform three weary-eyed musicians + were pounding and thumping out the latest Broadway hit.</p> + + <p>There were not half a dozen people in the place, and these + were obviously denizens of this quarter of the town. They were + listless and weary, mere shells of human beings. And yet it was + such as these that the slumming parties at night romantically + dubbed bohemians.</p> + + <p>They showed scant interest as De Luxe Dora, unaccompanied + for once, swept into the place. Dora was gorgeously and + flashily dressed and fairly scintillated with jewels. She + seated herself not far from the door and ordered a cocktail. + Then she whistled a bar of music suggestively to the + piano-player, who immediately caught it, and the "orchestra" + with a show of animation strummed out her suggestion. She sent + over drinks for them and was rewarded with more song hits.</p> + + <p>Jauntily now Paul came in. A couple of men roused themselves + and slouched over to him. They held a whispered conversation, + and Paul was insistent on some point. He evidently had his way, + for the men slunk back to their places and, sprawling out, were + in a moment as listless as before.</p> + + <p>Paul nodded to Dora in greeting, but she turned her back. He + gave a low whistle of astonishment and went over to her.</p> + + <p>"Say, Dora, why the grouch?" he asked.</p> + + <p>For a moment she disdained to answer and glared at him + witheringly. Then she blurted out, "You're throwing me down for + that baby face with the money!"</p> + + <p>Paul gave a short laugh and shrugged his shoulders. "Don't + be silly," he laughed. "She'll be our meal-ticket."</p> + + <p>He sat down, and over a couple more cocktails he had Dora + quite mollified.</p> + + <p>A few moments later Locke entered and slipped quickly into a + chair, since he did not wish to be seen. In his hand he carried + a newspaper which he now unfolded and held up in front of him + so that it hid his face. Next he poked a hole through the + center of the sheet so that he could see without being + seen.</p> + + <p>At this moment, seemingly in all earnestness, Paul and Dora + resumed their quarrel, and Dora's strident voice echoed through + the café.</p> + + <p>"If you throw me down you'd better look out," she + bawled.</p> + + <p>Paul jumped up, and for a moment it looked as though he + would strike her. But he changed his mind, cursed her, and + finally stalked out of the café.</p> + + <p>Locke folded his paper, paid his bill to the sleepy waiter, + and started after Paul. At the entrance he stopped, thought a + moment, and then went directly to Dora's table and sat + down.</p> + + <p>"Why, what are you doing here?" she gasped, in great + surprise. "Don't you know that you may be <i>killed</i>?"</p> + + <p>"It's a risk that I must run," replied Locke. "But tell + me—you tried to kill me once—why?"</p> + + <p>"Because I was a fool, controlled by my love for Paul + Balcom—the beast! I hate him!"</p> + + <p>Dora drank viciously, then, with jealous venom, leaned over + to Locke, and asked, "If that girl, Eva Brent, finds out about + him, will she throw him over?"</p> + + <p>Locke played the game diplomatically, and apparently + succeeded in further incensing Dora against her lover, for, + suddenly she jumped up.</p> + + <p>"Meet me here in an hour. I'll have everything arranged to + spoil Paul Balcom's game," she whispered, as she swept out of + the café with demi-mondaine majesty.</p> + + <p>Locke was elated at the thought of having won so powerful an + enemy to his side. But, had he heard Dora's remark to Paul as + she met him around a convenient corner, his elation would have + given way to caution.</p> + + <p>Paul eagerly questioned her with a glance as she + approached.</p> + + <p>"Well, he fell for it," she announced, toughly, then added, + "just as you fell for his dictagraph game with the girl."</p> + + <p>There was just a bit of jealousy yet in the tone of Dora. + She was not yet convinced of her complete triumph over Eva.</p> + + <p>At the same time Locke left the café and entered a + telephone-booth, from which he called up Eva.</p> + + <p>"Come to the Black Tom immediately," he said. "Dora is now + on our side and we'll learn the truth, she promises."</p> + + <p>Eva at once started to get ready so that she would arrive at + the time Locke had fixed, while he loitered in the + neighborhood, waiting until the hour agreed upon with Dora was + almost gone.</p> + + <p>Dora was already waiting for him outside the place when he + returned to the Black Tom.</p> + + <p>"How is everything?" inquired Locke.</p> + + <p>"All arranged. You'll get Paul right."</p> + + <p>Just then a man slouched past.</p> + + <p>"Follow that fellow," whispered Dora.</p> + + <p>Locke nodded and did so.</p> + + <p>The man proceeded into the café and Locke followed. But + instead of sitting down in the main room the man passed through + into an inner room. Locke followed. He looked about. It seemed + to be a sort of storeroom, as nearly as he could make out.</p> + + <p>His guide pressed a secret panel and, stepping through an + aperture, beckoned Locke to follow. Locke drew his automatic + and went ahead in the inky blackness that lay beyond the panel. + The next moment the very floor under his feet seemed to give + way. He felt himself thrown down bodily into a sort of + subcellar.</p> + + <p>Locke was immediately pounced upon by lurking emissaries who + seized him after a terrific battle and held him firmly.</p> + + <p>"Where's a rope?" growled one.</p> + + <p>There was no answer as the men struggled. The question was + repeated. Apparently one of them looked about.</p> + + <p>"Use the wire," he growled.</p> + + <p>The questioner gave a grunt of brutal satisfaction. There in + this storeroom lay a huge roll of barbed wire. Coil after coil + of this barbed wire was wound about Locke as he struggled, but + ever more feebly, for with each coil now the barbs began to cut + cruelly into his flesh.</p> + + <p>Some one lighted a candle and by its light he saw many + carboys of acid standing in a row.</p> + + <p>Directly behind them, so that there could be no doubt of the + horrible fate in store for him, stood the Automaton.</p> + + <p>Already at the entrance to the Black Tom Café Eva's speedy + runabout came to a stop. Dora was at the curb to meet her and + was all winning smiles.</p> + + <p>Instinctively Eva shrank from this overdressed woman. But it + had been Locke's desire that she come to this place, and she + decided to follow the woman, for would it not lead to the + unmasking of Paul, whom she hated?</p> + + <p>Once or twice on the descent into the café Eva hesitated, + but was gently urged on by Dora.</p> + + <p>Eva was utterly disgusted by the flotsam and jetsam in human + guise that she found sprawling at the tables, but she decided + to brave the place.</p> + + <p>"Wait a moment and I'll get Mr. Locke," smiled Dora.</p> + + <p>For a moment, the better to blot out the distasteful scene, + Eva closed her eyes.</p> + + <p>When she opened them again it was to look into the + ferocious, bestial face of the giant emissary who, with fingers + clutched like the talons of some foul bird, was reaching toward + her to grasp her by the throat.</p> + + <p>In the noisome cellar Locke lay as though fascinated by the + dread form that confronted him, as well as by its more dreadful + purpose.</p> + + <p>The Automaton drew back its massive foot and deliberately + kicked over one after another of the carboys.</p> + + <p>A pungent odor at once permeated the cellar air as the acid + ate into the floor.</p> + + <p>Its purpose accomplished, the Automaton stalked toward + Locke, and stood towering above him.</p> + + <p>Would it crush out Locke's life under its ponderous heel? Or + would it leave him to a death more horrible?</p> + + <p>Like writhing serpents, the rivulets of seething, burning + acid crept closer, closer.</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/311.jpg" + name="image311" + id="image311"><img width="400" + src="images/311s.jpg" + alt="IN THE PATH OF THE DEADLY ACID" /></a> + in the path of the deadly acid + </div> + + <h3>CHAPTER XVII</h3> + + <p>The Automaton and its emissaries left the cellar. In the + distance a door slammed and Locke was left to his terrible + fate.</p> + + <p>Except for the gurgling of the flowing acid and the + scampering of the rats all was silent.</p> + + <p>Locke tried to move. But the sharp barbs of the wire cut + into his flesh, a torture to test the fortitude of a stoic.</p> + + <p>Moreover, Locke had barely recovered from the shock of his + fall into the cellar. Thus for a few seconds that seemed to him + to be ages he lay there watching the fiery death creep closer. + Then the will to live surged through him and he struggled + furiously to escape from the deadly path of the acid. Gone now + was his flinching and shrinking as the sharp barbs lacerated + his tender flesh. Gone was the calmness that denoted surrender + and the acceptance of his fate.</p> + + <p>With bunching muscles he writhed inch by inch to one side, + out of the path of the flow of the acid. He was just in time, + for, at his last mighty effort, the consuming fluid flowed + past, not an inch from his face.</p> + + <p>To extricate himself from the coils of the wire was a slow + and painful task. Wounded with a hundred wounds, with each + movement of his body adding a further injury, many times Locke + was forced to desist in his efforts to free himself. However, + he persisted, though, strong man that he was, the tears of + agony burned his eyes and beads of cold sweat stood on his brow + even before the first coil was loosened.</p> + + <p>He could not, even to save his own life, have persisted in + this self-inflicted torture had it not been for the thought of + Eva hurrying to this dreadful den. That thought almost drove + him mad and spurred him to furious effort.</p> + + <p>It was well that it did. For at this very moment the beastly + emissary in the café above was closing in on her.</p> + + <p>Locke gave a final heave and tugged at the last strands of + the wire that held him prisoner. His clothes ripped to tatters + and his flesh torn and lacerated, he at last stood free.</p> + + <p>Without an instant's pause he collected packing-cases and + even barrels. He stacked them one upon the other, pyramiding + them under the trap-door through which he had fallen into the + cellar. Then he climbed upon them, leaped, and tried to grasp + the edge of the floor above him, but fell short and came + tumbling down amid the boxes and barrels, only to start + stacking them up all over again.</p> + + <p>Finally he managed to grasp the edge of the floor with one + hand and draw himself up. For a few moments he lay panting on + the floor, then groped for the panel through which he had + entered not half an hour before. It was locked, but a shrewd + kick above the lock opened it to him and he rushed through the + storeroom and out into the now brilliantly lighted café.</p> + + <p>He was barely in time.</p> + + <p>The emissary already had Eva in his grasp and was choking + her into unconsciousness. The foul habitués of the resort, far + from aiding the poor girl, seemed for the first time that day + to be showing interest and to be thoroughly enjoying the brutal + sight.</p> + + <p>With a shout Locke charged. His right swing landed just + behind the emissary's ear and the man dropped, pulling Eva down + with him. But Locke had her up and behind him in a second.</p> + + <p>Three other emissaries appeared as though by magic and + attacked him on all sides.</p> + + <p>Locke's automatic had been lost when he fell into the + cellar. Consequently he grabbed up one of the café chairs, + which he wielded like a club.</p> + + <p>One emissary had worked around until he was at one side of + Locke and almost behind him, a blackjack raised in his hand. + But Eva warned Locke in time. Whirling about, he made a full + swing with the chair and caught the emissary full in the face + with it. The man went down and stayed down.</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/312.jpg" + name="image312" + id="image312"><img width="400" + src="images/312s.jpg" + alt="THE FIGHT IN THE CAFE AFTER THE ESCAPE FROM THE ACID" /> + </a> + the fight in the cafe after the escape from the acid + </div> + + <p>"Run quick as you can," panted Locke to Eva. "Get the car + started."</p> + + <p>She was reluctant to leave him, and Locke saw that delay was + dangerous. He hurled what remained of the chair into the faces + of the last two emissaries, then turned and rushed up the + steps, carrying Eva along with him.</p> + + <p>A whir of the starter, the throbbing of the engine as the + gas in the cylinders ignited, and they were streaking toward + Brent Rock, safe.</p> + + <p>In a still fashionable, but older, part of the town, the + elder Balcom had his quarters. They were spacious and furnished + in Oriental style, with many a suggestion of the Indian + Ocean.</p> + + <p>Balcom was evidently annoyed, and seriously so. He was + striding up and down the apartment, scowling and puffing + furiously at a black cigar. In his hand was a letter, and from + time to time he halted and glanced at it, then fell back to his + quick walking again, while a sinister light came into his eyes. + Yet the contents of the note were hardly such as would have + seemed likely to cause a man of honest purpose any + agitation.</p> + + <blockquote> + <p><span class="smcap">Mr. Herbert Balcom,</span><br /> + <span style="margin-left: 2em;">International Patents, + Inc.</span></p> + + <p><span class="smcap">Dear Sir</span>,—A special + meeting of the executive board of International Patents, + Inc., will be called at Brent Rock this afternoon to + determine the future policies of this company.</p> + + <p class="author">[Signed] + <span class="smcap">Eva Brent.</span></p> + </blockquote> + + <p>Balcom had read the notice for the tenth time when a negro + servant entered and announced that his son Paul wished to see + him.</p> + + <p>"Show him in—then," growled Balcom to the servant.</p> + + <p>Paul entered. He was evidently somewhat chagrined and + crestfallen. Nor did his father's next words tend to cheer him + up.</p> + + <p>"I suppose you'll acknowledge that you've made a miserable + mess of it," accused the older man. "When will you stop mixing + women with business?"</p> + + <p>Paul was silent. Indeed there was nothing that he could + say.</p> + + <p>"And now look at this note," pursued Balcom, in growing + rage. "It brings things to a head. What can we do?"</p> + + <p>He thrust the note at Paul, who read it. Balcom himself + reread it, crumpled it in anger, tore it, and threw the pieces + in violence on the floor.</p> + + <p>This time it was to be Paul who was to formulate a plan. It + was of such a dark and criminal nature that even Herbert + Balcom, hardened as he was himself, was for the moment appalled + at his son's temerity. But as he listened to Paul's words they + fascinated him and he leaned forward the better to take in the + scheme.</p> + + <p>As Paul and his father planned, it seemed that here was + power unlimited, wealth beyond all counting and without the + possibility of discovery. For, like most men of his caliber, + the approbation of the community was dear to Balcom.</p> + + <p>"Good, Paul!" approved Balcom. "Go to it at once."</p> + + <p>Paul looked keenly at his father.</p> + + <p>"Haven't you anything to add?"</p> + + <p>"No, I have nothing to advise. The scheme is perfect, and as + you conceived it you can also execute it. The best of luck to + you, my boy."</p> + + <p>A few moments later Paul went out, his dark face beaming at + being reinstated in his father's good graces. He was full of + his plan.</p> + + <p>Down in one of the city's worst sections and near the + river-front there stood an old ramshackle building. Why it had + not been condemned by the building inspectors was a mystery. + But it stood in all its squalid ugliness. The door and the + windows were locked and shuttered. One could see at a glance + that the building had been long unused.</p> + + <p>There was an alley strewn with tin cans and other refuse + leading to the back of the house, and it was down a flight of + broken brick steps that Old Meg, the fortune-teller, had her + den where through the superstitions of those inhabiting the + neighborhood she managed to eke out a miserable existence. The + interior of the den was unspeakably filthy. The furniture + consisted of a broken-down couch, a chest of drawers in a like + condition, a card-table, a few kitchen chairs, and some boxes. + Most of the panes in the windows had been broken and the empty + spaces had been covered with old newspapers. Consequently, a + candle thrust into an old wine-bottle supplied the only real + light.</p> + + <p>At the table, idly shuffling a pack of grimy cards, sat Old + Meg, a horrible old hag, wrinkled in face like a mummy, with + only the stumps of teeth which had more the appearance of + tusks. Her unkempt hair was matted and ugly wisps of it hung + down over her bleary eyes. For clothes she wore an + old-fashioned faded gingham wrapper and around her shoulders a + dirty torn shawl. On her feet was a pair of man's shoes, many + sizes too large, which had evidently been cast away as useless + by some former owner, himself squalid. These she managed to + keep on by tying the tops with wrapping-cord. A more unlovely + human being it would have been hard to find in all the great + city. There she sat, crooning a ballad to herself in a high, + cracked voice. It sounded like an incantation.</p> + + <p>A step sounded in the alley and Old Meg looked up and + listened intently. The sound came nearer. She got up and + retreated into a dark corner, for she knew the neighborhood + well, and many a time some thug, brutal with drink, had entered + her den and wrung her last few pennies from her.</p> + + <p>But it was no inhabitant of this quarter of the town who + entered this time. It was Paul Balcom.</p> + + <p>The hag grinned in a horrible way at him, for it was not + unusual for people of his kind to visit her and it always meant + money. With her apron she dusted off the chair that stood at + the table and begged him to be seated. Then she shuffled the + cards and cut, shuffled and cut, and then as though at last + satisfied she laid them face downward on the table and + spoke.</p> + + <p>"Wish, my handsome gentleman, and may your wish come + true."</p> + + <p>"Go ahead with the hocus-pocus," growled Paul.</p> + + <p>Mother Meg picked up one card after another and her cracked + voice was evidently following a set formula.</p> + + <p>"If the queen of spades comes between the king of clubs and + the queen of hearts—"</p> + + <p>Paul listened with a strained intentness as the hag + singsonged on and on. Then a look of satisfaction came into his + eyes and he smiled happily. Next his look changed to a nasty + look of determination, and he abruptly got up, tossing a + bank-note on the table which Old Meg grabbed with avidity, + calling down Heaven's blessings on the handsome gentleman until + Paul, running up-stairs, could hear no more.</p> + + <p>Paul returned immediately to his father's apartment, where + Balcom was impatiently waiting for him. He described minutely + Old Meg, her eagerness for money, and the squalid quarters in + which she lived. The elder Balcom seemed satisfied and they + left the apartment together.</p> + + <p>"Paul," directed Balcom, "get out to Brent Rock as soon as + you can while I make arrangements with this Old Meg."</p> + + <p>Balcom stepped into his own car, while Paul hailed a + taxicab, and a few minutes later Balcom alighted before the + house of Old Meg. He walked down the alley and descended into + the den.</p> + + <p>As before, Meg was in hiding in a dark corner until she + could ascertain just who her visitor might be. Seeing Balcom, + she came out and courtesied and scraped as she had for + Paul.</p> + + <p>Balcom announced the object of his visit immediately, and + while he was speaking he fingered a roll of bills which he had + taken from his pocket the better to arouse the old hag's + avariciousness.</p> + + <p>It had the desired effect and her eyes fairly gleamed with + the craving of possession.</p> + + <p>"Do as I tell you, Meg," directed Balcom, "and I'll make you + rich. Do you understand? Rich!" he emphasized, rolling out the + last word silkily on his tongue.</p> + + <p>Old Meg's last scruples, had she ever had even one, fell + before this temptation and she became almost the slave of + Balcom.</p> + + <p>Balcom now gave a command and the old hag sidled to the door + of an inner room.</p> + + <p>"Jimmy! Jimmy!" she called. "Come here to me."</p> + + <p>In a moment a boy slunk into the room. He was sharp-faced, + pinched for food, and in tatters, as disreputable-looking as + the hag herself. Meg whispered something to him, and, as though + galvanized by an electric current, the boy shot up-stairs. He + was soon back again with two brutal-looking men who looked + suspiciously at Balcom and then shuffled into a corner, where + they conferred eagerly with Old Meg.</p> + + <p>At first it was plain to be seen that they were refusing to + do her bidding, but Meg made a movement as though she were + counting money. After that it was equally plain that they + agreed.</p> + + <p>Meg sidled over to Balcom and he unwrapped a few bills of + large denomination and handed them to her. She immediately hid + them in her dress, with many a furtive look toward her + accomplices.</p> + + <p>Balcom's eyes followed those of the old hag, and, realizing + that his whole conspiracy might fail unless the men were + assured of further reward on the completion of their task, he + approached them smoothly.</p> + + <p>"Of course," he insinuated, "you understand that if you + three follow instructions to the letter I'll double that + amount." Then he left the place, brushing his coat with his + handkerchief as he did so. "Brent Rock," he said to his + chauffeur, curtly, as he stepped into his car.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XVIII</h3> + + <p>Eva and Locke were seated at a long table in the library of + Eva's home. Before them were many ledgers of International + Patents, Incorporated. Eva was reading certain entries in the + books, while Locke was making notes to be used at the coming + directors' meeting.</p> + + <p>Eva closed the ledger from which she had been reading and + announced, "I intend, at the meeting, to insist that the + patents held in the Graveyard of Genius be released to the + world."</p> + + <p>"It is the only honorable thing to do," agreed Locke. "You + will undoubtedly meet with violent opposition from Balcom and + some few who owe their fortunes to him, but in the end you will + win."</p> + + <p>"If we could only have found the antidote," sighed Eva, "and + my father could only be again in control of things."</p> + + <p>"All we can do is to act as we think he would have acted if + he were in control," soothed Locke.</p> + + <p>"May I speak to you a moment, Mr. Locke?" interrupted a + voice.</p> + + <p>It was Zita who had entered noiselessly and now stood well + within the room.</p> + + <p>How long had she been there? How much had she overheard? + Both Eva and Quentin exchanged worried glances.</p> + + <p>Locke rose and went over to Zita, who spoke to him in a + whispered undertone.</p> + + <p>The matter was so trivial that it hardly warranted her + intrusion. Locke was puzzled. But he was a man and, therefore, + did not understand. For, as Zita continued, there was a world + of longing in her eyes. She even went so far as to finger the + lapel of his coat.</p> + + <p>Eva understood only too well, and her face crimsoned. She + bit her lips, and in vexation at Zita her finger-nails pressed + into her palms. Paul's entrance at this moment was a distinct + relief, much as she despised the man.</p> + + <p>"What's all the fuss about?" he inquired.</p> + + <p>Paul had a gaiety of manner that he could slip on like a + coat, and it was this quality that made him dangerous. He was + popular and attractive.</p> + + <p>Paul took Eva's hand and managed to hold it just the + fraction of a second longer than was necessary to convey + friendship. Then Eva withdrew her hand, but not before Locke + saw it and scowled.</p> + + <p>It was not long before the elder Balcom also arrived.</p> + + <p>"Good afternoon, my children," he greeted, jovially. "I'm + just a bit ahead of time, I imagine. But why you children don't + leave dry matters of business to us older heads I'm blessed if + I know."</p> + + <p>"Mr. Balcom," retorted Eva, keenly, "the older head that + would protect my interests and the interests of those poor + inventors lies stricken, as you know, in the room above. In his + absence the children, as you are pleased to call us, will do + their best."</p> + + <p>Balcom glared, while Zita with a strange glance toward Eva + left Locke and joined Balcom in a far corner of the room.</p> + + <p>"Zita," Balcom whispered, "the time has arrived to take you + out of this false position."</p> + + <p>Zita trembled with suppressed excitement as she heard this, + and followed Balcom back toward the table, where the others + were already seating themselves.</p> + + <p>It was approaching the hour, when Eva rose and was about to + speak. Balcom motioned and stopped her with a gesture.</p> + + <p>"One moment, please, Miss Brent," he interrupted. "Before + the others arrive I am going to establish Zita's real position + in this house."</p> + + <p>All at the table looked at one another in openly expressed + astonishment. Zita, with eyes cast down, hands clasped in her + lap, seemed almost demure, though about her mouth played a + faint smile.</p> + + <p>Even Paul did not understand this phase of the conspiracy + and looked at his father as much as to say, "I wonder what the + old man is up to now?"</p> + + <p>Locke was the first to recover his coolness. "Just what, Mr. + Balcom, do you mean?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"I mean—" began Balcom, then stopped. "But first I + will produce a witness who can vouch for all the facts which I + am about to relate."</p> + + <p>Balcom went to the door and opened it. There, bobbing her + head and smirking mechanically, stood that loathsome creature, + Old Meg. In these rich surroundings her frightful squalor was + all the more accentuated. Those at the table drew back in utter + disgust as she tottered into the room. As she passed Zita she + paused.</p> + + <p>"I held you in these arms when you were but a wee baby," she + muttered, hideously.</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/313.jpg" + name="image313" + id="image313"><img width="400" + src="images/313s.jpg" + alt="THE HAG AIDS BALCOM IN HIS NEFARIOUS PLANS" /> + </a> + the hag aids balcom in his nefarious plans + </div> + + <p>Zita drew away from her and looked at Balcom questioningly. + Balcom now leaned far over the table and spoke + impressively.</p> + + <p>"Twenty years ago Brent was secretly married to his + secretary. There was a child. But Brent craved money, and power + that the money would bring. Saddled with a wife and child, he + was barred from his ambition, which was to marry some rich + woman. So he made a hell on earth for his wife until, in + desperation, she consented to an annulment of their + marriage."</p> + + <p>The room was breathlessly quiet as Balcom continued.</p> + + <p>"Years passed and then his conscience smote him. He made his + own child his secretary." Then he turned to Zita, pointing at + her. "There she sits," he exclaimed, "and half of the voting + power of this company belongs to her—Zita Brent, Zita + Dane <i>Brent</i>."</p> + + <p>Instantly Locke was on his feet.</p> + + <p>"Balcom, you lie!" he rasped.</p> + + <p>"Lie or no lie," retorted Balcom, "as vice-president of the + company I refuse to permit any action to be taken until Zita's + position is legally established."</p> + + <p>Locke turned to Eva. "Miss Brent," he asked, with a bow, + "may I speak for you?"</p> + + <p>Eva nodded.</p> + + <p>"Then, Balcom," remarked Locke, "we shall carry the proposed + motion over your head. You cannot produce sufficient proofs to + retard our action."</p> + + <p>"My protests," sneered Balcom, as he strode toward the door, + "will be entered in the minutes of this meeting."</p> + + <p>Zita, in the excitement, had already disappeared. Paul bowed + to Eva and Locke mockingly and followed his father.</p> + + <p>Old Meg squeezed herself against the walls of the library + and was trying to get out of the room without being detected. + But Locke was too alert for her and caught her by the shoulder, + detaining her. She tried to fight him off with her feeble arms. + Again and again he tried to question her.</p> + + <p>"The story is true, I tell you, gospel true," Meg repeated + over and over again.</p> + + <p>Locke let her go and she started toward the door. Then the + habit of a lifetime overcame her and she turned.</p> + + <p>"If you would know the truth, my pretty," she croaked at + Eva, "come to Old Meg." Then she hobbled out.</p> + + <p>Eva was naturally perturbed, although Locke tried to comfort + her. Yet she could not forget what had happened between him and + Zita just before the meeting, and, woman-like, she now held + aloof.</p> + + <p>"Eva," pleaded Locke, "won't you trust me? Things are in + such a critical state that we must not have any + misunderstanding."</p> + + <p>But Eva merely tossed her pretty head. "I don't care for + Zita or her actions," she replied, petulantly.</p> + + <p>Locke diplomatically changed the subject. "I believe," he + said, slowly, "that that old hag is in the pay of either Paul + or his father, and I mean to find out which it is."</p> + + <p>Locke had started across the hallway when Eva called him + back.</p> + + <p>"Quentin," she said, earnestly, "I trust + you—absolutely." Then she hid her face in her hands and + almost ran into the dining-room.</p> + + <p>Had she been a moment sooner she would have caught that + mysterious person, Doctor Q, who had entered the house some + time before, and, on overhearing heated words coming from the + library, had remained with his ear glued to the keyhole, + absorbing every word that was said until Balcom left. But he + had shuffled away before she ran in.</p> + + <p>Back in Old Meg's den some time later the little gutter rat + who, a few hours before, had brought the two thugs back to + Balcom and Old Meg was coiled up in a corner, asleep.</p> + + <p>With light footsteps that did not awaken the sleeping boy, a + strange little figure now came scurrying down the brick stairs. + The figure hesitated a moment, then entered the foul den.</p> + + <p>In tatters, like the sleeping street gamin, this other boy + still had something winsome, something elusively handsome, + about him, a certain refinement of features. However, a black + patch over one eye showed that this gamin was manly enough, + evidently, when it came to fighting. He stirred the sleeping + boy with his foot, and the boy, cursing volubly and beyond his + years, roused himself.</p> + + <p>They talked excitedly in whispers and the boy who had just + entered gave the street arab some money. Then together they + tiptoed into the other room and down a flight of rickety steps + into the cellar. This cellar connected with another cellar of + large size that was used as a storehouse.</p> + + <p>The boys barely spoke and, when it was necessary, only in + whispers. They came to a pile of cotton bales, found a + convenient space between the bales, crawled in, and lay + still.</p> + + <p>Night was coming fast as the hag, trailed by Locke, left + Brent Rock. She walked fast for so old a woman, but, finally, + coming to a street-car line, she took the first car that came + along. Locke had had the foresight to have himself followed by + one of the numerous Brent cars and so was able to keep the + street-car in sight until the old woman alighted in her squalid + quarter of town. Locke got out of his machine and followed her + on foot, keeping close to the walls of the buildings to avoid + having her see him.</p> + + <p>Old Meg turned the corner that ran alongside her dwelling, + and there, for the first time, gave an indication that she was + aware that she was being followed. She chuckled to herself, + gave a few stumbling capers which might have been an imitation + of a dance step, then waved her hand. Was it a signal?</p> + + <p>Locke was never to reach the alley. Old Meg had whipped + around the corner so quickly that for a moment he was puzzled + as to just where she had disappeared. He stopped with his back + half turned to a flight of stairs leading down to the cellar + entrance of a big warehouse. Suddenly he was sent stumbling + forward to his knees, half dazed by a treacherous blow dealt + from behind.</p> + + <p>He was up again in an instant and was defending himself from + the attack of half a dozen thugs. He put up a splendid fight, + but the odds were too great, and in a few minutes he was down + on the ground, unconscious and bound.</p> + + <p>The emissaries of the Automaton, for such they were, carried + him down the steps and into the warehouse cellar.</p> + + <p>Already, on leaving Brent Rock, Paul Balcom had not been + idle. He had been immediately driven to a telegraph-office, + where, after having used nearly an entire pad of blanks, he + succeeded in composing the following message:</p> + + <blockquote> + <p><span class="smcap">Dearest Quentin</span>,—Have + proofs that Old Meg spoke the truth. Meet me immediately at + her place.</p> + + <p class="author">Zita.</p> + </blockquote> + + <p>The message was addressed to Locke at Brent Rock and was + marked "Important."</p> + + <p>"That ought to fetch her!" muttered Paul, as he left the + office.</p> + + <p>Twenty minutes or so later the telegram was delivered to the + butler at Brent Rock, who brought it at once to Eva.</p> + + <p>At first she was loath to open a message addressed to some + one else. But Quentin's affairs and her own were so intertwined + by this time that she felt that the telegram would, in all + probability, concern her as well as Locke. She tore it + open.</p> + + <p>"Dearest Quentin," she read and for a minute could get no + farther, for it seemed as if a mist had formed before her eyes. + She clutched at the balustrade. Then pride, jealousy, and a + certain anger surged up within her and she finished reading the + telegram.</p> + + <p>Eva was in a quandary what to do. She paced up and down the + hallway, biting her lips and repressing the tears.</p> + + <p>Could it be possible, after all, that Locke was faithless? + Was this the man who had been so kind, who had saved her from a + thousand dangers? At any rate, she would find out once and for + all.</p> + + <p>Faint and heart-sick, she gave orders to have her runabout + brought around. It was a long drive from Brent Rock, but Eva's + fast speedster covered the ground quickly. Twice policemen + tried to stop her and, failing, probably took the number of her + car. Nothing could deter her. And, as the cool evening wind + lashed her face, faith in Locke revived and the suspicion came + that she might be rushing into danger. But no thought of + herself entered her mind as she stepped on the accelerator and + the car shot forward. Her single thought was of speed, more + speed, to get to Locke quickly.</p> + + <p>She was appalled at the squalor of the neighborhood in which + she finally found herself. Disgusted and revolted at the filth + of Old Meg's abode, still not for an instant did she falter or + hesitate. She ran down the steps to Old Meg's home.</p> + + <p>The old hag was evidently awaiting her, for this time she + did not hide at the sound of approaching footsteps, but came + forward, courtesying and mumbling greetings, while her eyes + gleamed with a satisfaction that was positively hellish.</p> + + <p>"Mr. Locke—where is he?" Eva gasped.</p> + + <p>"All in good time, my pretty, all in good time," mumbled the + hag. "You're to wait for him here."</p> + + <p>But Eva insisted on seeing Locke at once and the old hag + lied volubly. He had been here, and had stepped out for a + moment. No, she did not know where—to get a cigar, maybe. + Would the pretty lady hear her fortune told while she + waited?</p> + + <p>As there was apparently nothing that she could do until + Locke returned, Eva sat at the card-table while Old Meg droned + her old fortune-telling rigamarole.</p> + + <p>In spite of her growing fear and agitation Eva became + interested. There was something calming in the monotonous voice + of the old crone.</p> + + <p>"When the queen of spades comes between the jack of hearts + and the king of diamonds and the—a—the—"</p> + + <p>A door directly behind Eva silently and slowly opened. + Stealthily a boy's head was thrust out. On the young face was a + world of deadly hatred. As the sputtering candle burned + brighter for a moment, startlingly, a vague change was + noticeable in the lineaments of the features.</p> + + <p>It was the same gamin who had given the sleeping boy money. + But now, in the candle-light, with only the head showing, it + was no boy who glared malevolently at Eva, but a + woman—and that woman was the implacable Zita!</p> + + <p>The head disappeared to give place to the visages of two + horrible-looking men, the same brutes who were present when + Balcom had spread the net of his conspiracy.</p> + + <p>"When the jack of clubs," droned the witch, "and + the—"</p> + + <p>With barely a sound the two thugs entered the room behind + Eva. In the hand of one was an old gunny sack.</p> + + <p>"—and the queen of hearts—"</p> + + <p>Eva was so interested now that she leaned far over the + table, her eyes fastened on the cards as they fell.</p> + + <p>A thug stumbled. Eva, startled, sat back quickly and tried + to rise. But the next instant she felt herself struggling in + the heavy folds of the grimy gunny sack.</p> + + <p>The emissaries, carrying Locke, had staggered with their + burden into the warehouse cellar until, coming to a closed + door, one of them rapped on it in a peculiar manner that was + evidently a signal. An instant, and the door opened.</p> + + <p>Through it stalked the Automaton.</p> + + <p>The monster gazed intently at Locke as though to determine + whether it were indeed he, then waved the emissaries on to the + shaft of a huge freight elevator.</p> + + <p>In the shaft, directly under the elevator platform, they now + cast Locke's unconscious body.</p> + + <p>"Are you sure the watchman's still up above?" asked one.</p> + + <p>"Sure."</p> + + <p>"Then give a ring for the basement."</p> + + <p>A thug pressed the button that signaled. In a moment, + creaking and groaning, the massive elevator started to + descend.</p> + + <p>A shuffling of feet was heard and down the stairs leading + from Old Meg's quarters came the two thugs carrying Eva. A few + feet behind them, still in boy's clothes, was Zita.</p> + + <p>The jar to his body as the emissaries threw him on the + concrete floor had tended to bring Locke back to consciousness. + For a moment he lay still. Then the sound of the descending + elevator attracted his attention. He gazed upward and dimly saw + the slowly moving platform. In a flash he realized his + danger.</p> + + <p>Locke struggled fiercely to dislodge his bonds. He contorted + his body, expanded his powerful chest in an effort to break the + ropes that held him a prisoner.</p> + + <p>At this moment the thugs that were carrying Eva passed by, + followed by others. Apparently they took no notice of him, but + continued on their way with the helpless girl.</p> + + <p>Locke, his own danger forgotten, became frantic with + apprehension for her and tore savagely at the restraining + ropes.</p> + + <p>Zita stopped. Her face was a study of conflicting emotions + as she saw Locke struggling at the bottom of the shaft.</p> + + <p>Floor by floor, inch by inch, the enormous elevator, that + would crush out Locke's life as though he were an insect, + continued to descend.</p> + + <p>Zita stepped to an electric switch. That switch would stop + the elevator immediately and save Locke's life.</p> + + <p>She raised her hand—and then, looking after the + retreating thugs and emissaries, she saw Eva again. Zita's lips + formed a cruel line and a flinty hardness came into her + eyes.</p> + + <p>Her hand dropped.</p> + + <p>There were only a few feet between Locke and the descending + elevator. Locke was struggling frenziedly to escape and rescue + Eva.</p> + + <p>Zita's hand went out again and grasped the handle of the + switch.</p> + + <p>She hesitated, hate on her face.</p> + + <p>Would she, for love of Locke, who had not returned her love, + save him?</p> + + <p>Could she bring herself to save this man—for a woman + she hated, who had won him from her?</p> + + <p>If she saved him it would be only to lose him to the other + woman.</p> + + <p>With a great creaking the massive elevator was within only a + few short inches of Locke.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XIX</h3> + + <p>Every fiber of Zita's body was galvanized into action as she + threw the whole weight of her body against the elevator + emergency-control switch.</p> + + <p>There was a sputtering of blue flame as the connection was + made, and Zita closed her eyes. With a shudder she heard the + great elevator strike the cellar floor and then rebound.</p> + + <p>She dared not open her eyes. The last thing that she had + seen was Locke struggling frantically to escape from under the + elevator that was only a few inches above him and seemed + destined to crush out his life.</p> + + <p>Slowly, fearfully, she opened her eyes. Locke's body lay + motionless at her feet, separated almost literally by only the + breadth of a hair from the shaft.</p> + + <p>The relief, the reaction from her terrible emotions, made + Zita half hysterical. Trembling in every limb, she made her way + to Locke and fell on her knees by him. She wrapped her arms + about him and held his head up.</p> + + <p>It was thus that she was holding him when his eyes slowly + opened and gazed questioningly into her own, his brow knitted + in perplexity.</p> + + <p>Then, with a rush, it all came back to him—the + descending elevator, Zita standing at the switch, while his + life hung in the balance, his last frantic effort to escape + just before the descending elevator had grazed his head, + rendering him unconscious. That Zita, at the last moment, had + attempted to save his life he did not know, nor why she now + gazed at him frankly with eyes of love.</p> + + <p>It was all inexplicable to him.</p> + + <p>Another instant and he had wrenched himself loose from + Zita's arms and was struggling with the ropes that still bound + him even after he had managed to roll out from under the + elevator in the last nick of time.</p> + + <p>He had suddenly realized that the sight of Eva being carried + off by the emissaries had not been a hideous dream, but a + terrible actuality, and that at this very moment she was + probably in the most imminent danger.</p> + + <p>Zita realized that he wanted freedom to rush to Eva's + assistance. Had she dared, she would have refused to release + him from her arms, would at least have hindered his untying his + bonds. But there was a masterful something about his silent + demand to be released that would admit of no refusal.</p> + + <p>In a few seconds Locke completed the freeing of himself and + was dashing madly toward the door through which the gang, + carrying Eva, had passed.</p> + + <p>The door was unlocked, and, hesitating not an instant, + Quentin dashed through and into a large room.</p> + + <p>Eva, the gunny sack removed and still unconscious, lay on + the floor. The emissaries were grouped around her. In the + background, dimly visible, stood the iron monster.</p> + + <p>Startled, they looked up as Locke rushed into the room. But + before they could do more, Locke had whipped out his automatic + and, point-blank, was blazing away at the murderous crew. Two + emissaries fell dead or mortally wounded. The others + scattered.</p> + + <p>Only the Automaton, man of iron that he was, showed no sign + of fear. Instead, he advanced ponderously upon Locke.</p> + + <p>The automatic barked again, but did not succeed in deterring + the monster. Locke realized the futility of using this puny + weapon against such a foe.</p> + + <p>He dashed toward Eva. It was the work of only an instant to + snatch her up, practically from under the monster's feet, to + turn, and to carry her through the door by which he had been + brought in. Holding her in one arm, he slammed the door shut + and shot the bolt.</p> + + <p>He was just in time, for the next instant the door bulged + out beneath the dead weight of the Automaton as it hurled its + massive form against the other side.</p> + + <p>Zita vas still waiting at the elevator shaft when Locke, + carrying Eva in his arms, entered. At the sight Zita's whole + body expressed her unquenched hatred of the unconscious girl. + Her eyes narrowed, her lips became livid, and her hands + clenched as though she would like to strike the helpless + Eva.</p> + + <p>"Zita," demanded Locke, suspiciously, "why did you hesitate + to save my life?"</p> + + <p>"Because," she replied—and her voice indicated the + force of her answer whether it were really the truth or + not—"I love you, and would not save you—for + <i>her</i>"</p> + + <p>Zita turned and ran up the stairs leading to Old Meg's as + Locke turned to try to revive Eva.</p> + + <p>But the hammer blows of the monster resounded throughout the + cellar. At any moment the door might come crashing down and + Locke and Eva might again be at the mercy of the iron + fiend.</p> + + <p>Locke caught up Eva in his arms again and, groping, sought + the exit of the warehouse.</p> + + <p>He dared not follow Zita through Old Meg's den. Love that + could for any reason hesitate or injure the one loved was + incomprehensible to him. He felt that the hag's den might now + be but an ambush and that Zita might have run ahead to warn the + uninjured emissaries of his coming.</p> + + <p>By a lucky chance he found the path leading directly to the + warehouse steps and the street. Eva's speedster had not been + moved or tampered with and he placed Eva gently in the seat, + climbed in, and started the motor. As he did so three + emissaries came running out of the alley leading to Old Meg's. + But shooting the gears into high speed, Locke easily evaded + them and turned up the first corner.</p> + + <p>He was going to take Eva to the first doctor's or a + drug-store, but it proved not to be necessary. The rush of the + air as the car moved rapidly revived her, and in a few moments + she was quite herself again, eagerly questioning him about her + rescue.</p> + + <p>Although they were thankful for their escape, still they + could not blind themselves to the fact that all their efforts + had been in vain, that they stood no nearer to their great + desire, and that, at least until now, their enemies had proved + too wily and too strong for them.</p> + + <p>But they were young, courageous, and resourceful, and as + they drew up before Brent Rock they were busily engaged with + plans for the future.</p> + + <p>It was the following afternoon in the Chinese quarter. The + Celestials were celebrating one of their numerous feasts. Long + multicolored banners and streamers were hanging from every + window and balcony and were even strung across the narrow + street, almost brushing the faces of the motley throng that + passed beneath. Tom-toms and cymbals beat and clashed, while + from the Chinese theater came the shrill piping of reeds and + the high-pitched chanting voices of Chinamen.</p> + + <p>Street venders cried their wares and the windows of the + Oriental shops were gaily bedecked for the holiday.</p> + + <p>Through the dense happy throng a man made his way. He, too, + was an Oriental, but of a different race. A giant in size, he + calmly pushed and shoved the smaller Celestials out of his + path, and, although they chattered angrily at him, their + resentment went no farther, for his size and the menace of his + swarthy face made them pause.</p> + + <p>Before the entrance of a curio-shop he halted and consulted + a card. Then, satisfied that he had found his destination, he + picked up a wicker carrying-case that for the moment he had + placed on the curb and entered the shop.</p> + + <p>A Chinaman stepped forward, scrutinized him closely, and, + nodding significantly, bade the new-comer follow him.</p> + + <p>They went to the back of the shop. The Chinese clapped his + hands, and a panel in the wall slid back, disclosing a + stairway. The new-comer stepped through the aperture and the + panel closed behind him. He mounted the stairs and came to a + room, magnificent in its Oriental splendor.</p> + + <p>Priceless rugs covered the floor and walls, while on + wonderfully carved teakwood stands reposed ancient porcelains, + specimens of bygone dynasties, antique arms and armor cunningly + wrought, jades and ivories marvelously fashioned by master + craftsmen long since dead. Seen through the filmy haze of + rising incense, the room was a veritable treasure-house of + Oriental art.</p> + + <p>On low settees a few richly clad Chinese were reclining, and + in a far corner, gazing intently into a globe of crystal, sat a + man of the same race as the new-comer, a Madagascan.</p> + + <p>Startled at the entrance of the giant, he left off his + shadow-gazing and came hastily forward, cringing as he did + so.</p> + + <p>The giant, in an impressive, booming voice, now spoke for + the first time.</p> + + <p>"I, the Strangler, have come from Madagascar with the Great + Torture."</p> + + <p>A door opened and Doctor Q entered the room, his head + wagging from side to side.</p> + + <p>As he caught sight of the Madagascan he stopped short and + put his hand to his head with a gesture of perplexity, striving + piteously to place the stranger. He could not succeed. With a + half-running, half-stumbling gait he withdrew to a corner of + the room and furtively watched the two Madagascans.</p> + + <p>There came the sound of a gong. A panel slid back, and into + the room there majestically swept a Chinaman of pure Mongolian + type.</p> + + <p>He was gorgeously clad in flowing silks and wore the + princely cap with a button. At a glance his piercing eye took + in every detail of the room. Then he went directly to the + Madagascan, whose overbearing air of assurance immediately + forsook him at the Chinaman's approach.</p> + + <p>He bowed low and reverently, for it was Long Fang to whom he + made obeisance, Long Fang, leader of a great Tong, and + implacable foe to all others, a Chinese whose tentacles of + power reached into every corner of the underworld, spreading + terror.</p> + + <p>In an incisive, icy voice that sent a chill through the big + man's frame, he now spoke.</p> + + <p>"You have been overlong on your journey and we have been + waiting for you." Then with a menace in his voice he snarled, + "It is well for you that you came at last."</p> + + <p>The big man shuddered and remained silent. Long Fang crossed + to Doctor Q.</p> + + <p>"The instrument of torture is here," he said. "The + Madagascan has just brought it. He is an unrivaled + strangler."</p> + + <p>"Let him approach," commanded Doctor Q.</p> + + <p>Long Fang beckoned, and the Strangler came forward. His eyes + had been fixed on the Chinese, but now they roved to the figure + of Doctor Q, and he fell back in consternation, clutching the + other Madagascan by the shoulder and gasping in awestruck + tones.</p> + + <p>"In our country his magic is supreme!"</p> + + <p>With difficulty he controlled himself and bowed low, his + forehead almost touching the floor. Then he looked away, + cringing.</p> + + <p>"I see that you recognize me," Doctor Q chuckled, + fiendishly. "Good! You will not be so foolish as to fail + me."</p> + + <p>"No, no, master, I swear it by—"</p> + + <p>"Never mind your oath. My power is my guaranty. + Go—follow Long Fang. He will direct you to the + torture-chamber."</p> + + <p>Doctor Q turned on his heel and hobbled out of the room.</p> + + <p>Long Fang and the Strangler were about to proceed to the + torture-chamber when footsteps were heard on the stairway that + led to the curio-shop below. Long Fang and the Madagascan + stopped and listened.</p> + + <p>Another moment and De Luxe Dora and Paul Balcom stepped into + the room. With a curt command Paul called Long Fang to him and + the Chinaman, important as he was, hastened to obey.</p> + + <p>What was this strange power that Paul, at will, could + exercise throughout the underworld?</p> + + <p>With a few terse questions Paul ascertained the exact + condition of affairs.</p> + + <p>"You say, Long Fang, that all is ready?"</p> + + <p>"All, master. We only awaited your coming."</p> + + <p>Then with a graceful gesture he asked, "Will you so far + honor your humble servant?" as he indicated the way into + another room.</p> + + <p>Dora, followed by Paul and the Chinese, stepped through the + portal and came to a Chinese temple.</p> + + <p>It was a large room and the decorations, although equally + well executed as those in the room they had just left, were + actually terrifying. Flying dragons and serpents done in bronze + hung from the ceiling, while on a raised dais at the farther + end of the room was an enormous squatting figure of the + seven-handed god. Before it, in braziers, fire gleamed, giving + off a heavy, pungent odor that was almost overpowering to + Occidental nostrils.</p> + + <p>On either side of the huge image hung silken curtains, in + all probability covering doorways into yet other chambers.</p> + + <p>For the first time Dora showed signs of interest. With the + shop and the first chamber she was already familiar, but this + was something new, something to give the spur to her satiated, + <i>blasé</i> nature. She moved about the place, fingering the + rare tapestries, contemplating probably what gorgeous hangings + they would make for her own apartment.</p> + + <p>Dora's preoccupation gave Long Fang his opportunity to + confer with Paul alone and he moved closer to him.</p> + + <p>"Master," he nodded, "why not use the beautiful lady to lure + the other one into our power?"</p> + + <p>Paul shook his head negatively. He knew that Eva was aware + that Dora was her enemy.</p> + + <p>"But, master," persisted the Chinese, "you told me that this + Miss Brent loves her father, and that she would do anything for + his recovery. Let this lady tell her that the Madagascan has + brought an antidote that will restore his reason. She will come + here and we shall trap her."</p> + + <p>For a moment Paul stood in deep thought, then called to + Dora.</p> + + <p>At first she laughed at the idea that Eva would even listen + to her. But Dora was clever and conceited and in the end she + agreed that at least she would make the attempt.</p> + + <p>At this moment in another quarter of town Paul's father was + ready to leave his apartment, yet from his nervousness it could + readily be seen that he was waiting for some one. A Madagascan + servant entered and salaamed.</p> + + <p>"Master," he announced, "the Strangler has arrived from + Madagascar."</p> + + <p>Balcom's face lighted up with intense satisfaction and + cunning at the news. He waved the servant away, picked up his + hat and stick, and hurried out.</p> + + <p>In the library at Brent Rock Eva and Locke were having an + earnest conversation. Locke had on his motoring togs and was on + the point of going out.</p> + + <p>"By elimination," he was saying, "I will prove that either + Paul or his father is the Automaton. I am going to trap + Paul."</p> + + <p>"Quentin," cautioned Eva, "for my sake be careful."</p> + + <p>Locke strove to quiet her fears, pointing out that his + scheme was necessary in order to save her father, and in the + end Eva reluctantly consented.</p> + + <p>She went with him to the porte-cochère where his car was + already waiting.</p> + + <p>"Good luck!" she tried to call cheerfully, in spite of her + misgivings.</p> + + <p>Long after his car had disappeared in the distance she stood + there gazing after it, a world of anxiety in her eyes.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XX</h3> + + <p>Darkness had settled down upon Brent Rock, following the + departure of Locke, when a trim runabout drew up under the + porte-cochère and Dora stepped lightly out of it.</p> + + <p>She paused for a moment and looked about curiously. For some + time she hesitated. In this house lived the girl whom in her + heart Dora hated bitterly.</p> + + <p>What sort of reception might she expect? Yet Paul and his + underworldlings had played on Dora's pride until they had + prevailed on her to undertake the mission. As she looked about + all her old assurance came back to her and Dora turned and + approached the door boldly.</p> + + <p>Eva was just about to go up-stairs to her room when she + heard the butler at the door and a woman's voice asking whether + Miss Brent was at home. Eva paused a moment.</p> + + <p>There was evidently a slight altercation between the butler + and the new-comer as the latter raised her voice sharply.</p> + + <p>"You will tell Miss Brent I must see her," reiterated + Dora.</p> + + <p>There was a pause, during which the butler was heard to + murmur something, and then the woman's voice was heard + again.</p> + + <p>"Tell Miss Brent that if she refuses to see me she will + regret it all her life."</p> + + <p>Eva was intensely interested now, for she recognized the + voice of De Luxe Dora. But with her interest there came a + feeling of repulsion with which this woman always inspired her, + and her first impulse was to have Dora shown out of the + house.</p> + + <p>The very nature of the danger with which they were all + surrounded, however, prohibited such a drastic course. Yet how + dare that woman enter Brent Rock?</p> + + <p>Still, the very fact of her so daring pointed to some + serious matter which Eva felt she ought to know. At any rate, + there could be no harm to listen to Dora's reason for coming, + and there would probably be much to be learned.</p> + + <p>Eva called to the butler and he stepped aside, and Dora, all + smiles now, and with her hand extended in greeting, advanced + toward Eva, who ignored her extended hand.</p> + + <p>"Need I tell you," remarked Eva, coldly, "that I am + astounded at your presumption in coming here?"</p> + + <p>"Miss Brent," replied Dora, "believe me, nothing but my + present mission could have induced me to do so. There are + wheels within wheels which have made it appear that I am your + enemy. But that is far from being the truth, as my present + mission to you will prove."</p> + + <p>Dora was clever and played her cards cleverly. However, Eva + was on guard.</p> + + <p>"Please come to the point," she insisted. "Tell me exactly + why you have come."</p> + + <p>Dora paused a moment, then replied, impressively, "I have + come to save your father's life."</p> + + <p>Eva caught herself almost gasping in astonishment as Dora + covertly watched the effect of her words. "You have the + antidote, then?" asked Eva, breathlessly.</p> + + <p>"Not exactly that," replied Dora, quickly. "But I can take + you where you can obtain it. A man has arrived from Madagascar + who has it in his possession."</p> + + <p>"What shall I do?" almost wailed the poor girl. "How can I + know that you speak the truth?"</p> + + <p>Dora's voice now assumed a cold decisiveness. "That is for + you to decide," she said merely. "Refuse to come with me and + your father will surely die of his madness. Consent—and + he may live."</p> + + <p>Eva could hesitate no longer. Bidding Dora wait, she ran up + the stairs, returning in a few moments garbed for the + street.</p> + + <p>They left the house together, but not before the butler had + surreptitiously slipped a large automatic into Eva's + hand-bag.</p> + + <p>In the Chinese temple, or Joss-house, the last devotee had + departed. The hanging lights had been dimmed and now the + fantastic shapes with which the place was decorated, seen in + the subdued light, stood out in all their shadowy + weirdness.</p> + + <p>From the raised dais, the seven-handed god assumed an added + majesty and awfulness, while, deep-seated as though from a + smoldering caldron, two points of fire gleamed from the god's + eyes with utmost malevolence.</p> + + <p>Slowly a panel in the wall slid back and the bestial visage + of the Strangler peered out.</p> + + <p>After making sure that there was no one about, with + noiseless tread he glided into the temple.</p> + + <p>Like a shadow, a second figure, that of a Chinaman, followed + him. The two made a complete circuit of the temple, stopping + now and again to examine some object which arrested their + attention. Then, as if by a prearranged signal, they both + prostrated themselves before the fire god.</p> + + <p>After making many obeisances they got to their feet and, as + mysteriously as they entered, slipped away in the same manner + that they had come. A panel closed behind them, but not the + same panel.</p> + + <p>The inner room in which they now found themselves was + divided by a partition that extended a few feet out into the + temple room itself.</p> + + <p>This room was vividly painted with weird figures depicting + Chinese forms of torture, a veritable charnel-house of what in + Europe would be called the Dark Ages. There were plenty of + evidences that at no very distant date this chamber had been in + use to punish horribly those who had offended against the fire + god or the commands of the Tong leaders.</p> + + <p>On one side of the partition was a large iron wheel to which + was attached a rope extending through the partition and forming + a loop or noose on the other side. The purpose of this device + was only too apparent. Once the neck of a victim was in the + noose, a few turns of the wheel, the noose would tighten, and + the victim would be inevitably strangled to death. In a + slightly changed form it was the garroting-machine of old + Spain.</p> + + <p>The Strangler tested the rope, twisted the wheel, while his + companion occupied himself by watching the effect of the wheel + on the noose on the other side of the partition.</p> + + <p>Apparently satisfied that the machine was in good working + order, the Madagascan straightened up and waved his companion + out of the room.</p> + + <p>The Chinaman returned by means of the sliding panel into the + temple again.</p> + + <p>As she left Brent Rock behind, Eva's fears increased. + Speeding through the night with this woman whom she + instinctively dreaded, whom she had every reason to distrust, + many times on the trip Eva wished herself back at her home.</p> + + <p>On the other hand, to remain inactive while there was a + chance to save her father's life was unthinkable. And so, for + his sake, she kept on and the car sped ahead.</p> + + <p>Dora, on the contrary, anxious to allay Eva's fears, was + very voluble, expressing many sentiments which even to a young + girl of little worldly experience were palpably at variance + with the woman's character.</p> + + <p>In and out of the narrow streets of the city's lower quarter + the car twisted and turned, and at last entered gaily decked + Chinatown, where it came to a halt.</p> + + <p>If Eva was afraid before she was now doubly so. The strange + Oriental faces which seemed to leer at her from street and curb + seemed to be almost of another world, and she thought of the + many tales she had heard, of their treachery and cunning.</p> + + <p>Dora, sensing what was passing through her mind, kept up a + patter of small talk as she urged Eva forward.</p> + + <p>By another entrance than the one that led through the + Chinese curio-shop they entered the Joss-house and came to the + worshiping-room of the temple.</p> + + <p>Eva gazed fearfully about her now at all the fantastic + decorations with which she was surrounded. Her only comfort was + the handle of the automatic that the butler had pressed on her + as she was leaving home.</p> + + <p>"This Madagascan with the antidote," asked Eva, tremulously, + "where is he?"</p> + + <p>"Don't worry, dearie," quieted Dora. "Wait a moment here and + I will bring him."</p> + + <p>Dora turned on her heel and left the temple by the door + leading into the beautiful lounging-room beyond.</p> + + <p>Eva stood transfixed by the solemn awfulness of the place + and the grim visage of the fire god. Why had she been brought + to such a place? What new terrors awaited her here?</p> + + <p>She seemed alone—yet was she?</p> + + <p>She felt a thousand eyes regarding her, as though a thousand + dangers lurked to destroy her just beyond those fearful + walls.</p> + + <p>She was staring now at the god. What made his eyes gleam so + banefully?</p> + + <p>She thought she heard a sound!</p> + + <p>Was the wall at the right of the statue moving? Or was it + merely her heightened imagination?</p> + + <p>Fascinated, she watched.</p> + + <p>Yes, she was sure now. Slowly, slowly a portion of that wall + was actually sliding back.</p> + + <p>Now she saw a hand. Then an arm followed. With a slow, + gliding movement that even to Eva's strained ears was + noiseless, a man, his back toward her, slid into the room.</p> + + <p>Eva, shrinking back, wanted to shriek. But instead she + whipped out the automatic and in an instant had the man + covered.</p> + + <p>The man was still evidently unconscious of her presence. But + suddenly he must have heard Eva move. For he wheeled around, + and instinctively his hands went above his head.</p> + + <p>As for Eva, the cry that she had suppressed at his + appearance was suppressed no longer, for the man whom she held + at her mercy was—Locke!</p> + + <p>"How did you come here?" gasped Eva.</p> + + <p>Hurriedly he told her his story—how he felt that the + clue that would lead to the unraveling of this mystery was now + to be found in Chinatown, how he had made his way, therefore, + to the Chinese quarter, how he had tracked the Madagascan.</p> + + <p>Knowing the futility of trying to enter any private place of + the Orientals, much less their temple, in Occidental garb, he + had waylaid a Chinaman in an alley, had stripped him, and had + changed clothes with him.</p> + + <p>Disguised thus, Locke had managed to enter, to observe, and + was only now on his way to summon assistance. For he had + decided to have the place raided. Only now he was stricken + almost dumb with astonishment at being confronted by Eva.</p> + + <p>There was no time for more. Before Eva could explain her own + presence there the door burst open, the panels slid back, and a + horde of emissaries and Chinamen swarmed about them.</p> + + <p>Eva fired her automatic again and again, but could not stay + the rush.</p> + + <p>Locke fought with the courage of despair. But they were too + many and soon bore him down.</p> + + <p>As they carried Locke into the chamber of torture the last + thing he saw was Eva surrounded by her foes, who were closing + in on the poor girl.</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/314.jpg" + name="image314" + id="image314"><img width="400" + src="images/314s.jpg" + alt="EVA IS IMPRISONED IN THE CHINESE DEN UPON DE LUXE DORA'S ORDERS" /> + </a>eva is imprisoned in the chinese den upon de luxe dora's + orders + </div> + + <p>Towering above them all, he saw the gigantic form of the + Automaton.</p> + + <p>In the torture-chamber Locke was shackled hand and foot to + the partition, while the noose of the garroting-machine was + placed about his neck.</p> + + <p>The Madagascan supervised this work, then waved the + emissaries out of the room. They were alone there now, these + two—the professional murderer and his victim.</p> + + <p>With a sneer the Madagascan turned and went to the other + side of the partition where the wheel was by which the noose + was tightened, strangling the victim.</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/315.jpg" + name="image315" + id="image315"><img width="400" + src="images/315s.jpg" + alt="LOCKE IN THE COIL OF THE GAROTTE" /></a> + locke in the coil of the garotte + </div> + + <p>But the Strangler little knew with whom he had to deal, for + already Locke was struggling at his shackles.</p> + + <p>With almost incredible dexterity Locke succeeded in + loosening them, one after the other, so that, as the Madagascan + started to turn the wheel, Locke, with a marvelous effort, + bracing his feet against the wall and grasping the staples to + which the shackles had been attached, managed to pin-wheel his + body around and around, as the Strangler turned the iron wheel + that tightened the noose which was to stifle out his life.</p> + + <p>Fortunately the Madagascan turned slowly, so that Locke + managed to turn his body faster than the wheel was being + turned, thus gaining on the noose and at each revolution + loosening it a trifle.</p> + + <p>Another quick turn of his body, the pressure against his + neck had become less!</p> + + <p>Yet another complete circle, and, tearing at the noose, he + managed to get his head free.</p> + + <p>It was the work of only an instant to dash around the + partition and beat the Strangler to the floor. Another instant, + and he had torn back the panel into the temple.</p> + + <p>The sight that confronted him was sickening.</p> + + <p>Two fiends were holding Eva close to the floor, while now + from the fire god's eyes a blinding glare of flame blazed + forth, the two rays converging and scorching the very ground as + they traveled slowly nearer and nearer, in their fatal focus, + to the helpless girl.</p> + + <p>With a wild shout, Locke charged on them all.</p> + + <p>Taken by surprise, the brutes holding Eva were easy to + handle, for the others had gone.</p> + + <p>Fortunately, the automatic which Eva had been carrying was + lying, neglected, on the floor. Locke snatched it up and, + shooting one of the thugs, managed to cower the other.</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/316.jpg" + name="image316" + id="image316"><img width="400" + src="images/316s.jpg" + alt="THE ESCAPE FROM THE GAROTTE" /></a> + the escape from the garotte + </div> + + <p>Half supporting Eva, he retreated through the + torture-chamber into an outer room. There was no time to lose. + Already the alarm had been spread to the other emissaries and + Chinamen, and it was only a matter of seconds when all the + murderous crew would again be piling after them.</p> + + <p>Locke looked about in desperation. There was a window. He + flung it open. Below, the air-shaft or court was blind. But + there was a balcony by which he could reach an adjoining low + roof. He had no idea where it might lead, but any unknown + danger was preferable to the known dangers that threatened + behind him.</p> + + <p>Through the window he passed with Eva, and so across + balconies and roofs until they came to a fire-escape, which + they descended.</p> + + <p>In another moment they were free of Chinatown.</p> + + <p>Many a curious glance was cast at them, a young girl, well + gowned, and a disheveled white man in Chinese garb.</p> + + <p>Locke hailed a night-hawk cabman and they were soon speeding + on their way back to safety and Brent Rock.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XXI</h3> + + <p>At the cove fishing-village, set on the extreme outskirts of + the town, there stood an old fisherman's shack that was shunned + by all the good folk of the city.</p> + + <p>While there was nothing definite that could be said of the + evil deeds of the inhabitants, there was much shaking of heads + and wagging of tongues to the effect that all was not as it + should be at the cove.</p> + + <p>The owner of the old shack, Old Tom, was an ill-favored, + taciturn man who would have naught to do with any of his + neighbors, and asked only that they keep out of his path and + leave him alone. He even evinced an aversion to dogs and to + little children, driving them away from his shack whenever he + found them near it.</p> + + <p>The threat that "Old Tom will catch you" would make a cove + fishing-village tractable at any time.</p> + + <p>Old Tom rarely put to sea, and when he did it was more often + than not after nightfall, a time when the good folk of the + village were preparing for a night's rest.</p> + + <p>It was stated by one old crony that often at night other men + came to Old Tom's shack, that they entered slyly, and that well + into the morning revelry, and often oaths and brawls, could be + heard from within.</p> + + <p>Some hinted that Old Tom was a smuggler; others, even, that + he was a wrecker. True it was that often strange lights were + seen to flicker outside the bar to the cove.</p> + + <p>Also there had been wrecks, and often, in the morning, when + the fishermen put out to a wreck, after a storm, it would be + discovered that some one had been there before them, since + valuable and readily portable parts of the wreck were + frequently missing.</p> + + <p>But while suspicion pointed to Old Tom and the strange men + that frequented his place, proofs positive of a crime were + invariably lacking, and so the village tolerated Old Tom's + presence and predicted his bad end.</p> + + <p>It was to this shack that there came very early one morning, + before the break of day, a wounded man assisted by a woman. The + woman gave a peculiar rap at the door. There was a quick scurry + inside, as of fast-moving feet, then silence.</p> + + <p>The woman rapped again, and this time with more force. After + a moment a sash was raised and a querulous voice demanded what + was wanted.</p> + + <p>"It's De Luxe Dora and Paul Balcom, and he's wounded. Quick, + open the door!"</p> + + <p>There was a rush to open the door now and rough hands gently + assisted the wounded man to a seat inside.</p> + + <p>While Paul was not perhaps so dangerously wounded, yet it + was easy to be seen that the wound was not to be trifled with, + for the cut had been severe and the blood flowed copiously.</p> + + <p>Dora, whatever her attitude toward others, had a true + solicitude for Paul, and all the womanliness of her nature came + to the surface as she tenderly bathed Paul's head and attempted + to bind the wound with the rough bandages at hand.</p> + + <p>There were several tough-looking men standing about, and + from their ready sympathy, real or feigned, it was easy to be + seen that these men, too, like the others of the underworld, + stood ready to do Paul's slightest bidding, to guard him with + their lives if need be.</p> + + <p>What was this strange power that this man, scarcely more + than a youth, wielded over these outlawed men?</p> + + <p>"Quick!" exclaimed Dora. "Watch the window. We've probably + been followed."</p> + + <p>A grim-visaged man moved lumberingly over to the window and + glued his head against the pane, straining his eyes as he + peered out.</p> + + <p>For a long time he did not move, while, with the others + grouped around, Dora tried to stanch the flow of blood from + Paul's injured head.</p> + + <p>Suddenly the watcher at the window turned and shouted, "Man + comin' up the lane!"</p> + + <p>Instantly there was confusion within the shack. The men + scattered in all directions, while one old hag, the only woman + in the shack besides Dora, hobbled over to a stool and took up + the mending of a huge net where she had left off.</p> + + <p>Old Tom ambled over to Dora and for a moment they talked + hurriedly. Finally Dora came to a decision, as she pointed to + the old rickety stairway to an attic above.</p> + + <p>"Carry him to the attic," she directed. "He can be well + hidden there. As for the rest of you, remember, no one has come + here to-night."</p> + + <p>Two of the men lifted Paul, who, while not in an absolutely + unconscious condition, was much too weak by this time from loss + of blood to assist himself.</p> + + <p>They carried him up the stairs and into an old, disused room + to which Dora followed, and when the two men had descended the + stairs she remained, alternately ministering to Paul and + listening for what might happen below.</p> + + <p>Paul and Dora had left the main room of the shack not a + moment too soon. For barely had the two men who had carried + Paul to the attic returned when a face was momentarily seen + outside, while a pair of eyes peered into the room.</p> + + <p>A moment later there was a peremptory knock at the door.</p> + + <p>"Come in!" growled Old Tom.</p> + + <p>With eyes that scanned every cranny and nook and searched + every face, Locke stepped into the shack.</p> + + <p>The men came forward a step, then halted. There was + something in Locke's face that showed that he was in deadly + earnest and not to be trifled with.</p> + + <p>Locke looked from one to the other, then turned to Old Tom. + "The wounded man who was brought here," he demanded, "where is + he?"</p> + + <p>"There 'ain't been no wounded man brought here," retorted + Old Tom.</p> + + <p>The men crowded a little closer, all denying vehemently that + any one had entered.</p> + + <p>At this instant a drop of blood fell on Locke's sleeve from + the ceiling above. Quickly he checked the impulse to look up, + although he was startled by it. He recovered himself on the + instant and waited until under a pretext he could divert their + attention to something else. Then he glanced hastily upward, as + they looked in another direction. There, forming slowly, was + another drop of blood, and it was about to fall.</p> + + <p>Locke had gained his object. As surely as though he had been + brought face to face with Paul, he knew that he was lying on + the floor of the attic above.</p> + + <p>Single-handed, against so many and in this shack, Locke + realized that he could do nothing. He apologized gruffly for + his intrusion, conveying the impression that he felt he had + made a mistake, and backed his way to the door.</p> + + <p>In an instant the door to the attic stairs was flung open + and Dora rushed into the room.</p> + + <p>"You fools!" she snarled at the surprised men who were just + congratulating themselves on how they had put one over on + Locke. "I tell you he's wise. He saw the blood. Look up above + you. Now go get him."</p> + + <p>But the fishermen had no desire for this outside work and + hung back, while Dora raved at them.</p> + + <p>From the ceiling, drop by drop, blood was falling, forming a + little pool on the floor. Paul could not be moved now. They + must make the best of it and be ready for any raid Locke might + prepare.</p> + + <p>At Brent Rock Eva was conversing with her lawyer. Matters + had reached such a state in the affairs of International + Patents that it was evident, even to her, that some drastic + action must be taken, and at once.</p> + + <p>In a corner of the room, coiled up in a big armchair, Zita + was apparently reading a new magazine, but was, in reality, + listening intently to every word that was being uttered.</p> + + <p>Finally Eva and the lawyer were in full accord, and she + accompanied the elderly attorney to the door. As they parted, + Zita strained her ears to hear the last words. She did not get + it all, but quite enough to tell her what they had decided + upon.</p> + + <p>"As my lawyer," she overheard Eva say, "I wish you to have + Mr. Locke appointed receiver."</p> + + <p>There was some more she missed, but that was quite enough + for Zita. She got out of the chair quickly and left the room + without being observed, and a few moments later she had left + the house.</p> + + <p>In a telephone-booth, not far from the cove fishing-village, + Locke by this time had his chief of the Department of Justice + on the wire.</p> + + <p>"I've located him, Chief," he telephoned, excitedly, "but it + will take four good men to capture him."</p> + + <p>"I'll send them at once," the chief replied, as both hung up + their receivers hurriedly.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile, in Herbert Balcom's sumptuous, semi-Oriental + apartment two men were in earnest conversation. One was the + owner, Balcom, the other that strange, half-demented being, + Doctor Q, whose mind now, for the moment, seemed to be + lucid.</p> + + <p>The matter under discussion was undoubtedly a weighty one, + for both men sat with knitted brows, and for the moment, at + least, seemed in a quandary about something.</p> + + <p>Suddenly there came a hurried ringing at the outside-door + bell and Balcom leaped to his feet. They could hear the door + opened, quick footsteps in the hallway, and then, without + ceremony, the door was flung open and Dora burst into the + room.</p> + + <p>Balcom scowled a welcome, for he hated this woman, who had, + as he thought, spoiled the chances of his son with Eva. But + Dora did not wait for the threatened outburst.</p> + + <p>"Hurry!" she cried. "You must do something. Paul has been + wounded—never mind how—but he lies in a + fishing-shack down at the cove—and they are going to + arrest him—Locke is!"</p> + + <p>For the moment both men seemed to be stricken dumb, while + Dora, in a state of wild excitement, pleaded for them to do + something—anything to save the one person she loved.</p> + + <p>It was at this juncture that the door opened again, + admitting another woman. It was Zita, very agitated, though, of + course, under better control than Dora. Besides, Zita did not + know what had happened to Paul, nor did she love him. It was + merely that she felt that things could be made to play into her + own hands if the news she brought were immediately acted + upon.</p> + + <p>Hastily she told what she had overheard about the proposed + receivership, and all four now—Balcom, Doctor Q, Dora, + and Zita—talked excitedly.</p> + + <p>But it was plainly Balcom who was in command of the + situation. Although livid with rage at the news he had heard, + yet he maintained control of the others, directing what they + should do with a decisiveness that was truly remarkable. It + showed the mental force of the man, demonstrating how greatly + he was to be feared by any bold enough to be his enemy. For + Balcom loved that spoiled son of his and would hesitate at no + act, not even at a crime, to save him from even what he justly + deserved.</p> + + <p>At last their plan was formed, and all four departed their + several ways to execute it.</p> + + <p>Balcom had decided upon going directly to Brent Rock. His + ire had not abated one iota during the trip, either, and, as he + almost ran up the steps to the mansion, he pushed the astounded + butler to one side as though he were merely a piece of + furniture.</p> + + <p>"Tell Miss Brent I want to see her at once," he + threatened.</p> + + <p>The butler raised a hand deprecatingly at Balcom's tone, but + Balcom, beside himself, smashed it down and strode toward the + library just as Eva, hearing the voices, was coming out. For an + instant she drew back in apprehension and amazement as Balcom + advanced on her, still snarling.</p> + + <p>"See here, Eva," he hissed, "if Locke tries to arrest my + son—he'll be killed."</p> + + <p>For the instant Eva was stunned. What did the man mean? But + as Balcom showed no signs of regaining control of himself, and + every moment became more abusive and violent, indignation gave + place to every other sentiment, and she sharply ordered Balcom + to leave the house.</p> + + <p>Threatening dire things and hinting even more if there were + a receivership, Balcom strode out.</p> + + <p>Eva stood for a long time shocked into inaction. Then, + slowly, fears for Locke's safety came uppermost and she paced + back and forth the length of the hall.</p> + + <p>Finally the old butler came to her deferentially.</p> + + <p>"And did you notice, ma'am," he asked, "that during his + tirade he mentioned about a cove fishing-village? Might I + suggest that that is where Mr. Paul is and Mr. Locke will not + be found far off?"</p> + + <p>Eva thought a moment, recognized the sound sense of the + remark, and ordered that her car be brought. A few moments + later she had taken the wheel and was soon out of sight of + Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>Close pressed against a wall of a back lane of the cove + fishing-village, Locke was standing, waiting for the men whom + his chief had promised to send.</p> + + <p>Finally they came to him, first making their coming known to + Locke by a peculiar low whistle.</p> + + <p>"The other two will be along directly," whispered one of the + pair. "Thought it better not to come in a bunch."</p> + + <p>As Locke laid his plans, the other two came from out of the + shadows.</p> + + <p>The entire party now moved cautiously toward Old Tom's + shack. Just before they arrived one of the men said that he + could see two figures entering the place. But as Locke had seen + nothing, no attention was paid to the remark.</p> + + <p>Locke now placed one of his men on either side of the door. + The other two he sent to the rear, so that they could surround + the gang.</p> + + <p>He knocked at the door. This time it was immediately opened. + Followed by the detectives with revolvers drawn, Locke rushed + boldly into the shack, while his other two men closed in from + the rear.</p> + + <p>The emissaries, finding themselves surrounded, would have + capitulated, probably without a struggle, had not the old hag, + to whom no one had paid much attention, picked up a small + anchor and thrown it at Locke and the advancing detectives.</p> + + <p>As it was, the anchor struck Locke a glancing blow and he + stumbled backward against one of his own men, upsetting him. + That, of course, gave the advantage to the thugs, and they + advanced, attacking savagely.</p> + + <p>It was at too close quarters, in the midst of such a mêlée, + to use guns without danger of getting one of one's own party. + Thus it was a primitive battle of brute force.</p> + + <p>Locke and the detectives were trained men, however, and were + surely gaining the upper hand, so much so that Locke managed to + tear himself loose and dash for the door leading to the attic. + He opened it, and there, with revolver leveled at his head, + stood De Luxe Dora.</p> + + <p>It was the work of only an instant to disarm her, however, + and he rushed up the stairs, Dora after him.</p> + + <p>There was a body lying on the floor—Paul, undoubtedly, + thought Locke.</p> + + <p>He took it by the shoulder and turned it over, then fell + back in amazement, for there, smiling mockingly at him, was + Zita!</p> + + <p>"You think you're pretty clever, don't you?" jeered + Dora.</p> + + <p>But it was no time to bandy words, and Locke left them and + rushed down the stairs just as a horde of emissaries swarmed up + to meet him, reinforcements to the fisher thugs.</p> + + <p>For in some way the Automaton had been warned of Locke's + presence, and with all the emissaries it could summon had + hastened to Old Tom's shack.</p> + + <p>Most unfortunate of all, the Automaton and its men had + arrived just behind the car bearing Eva, and she, not + suspecting the danger, had entered the shack.</p> + + <p>Although she did not see Locke, she was overjoyed to see + that the detectives held the upper hand. She had started to + search for him, when there came a terrifying crash at the door + and more emissaries, followed by the Automaton, came into the + room.</p> + + <p>The detectives were almost instantly overpowered, and the + mob made for the stairs just as Locke was descending.</p> + + <p>In that narrow space a most terrible battle took place. Man + after man Locke hurled against his fellows, and they went + crashing down, only to rise again and attack.</p> + + <p>Finally they came to hand-grips, and Locke, lunging + furiously to free himself, threw his body against the partition + of the stairway and it came crashing down, hurling Locke and + the emissaries to the floor below.</p> + + <p>Locke was badly stunned, and before he could rise the + emissaries had swathed him in the huge net that the old hag had + been mending. Next they bound him with ropes until he was + utterly helpless in the meshes of the net.</p> + + <p>Eva, half crazed with horror, was in a far corner, and the + Automaton was advancing upon her. She was paralyzed with + fear.</p> + + <p>What fate was in store for her—what for Locke?</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/319.jpg" + name="image319" + id="image319"><img width="400" + src="images/319s.jpg" + alt="IN THE CLUTCHES OF THE IRON TERROR" /></a> + in the clutches of the iron terror + </div> + + <h3>CHAPTER XXII</h3> + + <p>The sharp crack of an automatic echoed through the shack. + The detective known as Jim had come back to consciousness, and + now, from behind an overturned table where he had fallen, he + started to fire shot after shot into the mob of emissaries.</p> + + <p>He had fallen in a far corner and could be reached only + after an attack of some paces, and even the emissaries, + numerous as they were, hesitated to advance on a determined man + placed in such an advantageous position. Furthermore, the + diversion caused by the shots had other effects. The sound of + the shots brought Locke fully out of his stunned condition and + he started to struggle frantically in the meshes of the net + that held him prisoner.</p> + + <p>The Automaton, for the moment, ceased to follow Eva, and + moved over to its men in order to take command and to direct + their movements, while yet another detective came to his senses + and began to threaten the mob.</p> + + <p>Locke was threshing about and was slowly but surely freeing + himself. An emissary threw a chair, and for a moment Locke lay + still in pain. But in another moment he was working even more + frantically at the ropes and the net that held him.</p> + + <p>Eva started over to help him, but he shouted to her to stand + back, since that would bring her in line with the detectives' + fire. The shots were flying over Locke's body as he struggled. + Some of the emissaries went down; others found places of refuge + behind which they hid.</p> + + <p>Finally Locke managed to kick his feet free of the net and, + rolling and tossing, managed to work the meshes up about his + shoulders and neck, thus releasing his hands. It was the work + of an instant only, now, to slip the enveloping net over his + head and he was free.</p> + + <p>Locke rolled out of the direction of the revolver-shots and + toward Eva, who was now standing before a huge open + fireplace.</p> + + <p>He was none too soon, for the moment that the Automaton saw + that Locke had escaped the iron terror left the men and stalked + ponderously over to crush out Locke's life.</p> + + <p>The two detectives fired point-blank at the monster and both + shots took effect with a ringing, metallic sound. But they did + not halt the Automaton an instant. Locke, reaching the + fireplace, seized a pair of old tongs and threw firebrand after + firebrand in the path of the advancing terror.</p> + + <p>To the Automaton fire was evidently quite another affair + from mere puny bullets, for it not only paused, but came to a + full stop, looking around as though in a quandary as to what to + do against such a defense.</p> + + <p>This moment of hesitation gave Locke and Eva their + opportunity. Calling to the detectives to cease firing a + moment, they passed between friends and foes, dashed over to + and up the attic stairs.</p> + + <p>As they reached the attic above they were just in time to + see Zita, still dressed in Paul's clothes, and Dora, jump from + the attic window.</p> + + <p>Although it was a low, rambling building, still it was a + high jump, even for a man, and Locke was astounded that they + should attempt such a thing, even in their undoubted state of + panic.</p> + + <p>However, it gave Locke a splendid idea, which he acted upon + immediately. Hooking his feet on the window-frame, he took hold + of Eva's wrists firmly and swung her far out of the window. + Held in this way, Eva was only a few feet from the ground, and + when Locke released her she landed safely and almost without a + jar.</p> + + <p>For Locke, always in perfect training, the jump offered no + difficulties. In an instant he had rejoined her and they were + running away from the shack toward Eva's waiting car.</p> + + <p>Locke had an almost overpowering desire to return to assist + his detectives, whom he realized might be in sore straits, but + he also realized that his first duty was to this girl who was + in his charge, on whom the events through which they had just + passed had had a nerve-racking effect. Again, he reflected, as + he saw people coming down the beach, that the Automaton and his + men would soon be outnumbered and glad to flee.</p> + + <p>Quentin and Eva had almost reached the motor which Eva had + left at some distance from Old Tom's shack, and were passing a + low clump of bushes, when a low moan fell upon their ears.</p> + + <p>At first Locke thought that it might be a trap and was for + paying no attention to the sound, but Eva, woman-like, + insisted. He investigated. Reclining on the ground, and looking + more like a little boy in man's clothes, lay Zita.</p> + + <p>She was holding one ankle and her face showed that she must + be in great pain.</p> + + <p>"Help me," she moaned. "When I jumped from the window I + sprained my ankle. Dora helped me to this place and then she + left me and drove away."</p> + + <p>Although this girl was his enemy, no thought of leaving her + in this condition entered Locke's mind. Gently raising her from + the ground, with the help of Eva, Locke supported her to the + car.</p> + + <p>Locke still held Zita to ease her pain, while Eva took the + wheel, and, although they could hear shouts and even shots + behind them, Eva drove slowly in order not to add to Zita's + misery. It showed the sympathy of their characters that, much + as Locke and Eva felt that Zita had injured them, nevertheless, + pausing in a flight from deadly peril, they found it in their + hearts to be kind to an enemy.</p> + + <p>Arriving at Brent Rock, they carried Zita to her room and + the family physician was sent for. He pronounced the injury + slight and more of a strain than a sprain.</p> + + <p>While the doctor was at the house he also paid a visit to + Brent, who, while his mental condition had remained as + apparently hopeless as ever, had gained much in strength, owing + to the diet and restful care. He was now able to sit up, fully + dressed. As it was a case of drug poisoning, the doctor had + thought it best not to allow the patient to relax too + completely. But, whatever the strange drug that had stolen away + Brent's reason, the effect showed no signs of departure, and + they were as much in the dark as to the antidote as ever.</p> + + <p>A few moments after the doctor had left, when he made his + morning call the next day, the counsel of the corporation was + announced. He was shown into the library immediately and it was + there that Locke and Eva went into conference with him.</p> + + <p>The attorney had brought with him many share-holders' + proxies, and these he handed over to Eva.</p> + + <p>"These proxies," he was declaring, "give you absolute + control, Miss Brent. With them you can force Mr. Balcom + completely out of International Patents."</p> + + <p>"What's that you say?"</p> + + <p>It was Balcom himself who spoke. How the man had got past + the butler, who certainly had no love for him, was mystifying. + Yet here he was, ready and eager to defend his interests.</p> + + <p>"I was just telling Miss Brent," informed the lawyer, + coldly, "that with these proxies which I have obtained and just + handed to her, she was in complete control of the company."</p> + + <p>"And you, Mr. Balcom," interposed Locke, stepping forward, + "will play no further part in the activities of the company. + Miss Brent desires your resignation, to take effect + immediately."</p> + + <p>"Why—why—this is unheard of—absurd!" + sputtered Balcom. "I'll—I'll—" And his rage got the + better of him.</p> + + <p>"No, Mr. Balcom," again interrupted Locke, "you will do + nothing. It is I who will give you twenty-four hours to arrange + your affairs with the company before I order your + removal—or arrest."</p> + + <p>Balcom tried to remonstrate, to plead his innocence of any + wrong-doing. Finding no sympathy by taking this attitude, his + manner changed abruptly and he attempted to bluster.</p> + + <p>A decisive movement toward the telephone on the part of + Locke checked this and, chameleon-like, Balcom's usual suave + manner came to the fore. He bowed himself out.</p> + + <p>"It will, of course, be as you say." He smiled oilily.</p> + + <p>Once in the hall, however, his manner changed again, and, + darkly scowling and biting his thin lips, he was about to quit + the place, when Zita, limping only slightly, intercepted + him.</p> + + <p>"Mr. Balcom," she pleaded, "come out the back way. I must + see you alone a moment."</p> + + <p>They tiptoed out to the grounds, and, behind a hedge where + they could not be observed from the house, talked.</p> + + <p>"Tell me what has happened," demanded Zita.</p> + + <p>"Happened?" repeated Balcom. "Why, they've thrown me out of + the company—at least, they think they have."</p> + + <p>His mind was working quickly, and after a pause he turned to + Zita sharply. "Can you get Brent out of the house and bring him + to me here behind this hedge at eight o'clock to-night?"</p> + + <p>Zita nodded an eager acquiescence and left him, returning to + the house.</p> + + <p>That evening Locke, returning from a stroll around the + grounds, noticed a movement in some shrubbery at the side of + the foot-path. He went closer to investigate, and a + rough-looking individual broke from cover and ran away through + the underbrush as fast as he could go. It was too dark to + follow and Locke hastened his steps to the house, fearing some + new deviltry on the part of the Automaton or his + emissaries.</p> + + <p>He had just entered the darkened hallway when, much to his + surprise, he saw the figure of a man, leaning heavily on the + arm of a woman, descending the stairs.</p> + + <p>He stepped behind some portières and waited until they + reached the foot of the stairway. Then he stepped out and + confronted them.</p> + + <p>Zita gave a startled cry, and would have fled had not Locke + caught and held her. As for poor Brent, he simply stood there, + swaying from side to side and smiling foolishly.</p> + + <p>Eva heard the commotion and came running down the stairs. + She was amazed until Locke explained the situation to her. Then + her indignation knew no bounds. Putting her arms around her + father, she turned to Zita.</p> + + <p>"How dare you?" she demanded, scathingly. "For doing this + you will leave this house immediately and—never + return."</p> + + <p>Zita, for a moment, was on the verge of breaking down, but + recovered herself and, with an angry retort on her lips, went + out, slamming the door behind her.</p> + + <p>Zita slipped around the house and to the hedge designated by + Balcom as their meeting-place.</p> + + <p>She was surprised but relieved when she did not find him + there, and glanced at her wrist watch, which stood at a few + minutes past eight. She was about to turn around when she + caught sight of a bit of paper. Taking it, she + read:</p><span style="margin-left: 2em;">Bring him to my + rooms.</span><br /> + + + <p>That was all, and the message was unsigned.</p> + + <p>Zita greatly feared Balcom's wrath at her failure, but, + nevertheless, she started for his apartment.</p> + + <p>At that moment Balcom and the mysterious Doctor Q were + talking in the latter's dingy laboratory. Doctor Q's mind, for + the time being, at least, seemed perfectly clear, and he had + formulated a daring plan.</p> + + <p>"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."</p> + + <p>Balcom left hurriedly and was driven directly home, where he + got Locke on the telephone and repeated the instructions that + Doctor Q had suggested.</p> + + <p>"Am I to understand that you intend to turn state's + evidence?" questioned Locke, doubtfully.</p> + + <p>"Assuredly," hastened Balcom.</p> + + <p>"Then I'll be right over."</p> + + <p>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.</p> + + <p>"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."</p> + + <p>"You little idiot!" Balcom almost hissed. "I'll not tolerate + a failure, either. Get out!"</p> + + <p>Although Zita almost went on her knees in her pleading to + him, Balcom was adamant, and finally she left in utter + despair.</p> + + <p>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.</p> + + <p>As soon as Zita was gone Balcom busied himself with the + ancient brazier and was standing before a small image of + Buddha. He took a small package and from it poured a powder + into the bowl of the brazier. Then, going to the table, he + wrote a short note, after which he went to a divan and awaited + Locke's coming.</p> + + <p>Balcom had not long to wait. A ring came at the door and + Balcom leaped to his feet and lighted the powder in the + brazier. Then he adjusted a gas-mask that Doctor Q had given + him, and, returning to the divan, lay down, pulling a + camel's-hair coverlet well over himself as he awaited + results.</p> + + <p>There was a rap at the door and a peremptory demand for + entrance—a pause—and a whispered consultation + outside.</p> + + <p>"Open the door!" cried Locke, again.</p> + + <p>As there was no answer, heavy blows were rained upon the + door, and finally it gave way.</p> + + <p>Three men stumbled into the room. They stared about, then + started to search the place. One by one they started to cough. + Locke, who was the farthest away from the brazier, seemed to be + the least affected.</p> + + <p>Finally he spied the note on the table and snatched it up. + By the dim light he read:</p> + + <blockquote> + <p>You will never live to capture me. The deadly gas is + even now killing you.</p> + </blockquote> + + <p>Locke gasped. There was the sound of a heavy fall behind + him. He turned and saw that one of his men was down.</p> + + <p>He took a step forward, when the other pitched on his + face.</p> + + <p>Locke tried to rescue them, but by this time the deadly + fumes had reached him and he, too, fell to the floor, coughing + his life away.</p> + + <p>At that moment Balcom got up from the divan and, stepping + over Locke's prostrate body, left the place, forgetting to + close the door behind him.</p> + + <p>When Zita telephoned Paul, Paul made an immediate + appointment for her to meet him at Doctor Q's, and when she + arrived there Paul was already in conference with the + doctor.</p> + + <p>Over the telephone Zita had already given Paul a brief + account of what had happened, and thus the two men were + prepared with a plan when she arrived.</p> + + <p>"Get Eva to the hypnotist's on River Street," instructed + Doctor Q. "Tell her that I have been hypnotized and that under + the spell I will tell all."</p> + + <p>It was a desperate thing for Zita to attempt, after treating + the Brents so shamelessly. But there was no alternative. For + she knew well that, with Balcom, only a success would offset + her miserable failure earlier in the evening. Besides, were not + her fortunes tied up with Balcom—or perhaps with Paul? + She did not demur, but left immediately for Brent Rock to make + the attempt, revolving in her mind how she was to do it.</p> + + <p>Zita had difficulty in persuading Eva to see her at all, + but, once she had succeeded, the possibility that all the + mystery might be cleared up appealed strongly to Eva. For Zita + had framed her story cleverly and was playing desperately.</p> + + <p>"Then I'll meet you at the hypnotist's in about half an + hour," agreed Eva, after Zita had told her how friendless she + herself was and how both Balcom and Paul had refused her + aid.</p> + + <p>Zita left Brent Rock alone and was passing a dark corner + when a hand reached out and grasped her by the arm and she + heard a voice that she recognized.</p> + + <p>"Your failure has made me redouble my efforts," it hissed. + "I have just killed Locke in my apartment and I—"</p> + + <p>It was Balcom. But Zita waited to hear no more. Secretly she + had always loved Locke. Though she had worked against him, the + very thought that he might be dead shocked her. She tore + herself from the grasp of Balcom before she could hear more and + ran like a deer toward the apartment.</p> + + <p>Fortunately, it was not far. She tore up-stairs and through + the door that Balcom had left open.</p> + + <p>Everything was as Balcom had left it, except that now the + three men lay quite still. Zita staggered over to a window and + threw it open.</p> + + <p>Next she got water and extinguished the still smoldering + powder. Then, falling on her knees, she tried to help the + stricken men.</p> + + <p>Not much time did she spend with the others, but to Locke + with great tenderness she gave most of her attention. Tenderly + she bathed his brow and frantically tried even to breathe her + breath into his burning lungs.</p> + + <p>Finally she was rewarded by seeing him open his eyes and + gaze around. He looked up at her.</p> + + <p>"I'll atone for all the wrong I've done," she sobbed, + "only—"</p> + + <p>She would have asked him to love her, but she knew that it + was useless and the thought of Eva, caused the words to stick + in her throat.</p> + + <p>Locke did not understand, and the look on his face showed + it.</p> + + <div class="figright" + style="width:265px;"> + <a href="images/320.jpg" + name="image320" + id="image320"><img width="265" + src="images/320s.jpg" + alt="REVIVING FROM THE EFFECTS OF CHLORINE GAS, LOCKE IS MUCH SURPRISED TO SEE IT IS ZITA WHO HAS RESUSCITATED HIM" /> + </a> + reviving from the effects of chlorine gas, locke is much + surprised to see it is zita who has resuscitated him + </div> + + <p>"I didn't want to give you up," wailed Zita, now forgetting + herself. "I loved you. To prove it—I will help you now. + The—the girl you love is in terrible danger—you + must hurry."</p> + + <p>It was only too true. Eva had driven immediately to the + hypnotist's, and he had been instructed about her coming. At + his door she had knocked, and an old, evil-visaged man, in + flowing robes which were marked in cabalistic signs, had opened + the door. In true fakir fashion he salaamed almost to the floor + while in flowery language he bade her enter.</p> + + <p>Fearfully Eva stepped within. Signs of the zodiac, of + cross-bones and skulls, on walls and ceiling met her gaze + everywhere. In an alcove Eva could see a noosed rope hanging, + for what purpose she knew not. But its presence she felt was + sinister.</p> + + <p>"I—I was told that a Doctor Q would be here," Eva + faltered. "I do not see him."</p> + + <p>"Gracious lady," bowed the hyponotist, "I will bring him at + once. Pray be seated."</p> + + <p>Eva seated herself before a table upon which there stood a + curious stand, supporting many mirrors. She examined it + closely, and as she did so they all began to move. Each mirror + moved on its own axis and she watched with fatal curiosity. For + now a bright light was cast from behind her on the revolving + mirrors and they formed a scintillating kaleidoscope that was + bewildering in its intricacy.</p> + + <p>Eva quickly became fascinated. Then she was conscious of a + drowsy feeling stealing over her. She strove to rise, but her + knees refused to support her and she fell back in her + chair.</p> + + <p>The hypnotist now shut off the machine and, stepping before + Eva, made several passes with his hands.</p> + + <p>Eva's eyes closed. The hypnotist turned and made a signal. + Several panels opened simultaneously and into the room there + came a number of emissaries, who crept upon the now completely + hypnotized girl.</p> + + <p>Nor was that all. A sound, as of the clanking of chains, was + heard, and through an aperture in the wall larger than the + others there stalked the Automaton.</p> + + <p>At this very instant Locke and Zita burst into the room and + rushed toward Eva.</p> + + <p>The hypnotist slipped around them both and in a moment had + caught Zita in his arms. She struggled to escape, beating him + with her little fists in a fury of rage and fear. But he held + her, and an emissary, bringing ropes, with his help bound her + securely.</p> + + <p>As for Locke, he made a frantic attempt to reach Eva, but + his way was blocked by a score of emissaries and the Automaton + himself. Desperately Locke dashed at the iron monster, only to + be hurled to the floor as though he were a tiny child.</p> + + <p>In another moment the emissaries had bound him and carried + him to the alcove in which hung the noosed rope.</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/321.jpg" + name="image321" + id="image321"><img width="400" + src="images/321s.jpg" + alt="LOCKE IS BOUND IN THE 'DEATH NOOSE'" /></a> + locke is bound in the "death noose" + </div> + + <p>The hypnotist now pulled a lever and the method of the death + intended for Locke was revealed. Directly under the suspended + rope was a trap-door, which opened. Locke gazed down into + blackness, nothingness. An emissary threw some small, heavy + object into the yawning hole. For a long time nothing was + heard. Then finally, far, far below there came to their ears + the sound of a distant splash.</p> + + <p>The fiendish plan was simple—to hang him and then to + cut the rope. His body would go hurtling down to the + subterranean river below and be carried out to sea.</p> + + <p>The hypnotist reversed the lever. The trap-door closed. + Locke was dragged beneath the rope and it was adjusted around + his neck.</p> + + <p>Even in this awful moment his sole thought was of Eva. Would + they throw her, unconscious, down the same yawning trap?</p> + + <p>Powerless, he stood bound, fascinated, as he saw three + emissaries seize her. But instead of dragging her to the trap, + they dragged her toward one of the panels in the wall.</p> + + <p>What nameless torture was in store for her?</p> + + <p>He struggled furiously to get free to rush to her, but the + noose only tightened on his neck.</p> + + <p>The hypnotist stepped to the lever that operated the trap + under Locke's feet and began to pull the lever down.</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XXIII</h3> + + <p>With a crash the hypnotist dropped unconscious to the floor + as the hypnotic machine started to revolve rapidly. The + emissaries turned from Locke and were dazzled by the blinding + flashes from the whirling mirrors.</p> + + <p>It was Zita who caused all the commotion. Unnoticed by the + thugs, who were intent on sending Locke to his death and + dragging Eva through the panel, Zita had managed to free + herself from her bonds and, true to her promise to Locke that + she would help him, she had risked all for his sake.</p> + + <p>Once free from the ropes, she had seized a heavy bronze vase + and, at just the critical moment of danger, had hurled it at + the hypnotist's head, striking him a terrific blow that had + felled him and left him unconscious on the floor before he + could spring the trap. She had then set the mechanical hypnotic + machine in motion, and, standing behind it, was herself + practically invisible. It all happened so quickly that it + seemed like a miracle.</p> + + <p>Locke, his hope revived, swiftly grasped the one chance for + life that was left to him. By contracting his muscles he was + able to slip out of the ropes which bound his arms. But since + the noosed rope around his neck held him so that his toes + barely touched the floor of the trap, he could not, try as he + might, manage to get the noose free.</p> + + <p>Suddenly a plan flashed across his mind. Hanging from the + ceiling a few feet in front of him he could see an enormous + chandelier. Throwing his hands above his head, he grasped the + rope, thus relieving the strain on his neck. Then, snapping his + body backward, his feet came in contact with the wall. With + tremendous force he kicked out, causing his body to swing in an + arc toward the chandelier.</p> + + <p>It was not until he had wrapped his legs about the branches + of the chandelier that the emissaries noticed what he was + doing, so fascinated were they by the revolving mirrors. Even + then they could scarcely resist the auto-hypnotic powers of the + contrivance. Finally, however, with a shout they came to the + attack.</p> + + <p>Locke was now hanging head downward. With one hand he + succeeded in loosening the noose from about his neck, while + with the other he struck out, hitting an emissary a fearful + swinging blow that sent the fellow staggering backward, to fall + against the lever controlling the trap-door.</p> + + <p>With a crash the trap was sprung, with the pit yawning + beneath it. Struggling, striking, grappling with his + assailants, Locke managed to hurl three of them to their deaths + in the underground river below.</p> + + <p>Horror-stricken at the fate of their companions, the other + emissaries stepped back, when, to add to their confusion, Zita, + with remarkable strength for so frail a girl, lifted the stand + of mirrors and hurled it among them.</p> + + <p>Locke somersaulted to the floor and, seizing the broken + stand, used it as a weapon with deadly effect.</p> + + <p>The emissaries turned and fled.</p> + + <p>An instant later Locke started to the panel through which + Eva had been dragged, when he heard steps from the other side. + It was the emissaries who had seized Eva, coming back to see + what all the rumpus was about. Locke, forewarned, slipped close + to the wall, and, as they passed through the panel, one at a + time, he was able to fell them to the floor.</p> + + <p>Then he rushed through the panel just in time to see Eva, + pursued by the Automaton, running toward him.</p> + + <p>The very strangeness of her terrible adventure had brought + Eva out of the hypnotic state into which she had been thrown + and she clung to Locke as though she were a child.</p> + + <p>Locke took her in his arms and, swiftly evading the + slow-moving monster, dashed back to the hypnotic room, calling + to Zita to run to the street. Thus all three were able to make + good their escape.</p> + + <p>Eva had purposely left her motor turning over, and therefore + it was barely an instant after they were in the street before + they were streaking out of that quarter of the town.</p> + + <p>Zita was now overwhelmed by her feelings, but it was Eva + herself who spoke first.</p> + + <p>"Forgive me, Zita," begged Eva, in the rush of her emotions + forgetting all that Zita had done. "But for you, both of us + would now be dead."</p> + + <p>For some moments Zita could not reply in her silent sadness + at seeing the joy of Locke with this girl.</p> + + <p>"I—I forgive you?" she murmured, at length. "It is for + you to forgive me." She paused a moment and choked back a sob; + then added, bravely, "I—I can even wish for your + happiness, my dear; my hope is dead."</p> + + <p>Only Locke understood, and as he watched Zita he resolved to + do all he could for her, realizing that some one else had made + her a victim of her love and jealousy.</p> + + <p>All breathed a sigh of relief when at last they came again + in sight of the lights of Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>There was just the trace of a shadow to cloud the momentary + happiness at their safe arrival, as, on the steps, Zita refused + to enter.</p> + + <p>"I—I must say good-by," she murmured, wistfully, + turning to go out into the night alone.</p> + + <p>Nothing that either Locke or Eva could say seemed to swerve + her purpose.</p> + + <p>"Can't you see?" she exclaimed, finally, turning to Locke. + "Balcom, Paul, and Doctor Q all trust me now. I can help you + solve the mystery better if I leave the house."</p> + + <p>This was so evident that Locke and Eva were forced to + consent. They took her back to the city, leaving her where she + could be unobserved, then returned in a very hopeful mood again + to Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>"I think she can and will help us," declared Eva, + intuitively.</p> + + <p>"Yes," agreed Locke, slowly, "and if Zita finds the record + of her birth I believe we shall solve the mystery."</p> + + <p>Worn out with the terrors through which she had passed, Eva + bade Locke an affectionate good-night and went to her room, + while he went to the laboratory and tried again to find an + antidote for the Madagascar madness, a work that kept him up + late and to which he returned again early the following + morning.</p> + + <p>It was on that following day, in the River Road apartment of + De Luxe Dora, that Paul and she were having a demi-monde + lovers' quarrel. Paul was intoxicated, and Dora may have been + angry about that. Or it may have been that she was jealous of + some other woman. However, they were quarreling fiercely when + there came a knock at the door.</p> + + <p>"You open it," flashed Dora to Paul.</p> + + <p>He demurred a moment, then, changing his mind, consented and + crossed to the door, while Dora ran to her own room and + hid.</p> + + <p>Paul was very much surprised to find that the visitor was + Zita, much excited.</p> + + <p>"I want you to help me on something of great importance," + she exclaimed, almost before she had entered.</p> + + <p>"Why, certainly! Anything you desire!" hiccoughed Paul. + "Come on in."</p> + + <p>Zita entered the apartment and they crossed over to the + chaise-longue, where Zita made her direct plea.</p> + + <p>"Help me find the record of my birth," she begged.</p> + + <p>Paul pulled his wandering wits together and thought a + moment; then a particularly crafty look came into his eyes as + he detached a key from his key-ring.</p> + + <p>"Here, take this," he directed. "It's the key to my father's + apartment. The records you want are there. He and I have + quarreled and you can go as far as you like."</p> + + <p>Zita took the key eagerly, thanked Paul profusely, and + started for the door.</p> + + <p>She had barely passed the threshold before Dora, who had + heard all, was at the telephone in her own room and was angrily + calling up Balcom at his apartment.</p> + + <p>Balcom, assisted by his Madagascan servant, was at the + moment packing a trunk, perhaps preparatory to a hasty flight, + should that become necessary. The moment the telephone rang he + picked up the receiver and nearly choked with anger as he heard + Dora's whispered voice over the wire.</p> + + <p>"Paul has given Zita the key to your apartment," Dora + hastened, "and she is coming over to steal the record of her + birth."</p> + + <p>"She is—eh? Well, I'll take care of that," growled + Balcom, as he rang off.</p> + + <p>Balcom went to a drawer in the table and from it took a + large book. Rapidly he turned over the pages until he found + what he wanted. Then he made an erasure and an entry and + replaced the book in the drawer. Next he called the + servant.</p> + + <p>"When she comes, you make her a prisoner," he directed. + "Understand?"</p> + + <p>The Madagascan nodded and raised one of Balcom's hands to + his own forehead as a sign of his fidelity.</p> + + <p>Balcom went out and the servant stepped into the empty trunk + to await the arrival of Zita.</p> + + <p>But it was a very different person with whom the Madagascan + had to contend in the end.</p> + + <p>On leaving Dora's apartment, Zita telephoned Brent Rock, and + Locke answered immediately. Locke readily agreed to make the + search of Balcom's apartment in Zita's stead.</p> + + <p>When the Madagascan heard a key in the door he stealthily + peeped from his hiding-place and saw, instead of Zita, + Locke.</p> + + <p>Locke's back was turned, and the Madagascan, undaunted, + sprang from the trunk and leaped, catlike, on Locke's back. But + he had not reckoned on his antagonist. Locke, always on guard, + was not taken quite by surprise. He caught the savage in a + jiu-jitsu hold, throwing him over his head to land in a far + corner of the room.</p> + + <p>In spite of the fall, the Madagascan bounded to his feet, + like a rubber ball, but a few stiff jabs from Locke soon took + all the fight out of him and he lay still, completely knocked + out.</p> + + <p>Locke made a hurried but systematic search of the room, and + finally found the book that he sought, taking it and returning + to Eva at Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>After telephoning, Zita went directly to Doctor Q's + laboratory, to which she was admitted after he had seen her + through his periscope annunciator.</p> + + <p>The doctor was fumbling with a test-tube, from which some + heavy fumes were issuing. He motioned her to a chair, near a + table upon which were many papers which looked to Zita as + though they might be of importance. Always quick to act, Zita + raised her hand as if to arrange her hair, and as she did so + she purposely knocked the test-tube out of the doctor's hand. + The acid spattered on some of the papers, quickly setting them + afire.</p> + + <p>Doctor Q, wildly excited, started to beat out the flames, + and in so doing allowed several unseared letters to flutter to + the floor. One in particular arrested Zita's attention. It was + a drawing, a plan of some sort, and was marked, "Plan of + Den."</p> + + <p>Zita placed her foot on it, and, while Doctor Q was engaged + with the small blaze, she reached down and, hastily folding it, + thrust it into one of the low shoes she was wearing. Then she + went to Doctor Q's assistance and in a jiffy the fire was out. + The doctor was furiously angry at her, and, feeling that she + had accomplished all that she might expect, she expressed her + regrets for the accident and went out before his anger became + any worse.</p> + + <p>Thus it was that Zita arrived at Brent Rock only a few + moments after Locke, whom she found in the library with Eva, + turning over the pages of the record he had secured at + Balcom's.</p> + + <p>The record purported to be a record of marriages of Wallace + County, New York, and Locke finally found an entry that read, + "Peter Brent and Rita Dane."</p> + + <p>For a moment Zita was stunned. It was her mother's name.</p> + + <p>Locke smiled. "Yes, Zita," he said, quietly, "for a moment + Eva and I were surprised, too. But it's a palpable forgery. + Balcom has tried to prove that you and Eva are half-sisters, + but look."</p> + + <p>He handed her a powerful magnifying-glass and through it the + clumsy forgery stood out in all its crudeness, showing plainly + where other names had been erased and these inserted.</p> + + <p>Zita was greatly disappointed, for she had thought that at + last she would establish her identity. Then she remembered the + paper she had hidden in her shoe. She slipped the paper out and + handed it to Locke, who was greatly excited over its + importance.</p> + + <p>They were still studying it when Locke heard a strange + noise, as of shuffling feet, in the hallway. He jumped to the + door, and there, in the dim light of the stairway leading down + to the Graveyard of Genius, he saw a knot of men carrying + another man, who was evidently helpless. Locke started forward, + but they were gone.</p> + + <p>Eva hurried up-stairs to her father's room, fearing + something was wrong.</p> + + <p>"Father's gone!" she cried, despairingly.</p> + + <p>Locke threw himself full against the door at the head of the + cellar stairs which the men had slammed shut. He tried to + batter it down, but it was too strongly built. Then he drew his + revolver and with the barrel started to push out the pins from + the hinges. He worked feverishly and succeeded in driving the + top pin out. Then, using it as a lever, he was able to pull the + door from its frame.</p> + + <p>He dashed down the stairs, but was late by only the fraction + of a second, as a metal hand was just closing the huge door to + the Graveyard of Genius. He fumbled at the secret combination, + and as he was doing so Eva and Zita joined him.</p> + + <p>The door swung open and they rushed through. But the place + was deserted.</p> + + <p>"They've carried your father through some secret passage," + exclaimed Locke. "That would explain much that is strange that + has happened about the house, too."</p> + + <p>Just then Zita stepped forward with the plan in her hand. + "See," she cried, "there is a secret passage marked on + this."</p> + + <p>Locke studied the plan for some time, but whoever had drawn + it had carefully concealed both the exact location of the + passage and the method by which it was reached. As he searched, + however, an idea occurred to Locke.</p> + + <p>"I'll rig a trap with a camera," he decided, finally.</p> + + <p>A few minutes later he returned to the room with his special + quick-shutter camera, a flash-bag, and a ball of light twine. + Carefully he focused the camera on the wall where the plan + showed the secret passage to be. Then he rigged up the + flash-bag and connected the whole with the twine, which he + strung all about the Graveyard of Genius, so that, should any + part of the wall move, it would cause the twine to break which + in turn would at the same time release the shutter of the + camera and explode the powder of the flashlight. Thus, without + any direct human agency, a photograph would be taken.</p> + + <p>Next he attached wires and ran them to the library above, + where he installed an annunciator, the needle of which would + indicate when the trap was sprung and the picture taken. + Fascinated, the two girls watched. Eva was almost fainting with + grief at the terrible fate that had overtaken her father. Even + in his sickness, at least she had had him. But now he was + gone—to what she could only guess. Locke tried to console + her as they paced the library above, even though he realized + that such consolation was hollow.</p> + + <p>It was perhaps half an hour later when suddenly the needle + of the annunciator began to vibrate rapidly. All leaped to + their feet and ran down the stairs to the Graveyard.</p> + + <p>At once Locke rushed to the camera, put in a slide, and took + out the plate-holder. Then they hurried up to his + laboratory.</p> + + <p>There Locke procured a developing-bag and started to work. + Nervously and impatiently Eva and Zita watched him at his + task.</p> + + <p>At last the negative was ready and Locke drew it from the + bag and held it to the light.</p> + + <p>There, glaring out of the plate, was the devilish face of + Balcom!</p> + + <p>Eva and Zita both uttered a cry of astonishment and + consternation. Even Locke was amazed. But the strongest feeling + he had was anger as he turned to them.</p> + + <p>"You two take this plan," he exclaimed. "It shows a den with + an exit indicated. Get some one to go with you; find the place + and wait for me there. I can find the secret entrance from the + Graveyard from this negative—and I'm going through + it."</p> + + <p>Balcom, in the passageway between the Graveyard of Genius + and the Automaton's den, was livid with fury. He realized that + his picture had been taken, surmised that the secret passage + would be found and that some assault on the den would be + attempted. But he had had no time to locate the camera, which + Locke had hidden well, nor had he dared to search longer for it + when he heard Locke bounding down the stairs from the + library.</p> + + <p>Accordingly, he had retreated and hastened back through the + passageway into the Automaton's den.</p> + + <p>"Quick!" he shouted to the horde of emissaries in the place. + "Bring dynamite, electric wires, and a rack-bar. They think + they have us trapped. But if they try to follow me here, I tell + you it will mean certain death to them."</p> + + <p>The emissaires hastened to obey him. They brought the + explosive and the means to detonate it, and carried the stuff + into the passageway, where they made the connections. An + emissary stepped forward and volunteered to use the rack-bar + when the time came, but Balcom waved him away.</p> + + <p>"No," he growled. "No one can take my revenge from me. I'll + do the killing."</p> + + <p>The emissaries fell back and went into the den.</p> + + <p>Balcom was making some final adjustments when the great rock + separating the passageway from the Graveyard of Genius swung + slowly on its balanced hinges.</p> + + <p>Startled from his work, even though he had expected the + thing, Balcom looked up, and in the passageway caught a glimpse + of the dim outline of his arch-enemy, Locke.</p> + + <p>Balcom had been right. Locke had found the clue to the + secret entrance to the tunnel.</p> + + <p>He worked feverishly to complete the final connection, but + almost before he finished Locke charged and the battle was + on.</p> + + <p>Up and down the passageway they fought. Although Locke was + the younger man, yet in Balcom he found a giant of + strength.</p> + + <p>It was a fight between these two alone, for no emissary, no + Automaton, now entered that passage of death.</p> + + <p>Neither uttered a sound. Neither had a weapon. It was the + primitive struggle of man to man for life.</p> + + <p>But now Locke's youth and clean living began to tell in his + favor and he sensed that his adversary was weakening. He + redoubled his efforts.</p> + + <p>After a particularly vicious blow from Locke, Balcom threw + up his hands and toppled over backward—in the direction + of the rack-bar itself.</p> + + <p>Locke tried to throw Balcom's body out of the way. It was + too late. With a thud Balcom crashed full upon the plunger, + driving it home.</p> + + <p>There was a blinding flash, a dull roar, and the earth + rocked. Huge boulders were tossed about like feathers and the + roof of the passage caved in.</p> + + <p>Balcom was killed instantly. Locke, with better fortune, had + been hurled to the ground, where the earth and rocks, in + falling, had formed a sort of arch over his body.</p> + + <p>He was alive, though barely conscious. He knew that soon a + search would be made for him. But, buried under tons of earth + and rock, could any rescuers reach him in time? Was this the + end?</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XXIV</h3> + + <p>For a long time Locke lay quite still. The shock to his + nervous system had been terrific, and, although physically + almost uninjured, he had lost his usual grip on himself and + felt very helpless.</p> + + <p>He felt terribly tired. The thought came to him that he had + done enough, reached his limit of endurance. He craved sleep, a + long sleep, and forgetfulness.</p> + + <p>But youth and the undying desire for life and accomplishment + won over this deadly mood and he began to take note of his + position. His mind became clearer and the ringing in his ears, + caused by the explosion, gradually passed away.</p> + + <p>Then, like a flash, the question entered his mind of how he + was able, buried under tons of debris, to breathe so freely. + Why was the air not vitiated?</p> + + <p>He tried to move slowly and quietly so as not to dislodge + any of the rocks that formed an arch over his body. He + succeeded beyond his expectations, for his body was in a sort + of natural pocket and not one of his limbs was inextricably + bound. Thus, twisting his body, he managed to draw himself into + what seemed to be an even more open space.</p> + + <p>He hardly dared to breathe, so fearful was he that any + moment he might reach a point where further progress would be + impossible. He moved slowly, gropingly, then suddenly he + recoiled in horror, for his hand had come in contact with + something which he recognized to be a man's face.</p> + + <p>In his shaken condition it was some seconds before he could + control the wild jangling of his nerves. Then he searched his + pockets and, finding a match, lighted it. There, covered to the + armpits by dirt and rocks, was the body of Balcom, whose last + act before his own death had been an attempt to murder + Locke.</p> + + <p>Locke shuddered and redoubled his efforts to escape from the + gruesome place. There still remained a small hole through which + he must climb. But he negotiated it successfully, and in + another moment he was aboveground and free.</p> + + <p>Eva and Zita had followed Locke's instructions, but had not + waited to find any one to go with them to the exit from the + den. Nor did they wait at the exit more than a few minutes.</p> + + <p>Eva had taken a small electric torch with her, and, becoming + impatient at the non-appearance of Locke, she flashed it about + as she followed the lines and marks indicated on the plan of + the den.</p> + + <p>She and Zita were surprised at the magnitude of the entrance + passageway they uncovered. They had had to make a detour in + order to reach the beach at a point where it was indicated that + the exit of the den would be found, and even with the plan, + which they consulted at every step, they almost missed their + objective, for the cleft in the rocks slanted inward and was + difficult to see even when one was standing directly in front + of it.</p> + + <p>They had peered into the cavern and were waiting when they + heard the explosion. They gazed at each other questioningly and + with apprehension.</p> + + <p>"What do you think it is?" asked Eva, questioningly.</p> + + <p>Zita could, of course, offer no explanation and did not + try.</p> + + <p>Impulsively both girls took a very foolish chance. Both had + thought of Locke and they started to run into the cave entrance + and toward the sound of the explosion.</p> + + <p>Zita was in the lead, and it was at this moment that the + panic-stricken emissaries came tumbling and fighting their way + from the den. Zita shrieked to Eva to save herself, and Eva, + although unwilling to leave her, knew that now she could do + nothing to save Zita, and took her only chance of escape.</p> + + <p>As for Zita, the emissaries were too frightened to pay any + attention to her. But behind them came the iron monster, + without nerves, it seemed. The Automaton saw her and pinned her + to the rock wall until she was unconscious. Then, picking her + up as though she were a feather, it carried her out to the + beach.</p> + + <p>Locke, the moment he freed himself from the hole which had + so nearly been his grave, ran staggering toward the beach, for + he felt instinctively that Eva and Zita were in danger.</p> + + <p>Eva and Locke must have started at about the same time, she + in her flight away from the Automaton, and Locke to find the + den exit, for they met on the cliffside.</p> + + <p>"Thank God you are safe!" exclaimed Eva.</p> + + <p>Locke impulsively threw his arms about her and kissed her as + they related their narrow escapes.</p> + + <p>Locke resolved to follow the trail of the Automaton and to + rescue Zita. Also he had hopes of rescuing Eva's father at the + same time. Eva wished to accompany him, but he would not think + of it, and insisted that she return to Brent Rock and keep all + the doors barricaded. In fact, he followed her almost to the + house and saw that she entered safely, then hurried back to the + beach.</p> + + <p>With the aid of Eva's electric torch, which she had given + him, it was no difficult task to trace the huge footsteps of + the Automaton, though, one by one, the footprints of the + emissaries took divergent directions, probably for the very + purpose of confusing just such a pursuit.</p> + + <p>He followed the main track, however, until he came to the + banks of a small stream, and there the trail was completely + lost, for the monster had stepped into the water. Locke waded + to the other bank and hunted for further tracks, but there were + none to be found. The Automaton had undoubtedly waded up-stream + to the point where he had decided to dispose of Zita.</p> + + <p>Nothing daunted, Locke started wading upstream. This stream + ran in a gully between the rocks and the cliffs on either side, + which were very high. Time and time again Locke thought of + turning back for more searchers. But he hated to return to Eva + without at least some news, and therefore he persisted.</p> + + <p>He was at last rewarded, for just as he was about to turn to + the right where the stream made a bend, he thought he heard a + low laugh. He stopped dead in his tracks. Again the sound of + the broken laughter came to him.</p> + + <p>Cautiously Locke moved slowly forward until he could see + around the bend.</p> + + <p>It was a strange sight that met his gaze. Under an enormous + overhanging rock he saw about fifteen men standing, while + against the cliff he could distinguish the form of a girl. It + was undoubtedly Zita. Sitting on a rock and quite close to her + was Peter Brent.</p> + + <p>The emissaries were clustered around the central figure, + which was waving its arms of steel and indicating what they + should do. As the Automaton gesticulated, tiny points of fire + gleamed from its eyes.</p> + + <p>Seen in the light of the lanterns held by the emissaries, + the Automaton never looked more terrifying. Even Locke himself, + who had encountered the monster so often, felt a cold chill as + he watched him and his men.</p> + + <p>Locke turned noiselessly, for well he knew that alone he + could do nothing. He started to retrace his steps to Brent + Rock, and no sooner had he arrived there than he told Eva that + her father still lived and was uninjured, and that Zita was + safe in the new den of the Automaton which he had discovered. + Then he telephoned to his chief to send officers immediately to + Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>After the explosion that had killed Balcom and had come so + near to killing Locke, when he had finally rescued himself and + had drawn himself out of the hole, there was one who watched + him.</p> + + <p>It was none other than that mysterious being, Doctor Q. What + twist of that disordered brain had brought him to the spot was + not at once evident. However, as soon as Locke had left to go + toward Eva, Doctor Q came from his hiding-place, madly smiling + and wagging his head. He peered into the hole and, seeing + nothing, lighted a match and thrust it far down into the + darkness.</p> + + <p>There was a sharp intake of his breath, for the match + revealed to him the dead face of Herbert Balcom.</p> + + <p>Doctor Q drew back and stood erect.</p> + + <p>"Dead!" he muttered, as he ran his fingers through his hair + dazedly.</p> + + <p>"Dead!"</p> + + <p>A strange thing happened. The mad light fled from the eyes + of Doctor Q and the twisted brain seemed to become clear.</p> + + <p>Suddenly in the very field the old man knelt down and prayed + a thankful prayer for his recovery.</p> + + <p>What was the strange power which Balcom had wielded over + him, which death had snapped?</p> + + <p>The officers arrived at Brent Rock and Locke was ready. The + party left immediately to go to the rescue of Brent and Zita, + and it took them only a short time to reach the spot which + Locke had located.</p> + + <p>Disposing some of his force below the hanging rock, Locke + and some others went farther upstream. The two parties looked + at their watches, waiting a certain time agreed on.</p> + + <p>Then the two parties moved toward each other. As they came + in sight of the spot, Locke experienced a keen disappointment. + He could see no one. Advancing farther, he discovered Brent + still on the same rock. Guarding him were three emissaries. + That was all. Zita, the Automaton, and the other emissaries + were gone.</p> + + <p>The three emissaries, seeing the numbers opposed to them, + did not even offer to resist. They were placed under arrest, + but nothing could induce them to tell where the others had + gone.</p> + + <p>To fail Zita after she had so nobly saved his life in the + lair of the hypnotist was an unwelcome thought to Locke, and he + resolved to rescue her at any risk. But first he felt he must + restore Brent to his daughter, and therefore the party returned + to Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>Eva was beside herself with joy at the safe return of her + father, and led him tenderly to his room and sent immediately + for the doctor in order that he might not suffer from his + exposure.</p> + + <p>While this was going on at Brent Rock, Paul Balcom was + rifling his father's papers in the apartment where Balcom had + lived. He had unceremoniously thrown letters and documents all + over the floor in his mad search for something. Finally he + found what he was looking for, and, smiling triumphantly as he + read the paper, he thrust it into his pocket and hurriedly left + the place, not stopping even to pick up the papers scattered + all about.</p> + + <p>Zita had evidently been watching the house, for no sooner + had he left than she ran up the front steps of the Balcom + apartment.</p> + + <p>In some way she had procured a key and let herself in. Then + began a feverish search very similar to that which Paul had + instituted. Only, this time Zita picked up all the papers, + arranging them and placing them back in the drawers, after + scanning their contents.</p> + + <p>She had almost finished when a small book lying in a distant + corner of the room caught her eye.</p> + + <p>At a glance she saw that it was a diary. Turning the pages + rapidly, she finally came to one over which she fairly gloated, + for its information, sold to the proper parties, might make her + independent for life.</p> + + <p>Even as she was gloating over her find there came the sound + of many feet in the front hallway. Zita had no time to run out + of the room before the door opened, giving entrance to six + emissaries, surrounding her.</p> + + <p>The emissaries locked all the doors and tramped out. Only + their leader remained for a moment to throw a parting shot.</p> + + <p>"Remember," he threatened, "this house is watched. See that + you act accordingly. You will, if you know what's good for + you."</p> + + <p>Then he slammed the door and locked it behind him.</p> + + <p>For a long time Zita sat there, too despairing to move. Then + her ear caught the sound of stealthy footsteps in the hall, and + she ran and hid behind the portières. The door opened slowly + and Paul stole again into the room.</p> + + <p>Having nothing to fear from him, Zita came from her + hiding-place and confronted him. Paul was startled for a moment + at her sudden appearance, but recovered himself on seeing that + it was Zita.</p> + + <p>The paper that he had stolen from his father's desk had + proved to him that Zita had become highly desirable, and he was + not one to miss such an opportunity.</p> + + <p>As he questioned her, Zita told him briefly her story, or, + rather, such portions of it as she thought it desirable for him + to know. Paul, in turn, assured her of his undying friendship + and something more. His earnestness almost made it seem true, + and he talked in his most fascinating and attractive manner. He + finally ended his conversation with a direct proposal of + marriage. But he had overstepped the mark and Zita was not to + be fooled.</p> + + <p>"Paul"—she laughed scornfully now—"you should be + on the stage. It needed only this proposal to prove to me that + I am really Peter Brent's daughter."</p> + + <p>"Peter Brent's daughter!" he exclaimed. "No, not his + daughter—the daughter of Doctor Q."</p> + + <p>"Impossible!" recoiled Zita, astounded at the assertion.</p> + + <p>"True, Zita," he asserted, "absolutely true. Here, look at + this paper."</p> + + <p>With hands that trembled, Zita took the paper and read an + amazing table. Unless the paper lied, she was indeed the + daughter of Doctor Q.</p> + + <p>There was only one thing to do and that was to confront + Doctor Q at once and force him to a full explanation.</p> + + <p>In order not to antagonize Paul, Zita was now particularly + nice to him. Her object was to get him to consent to her + escape, so that she could inform Locke and Eva of her discovery + and all three confront Doctor Q and wrest from him the + story.</p> + + <p>At first Paul would not let her go unless she consented to + marry him, but Zita played him skilfully, so that finally he + unlocked the door.</p> + + <p>Then Zita flew down the stairs and to a telephone around the + corner, where she called up Locke, to whom she told as much as + she dared over the wire.</p> + + <p>Locke told her that he and Eva would meet her within an hour + in the lobby of one of the city's largest hotels, and Zita + hastened there, where she waited impatiently until they + arrived.</p> + + <p>Doctor Q admitted them immediately, and they noticed with + astonishment the wonderful change for the better that had taken + place in the man. For with the restoration of his mind all the + evil lines of his face had been obliterated, as it were, and in + the place of the doddering half-imbecile they found a genial, + kindly, and distinguished gentleman who, with the utmost + hospitality, brought chairs and begged them to be seated.</p> + + <p>Zita, in her anxiety to know the truth, could hardly contain + her impatience. Tossed from pillar to post, dominated once by + the strong, evil mind of Balcom, Zita had run the gamut of + human emotions before she had barely passed her girlhood.</p> + + <p>Seeing her agitation, Locke undertook to interrogate the + doctor.</p> + + <p>"Doctor Q," he began, "I believe you know the perpetrator of + the crimes to which we have all been subjected, and we have + come to you in all friendliness to ask you to clear this + mystery up for us. Balcom is dead," added Locke, pointedly.</p> + + <p>"Yes, I know that," interrupted Doctor Q.</p> + + <p>"You know?" all asked. "How do you know?"</p> + + <p>The doctor told of having seen Balcom's body. But at first + he could not explain why he was in the spot at the time.</p> + + <p>Then Locke went on to tell him of the document that Paul had + shown to Zita.</p> + + <p>Doctor Q sank heavily into a chair.</p> + + <p>"That document that Paul Balcom showed Zita," he exclaimed, + after a moment, "told the truth."</p> + + <p>All were startled. Zita would have risen with a cry had not + Locke gently touched her arm.</p> + + <p>"Tell us the story," demanded Locke of Q.</p> + + <p>For some moments Doctor Q seemed to be collecting his + scattered thoughts, as though still a haze hung over his mind. + Then he began to speak, becoming more certain of his strange + story.</p> + + <p>"It was many years ago," he began, as all drew closer about + him, listening breathlessly to his narrative, "and all these + years I have been quite mad. The man now lying dead, Balcom, + was the cause of all these years of misery."</p> + + <p>The old man passed his hand over his head as though to wipe + away a recollection of hate and fear, then resumed:</p> + + <p>"I was an inventor in those days, and very successful. I had + built up a great fortune, had built a great house, and in that + house I had a beautiful wife and two of the loveliest children, + a boy and a girl, that ever man had."</p> + + <p>He paused again, then went on:</p> + + <p>"One day, a man entered my life and proposed to put my + inventions on the market very advantageously. He was suave, + polished, and apparently a gentleman. At any rate, I trusted + him. You all knew him. It was Herbert Balcom.</p> + + <p>"At the time I did not know that in order to give my + inventions a clear field the inventions of hundreds of poor + inventors were to be suppressed. I know now, Miss Brent, that + your own father was led along in the scheme, even as I was. + Balcom possessed the master mind and we were all as children in + his hands."</p> + + <p>Doctor Q stopped a moment. It was evident that he was + speaking with restraint when it came to Peter Brent, perhaps + glossing over what the man had done. Though he did not say so, + the mere fact that at last Brent had seen the light and had + planned a wholesale restitution weighed supremely in Doctor Q's + mind.</p> + + <p>"One day," he resumed, "Balcom came to me in what I know now + was merely feigned excitement and fear. 'They're after us!' he + cried. 'Brent and I have done our best—but the government + is after you, and we can't protect you any longer.'</p> + + <p>"Then for the first time Balcom told me of the real purposes + of the company, told me that he had been drawn into it by + Brent. It was all a tissue of lies—lies that drove me + from my home and country. I hated your father with an undying + hate, Miss Brent.</p> + + <p>"Well, to make the sad story short, I took my wife and + children and sailed secretly for the farthermost parts of the + world. Off the coast of Madagascar, in the Straits, a typhoon + came up. The vessel was driven on the rocks and wrecked. I was + cast ashore, and I vaguely remember how, for days and weeks, I + patrolled that beach, subsisting on shell-fish, imploring God, + day and night, to restore my wife and children to me. Then my + mind gave way.</p> + + <p>"The natives took me in, thinking me a god. They took me + many miles inland. Savages, the world over, are superstitious + about the demented, and so they treated me kindly. They + installed me in a thatched hut of my own and made me a + leader.</p> + + <p>"How many months, years, I stayed with them I do not know. + But, true to my mechanical instinct, I rigged up a forge and + improved many of the crude instruments of the natives, + principally those of agriculture.</p> + + <p>"But transcending every other feeling, I hated Brent. In my + madness, I conceived the idea that I would construct an iron + giant that, upon its completion, if I could only procure the + brain of a man who had died of a lightning stroke or other + electric agency, I could, by installing this brain in the brain + cavity of the giant, give it volition, make it a superman + without feeling or conscience. It was a mad idea—but I + was mad.</p> + + <p>"At about this time Balcom came to Madagascar. He found me + and, knowing my intense hatred of Peter Brent, he cruelly added + fuel to the fire. Already he must have known that Brent was + coming to his senses and planning his great restitution to + genius.</p> + + <p>"He promised me that if I would come to New York with him he + would secure an electrocuted brain so that I could perfect my + steel automaton and obtain my revenge. I was easily persuaded + and I sailed with Balcom, bringing the iron monster with + me."</p> + + <p>A strange light gleamed in the old man's eyes as he spoke, + not the light of madness, but of kindliness now.</p> + + <p>"Children," he said, at length, "I have, during these lucid + moments, watched you all closely. Call it instinct if you will, + but you, Zita, and you, Quentin, seem to be particularly dear + to me now. To-day, returning from the scene of the explosion, + with every faculty not only clear, but rather sharpened by long + disuse, I pieced the years, the months, even the days together. + I searched in an old trunk and I found—this."</p> + + <p>It was a list of those rescued from the steamer + <i>Magnifique</i>, and with amazement they read the names among + the passengers:</p><span style="margin-left: 1em;">QUENTIN + LOCKE</span><br /> + <span style="margin-left: 1em;">ZITA LOCKE</span><br /> + <br /> + <p>There was a short note at the bottom of the list, to the + effect that no trace of either the father or the mother of the + two children had been found.</p> + + + + <p>Paper after paper which Doctor Q had found, where they had + been preserved by Balcom, proved the identification and the + story.</p> + + <p>Locke's head was in a whirl at the sudden change in + relationships, but not more so than Zita's. Finally Zita could + stand the strain no longer. What had been a hopeless love was + now explained.</p> + + <p>"My—my brother!" she sobbed, as she buried her head on + Quentin's shoulder.</p> + + <p>Both turned to Doctor Q—Doctor Q no longer, but really + Quentin Locke, senior, whence had come the "Q."</p> + + <p>His eyes filled with tears and his voice choked.</p> + + <p>"My—children," he murmured, "I see that it is not too + late for me to find happiness, after all. Our enemy is dead. It + was Balcom, of course, who was in that frame of armor, who used + that terrible poison that stole away Brent's mind. The iron + monster will walk no more. Henceforth Peter Brent and Miss Eva + and you, Quentin—will—"</p> + + <p>Doctor Q had not time to finish the sentence.</p> + + <p>The door burst inward.</p> + + <p>The Automaton, its eyes aflame, stalked in among them!</p> + + <h3>CHAPTER XXV</h3> + + <p>As the Automaton crashed its way into the room all sprang + back terrified, aghast.</p> + + <p>For this monster, they had felt sure, was now nothing but an + inanimate shell of armor, since Balcom was dead.</p> + + <p>Yet here it was, stalking toward them and evidently as bent + on destruction as ever.</p> + + <p>What did it mean?</p> + + <p>In an instant Locke had helped Eva through an open window + and turned to assist Zita. But Doctor Q forestalled him and had + already taken her in his arms and had fled with her into + another room.</p> + + <p>For the moment Locke was surprised to see that the Automaton + totally ignored him. Instead, it stalked to the door and + wrenched it open. There, cowering in the hall, in abject + terror, was De Luxe Dora.</p> + + <p>How and why she had come there was a mystery. But the + Automaton did not hesitate. It raised its hands and, as it did + so, long flashes of blue flame leaped from the steel + finger-tips toward the unfortunate woman. Once she shrieked, + then crumpled and fell dead.</p> + + <p>The monster then turned its attention to Locke, striding + toward him with a menacing gesture. But the diversion due to + Dora had given all just the time they needed to make good their + flight. Locke threw a chair to impede the progress of the + monster, and then, as he saw that all the others were safe, he + lightly vaulted out of the window himself, to find them waiting + for him in the little yard below.</p> + + <p>"What do you make of it now—father?" asked Locke of + Doctor Q. "Balcom is dead. Who is now in the iron man?"</p> + + <p>Doctor Q shrugged. It was a mystery to him as much as ever, + and he seemed unable to throw any light on it.</p> + + <p>"But De Luxe Dora," queried Zita. "What had she come for? + Why was she struck down—first?"</p> + + <p>Again Doctor Q shook his head.</p> + + <p>From the yard they could hear the Automaton's heavy tread in + the room and, as there was nothing to be gained by remaining, + they left the yard and hurried away out of the + neighborhood.</p> + + <p>They had not gone far, however, when Doctor Locke came to a + full stop.</p> + + <p>"I must go back," he exclaimed.</p> + + <p>For a moment all thought he had again taken leave of his + senses. Yet he was obdurate.</p> + + <p>"Miss Brent—Eva," he explained, "you know that a + grievous wrong has been done your father through me. He lies + ill of that most terrible of diseases, the laughing madness. I + alone possess the antidote, and it is in the laboratory that we + have just left. I pray that that iron beast has not destroyed + it."</p> + + <p>At the mere words Locke turned as if to go back for it.</p> + + <p>"No, Quentin," remonstrated his father. "You must remain to + guard Eva."</p> + + <p>"Then I will go," insisted Zita. "I am not afraid now. Even + when the monster carried me off I overcame my fear, watched my + chance, and escaped from his den, where he left me. I will + go."</p> + + <p>Finally Doctor Locke agreed that Zita might return with him, + remain outside, and give the alarm if anything happened to him. + Thus, after many remonstrances, it was agreed, and Eva and + Quentin went on to Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>No one had molested Brent in the mean time. The terror + caused by the explosion, as well as the loss of Balcom, for the + time, at least, had evidently cowed the emissary band.</p> + + <p>While Eva made Brent comfortable, Locke went immediately to + the laboratory, where he had something which he considered very + important.</p> + + <p>"Quentin," remarked Eva, as she joined him, "your father + spoke the truth, I believe, when he said that it was Balcom in + the Automaton, But if that was the case, who is in it now?"</p> + + <p>Locke shook his head dubiously. "I give it up," he replied. + "It's too deep for me. But whoever it is, he won't trouble us + long, I'll wager. I've been perfecting a special gun and an + explosive-gas bullet. No one can shoot the monster. Nothing + seems to stop it. But this weapon, I think, will at last prove + a match for it."</p> + + <p>Eva, who had always had the deepest interest in Quentin's + work, listened attentively as he explained in detail the + working of the new weapon.</p> + + <p>"And now we come to the actual loading of these + asphyxiating-poison bullets," concluded Quentin. "I really must + ask you, Eva, to go into another room, for it is dangerous work + and you must not risk your life here."</p> + + <p>"But, Quentin," remonstrated Eva, "we've risked our lives so + often together that I have ceased to be afraid of + anything."</p> + + <p>Quentin was insistent, and finally Eva agreed.</p> + + <p>As Doctor Q and Zita neared the former's laboratory, they + saw that all the lights in the house were out. Doctor Locke, + against Zita's advice, insisted on going in, and told his + daughter to wait outside. It was then that Zita disobeyed her + father for the first time, for she flatly refused to be left + behind.</p> + + <p>"No," she insisted. "I found a father to-night and what we + must risk we risk together. It is no worse than the peril from + which I once escaped."</p> + + <p>There was no reasoning with Zita, and they let themselves + into the little yard and went up the back steps. When they came + to the door of the laboratory they listened intently.</p> + + <p>There was no sound. Then they mustered up courage and + cautiously entered the room. For a long time they stood quite + still, not daring to move. Finally Doctor Q suddenly lighted a + match.</p> + + <p>The room was in terrible confusion, as though + cyclone-swept.</p> + + <p>Doctor Locke turned on an electric bulb and the room was + flooded with light.</p> + + <p>Everywhere there were traces of the Automaton. But the + monster itself had left the place. Doctor Locke crossed to the + other door. There was a sight that made them shudder. The body + of De Luxe Dora was still huddled in a heap on the floor. She + was quite dead.</p> + + <p>But Doctor Locke had no time now to waste. Moments were + precious. At any instant they might again be attacked. + Feverishly he began to search for the bottle containing the + antidote.</p> + + <p>At last he found it, carefully hidden, and in a bottle + fortunately not broken.</p> + + <p>They left everything as it was and hurriedly left the place, + on their way to Brent Rock.</p> + + <p>Meanwhile, in one of the worst quarters of the city, down in + the cellar of a huge warehouse, a mob of emissaries were + gathered. They were discussing the things that had led up to + the explosion in the Automaton's den, Balcom's death, and the + arrest of their three pals. Plans for the future they + discussed, but, with their leader gone, these hardened men were + still as helpless as children.</p> + + <p>Suddenly above the din of voices a strange, familiar sound + was heard, a sound as of clanking chains, and the blood froze + in the veins of every man present. Then with wild shouts of + terror they scattered in every direction, for the Automaton was + stalking toward them.</p> + + <p>Balcom, the man who had given the iron man life, was dead. + And yet the Automaton was among them!</p> + + <p>That night, in the holds of many vessels and on the + brake-beams of many trains pulling away from the city, + emissaries who once were slaves of the Automaton were fleeing + the city in every direction.</p> + + <p>When Zita and her father arrived at Brent Rock, Locke was + still working at his new gas-gun. Eva was in the library, but + when she heard the voices in the hallway she ran to welcome + them.</p> + + <p>"Oh, I'm so glad you've both returned safe," she cried. + Then, unable to withstand the suspense longer, she asked, "Have + you brought it—the antidote?"</p> + + <p>When Doctor Locke told her that the bottle that contained it + was safely stowed in his pocket Eva sank, overwrought, into a + chair and cried with simple relief and joy.</p> + + <p>In a moment, however, she had gained control of herself, + dashed the tears from her eyes, and almost seized the bottle + from Doctor Locke.</p> + + <p>"Bring him down here, my dear," cautioned the doctor, still + holding the bottle. "You would not know how to administer + it."</p> + + <p>Eva ran to her father's room, stopping only long enough to + summon Quentin, then together they led Brent down-stairs.</p> + + <p>Brent's condition was still pitiable. His mind was a total + blank. These people—Doctor Q, Zita, Quentin, even his own + daughter—meant nothing to him. He lived and breathed. But + no ray of light entered the poor brain.</p> + + <p>They guided his halting steps into the library as if he had + been something less than a child, and placed him in the same + big armchair on which he had sunk the fatal morning that the + fumes from the candles had overcome him.</p> + + <p>Doctor Q drew out the bottle and, telling Zita to bring a + glass of water, measured out a few drops of the antidote, + pouring them into the glass. Then he moved over to Brent and + tried to get him to drink it. For a long time Brent merely + clenched his teeth, but, once he was induced to taste the + mixture, he drank it eagerly.</p> + + <p>For ages, it seemed to those watching, Brent sat as before, + vacantly gazing straight ahead of him—so long, in fact, + that a terrible fear entered Eva's heart that, perhaps, after + all, the antidote would fail and that her father would remain + without reason until the day of his death.</p> + + <p>Then slowly a change was noticeable in his eyes, and all + leaned forward with overpowering intentness. What they were + watching was like a miracle. Slowly, very slowly, they saw the + soul creep back into those poor, mad eyes.</p> + + <p>Brent had been staring directly at his daughter as she + watched him anxiously. Now a puzzled look came over his face + and, raising a hand, he rubbed his forehead.</p> + + <p>Then a wonderful light seemed to shine from his eyes and he + held out his arms to Eva.</p> + + <p>With a sob of excited happiness Eva rushed to embrace + him.</p> + + <p>As Locke stood behind him, Zita and Doctor Q walked to the + other end of the room, turning sidewise to the group.</p> + + <p>Suddenly Brent turned his eyes away from Eva and noticed + Doctor Q for the first time.</p> + + <p>"Who is that?" he asked Eva.</p> + + <p>"Why, father, that is—"</p> + + <p>At the sound of voices Doctor Q had turned around.</p> + + <p>"You!" gasped Brent, as he sank back into his chair.</p> + + <p>The look on his face was strange, perhaps half fear, half + shame.</p> + + <p>Doctor Q came no nearer for a moment, while Eva hastened to + explain what had happened. Then unsteadily Brent rose and + walked over to the doctor.</p> + + <p>"You are alive!" he exclaimed. "You have come again into my + life so that at last I can make restitution. My daughter has + explained to me all that you have suffered. Believe me it was + through my own weakness. It seems incredible that any man could + be so infamous, so utterly without moral scruples, as was + Balcom. I believed the villain implicitly. That is, and can be, + my only excuse."</p> + + <p>The doctor placed his hand on Brent's shoulder.</p> + + <p>"I can understand only too well," he remarked, "for I, too, + believed in Balcom. You were a reticent man and so my dealings + were all with him. I was gullible, an inventor, not a business + man. I should have come to you before I fled the country, I + suppose. Say no more about it, for I forgive you from the + bottom of my heart."</p> + + <p>But Brent insisted on explaining that at least he had had a + desire to right the great wrongs.</p> + + <p>"I can remember it all now," he continued. "I was about to + make restitution when a man connected with the company—I + am sure now that he was an adventurer, a crook, in the pay of + Balcom, although Balcom probably tried to hide it—came to + me. His name, as I remember it, was Flint. I was about to write + a letter that showed that it was my intention to right a wrong, + when—something interrupted me and—the rest I can't + remember."</p> + + <p>Quentin, who had been standing behind the chair, now drew + from his pocket a piece of paper which he handed to Brent.</p> + + <p>"Yes—that is it," cried Brent, excitedly, taking it, + and spreading it out before them. "See!"</p> + + <p>It was a note addressed to Quentin Locke and read:</p> + + <blockquote> + <p>I have done you a great wrong about which you know + nothing, but for which I will make amends—</p> + </blockquote> + + <p>"It was broken off," exclaimed Brent, making a sad effort to + recollect what had happened. "I don't remember how. But this + Flint had been telling me something about an iron monster. He + had a model—said he had seen the real thing in + Madagascar, that it had a human brain, that it walked and + fought, that it had strength and life—but no conscience. + He hinted that the thing would do me harm if I persisted in a + course that I had determined for myself of giving back to + inventors we had robbed the things of which we had robbed them. + I did not believe him. I thought the thing absurd, and started + to write the note, going a step farther than I had ever + threatened Balcom."</p> + + <p>Quentin, Doctor Q, and Zita exchanged glances as Eva's + father resumed his narrative.</p> + + <p>"Then I felt a choking sensation at my throat. I remember + the effrontery of Flint's laughing at me, in a maudlin sort of + way, and then—a blank. The next I recall was just + now—Eva gazing at me with a worried expression in her + dear eyes. I called to her and kissed her, tried to comfort + her. Then I saw you, Locke, and Zita."</p> + + <p>Peter Brent, from the time he and Flint had been overcome by + the fumes from the candelabra until he received the antidote + and recognized his daughter, had not known a thing!</p> + + <p>As they talked there were many matters the two aged men + discovered while they pieced together the happenings of + years.</p> + + <p>Each had been duped by the same man. Each had suffered great + trouble through this man's machinations and duplicity.</p> + + <p>As they talked, the attention of both turned to the younger + Quentin Locke, who seemed overjoyed at the recovery of his + former employer.</p> + + <p>Brent had a very great feeling of affection and respect for + the younger man, for had he not really brought him up?</p> + + <p>As all questioned one another, they asked Brent much about + the past, and he told them all.</p> + + <p>He told how he had become finally suspicious of Balcom, of + how he insisted upon instituting a search for the doctor, his + wife, and children. He told how Balcom had opposed him up to + the last moment. Then he described his sailing half the world + over in search of them, how at times he found a trail, only to + lose it again.</p> + + <p>Finally he told how at last he had found that the mother had + been lost, but the children saved.</p> + + <p>"I was in Bombay," he continued, "in despair that I would + ever find any of you. At that time I was an old man before my + time, for my conscience gave me no rest. I went down to the + quay to purchase a ticket for my return to New York, and, true + to the habit I had formed, I asked the ticket-seller if he had + ever heard anything of the survivors of the steamer + <i>Magnifique</i>.</p> + + <p>"'Do I know anything of it?' repeated the ticket-seller. + 'No, but there's a man working on this dock now who never talks + of anything else. He was a sailor on the ship and one of the + few who survived.'</p> + + <p>"You can believe me when I tell you that I ran down that + dock and found the man. He remembered you all well, remembered + you children when you were taken up with some other survivors, + and he said he thought that some family had taken you to + Hong-Kong.</p> + + <p>"I canceled my passage to Liverpool and immediately sailed + for China. Still, my troubles were not over, for it was weeks + before I finally located you babies, Quentin and Zita.</p> + + <p>"I won't burden you with the difficulties I encountered + before the English family, the Danes, with whom I found you, + would consent to give you up. Nor will I take time to tell of + our return to New York through San Francisco.</p> + + <p>"Let it suffice for you to know that we arrived safely after + I had completely circled the world. I sent you to good schools, + and when Zita was old enough I made her my secretary so that I + could watch over her. Quentin, being older, I had not dared to + have around at first. I feared he might question me too + closely. And what answer could I give him? Could I tell him + that International Patents had driven his father into exile, + that I had been partly the cause, the indirect cause, it is + true, but still the cause of his mother's death? I never found + the courage to do that and so I sent him to a preparatory + school and later to college. Years wiped out his childhood + recollections and when he came here he came as a stranger + employed in the company's laboratory. I make no defense, but I + assure you all that my own sufferings have atoned for all the + wrongs I have done."</p> + + <p>Brent broke down and was almost weeping, when Quentin and + Eva moved over to his side and reassured him.</p> + + <p>As soon as Brent had recovered from his weakness he wanted + to know all that had happened since he had been unconscious + under the drug, and as he listened he was aghast at the + Automaton and Balcom's villainy.</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/322.jpg" + name="image322" + id="image322"><img width="400" + src="images/322s.jpg" + alt="locke perfects his explosive-gas bullet firing-arm to use against the automaton" /> + </a> + locke perfects his explosive-gas bullet firing-arm to use + against the automaton + </div> + + <p>"I've something here that will stop him, though," added + Quentin, as he showed the new gas-gun he had invented and + explained its deadly properties. "Bring him on again—I'm + ready."</p> + + <p>"Quentin—please don't joke about that terrible + monster," shivered Eva. "It has injured us so often—I + don't even want to talk about it—or about the government + that asked you to come here and set things right. Let us + forget—now that all is right."</p> + + <p>Quentin smiled at her and his quick mind saw that the time + had come to guide the conversation into pleasanter channels. He + moved close to Brent.</p> + + <p>"It looks, Mr. Brent," he said, quietly, "as though we all + were at about the end of our troubles. But there are two of us + here who are not quite happy—yet. Mr. Brent, I am going + to claim a reward."</p> + + <p>"Anything, my dear Locke, anything I have is yours."</p> + + <p>"Then I may as well tell you that Eva and I love each other + and I want your consent to our marriage."</p> + + <p>Brent beamed.</p> + + <p>"That, Quentin, is the dearest wish my heart can have."</p> + + <p>Quentin turned to Eva to take her in his arms when there was + a terrific crash of glass in the conservatory, the splintering + of wood, and the Automaton, arms swinging like flails, charged + like a mad thing into the room.</p> + + <p>Its terrorizing eyes were agleam, its one desire + destruction. A large table stood in its way and it demolished + it as though it were matchwood.</p> + + <p>The interruption came so abruptly that Brent, who in his + right mind had never seen the fiend and was now seeing it for + the first time, was paralyzed with horror. He tried to rise + from his chair, but in his weak condition fell back, + helpless.</p> + + <p>Quentin made a flying leap over the demolished table and + placed himself directly in front of Brent and in the path of + the monster. Doctor Q, Zita, and Eva started for Locke's side, + but he waved them back frantically.</p> + + <p>Locke reached into his pocket and drew out his gas-pistol. + The Automaton was almost upon him when he raised his arm and + fired.</p> + + <p>There was a blinding flash and a dull report. The Automaton + stopped in his tracks and, raising one mighty hand to its + chest, staggered backward. Again Quentin fired, and the + Automaton slowly crumpled, sinking to one knee. There was no + need to fire again, for suddenly the monster crashed to the + floor and lay still.</p> + + <p>Locke started forward, but Eva shrieked for him to stand + back. She had not forgotten that once she had thought the + monster dead and it had suddenly seized her and almost crushed + out her life.</p> + + <p>There was, however, nothing to fear this time. Quentin + reassured her that the gas fumes had passed away, then knelt by + the iron terror. He tried to remove the steel headpiece, but + before he could accomplish it the doctor came forward and in a + moment had unfastened the bolts.</p> + + <p>As they were doing so a thick voice from inside could be + distinguished, muttering words about the capture of Brent and + Zita just before Balcom was killed, the escape of Zita, the + rescue of Brent, the killing of Dora, who had evidently come to + betray something in jealousy. It was all incoherent and Doctor + Q and Quentin hastened to uncasque the man within.</p> + + <p>They lifted off the helmet and there was the contorted and + dying face of Paul Balcom, who had, in desperation, taken his + father's place in a vain hope to secure the fortune for + himself.</p> + + <p>The poison was too strong, and as the girls turned, + sickened, away, the evil features froze, more evil than ever + they had been in his evil life.</p> + <hr style='width: 45%;' /> + + <p>A few days later a brilliant wedding took place at Brent + Rock, which itself was a present to the bride and groom.</p> + + <p>After the guests had thinned out, Quentin and Eva strolled + into the garden, no longer in fear of attack from the steel + Automaton.</p> + + <p>Eva glanced at her ring, musing.</p> + + <p>"After all the things from which you have escaped, dear," + she murmured, a bit timidly, "I am afraid nothing in the world + can hold you."</p> + + <p>Quentin drew her into his arms, while her hand rested on his + shoulder, and kissed the little golden ring that encircled her + finger.</p> + + <p>"Nothing but that band of love," he smiled.</p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/308.jpg" + name="image308" + id="image308"><img width="400" + src="images/308s.jpg" + alt="BOUND AT LAST" /></a> + bound at last + </div> + + <h3 class="smcap">the end</h3> + + <p> </p> + + <p> </p> + + <p> </p> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/317.jpg" + name="image317" + id="image317"><img width="400" + src="images/317s.jpg" + alt="'AND I WILL MARRY HER IN SPITE OF YOU,' PAUL TOLD LOCKE" /> + </a> "and i will marry her in spite of you," paul told locke + </div> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:400px;"> + <a href="images/318.jpg" + name="image318" + id="image318"><img width="400" + src="images/318s.jpg" + alt="LOCKE FOILS THE CONSPIRATORS" /></a> + locke foils the conspirators + </div> + +<p> </p> +<p> </p> +<hr class="full" /> +<p>***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE MASTER MYSTERY***</p> +<p>******* This file should be named 16168-h.txt or 16168-h.zip *******</p> +<p>This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:<br /> +<a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/1/6/1/6/16168">https://www.gutenberg.org/1/6/1/6/16168</a></p> +<p>Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed.</p> + +<p>Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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