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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..44bb46e --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #51076 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/51076) diff --git a/old/51076-8.txt b/old/51076-8.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0fcc112..0000000 --- a/old/51076-8.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,8522 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Aaron Rodd, Diviner, by E. Phillips Oppenheim - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world 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 -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: Aaron Rodd, Diviner - -Author: E. Phillips Oppenheim - -Release Date: October 16, 2017 [EBook #51076] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK AARON RODD, DIVINER *** - - - - -Produced by Al Haines - - - - - - - - - - AARON RODD - DIVINER - - - BY - - E. PHILLIPS OPPENHEIM - - AUTHOR OF "THE OTHER ROMILLY" - "THE BLACK WATCHER," ETC. - - - HODDER AND STOUGHTON - LIMITED LONDON - 1920 - - - - -Contents - -CHAPTER I - -The Cunning of Harvey Grimm - - -CHAPTER II - -Poetry by Compulsion - - -CHAPTER III - -An Alliance of Thieves - - -CHAPTER IV - -Ulysses of Wapping - - -CHAPTER V - -The Mysterious Assistant - - -CHAPTER VI - -Paul Brodie Strikes - - -CHAPTER VII - -The Infidelity of Jack Lovejoy - - -CHAPTER VIII - -The Yellow Eye - - -CHAPTER IX - -The Vengeance of Rosa Letchowiski - - -CHAPTER X - -The End of Jeremiah Sands - - - - -_Chapter I_ _The Cunning of Harvey Grimm_ - -A queer, unexpected streak of sunshine, which by some miracle had found -its way through a pall of clouds and a low-hanging mist, suddenly fell -as though exhausted across the asphalt path of the Embankment Gardens. -A tall, gaunt young man, who had been seated with folded arms in the -corner of one of the seats, stared at it as though bewildered. His -eyes suddenly met those of a young lady in deep black, who was gazing -about her in similar stupefaction. Almost at once, and with perfect -spontaneity, she smiled upon him. - -"But it is astonishing, this!" she exclaimed. "Sunshine in London--in -January!" - -The young man was a little confused. He was very diffident, and such -lack of conventionality on the part of a perfect stranger surprised him. - -"It is unusual," he admitted. - -"It is a thing which I have never seen," she went on, dropping voice a -little and glancing towards a bath-chair close at hand, in which an -elderly and very delicate-looking old gentleman was muffled up in furs -and apparently asleep. "It is something, even, for which I had not -dared to hope. We seem so far here from everything that is bright and -beautiful and cheerful." - -Aaron Rodd, who was a shy and awkward being, felt unexpectedly at his -ease. He was even anxious for further conversation. He had a rather -long, pale face, with deep-set eyes and rugged features. He was -soberly, even sombrely dressed in dismal black. He had the air of a -recluse. Perhaps that was why the young lady smiled upon him with such -confidence. - -"You are not English?" he ventured. - -She shook her head. - -"What we are now, alas!" she sighed, glancing towards the bath-chair, -"I scarcely know, for we have no country. Like every one else in such -a plight, we come to England." - -"It is your father who sleeps there?" he enquired. - -"It is my grandfather," she told him. "Together--he and I and my -brother--we have passed through terrible times. He has lost all power -to sleep at night. In the daytime, when it does not rain, he is -wheeled out here, and, if it is only not too cold, then he sleeps as he -does now, and I watch." - -"You are very young to have charge of him." - -She smiled a little pitifully. - -"One grows old so quickly in these terrible days! I am already -twenty-one. But you," she went on--"see how inquisitive I am!--I saw -you yesterday from the distance, seated here. There are nursemaids and -queer fragments of humanity who seem to pass through these gardens and -loiter, and sometimes there are those with affairs who go on their way. -But you--what do you think of as you sit there? You are a writer, -perhaps?" - -He laughed a little harshly. His voice was not altogether pleasant. - -"I am a lawyer," he declared, "without a practice. Sometimes the -ghosts who call at my empty office stifle me and I come out here to -escape from them." - -"A lawyer? An _avocat_?" she repeated softly to herself. - -Evidently she found something to interest her in the statement. She -glanced towards the sleeping man. Then she came a little nearer. He -was conscious of a very delightful and altogether un-English perfume, -aware suddenly that her eyes were the colour of violets, framed -underneath with deep but not unbecoming lines, that her mouth was -curved in a fashion strange to him. - -"Englishmen, they say, are so much to be trusted," she murmured, "and a -lawyer, too..." - -"I am an American by birth," he interposed, "although I have lived over -here nearly all my life." - -"It is the same thing. We need advice so badly. Let me ask you one -question. Is it not the first principle of a lawyer to hold sacred -whatever confidence his client may confide in him?" - -"Absolutely," he assured her. - -"Even if that confidence," she persisted, "should bring the person who -offered it within the hold of the law?" - -"A lawyer may refuse a client," he said, "but he may never betray his -confidence." - -"Will you tell me your name and address?" she asked eagerly. - -"My name is Aaron Rodd," he told her. "My address is number seventeen, -Manchester Street, Adelphi, and my office is on the third floor." - -"Mr. Aaron Rodd," she repeated, with a queer little foreign intonation. -"That is a strange name and I shall remember it. When might one visit -you, monsieur? At three o'clock this afternoon?" - -"I shall be in all day." - -"Then au revoir!" she exclaimed, with an abrupt gesture of farewell. - -The old gentleman had opened his eyes and was gazing fretfully about. -She crossed the asphalt walk swiftly towards him. An attendant, who -seemed to have gone to sleep standing on one leg; gripped the handle of -the bath-chair. The girl passed her arm around the old man's shoulders -and whispered something to the attendant. They passed away together. -The little streak of sunshine had gone. Aaron Rodd thrust his ungloved -hands into his coat pockets and made his way in the opposite -direction.... - -About an hour later, a small, rubicund man, a man whose dark hair was -turning grey, but whose eyes were bright and whose complexion was -remarkably healthy, paused before the door-plate of an office building -in one of the back streets leading from the Adelphi. He was dressed -with extreme neatness, from the tips of his patent boots to his grey -felt hat, and he was obviously of a cheerful disposition. He glanced -down the list of names, twirling his cane in light-hearted fashion and -whistling softly to himself. Suddenly he paused. His cane ceased its -aimless configurations and rested for a moment upon a name about -half-way down the list, the name of Mr. Aaron Rodd, Solicitor and -Commissioner for Oaths. There was also an indication that Mr. Rodd's -offices were to be found upon the third floor. His prospective visitor -glanced around, and, discovering that there was no lift, started out -for the stone stairs. On the first landing he encountered a small boy, -descending with a roll of papers under his arm. Him the new-comer, -whose name was Mr. Harvey Grimm, promptly addressed. - -"My young sir," he said pleasantly, "from the red tape around that -bundle of papers which you are carrying, I gather that you have legal -connections. You are probably the confidential clerk of the gentleman -whom I am proposing to visit. Can you tell me, before I attempt -another flight of these very dusty and unsympathetic steps, whether Mr. -Aaron Rodd is within?" - -The boy glanced at his questioner suspiciously. - -"I am not in Mr. Rodd's office," he replied. "I'm Steel and Agnett, -second floor." - -"That," Mr. Harvey Grimm sighed regretfully, "is unfortunate. A very -excellent firm yours, my boy. Do not let me any longer interfere with -your efforts on their behalf." - -Aaron Rodd's prospective visitor, with a sigh, recommenced the ascent. -The boy looked after him for a moment dubiously and then disappeared. -Arrived at the third floor, at the extreme end of the corridor the -former discovered a door, on which was painted the name of _Mr. Aaron -Rodd_. He knocked, was bidden to enter, and stepped at once into a -single, bald and unpromising-looking apartment. - -"Good morning, Aaron!" he said cheerfully, closing the door behind him -and advancing across the dusty floor. - -Aaron Rodd, who had been seated before a desk, apparently immersed in a -legal document, first raised his head and then rose slowly to his feet. -His first look of expectancy, as he had turned towards his visitor, -faded by degrees into a very curious expression, an expression which -seemed made up of a great deal of amazement and a certain amount of -dread. With his left hand he gripped the side of the desk. - -"My God!" he exclaimed. "It's Ned----" - -His visitor held out his hand. - -"No, no, my dear Aaron," he interrupted firmly, "you are deceived by a -slight resemblance. You are thinking, probably, of that poor fellow -Ned Stiles. You will never see Ned again, Aaron." - -The intelligence appeared to cause the listener no grief. Neither did -it carry with it any conviction. - -"Harvey Grimm is my name," the new-comer went on, "Mr. Harvey Grimm, if -you please, of Chicago. You remember me now, without a doubt?" - -He extended his hand confidently. His smile was ingratiating, his air -that of an ingenuous child anxious for a favourable reception. Aaron -Rodd slowly thrust out his ink-stained fingers. - -"I remember you all right," he admitted. - -The visitor, having established his identity, seemed disposed to -abandon the subject. He glanced around the room, and, discovering a -cane-bottomed chair on which were piled some dust-covered documents, he -calmly swept them away, annexed the chair, which he carefully flicked -around with a silk handkerchief, and brought it to the side of the desk. - -"Sit down, my dear fellow, I beg you," he invited, laying his hat on -the floor by his side, hitching up his blue serge trousers and smiling -in momentary satisfaction at his well-polished shoes. "I have -appropriated, I fancy, the client's chair. Am I right, I wonder, in -presuming that there has not been much use for it lately?" - -"Perfectly right," was the grim reply. - -"Hard times these have been for all of us," Harvey Grimm declared, with -an air of placid satisfaction. "You are not expecting a client this -morning, I presume?" - -"Nor a miracle." - -"In that case I will smoke," the new-comer continued, producing a -small, gold case, selecting a cigarette and lighting it. "Try one." - -Aaron Rodd hesitated and finally accepted the offer. He smoked with -the air of one unused to the indulgence. - -"Mr. Harvey Grimm of Chicago," he muttered, studying his visitor's very -immaculate appearance. "Haven't I heard the name somewhere, or seen it -in the papers lately?" - -"Possibly," was the suave reply. "My arrival in London has, I think, -created some slight interest. Even your press, I find, is not above -recording the movements of a capitalist." - -"A what?" - -"A capitalist," Harvey Grimm repeated calmly. "With a name like mine, -and an abode like Chicago, I am amazed that you did not divine it." - -"Seven years ago," Aaron Rodd observed, "we divided seventeen pounds, -four shillings and eightpence. It was, I believe, our united capital." - -"And to judge by your surroundings," his companion sighed, "I fear, my -friend, that you have been emulating the man who tied up his talent in -a stocking. I, on the other hand----" - -"Have changed your name and become a capitalist," Aaron Rodd -interrupted drily. - -"Precisely!" - -There was a moment's silence. Mr. Harvey Grimm, with the beatific -smile of opulence, was whistling softly to himself. His companion's -thoughts had apparently travelled back into the past. - -"Well," the latter said at last, "I will imitate your candour. The -document I was examining with so much interest when you came in, is a -seven-year-old lease, long since cancelled. The few black boxes you -see around the room are, with one exception, bogus. I sit here from -morning till night and nothing happens. I sit here and brood." - -"Dear me! Dear me!" his visitor murmured sympathetically. - -"By turning my chair around," Aaron Rodd continued, "I can just catch a -glimpse of the river across the Gardens there. I sit and watch, wonder -whether a tug will go past next or a lighter, watch the people in the -gardens, wonder where they are going, why they are loitering, why -hurrying. I speculate about the few passers-by down in the street -there. Sometimes I close my eyes and I fancy myself in Lincoln's Inn, -seated in a padded morocco chair, with a Turkey-carpet on the floor, -and rows of boxes, black tin boxes, with wonderful names inscribed upon -them in white lettering, reaching to the ceiling, and my secretary -poring over my engagement book, wondering when it would be possible for -me to squeeze in half an hour for an important client." - -"Too much of the dreamer about you," Harvey Grimm pronounced. -"Perhaps, after all, it is the fault of your work. It's a sedative -profession, you know, Aaron. It wouldn't suit me to have to sit and -wait for clients." - -"It's the black bogey of my life," the other assented, with a thin note -of passion in his tone. "If only one could get out and work, even if -one didn't get a penny for it!" - -"And financially?" Harvey Grimm enquired, with an apologetic cough. - -"On the rocks," was the bitter reply. "You can understand," he went -on, with a heedless sarcasm, "what a wonderful thing it is for me to -welcome a capitalist in my shabby office." - -"And an old friend," was the cheerful reminder. "Come, come, Aaron, we -must look into this. I must place some of my affairs in your charge." - -Aaron Rodd's lip curled with bitter incredulity. - -"Some of your affairs! I had a taste of those in the old days, Ned--I -mean Harvey. You brought me to the brink of Sing-Sing, you drove me -over here to make a fresh start." - -Harvey Grimm waved his hand. These reminiscences were indelicate. - -"My dear fellow!" he protested. "Now come, answer me a few questions. -Such affairs of business as have fallen to your lot have been conducted -with--er--discretion?" - -"If you mean have I preserved my reputation," the lawyer replied -grimly, "I have. I have no temptation to do otherwise." - -"That is capital," his friend declared. "That helps us at once. And -now, I think," he went on, glancing at his neat little wristwatch, -"lunch." - -Aaron Rodd's first movement was almost eager. He checked himself, -however. Then a glance at his visitor's immaculate toilet and -distinctly opulent appearance reassured him. - -"There will be no trouble, I presume," he said a little diffidently, -"as to the settlement of our bill? I warn you before we start that a -shilling and a few coppers----" - -Harvey Grimm laid his hand almost affectionately upon the other's -shoulder. - -"My dear Aaron," he expostulated, "you are a little confused. You have -not yet taken in the position. A capitalist is, of course, a relative -term. I will not press that point. But let me assure you that I have -a suite of rooms at the Milan, ample credit for any meals I choose to -take there, even money to pay for them, if necessary." - -"I am not fit to go to the Milan," Aaron Rodd muttered, brushing -himself vigorously. - -"That is entirely your mistake," his friend replied, rising to his feet -and lighting another cigarette. "A judicious shabbiness is to-day an -approved form of eccentricity. With your ascetic face, my dear Aaron, -that little wisp of black tie, your clean but frayed collar, your -sombre, well-worn clothes, you would be mistaken by the casual observer -for either a Chancery lawyer with an indifferent housekeeper, or a -writer of dramatic blank verse, which every one admires but no one -buys. Reassure yourself, Aaron. I predict that as a companion you -will do me every credit." - -For the first time a grim, hard smile parted the lips of the man who -was making out with rather weary fingers the accustomed card to affix -to his door. - -"The needy adventurer is what I feel like in these days," he observed. - -"And why not adventurer?" Harvey Grimm protested, as they descended the -stone steps. "We are all needy, that is to say we all need something -or other, and we all--those of us who understand life, at any -rate--seek adventures. Even with the success I have myself attained--I -will be quite frank with you, my dear Aaron--I am entirely unchanged. -I can assure you that I am not above finding interest and pleasure, as -well as profit, in any adventure which may come to hand." - -His companion chuckled drily. - -"I can well believe it," he murmured. - -They strolled up the street, a somewhat curiously assorted couple. Mr. -Harvey Grimm's grey felt hat, his neat and somewhat jaunty figure, -rather suggested the successful trainer of careful habits, or elderly -jockey enjoying the opulence of middle age. Aaron Rodd, on the other -hand, looked exactly what he was--the lean and hungry professional man -with whom the times have gone ill. - -"Queer neighbourhood, this, you've chosen for your office, Aaron," his -friend remarked, pausing as they neared the corner. "What sort of -people come into these parts, anyway?" - -"It's just a backwater. There's the broad stream of London flowing on -to success and prosperity a few yards up the hill. If you listen for a -moment you can hear it. These little streets are just parasitical -branches, still alive and still struggling, but fit for nothing but to -be snapped off. All the furtive businesses in the world might be -conducted behind these silent, unwashed windows and blank -doorways--shabby theatrical agencies, doubtful publications, betting -offices of poor reputation. People come here to hide or to escape -notice. There was a murder committed down by the railings at the end -of the street, only a year or so ago." - -"Obviously," Harvey Grimm remarked cheerfully, "the region of -melancholia and tragedies. We must see how things go, Aaron. Perhaps, -later on, it would be as well for you to move to a better-known part. -Just at present, however, it is well enough." - -The tall young man looked down at his companion half derisively, half -eagerly. He knew him too well to ask many questions, knew him too well -to hope unduly, knew, too, the danger into which this simple luncheon -might lead him. Yet only a few nights ago he had thought of the river! -It was better to take luncheon with Harvey Grimm at the Milan than to -feel the black waters sucking his breath away! - - * * * * * - -"Feeling better, Aaron?" Harvey Grimm enquired of his friend, about an -hour and a half later. - -Aaron Rodd was both feeling and looking better and acknowledged the -fact. His manner towards his host, too, showed signs of a subtle -change. The latter was obviously _persona grata_ in the restaurant. -Their table, although a little retired, was in a coveted corner, and -attentions of every sort had been respectfully offered them. -Nevertheless, his guest felt some sense of relief when he saw the bill -signed with a little flourish and accepted with a low bow by their -waiter. Harvey Grimm leaned back in his chair and removed the cigar -for a moment from his lips. - -"You've no faith in me, Aaron," he declared, with an encouraging smile. -"That's what you always lacked, even in the old days--faith. You're -losing touch with the world, you know, cooped up in that musty office -of yours. You don't expect anything to happen to you so long as you -grub away there, do you?" - -"Nothing has happened, at any rate," Aaron Rodd admitted. - -"I will not say that it is your fault," his companion continued -tolerantly. "You are by nature of a meditative and retiring -temperament. It is a piece of extraordinarily good fortune for you -that I never forget old friends." - -"Have you anything to propose to me?" Aaron Rodd asked bluntly. - -His host leaned across the table. - -"Always so downright, my dear Aaron," he murmured, "so material! -However, you have asked the question and here is my answer. I am -proposing to remain in London for some little time. There are various -schemes which have suggested themselves to me, which might readily lead -to an enlargement of my income. For their prosecution, my dear Aaron, -I need one, only one companion whom I can trust, one man who is out for -the big things. That is why I come to you. I offer you a partnership -in the concern--Harvey Grimm and Rodd, Traffickers in Fate, Dealers in -Adventures. How your hand shakes, man! There, you've dropped the ash -from your cigar!" - -Aaron Rodd's thin lips were quivering. His eyes seemed full of -unutterable things. - -"I have made such a fight of it," he muttered. "You've got me, though, -Harvey. I've eaten my last crust. I should have had to sell my office -stool for a meal to-morrow." - -His friend shook his head genially. - -"My dear Aaron," he protested, "such a confession from a man of brains, -when one considers how the world is overrun with fools, is a terrible -one." - -"One has a conscience," Rodd sighed, "and a profession like mine -doesn't lend itself to crooked dealing." - -Harvey Grimm smiled tolerantly. He had the air of one listening to a -child. - -"The wolves of the world," he said, "keep their conscience, and as -regards wrong-doing, it's just success that makes the difference.... -My dear fellow!" he broke off, looking up into the face of a man who -had paused at their table and whose hand was now reposing heavily upon -his shoulder. "My dear Brodie, this is most opportune. Let me present -you to my friend, Mr. Aaron Rodd. Aaron, this is Mr. Brodie--in the -language of the cinemas," he added, dropping his voice a little and -leaning forward, "the sleuthhound of Europe, the greatest living -detective." - -Aaron Rodd sat for a moment motionless, the cigar slipped from his -fingers on to the plate. All his new hopes seemed crumbling away. His -eyes were fixed upon the hand which gripped his companion's shoulder. -Harvey Grimm began to laugh softly. - -"Cheer up, my pessimistic friend!" he exclaimed. "This isn't the grip -of the law which is upon my shoulder. Mr. Brodie and I are friends--I -might even say allies." - -Aaron Rodd recovered himself and murmured a few words of mechanical -greeting. The new-comer meanwhile took the chair which the waiter had -offered him. He was a tall, burly man, clean-shaven, with steely grey -eyes, and grey hair brushed back from his forehead. His manner was -consequential, his tone patronising. - -"So this is our third hand, eh?" - -"Guessed it in one with your usual astuteness," Harvey Grimm -acknowledged cheerfully. "A lawyer of unblemished character, not -momentarily affluent, with the principles of a latitudinarian." - -"Has he got the nerve?" Mr. Brodie demanded. "If we are on the right -track, there's no room for weaklings in the job." - -"Aaron Rodd's all right," his friend declared confidently. "You leave -that to me. I'll answer for him." - -The younger man leaned across the table. - -"Do I understand," he enquired, "that our enterprise is on the side of -the law?" - -Harvey Grimm smiled. - -"The present one, my dear Aaron. I should explain to you, perhaps, -that Mr. Brodie is not officially attached either to Scotland Yard or -to Police Headquarters in New York. He spent some years at Scotland -Yard and, having the good luck to inherit a small fortune, and feeling -himself handicapped by the antiquated methods and jealousies of his -competitors, he decided to strike out for himself as an independent -investigator. Some day he will tell us a few of his adventures." - -Mr. Brodie had folded his arms and was looking very imposing. - -"I have hunted criminals," he asserted, "in every quarter of the world. -I have methods of my own. I have a genius for making use of people." - -"So you see, my dear Aaron," Harvey Grimm pointed out, "at present Mr. -Brodie and I are the greatest of friends. He recognises the fact that -I am what is baldly spoken of as an adventurer, and that the time may -come when we shall find ourselves in opposite camps, but just at -present it is our privilege to be of service to Mr. Brodie." - -Then a thing, ordinary enough in its way, happened in a curious manner. -Mr. Brodie was a large man but he seemed suddenly to fade away. There -was his empty chair and a dim vision of a retreating figure behind one -of the central sideboards. Aaron Rodd seemed dimly conscious of a look -of warning flashed between the two men, but nothing equal to the swift -secrecy of Mr. Brodie's movements had ever confused his senses. Harvey -Grimm leaned across the table, holding his liqueur glass in his hand. - -"Slick fellow, Brodie," he murmured. "No good his being seen talking -to us when the quarry's about, eh? Nice brandy, this. On the dry -side, perhaps, but with a flavour to it." - -Aaron Rodd understood that he was to ask no questions and he discussed -the subject of brandy in a sufficiently ignorant manner. He, too, -however, within the course of the next few seconds, found need for the -exercise of all his powers of self-control. Only a few yards away from -him was a young man in some foreign uniform, with his arm in a sling, -discussing with a _maître d'hôtel_ as to the locality of his table. By -his side was the girl with whom he had talked that morning in the -Embankment Gardens, and behind the two, a somewhat pathetic picture, -was the old man, his face as withered as parchment, his narrow white -beard carefully trimmed, leaning heavily upon a stick. Almost as he -realised their presence they moved on, escorted by the _maître d'hôtel_ -to a table in a distant corner. Aaron Rodd drew a long breath as they -disappeared. His companion looked at him curiously. - -"Are those the people," the lawyer asked eagerly, "on whose account -Brodie moved away?" - -Harvey Grimm watched them settle in their places. - -"They are," he admitted. "A pathetic-looking trio! ... And, now, my -dear Aaron," he went on, "we will discuss your little adventure in the -Embankment Gardens this morning. You perceive that the moment is -appropriate." - -"My little adventure?" Aaron Rodd repeated blankly. "Why--you mean to -say you were there, then? You saw her speak to me?" - -"Certainly! I was seated a little further down, talking with my friend -Mr. Brodie. We had our eyes upon the young lady." - -Aaron Rodd felt a sudden disinclination to speak of that little gleam -of sunshine. - -"She spoke to me quite casually," he declared. "Afterwards she asked -me my profession. I told her that I was a lawyer. Perhaps she had -already guessed it. I suppose I do rather look the part." - -"You do indeed, my friend! And then?" - -The younger man hesitated. His partner's benevolent face suddenly -assumed a sterner aspect. - -"Aaron," he reminded him, "we are on business. The truth, please--no -reservations." - -"She asked me," the other went on, "whether the confidence of a client -is always respected by one in my profession." - -"And your reply?" - -"I assured her, of course, that under any circumstances it was." - -Harvey Grimm leaned back in his chair. He rolled the remaining drop of -brandy around in his glass, his expression was beatific. - -"My dear Aaron," he said, "fate smiles upon our new partnership. The -young lady is going to pay you a visit?" - -"At three o'clock this afternoon, if she keeps her word." - -"Finish your brandy and come with me to my apartment," Harvey Grimm -directed. "We have matters to discuss and arrange before you receive -that visit." - - * * * * * - -An hour or so later, Aaron Rodd was seated once more before his -dilapidated, ink-stained desk. The gloom of the winter afternoon was -only partly dissipated by the single gas-jet burning above his head. -The same old lease was spread out underneath his hands. In his face, -however, there was a distinct change. The listlessness had gone. He -had the air of one awaiting events. So he had sat for the last -half-hour, with his eyes fixed alternately upon the outside door, -purposely left ajar, and the inner one which led to his humble -bed-sitting-room. - -There came at last the sound for which he had been waiting. Up that -last flight of stone stairs he could hear distinctly the slow movement -of weary footsteps, the continual tapping of a stick, the occasional -cough and querulous complaint of a tired old man, and by the side of -those shuffling footsteps, others, marvellously light, the swish of a -silken skirt, the music of a clear, very sweet young voice. - -"You see, we are arrived," she was saying. "There is the name upon the -door. You will be able to sit down directly. Courage, dear -grandfather. Remember it is for Leopold's sake." - -Then there followed a gentle knock, the somewhat hesitating entrance of -the two, the half-doubtful look of the girl towards the tall, gaunt -young man whose face seemed almost saturnine underneath that unshaded -light. As he moved forward, however, she recognised him, and a smile -of relief parted her lips. - -"Ah! it is Mr. Rodd, is it not--the gentleman with whom I spoke in the -Gardens this morning--the lawyer?" - -He bowed. Anxiety made his voice sound even harsher. Many things had -happened since the morning. - -"You have kept your promise, then," he remarked. "You have come to -consult me. I am at your service. One moment." - -He brought two of the chairs which stood stiffly against the wall, and -placed them by the side of his desk. The old man sat down with an air -of relief. The passage up the stairs had apparently exhausted him. - -"We are very haphazard clients, I fear, Mr. Rodd," he said wearily. -"This is unfortunately one of my bad days. I must leave my -granddaughter to explain the reason of our visit, and in what manner we -hope to be able to make use of your services." - -"If I do so, grandfather," she said, turning a little towards him, "I -am going to tell the whole truth." - -"If it must be," he murmured uneasily. - -The girl took up at once the burden of explanation. - -"My grandfather, my brother and myself," she began, "are staying at the -Milan Hotel. We make use of a name, the name of Brinnen, to which we -have some right, even though it may be a shadowy one. We happen to be -Belgians by birth, a fact which at the present moment makes our -position easier. To be honest with you, however, my brother has just -returned from America. He has been engaged for some time in more -hazardous enterprises, even, than defending his country against the -Germans." - -The old man interrupted her impatiently. - -"These explanations are waste of time," he insisted. "Tell this -gentleman quickly what we desire of him." - -She patted his hand and glanced half apologetically across at Aaron -Rodd. He had resumed his seat before his desk, his face half hidden by -his hand. Listening to the girl's voice, he had become conscious of a -long-forgotten sentiment. Encumbered though she was with a difficult -mission, there was a certain fineness of speech and manner, an appeal -for sympathy in even this last gesture, which he found strangely -disturbing. - -"You need explain to me no more than you wish," he told her, a little -stiffly. "I shall be glad to be of any service to you. There is no -need for you to enter into any painful details." - -She shrugged her shoulders protestingly. - -"You and my grandfather are of one mind," she remarked. "Then I will -make a confession which may sound abrupt but which is nevertheless -true. We three--my brother, my grandfather and myself--are not -entitled to the sympathy we receive. We are, to a certain extent, -impostors. Is your standard of morals a very high one, Mr. Rodd?" - -"I--I scarcely really know," he stammered. "As a lawyer I am brought -into contact with all conditions of people. I have before now done my -best for the criminal as I have for the honest man." - -"It is reassuring," she admitted. "Behold, then, my full confession. -You have to do now with criminals--or may I say adventurers? We have, -we three, to dispose of secretly a very large amount of precious -stones. I have come to you for advice. The ordinary avenues of sale -are closed to us. How can we get into touch with some one who will buy -them and ask no questions?" - -Aaron Rodd was conscious of a little shock. Up to this last moment he -had been doubtful. Notwithstanding the story which had been unfolded -to him by Harvey Grimm, he had clung to his first impressions, -impressions from which he was parting now with dire reluctance. - -"It is not an easy matter," he admitted, "but if anyone can help you, I -can." - -The girl nodded. - -"There must be secrecy," she declared. "You see, my brother is, in a -way, notorious. He has been very daring and very successful. For the -sake of those who buy them, as well as for our own sake, the jewels -must not be recognised afterwards. - -"I have a friend who might arrange it," Aaron Rodd announced. "I must -warn you, however, that selling your stones in this way you cannot -possibly receive their full value." - -"We do not expect that," the old man mumbled. "What we want, though, -is the money--quickly." - -"My friend could doubtless manage that," the lawyer declared. - -"When can we see him?" the girl asked eagerly. - -"At once," was the prompt reply. "He was with me when you came and I -sent him into my private apartments. If it is your wish, I will fetch -him." - -"By all means," the old man insisted eagerly. - -"Yes, yes!" the girl echoed. - -Aaron Rodd rose to his feet and crossed the room to the door which led -into his private apartment. He opened it and beckoned to its unseen -occupant. - -"I have some clients here who would like a word with you, Grimm," he -announced. "There may, perhaps, be some business." - -Harvey Grimm made his appearance at once. His air of curiosity, as he -looked into the room, was very well done. - -"Business?" he repeated. - -"This gentleman and young lady," Aaron Rodd explained, "are clients of -mine. Their names are unnecessary. They have consulted me as to the -disposal of valuable jewels, their claim to which--might be open to -question." - -Harvey Grimm threw the cigar which he had been smoking into the -fire-place. - -"I see," he murmured. "Better tell me the circumstances." - -The girl repeated her story, with a few more details. The old man -listened in a sort of placid stupor. He interrupted only once. - -"It is a foolish way, this. There is a man in Amsterdam----" - -"You will tell me what you advise, monsieur," the girl begged. "We -must have money, and the jewels must be made unrecognisable." - -Harvey Grimm took a small magnifying glass from his pocket and screwed -it together. - -"You have probably brought some of the stones with you," he observed -briskly. - -The girl hesitated. She turned to her companion as though for -guidance. He was still mumbling to himself, however, something about -Amsterdam. - -"It is absolutely essential," Harvey Grimm continued, "that I should -know something definite about the character of the stones you have to -offer--that is if you wish me to deal with them." - -There was a brief silence. Then the girl rose to her feet and -deliberately turned away from the three men for several moments. When -she swung around again, she held in her hand a small chamois leather -bag. Very carefully she opened and shook out its contents into the -palm of Harvey Grimm's outstretched hand. - -"The large one," she said simply, "belonged to an American millionaire. -My brother says that it is worth twenty thousand pounds. He, too, is a -wonderful judge of precious stones." - -The old man seemed to wake up for a moment. - -"It is worth," he faltered, "a king's ransom." - -They all three bent over the little collection of jewels. Aaron Rodd's -expression was one of simple curiosity. His knowledge of diamonds was -_nil_. His partner's manner, on the other hand, underwent a curious -change. There was a hard glitter in his eyes and unsuspected lines -about his mouth. The atmosphere of the little room had become charged -with new forces. The girl's face was tense with excitement, the old -man seemed suddenly and subtly different. - -"Do not waste time," the former begged, a little feverishly. "It is -not safe to bring these jewels into the daylight, even here. If you -will buy, state your price. Give us an idea. We can meet again, -perhaps." - -Harvey Grimm turned towards them. - -"The small stones are negligible," he pronounced. "The large stone is -worth quite as much as you say. To cut it up, however, and then sell -it in a secret market, is another thing. The most you could hope for -would be five thousand pounds." - -The girl's face was a little vague. - -"Tell me," she enquired, "in English money how much is that a year?" - -"Two hundred and fifty pounds." - -"So that if there were ten stones like that," she went on, a little -wistfully, "that would be an income of two thousand, two hundred and -fifty pounds. One could live comfortably on that? One could hide -somewhere in a quiet country place and live like gentlefolk?" - -"Certainly," Harvey Grimm assured her. - -She turned a little doubtfully towards her companion. - -"I am afraid," she sighed, "that grandfather is almost past realising -what money means. In any case, we must consult my brother." - -Then there came without warning an interruption which seemed equally -startling to all of them. Without any preliminary summons, the door of -the office was thrown open. The detective, Brodie, followed by a man -in plain clothes out with an unmistakably professional appearance, -entered the room. The latter closed the door behind him. Brodie -approached the little group. The girl's eyes were lit with terror. -Harvey Grimm dropped his handkerchief over the jewels, whilst his -partner stepped forward. Aaron Rodd's tone was harsh with anxiety, his -face seemed more drawn than ever. - -"What do you want here?" he demanded. - -Mr. Brodie smiled tolerantly. His eyes were fixed upon the table. He -pushed the questioner on one side and lifted the handkerchief which -Harvey Grimm had thrown over the diamonds. Then he turned towards his -companion with a little cry of triumph. - -"That," he declared, pointing to the jewel upon the table, "is one of -the Van Hutten diamonds." - -"I do not understand," the girl said quietly enough, although she was -shaking from head to foot. "It belongs to us. It is the property -of----" - -"Cut it out," Brodie interrupted brusquely. "We'll talk to you, young -lady, at police head-quarters." - -The girl turned to Aaron Rodd. - -"Who is this man, and what does he want?" she cried. "Is this a trap -into which you have drawn us? Is it a crime, here in England, then, to -offer jewels for sale?" - -"We'll talk this all out at the police station," Brodie intervened -curtly. "Inspector?" - -The man in plain clothes stepped forward and took command of the -situation. - -"My instructions are," he announced politely, "to ask you both to come -with me to the police-station." - -The old gentleman simply looked dazed. He rose to his feet obediently -and turned towards the girl. She patted his arm reassuringly, but -there was a look in her face which brought a sob into Aaron Rodd's -throat. He was filled all the time with a silent fury. He cursed the -moment which had taken him into the Embankment Gardens, which had -brought Harvey Grimm once more into his life. The single look which -the girl had flashed upon him was like a dagger in his heart. - -Brodie had replaced the diamonds, one by one, in the little bag. He -handed them over to his companion and motioned them all towards the -door. The old gentleman moved wearily along, leaning upon his -granddaughter's arm. Aaron Rodd hurried forward and opened the door. -He tried to say something, but the girl turned from him contemptuously. -He stood on the threshold, listening to their slow footsteps as they -descended into the street. Then he swung back into the room, slammed -the door and sank into the chair in front of his desk. It was as -though he had passed through some terrible nightmare. He sat gazing -out through the shadows. Had it all really happened? Then he caught a -faint, unfamiliar breath of perfume which suddenly set his heart -beating with unaccustomed vigour. A little morsel of white lace lay -underneath the chair upon which she had been seated. He stooped and -picked it up, smoothed it out, and let it slip from his fingers almost -in despair. It was all true, then! She had sat in that chair, had -come to his office, trusting him, had walked into the -Harvey-Grimm-cum-Brodie trap! - - * * * * * - -It was an hour or more before Harvey Grimm returned. He closed the -door after him and came briskly across the floor. - -"Well, young fellow," he exclaimed, "you can't say that I haven't -fished you out of the backwaters." - -"I wish to God you'd left me there!" was the bitter reply. "Tell me -what's happened to her?" - -"To her?--oh, the young lady!" Harvey Grimm murmured, with an -illuminating smile. "She's all right. She's back at the Milan by this -time." - -"They couldn't identify the diamond, then?" Aaron Rodd asked eagerly. - -"Not by a long chalk," was the smiling reply. "To tell you the truth, -Brodie's about the sickest man in London just now. The stone he rolled -out in front of the expert they had waiting down at Scotland Yard -was----" - -"Was what?" - -"A lump of paste," Harvey Grimm declared, lighting a cigarette. "Queer -business, eh?" - -"There's no charge against the old gentleman and his granddaughter, -then?" Aaron Rodd demanded breathlessly. - -"None whatever. Why not try a cigarette, Aaron? You're all nerves." - -The lawyer pushed the box away from him. - -"You may think this sort of thing's worth while," he declared gloomily. -"I can't say that I do. There'll be no reward to share, and it seems -to me that we've made an enemy----" - -"There's no reward," Harvey Grimm agreed, "but there's this." - -He drew his handkerchief from his pocket. A diamond almost as large as -a cobnut rolled over and lay upon the desk. Aaron Rodd stared at it in -amazement. - -"What's that?" he demanded. - -"One of the Van Hutten diamonds," was the triumphant reply. "Look at -it well. You won't see it again. By this time to-morrow it will have -been cut." - -Aaron Rodd was stupefied. He looked from the stone up to his -companion's face. Even his demand for some elucidation was mute. - -"I had the duplicate ready," Harvey Grimm explained. "That was my -game. I changed them underneath my handkerchief. It was perfectly -easy. They've got the imitation one at police head-quarters and they -aren't feeling particularly pleased with themselves. That fellow -Brodie is about the bummest detective who ever crossed the Atlantic." - -Aaron Rodd was sitting transfixed. His fingers were shaking as they -beat upon the desk. - -"My God," he exclaimed as light streamed in upon him, "we're thieves!" - -"Don't talk like a fool," the other admonished. "It's a fair enough -game between crooks. We've stolen a stolen jewel, and by doing it -we've saved the girl and her grandfather and her brother, too, from -gaol. That's fair do's, isn't it? When I've finished with that, -there'll be a matter of three or four thousand pounds for us to divide. -What about it, eh?" - -He swept the jewel back into his pocket. Aaron Rodd's fingers were -still idly beating upon the desk. The walls of his dusty, bare -apartment had fallen away, the thrall of his sordid poverty lay no -longer like a dead weight upon his spirits. Three or four thousand -pounds to divide! - -"What you need," Harvey Grimm declared briskly, handing him his hat, -"is a drink. Come right along." - - - - -_Chapter II_ _Poetry by Compulsion_ - -Mr. Paul Brodie walked, unannounced, into Aaron Rodd's office, a matter -of ten days after the episode of the changed diamond. He had lost a -little of his bombast, and he carried himself with less than his usual -confidence. His eyes, however, had lost none of their old inquisitive -fire. He was perfectly aware, even as he greeted the two men who rose -to welcome him, that Aaron Rodd was wearing a new suit of clothes, that -the office had been spring-cleaned, that the box of cigarettes upon the -desk were of an expensive brand, and that the violets in the buttonhole -of Harvey Grimm's immaculate coat had come from a Bond Street florist. - -"Good morning, gentlemen," he said airily, subsiding into the chair -which the latter had vacated for him. "Nice little trio of -conspirators we are, eh?" - -Harvey Grimm shrugged his shoulders. - -"It's rough on you," he admitted--"gives you kind of a twist, of -course, with the police--but I can't see any sense in the thing yet. -They weren't meaning to trade off that bit of paste on a diamond expert -surely!" - -The detective scratched his chin. - -"That bit of paste," he declared, "was all they had on them, anyway. -Seems as though they hadn't quite sized you up--you and Mr. Rodd -here--and were paying you a test visit. Gee, they're clever!" - -"You had them searched, I suppose," the other enquired, "to be sure -they hadn't the real goods with them?" - -"You bet!" the detective assented gloomily. "Made it all the worse for -us afterwards. I tell you I daren't show my face at Scotland Yard -these days." - -Harvey Grimm nodded sympathetically. - -"Still, they must know that these people aren't what they profess to -be," he observed. - -"That's all very well," Brodie agreed, "but every one goes about with -kid gloves on in this country. That's why I threw up my job and went -over to the States. Even a criminal, a known criminal, has got to be -treated as though he were a little God Almighty until the charge is -right there and the proof lying handy. I spent last night with -Inspector Ditchwater. He's as sure as I am that the young man is no -other than Jeremiah Sands, but he'd sooner let him slip through his -fingers than take a risk." - -"How does it come about, then," Aaron Rodd asked quietly, "that a -famous diamond thief is wearing the uniform of a Belgian officer, that -he is decorated and wounded?" - -"Simple as possible," Brodie explained. "We knew perfectly well that -Jeremiah Sands was a Belgian. That little fact had been in every -description of him that's ever been issued. He chucked his little -enterprises in New York, the moment war was declared, and sailed for -Europe, bringing the loot with him. He was as clever as paint, though. -He played the old game of sending a double to Chicago, and he was in -Belgium before we knew the truth. There, from what we gather, he -handed over the stuff to the old man and his sister, and took up his -soldiering job. The worst of it is he's covered up his traces so well -that we haven't a chance unless we can catch him, or one of the three, -with the goods. Meanwhile, there he is, less than a quarter of a mile -away, with half a million of loot under his nose; there's a reward of -twenty-five thousand dollars for his apprehension; and here we three -men sit, needing the money, and pretty well powerless." - -"I wouldn't go so far as that," Harvey Grimm said quietly. "I don't -fancy you've come to the end of your tether yet, Brodie." - -The detective knocked the ash from his cigar and rose to his feet. - -"Well," he admitted, "I ain't giving up, sure. All the same, this -little failure has made things difficult for me. If I put my head in -at head-quarters and whisper 'Jeremiah Sands,' they're down my throat. -I just looked in to see how you boys were," he added. "They'll have -tumbled to you both now, so I'm afraid the game's off so far as you are -concerned. So long! See you round at the Milan about cocktail time, -Harvey, eh?" - -Mr. Brodie took his leave, with more expressions of cordiality. Aaron -Rodd closed the door carefully after him and came back into the room. -For several moments neither of the two men spoke. Harvey Grimm -carefully selected a cigarette and lit it. Then he walked to the door, -opened it and peered down the stairs. - -"Too damned amiable!" he muttered as he returned to his place. "Did -you see the way he peered around? You have brightened things up a bit, -Aaron." - -"I haven't done more than was absolutely necessary," the young lawyer -protested. "The place was simply filthy." - -Harvey Grimm suddenly burst into a hearty laugh and slapped his knee. - -"That's all right, old fellow," he declared. "It don't matter a snap -of the fingers. That chap Brodie does get me, though. A baby could -see through him. He's got just sense enough to believe that we pinched -the diamond--that's why he's been round here. It just don't matter a -damn, Aaron, what he suspects. That diamond doesn't exist any longer. -Neither our friends whom we--er--relieved of its incriminating -possession, nor Paul Brodie, will ever see that stone again. Let's -lunch." - -Aaron Rodd reached for his hat and followed his friend out into the -street. At the end of the little dingy thoroughfare, as they made -their way up towards the Strand, Harvey Grimm paused abruptly in front -of what seemed to be a small book-shop. There were only one or two -volumes in the window, of what seemed to be editions de luxe of some -unknown work. There was a single modern engraving and a water-colour -of Futurist propensities for background. Harvey Grimm eyed these -treasures appreciatively. - -"This place pleases me," he announced. "It has an air of its own. We -will spend a few minutes here." - -The two men entered and looked about them, a little bewildered by their -surroundings. They seemed to have stepped into a small and feminine -sitting-room, the walls of which were hung with water-colours of -unusual subjects and colouring. There was a little pile of -paper-covered volumes upon the table. A young lady of sombre and -uncertain appearance came forward, and Harvey Grimm promptly removed -his hat. - -"We have perhaps made a mistake?" he observed tentatively. "From the -exterior appearance of your establishment, I gathered that we might -possibly be able to procure here something unusual in the way of -literature. In a small way I am a collector of old books." - -"We are entirely modern here," the young woman replied. "I can show -you hand-made pottery, or the water-colours of a young Futurist artist, -or I can offer you the poetical works of one or two of our most modern -poets. Second-hand books or _objets d'art_ we do not deal in. We -consider," she concluded, "that modernity, absolute modernity, is the -proper cult." - -Harvey Grimm fanned himself for a moment with his hat. His companion -was gazing, with his mouth a little open, at a picture upon the wall -which appeared to him to represent the bursting of a ripe tomato upon a -crazy landscape. - -"An impression of war," the young woman remarked, following his gaze. -"A wonderful piece of work by a young Futurist painter." - -Harvey Grimm studied it for a moment through his eyeglass, and coughed. -He turned back to the table and picked up a paper-covered volume. - -"Poetry," he murmured, "is one of my great solaces." - -"Have you met with the work of Stephen Cresswell?" the young woman -enquired, almost solemnly. - -Harvey Grimm repeated the name several times. - -"For the moment----" he confessed. - -"Eightpence," the girl interrupted, depositing one of the paper-covered -volumes in his hand. "Perhaps your friend would like one, too. I can -promise you that when you have read Cresswell's Spring Lyrics, you will -find all Victorian poetry anæmic." - -Harvey Grimm handed a copy to his companion, laid down two shillings -and pocketed the eightpence change a little diffidently. - -"You would perhaps like to look around," the young lady suggested. - -She vanished into an inner room. Almost at that moment the door -leading into the street was violently opened, and a young man of -somewhat surprising appearance abruptly entered. He was over six feet -in height, he wore a flannel shirt and collar much the worse for wear, -a brown tweed coat from which every button was missing, and through an -old pair of patent boots came an unashamed and very evident toe. The -two visitors stared at him in amazement. The young man's eyes, from -the moment of his entrance, were fixed upon the paper volume which -Harvey Grimm was carrying. - -"Sir," he enquired, "am I to conclude that you have purchased a -copy--the copy of poems you hold in your hand?" - -"I have just done so," Harvey Grimm admitted, "also my friend." - -The young man pushed past him towards the inner room. - -"Bertha," he exclaimed loudly, "eightpence, please! You have sold two -copies of my poems. The eightpence!" - -There was a momentary silence and then the clinking of coins. The -young man reappeared and made for the door with an air of determination -in his face. Harvey Grimm tapped him on the shoulder. - -"Sir," he said, "forgive me if I take a liberty, but am I right in -presuming that you are the author of this volume?" - -"I am," was the prompt reply, "and I am going to have a drink." - -"One moment, if you please," his questioner begged. "This, you must -remember, is an impertinent age. Modernity demands it. Are you not -also hungry?" - -"Ravenous," Mr. Stephen Cresswell confessed, "but what can one do with -eightpence?" - -"You will join my friend and myself," Harvey Grimm declared firmly. -"We are going to take a chop." - -The young man's tongue seemed to wander around the outside of his lips. - -"A chop," he repeated absently. - -"At a neighbouring grill-room," Harvey Grimm went on. "Come, I have -bought two copies of your poems. I have a claim for your -consideration." - -"Do I understand," the young man asked, "that you will pay for the -chop?" - -"That will be my privilege," was the prompt assertion. - -"You are doubtless mad," the poet observed, "but you are probably -opulent. Let us hurry." - -They left the place and crossed the street, the young man in the -middle. Aaron Rodd was speechless. His eyes seemed fascinated by the -deficiencies of their new friend's toilet, a fact of which he himself -seemed sublimely unconscious. Harvey Grimm, however, proceeded to make -a delicate allusion to the matter. - -"Some little accident, I gather," he remarked, "has happened--forgive -my noticing it--to your right shoe." - -The poet glanced carelessly downwards. - -"It occurred this morning," he sighed. "To tell you the truth, I had -scarcely noticed it. There was a green streak in the sunrise. I -hastened----" - -Harvey Grimm had paused in front of a boot shop. - -"This place," he said firmly, "will do as well as another." - -"Why not?" the young man agreed, entering promptly, seating himself -upon the nearest vacant chair and holding out his foot. "Something -light," he begged. "You will observe that my foot is long and narrow." - -The shopman withdrew the tattered remnants of shoes and stared in -amazement at his prospective customer's bare feet. The latter held out -his hand for a cigarette and tapped it against the side of Harvey -Grimm's case. - -"It appears to me," he continued, gazing at his mud-stained feet, "that -I came out without socks. The sunrise again. However, it is a -deficiency which I perceive that you are in a position to remedy." - -He selected without embarrassment a pair of socks and shoes, and was -perfectly willing to don a tie which they purchased from a small -haberdasher's shop at the end of the street. That affair disposed of, -however, he became quite firm. - -"The affair of the chop----," he insisted. - -"We are there," Harvey Grimm interrupted, leading him to an hotel -grill-room. - -The young man paused before the large, open grid and carefully -indicated the chop which he considered suitable for his consumption. -He then seated himself opposite his two friends and expressed himself -in favour of a mixed vermouth. - -"A very pleasing encounter, this," he declared, drawing the eightpence -from his pocket and looking at it thoughtfully. "May I ask, sir, -whether you are acquainted with my poems?" - -"Not yet," Harvey Grimm confessed. - -"Your purchase, then, was accidental?" - -"Entirely," his patron explained. "My friend and I are adventurers. -We seek the unusual. The appearance of the shop where we met you -attracted us. The young lady to whom we addressed some enquiries -tendered us a copy of your verses." - -The young man sighed. - -"It is a scandalous thing," he said, "to be published in paper covers -at eightpence--fourpence to the author. So you are adventurers. You -mean by that thieves?" - -"Sir," Aaron Rodd interrupted, "I am a solicitor." - -"My ignorance," the young man declared, "is amazing, but that, I -presume, is a legalised form of robbery? I am one of the few persons -in the world who give value for the money I earn. I produce, create. -If only ten thousand people in the city were to pay eightpence for a -copy of my works, I should be affluent, as you two are. I should lunch -here every day and drink Burgundy." - -"Then in a very short time," Harvey Grimm reminded him, "you would -cease to write poetry." - -His protégé shook his head. - -"A well-nurtured body is an incentive to poetic thought," he insisted. -"There is a richness of imagery which comes with after-dinner -composing; a sort of mental starvation, an anæmic scantiness of -similes, which follows the fruit luncheon and cold water of necessity. -Adventurers, gentlemen, are you? That is to say you are people with -wits. Tell me, then--bring me an idea from the practical world--how -shall I make ten thousand people buy a copy of my poems?" - -"Come, that's an interesting problem," Harvey Grimm declared. "Of -course, if one were to answer you in a single word, that one would be -advertisement." - -"If I could write my name across the heavens, or flash it from a -million lights through the clouds," the young man remarked, "I would do -so, but these things call for either miraculous powers or money. I -have neither." - -"Your case," Harvey Grimm promised, "shall have our attention, my -friend's and mine. In the meantime, the moment seems opportune, -pending the arrival of our chops, for a glance at your work. Permit -me." - -The poetaster crossed his legs, leaned back in his chair, thrust an -eyeglass into his eye, and turned over the pages of the paper volume -which he had been carrying. Aaron Rodd followed his example. The -poet, entirely unembarrassed, eyed hungrily each covered dish which -passed. At the arrival of the meal, Harvey Grimm solemnly pocketed his -book and replaced his eyeglass. Aaron Rodd went on reading for a -moment. Then he glanced surreptitiously at their guest and laid his -volume face downwards upon the table. - -"Your poems, I perceive," Harvey Grimm observed, as he helped himself -to a potato, "are not written for the man in the street." - -"They are written," the poet declared, falling hungrily upon his chop, -"for any one who will pay eightpence for them." - -Conversation faded away. It was not until the service of coffee and -cigars that anything more than disjointed words were spoken. The young -man's face was still colourless but his eyes were less hard. He took -out his pencil and toyed for a moment with the menu. - -"Some little trifle," he suggested, "commemorative of the occasion?" - -"I would rather," Harvey Grimm confessed, "think out some scheme for -advertising your work. There's a little thing here about a lame -'busman----" - -"Any scheme you suggest," the young man assented dreamily. "I frankly -admit that the dispersal of my productions is a matter in which I have -failed. The appreciative few may have purchased but the man of the day -passes on, ignorant of the great need he really has of poetry. Ten -thousand copies of my poems, sold in London, would produce at once a -more gracious spirit. You would observe a difference in the -deportment, the speech, the greater altruism of the multitude. How -shall I force my works into their hands and their eightpences into my -pocket?" - -"Fourpence only," Aaron Rodd reminded him. "The publishers get half." - -"In the event of a large circulation," the poet pointed out, with a -wave of the hand, "better terms might be arrived at. You, as a legal -man, can appreciate that possibility." - -"There is only one idea which occurs to me," Harvey Grimm declared, -after a brief pause. "Come and we will make an experiment." - -They marched out into the streets and walked solemnly along towards -Leicester Square. Suddenly Harvey Grimm stopped short and accosted a -small, grey-haired man who was carrying a bag and walking quickly. - -"I beg your pardon, sir," the former began. - -"What is it?" the little man demanded. - -Harvey Grimm took him gently by the lapel of his coat. The little man -seemed too surprised to resist. - -"I want the privilege of a few minutes' conversation with you," Harvey -Grimm continued. "You are one of the uneducated ten thousand who, on -behalf of my friend here, Stephen Cresswell, the great poet, I am -anxious to reach. Have you read Cresswell's poems?" - -"I am in a hurry," the little man insisted, gazing at his interlocutor -in a bewildered manner, and struggling to escape. - -"The whole world is in a hurry," Harvey Grimm observed, drawing the -paper volume from his pocket with the other hand. "This volume of -poems will cost you eightpence. It will bring relief to its -impoverished author, you yourself will become an enlightened----" - -"I wish you'd let me go," the little man protested angrily. "I don't -know you, and I don't want to stand about the streets, talking to a -stranger. Let me go or I'll call a policeman." - -"A policeman can afford you no assistance," Harvey Grimm assured him. -"I shall remain polite but insistent. You will buy this volume of -poems for eightpence, or----" - -"Or what?" his victim demanded. - -Harvey Grimm leaned down and whispered in his ear. The little man's -hand shot into his pocket. He produced sixpence and two coppers, -snatched at the book and hurried off. The victor in this little -rencontre turned to his companions with an air of triumph and handed -the eightpence to the poet, who immediately pocketed it. - -"The whole problem is solved," he declared. - -"You are a great man, sir," the poet exclaimed, grasping him by the -hand, "but what was it you whispered in his ear?" - -"I simply told him," Harvey Grimm said blandly, "that I should biff him -one. The cost of a new hat is ten and sixpence; the price of your -poems is eightpence." - -"You are a great man, sir," the poet repeated heartily. "Watch the -newspapers." - - * * * * * - -With a bunch of early violets in his buttonhole, neatly and correctly -dressed from the crown of his hat to his patent boots, Mr. Harvey -Grimm, one morning about a fortnight later, turned down the narrow -street which led to his friend Aaron Rodd's office. He took a few -steps and paused in surprise. A little crowd encumbered the pavement -in front of him. There were at least half a dozen taxicabs waiting by -the side of the pavement. A printer's van was busy unloading. A -constant procession, consisting chiefly of elderly and middle-aged men, -were entering and leaving the little book-shop. Waiting his turn, -Harvey Grimm stepped in. The whole of the central table was taken up -by great piles of a little paper-covered volume, recognisable at once -as the Poetical Works of Stephen Cresswell, and as fast as the flow of -customers could be served, they departed with one or more copies in -their pockets. The young lady whose hair was more untidy than ever, -and who wore a stupefied air, doled them out in doll-like and -mechanical fashion. She had lost her air of superiority. She pointed -no longer to the sketches upon the walls or the pottery beyond. She -behaved like a dazed automaton. Now and then Harvey Grimm could hear -her reply to enquiries. - -"There will be a cloth edition of Mr. Cresswell's works out in a few -days," she said. "The printers have promised them by the end of the -week." - -In the background were two very obvious newspaper men, waiting so far -unsuccessfully to get in a word with her. Mr. Harvey Grimm elbowed his -way by some means or other into the line, paid his eightpence and -retired into the recesses of the little suite of rooms beyond for a -moment's breathing-space. A rush of at least a dozen old gentlemen had -made exit temporarily impossible. As he stood and watched the scene, -he was conscious of a fashionably dressed young man lounging in an easy -chair a few yards away. The young man suddenly arose. - -"My benefactor!" he cried. - -Harvey Grimm gripped his copy of poems tightly and held it up. - -"Pax!" he exclaimed. "I have one." - -The poet smiled wearily. He drew his erstwhile patron a little further -back into the most retired portion of the premises. - -"Listen," he said, "this has been the most stupendous, the most -colossal joke of the day. On the first night I sandbagged a wholesale -provision merchant who admitted that he had never read my poems, and he -wrote to _The Times_ the next morning. I made myself objectionable to -seven others the following night. They, too, made various complaints. -After that I retired--their description of my identity was becoming -embarrassing." - -Mr. Harvey Grimm was a little puzzled. - -"But the thing has been going on right up till last night," he -declared. "The papers for days have been a source of joy to me." - -"After the first few nights," the young man explained, "I was compelled -to engage substitutes. I have acquaintances whose life has been -spent--shall we say on the fringe of things? With their aid I made the -acquaintance of various professional gentlemen from the east end, who -for a suitable remuneration took up this business with avidity. They -were of all sizes and they operated in all localities, choosing their -victims, so far as possible, with discretion. There was but one -question--'Have you read the poems of Stephen Cresswell?'--generally a -bewildered negative and then biff! The people began frantically to -enquire who was Stephen Cresswell, where were his poems to be obtained? -People who had the slightest pretensions to literary knowledge were -assailed with questions. _Punch_----" - -"I saw _Punch_," Mr. Harvey Grimm interrupted. "Very clever!" - -"Then the stream began," the young man continued. "I can assure you -that from the opening time till dark this place is mobbed. You see, on -the third night a confederate was saved from an imaginary assault by -promptly producing a copy of my poems. He wrote to the paper in mock -indignation but describing his escape. Then the rush began. Eleven -thousand copies have been sold, some at a premium. Eleven thousand -fourpences have found their way into my pocket. A morocco-bound and -vellum-covered edition are waiting in the press for one thing." - -"And that?" - -"The name of my benefactor. I wish to dedicate the third, fourth and -fifth editions of my poems to you," the young man declared -grandiloquently. - -Mr. Harvey Grimm pondered. - -"It is an immense compliment," he acknowledged. "We will talk of it." - -"In the meantime," the poet went on, "listen. The curse of these days -is jealousy and imitation. A young man of worthy upbringing but wholly -ignorant of art, who perpetrated the daubs which you see upon the walls -here, was struck with my success. Only last Thursday an elderly -gentleman, such a one as might have been selected by my own employés, -was stopped in Hampstead and asked whether he had seen the sketches of -Sidney Wentworth, displayed in Manchester Street, Adelphi. The fool -admitted that he had never heard of them and down he went. I ask you, -sir, was there ever a more flagrant case of spoiling a man's market? -From the moment this absurd affair was reported, public feeling has -begun to change. Curiously enough, there has been very small -resentment, even on the part of those who have suffered slight pains in -the cause of art, as to my methods. Now, however, that the idea has -commenced to spread that such means are becoming a regular curriculum -of the advertiser, I have noticed distinct expressions of indignation. -In plain words, I can see the end coming." - -"Nothing lasts," Mr. Harvey Grimm pointed out, "and you must admit -you've had a run for your money." - -"I've had more than that, sir," the poet admitted. "I am established. -Many of the leading periodicals of the day, including _Titbits_ and the -_London Mail_, have invited me to contribute to their pages. The -Society of Authors has made me a tempting proposition to join their -ranks. You may look upon me, sir, as a man whose future is now -assured." - -"I am delighted to hear it," Mr. Harvey Grimm declared heartily. "I -fear I must now be getting on." - -The young man took down, his hat, possessed himself of a pair of -expensive doeskin gloves and a silver-topped cane. - -"I will let you out by the back way," he suggested. "It is my desire -to accompany you." - -"I am going to call upon a friend in the neighbourhood," Harvey Grimm -remarked. - -"The friend with whom I met you first?" - -"The same." - -"I shall accompany you," the young man announced, cautiously opening a -side door and peering up and down a stone-flagged passage. "The way is -clear, sir. Come with me." - -They sallied out and found themselves in the street. The young man -gripped the arm of his companion. - -"For the moment," he confessed, "I am weary of poetry. I seek life. -You are an adventurer, you have told me. I shall link my fortune with -yours. You have a brain, sir, enterprise, and I should imagine that -you are untrammelled by the modern conscience. I am in the same -position. Poetry is affording me, for some time, at least, the means -of sustenance. Let us go together a little further afield." - -The older man looked his companion up and down. He was a strong, -well-built young fellow, and the hollows of his cheeks had already -filled out. Notwithstanding his mannerisms, he was without doubt a -young man of resolution. - -"We will see," Harvey Grimm suggested, "what Aaron Rodd has to say -about it." - -"I like your friend's name," the young man declared solemnly. "I am -sure that he will accept me as a comrade." - -They trod the few remaining yards of pavement, ascended the stone -stairs, and, after a preliminary knock at the door, Harvey Grimm, -exercising the privilege of familiarity, turned the handle and stepped -inside, followed by his companion. For a single moment neither of them -spoke. Harvey Grimm's first conscious action was to close the door -behind him. Then they stood inside the apartment, transfixed. Around -them was a scene of the wildest disorder. The linoleum had been torn -up and thrown into a corner, planks had been torn bodily from the -floor, the cupboards stood open and their contents were thrown right -and left. The little row of tin boxes stood on their sides, and masses -of dusty parchment littered the whole place. Seated in his chair -before the desk was Aaron Rodd, with a gag in his mouth, his arms bound -behind him, his legs tied together. His face was livid, his eyes half -closed. He showed no signs of life at their coming. The poet produced -a knife. - -"We must set him free," he said. - -His companion, subconsciously amazed at the young man's initiative, -followed him to the desk. Methodically the latter, having removed the -gag from Aaron Rodd's mouth, cut the bonds which held him, one by one. -Harvey Grimm produced a small brandy flask and held it to his lips. -The poet threw open a window and swung the chair round. Aaron Rodd -groaned. - -"He is coming to," Cresswell remarked hopefully. - -He caught up a sheaf of newspapers and fanned the swooning man -vigorously. Then he suddenly paused. Harvey Grimm followed the -direction of his gaze. A sheet of violet-coloured note-paper was -pinned upon the desk. The poet sniffed. - -"What a delicious odour!" he murmured. "And how familiar!" - -They both approached a little nearer. The sheet of note-paper, -fluttering a little in the breeze which streamed through the window, -gave out the subtlest and most delicate perfume, a perfume which seemed -like a waft from a field of violets, carried on a west wind. There -were only a few words, written in a delicate feminine handwriting:-- - - - "_Should there not be honour, even amongst thieves?_" - - -The young man struck a theatrical attitude. - -"Fate has sent me to join you," he declared, waving his hand towards -the sheet of violet-coloured paper. "I recognise the handwriting. I -know well the perfume. I can tell you who wrote that note." - - - - -_Chapter III_ _An Alliance of Thieves_ - -Aaron Rodd was walking along the, to him, unfamiliar thoroughfare of -Bond Street when he was suddenly confronted with a vision. A large -limousine motor-car was drawn up just in front of him. An elderly lady -with white hair, leaning upon the arm of a powdered footman, crossed -the pavement, followed by a girl who was smothered in sables, carried a -small dog under her arm, and wore a great bunch of violets partially -concealed by her furs. Aaron Rodd's abrupt pause was not one of -politeness alone. With an eagerness which took no account of manners -or discretion, he gazed at the girl, open-eyed, open-mouthed, blankly, -unashamed. If anything were left to complete his bewilderment, it was -the little smile upon her lips as she met his eyes. - -"Good afternoon, Mr. Aaron Rodd!" she murmured, as she passed. - -She disappeared through the swing doors of the shop. Aaron stared -after her as though expecting a backward glance, stared at the very -handsome motor-car, at what appeared to be a coronet upon the panel, at -the imperturbable expression of the powdered footman, standing with a -rug over his arm, looking into vacancy. Then he limped on a few feet -and devoted himself to an absorbed contemplation of some Japanese -trifles in a curio shop. - -He lost count of time in his firm determination to await her return. -As a matter of fact, it was only a few minutes before he was conscious -of her reappearance. She hesitated for a moment on the threshold of -the shop, shook her head at the footman who was already opening the -door of the car, and approached Aaron Rodd. He turned abruptly from -the window and greeted her with grave politeness. She glanced at his -left arm, still in a sling; at the heavy walking-stick by which he -supported himself. - -"Good afternoon, Mr. Rodd," she said. "You have met, perhaps, with a -little accident? It is so?" - -"Your friends were a little rough," he replied. - -"I shall be annoyed with them," she promised. "You received my -message?" - -"Certainly," he replied. "On the whole I agree with you." - -She shrugged her shoulders. - -"And what are you doing in Bond Street?" she asked him. - -"I am on my way to meet my friend Harvey Grimm." - -She nodded. - -"That is your clever confederate, who stole our diamond," she remarked -suavely. - -"A very fortunate circumstance for you," he ventured to remind her. -"If that stone--the real one, I mean--had been discovered in your -possession at the police-station, I fancy that your position in this -country would have become a little difficult." - -"Oh, la, la!" she laughed. "You should have seen the face of Mr. -Brodie though, when they examined the imitation stone! I do not think -that the English police are pleased with him. They were very kind to -my grandfather and me." - -"Nevertheless," he advised, "if I were your brother, I think that I -would keep away from London just now." - -"And why?" - -Aaron Rodd glanced up and down the pavement to be sure that there were -no listeners. - -"That fellow Brodie is not such a fool as he seems," he declared. "He -has made one mistake. I do not think that he is likely to make -another." - -She laughed. - -"If it is to be a duel of wits," she murmured, "between Leopold and Mr. -Brodie, do you know, I believe that Leopold will win." - -"There is such a thing as over-confidence," he reminded her. - -"I have so many ways," she told him, with twinkling eyes, "of diverting -these people from the scent. Do you recognise the old lady upon whom I -am in attendance to-day, the old lady who went with me into that shop?" - -"I have not that pleasure," he replied grimly. "Is she one of the -gang?" - -"She is a royal princess--the Princess Augusta. If you do not believe -me, look in this week's _Tatler_ and you will see her picture--perhaps -mine. You are a very funny man, Mr. Aaron Rodd, and you have treated -us very badly indeed, but I like you--yes, I like you quite well. How -much money did you get for that stone you stole from us?" - -The colour mounted mercilessly to his temples. He seemed suddenly -bereft of words. - -"Do not be foolish," she continued quickly. "Really, as you know, I am -an adventuress myself, and I rather admire you both. I think that we -ought to make friends. You could be of great service to us. There is -no need for us to quarrel because you have had the best of this first -little exchange. What do you say to that, my friend?" - -Aaron Rodd found himself and became once more a man. He looked her -squarely in the eyes. - -"I would rather be friends with you," he said, "than any one in the -world." - -For a moment the triumph was his. It was she who was almost -embarrassed by his directness. Then intervention came. - -"Ah!" she exclaimed, "the Princess! Au revoir!" - -She stepped lightly away from him, with a little nod of farewell. The -footman stood bare-headed as he opened the door of the car. One of the -principals of the establishment which the grey-haired lady had just -quitted stood bowing upon the pavement. In the face of all this, the -girl turned deliberately around and waved her hand as the car drove -off. Aaron Rodd limped down Bond Street, called for a taxi and drove -to the Milan Court.... - -His two auditors listened to Aaron Rodd's story with varying -expressions--the poet with pleased and affable sympathy; Harvey Grimm, -on the other hand, with obvious irritation. They were seated in a -corner of the smoke-room and the latter at once despatched a waiter for -a copy of the _Tatler_. When it arrived, they all three pored over one -of the leading illustrations. There was no doubt whatever in the minds -of any of the three men as to the identity of the girl who was depicted -as being amongst the ladies-in-waiting of a royal personage. - -"That," the poet declared, "is a young lady whose name is Henriette de -Floge. She has an underhand service at Badminton and she wants to -learn to be a futurist. She attended a class last year, organised by -an artist friend of mine in Chelsea. Ye gods!" - -"That, without a single doubt," Aaron Rodd assented, laying his -forefinger upon the illustration, "is the young lady who was in -attendance this afternoon upon the Princess Augusta." - -"And it is equally and absolutely and conclusively certain," Harvey -Grimm pronounced, "that she came to Manchester Street, Adelphi, as the -confederate of Jeremiah Sands." - -"Who," the poet asked eagerly, "is Jeremiah Sands? I like the name." - -"Jeremiah Sands," Harvey Grimm told him, "is the head and brains of the -smallest but most formidable band of criminals who have ever succeeded -in eluding justice for nearly ten years. There is a reward of -twenty-five thousand dollars for his arrest in America, and he is -wanted in most of the capitals of Europe. He has a dozen aliases and a -score of personalities. This much about him is certain. He is either -of Belgian or French birth, he is a young man, and he has spent the -greater part of the last seven years in America. The universal excuse -given by the police of every country for their failure to apprehend -him, is that for at any rate the last five years he has simply -accumulated his booty and has made no effort to dispose of it. As you -know, most of the thieves of the world are traced backwards through the -receiver of stolen goods. His last exploit in New York was the theft -of the Van Hutten jewels. It was, without a doubt, one of those -diamonds which was mislaid in Aaron Rodd's office, and it was one of -Jeremiah Sands' agents who paid our friend here that last domiciliary -visit in search of it." - -"What, by the by, became of that diamond?" the poet enquired. - -"We are living upon it," Mr. Harvey Grimm confessed. - -The poet sighed enviously. - -"It is a beautiful existence," he declared. "When are we going to -embark upon another adventure of the sort?" - -"The aftermath of the last one is still enveloping us," Mr. Harvey -Grimm reminded him. "There is Scotland Yard, who have seen the -imitation stone and who suspect us of changing it. Then there is Mr. -Jeremiah Sands, who knows that we did, and who is only just beginning -to realise that we have been clever enough to dispose of it. Finally, -there is Mr. Brodie, the amateur detective, who has the same idea and -who is furious with us for letting him down with the authorities. -Between the three, you see, our position is a little difficult. -Personally, I am much interested in our friend Aaron's account of his -conversation with the young lady. Her suggestion of some measure of -alliance appeals to me." - -"And me," the poet agreed. "Let us approach them at once. I should -like to come into contact with this Jeremiah Sands." - -There was a brief interval whilst a waiter deposited before them a tray -of cocktails, subtly ordered by the poet by means of sundry evolutions -with his forefinger. Afterwards, Mr. Harvey Grimm sat for a few -moments in silence, smoothing out his immaculate doeskin gloves. - -"Listen," he said presently, after a cautious glance around the room, -"I will tell you my impressions. Jeremiah Sands has never been caught, -for two reasons--first, because he has stored up all his booty and has -never been in the hands of the receivers; secondly, because he has -hiding-places in every capital of Europe, all of them safer than London -or New York. At the present moment he is like a rabbit which has been -ferreted out of its hole. Europe is suddenly closed to him. He has -been driven to London. He is ill at ease here. He has lost many of -his agents. To maintain his Belgian nationality he has been forced -into the army. The perfect machinery of his wonderful system must be -seriously dislocated. The time, too, has probably arrived when he -finds it necessary to dispose of some of his plunder. Let us offer him -a tentative amity." - -Aaron Rodd frowned. - -"Do you think that he would trust us after that last little affair? I -don't mind being the thief or the thief-catcher," he added bluntly, -"but I rather hate being the third party." - -"The only party we have to consider is ourselves," Harvey Grimm replied -deliberately. "To tell you the truth, I fear that we have lost the -confidence of Paul Brodie. I am not sure whether it would be worth our -while to try and regain it. The sharing of rewards is a poor game. I -would rather hear what Jeremiah Sands has to say." - -He took up his pencil and scrawled a few lines across a half sheet of -note-paper. They both looked over his shoulder:-- - - - "_If the young lady with violets would like to resume her - conversation with a certain person in Bond Street this morning, - please reply in Friday's 'Telegraph.'_" - - -"I propose," Mr. Harvey Grimm explained, "to insert this in to-morrow -morning's _Telegraph_, to send a copy to Mr. Brinnen and await results." - -"Brilliant!" the poet exclaimed. "It gives the proper flavour to the -whole thing. But why not write a note and send it up by the waiter?" - -Mr. Harvey Grimm smiled. - -"My young friend," he said, "you are an adventurer of the bull-dog -type. Let me tell you this. I happen to know it to be a fact. From -the moment when Mr. Paul Brodie communicated his suspicions as to our -friends, to Scotland Yard, their every movement, and without doubt -their correspondence, has been closely watched. I will guarantee to -you that not a letter is delivered to either Captain Leopold Brinnen, -to Mr. Brinnen or to the young lady, which does not run a very -considerable risk of being opened." - -The poet listened with a pleased smile. - -"I like the flavour of this sort of thing," he acknowledged. "Let us -insert the advertisement, by all means. If the young lady suggests a -meeting, I shall recommend myself as the most suitable person to keep -the appointment." - - * * * * * - -Soon after midday, two mornings later, Mr. Stephen Cresswell entered -the smoking-room at the Milan. He was carrying a _Daily Telegraph_ -under his arm, he wore a bunch of violets in his buttonhole, and he was -dressed with great care. He approached the table where Harvey Grimm -and Aaron Rodd were awaiting him. - -"You, too, have seen the answer to our advertisement?" he exclaimed. -"Capital!" - -"We were just now discussing it," Harvey Grimm assented. - -The poet sat down, made signs to the waiter, hitched up his trousers -and made himself thoroughly comfortable. - -"I have decided," he announced, "that I am the proper person to -entertain the young lady." - -Harvey Grimm nodded thoughtfully. - -"Tell us through what channel of thought, my young friend, you have -arrived at that conclusion?" he begged. - -The poet straightened his tie. There was no doubt that he was a -remarkably good-looking young man. - -"I am a modest person," he said, "but it is useless to deny that nature -has been kind to me. Then, too, there is a peculiar and romantic -importance attached to the successful poet whose reputation has been -enhanced in so singular a fashion. The young lady will be interested -in me from the start. She will be proud to remember that we are old -acquaintances, and she will treat me with greater confidence than any -ordinary person." - -Harvey Grimm lit a cigarette deliberately. Aaron Rodd's heavy eyebrows -seemed to have contracted a little. - -"Why are you so sure that it will be the young lady who will keep the -appointment?" the former enquired. - -Stephen Cresswell placed his forefinger upon the advertisement in the -paper which he had been carrying:-- - - - _Milan Café, luncheon,_ 1.15 _Wednesday. Will discuss. Bond - Street._ - - -"That tells us nothing," Harvey Grimm pointed out. "So far as the -probabilities are concerned, I should say that it is extremely unlikely -that either the young lady or any of those associated with her will -keep the appointment. Any negotiations we may have will probably be -conducted through a third party." - -The poet's face fell. He ordered another cocktail brusquely. - -"How shall we know whom to look out for, then?" he demanded. - -"The onus of recognition will rest with the others," Harvey Grimm -replied. "I have engaged a table just inside the door. We shall take -our places there before one-fifteen and await the arrival of whoever -may come." - -"In case it should be the young lady," the poet persisted, "you would -find that my previous acquaintance with her would be of immense service -to us. She would place confidence in me." - -"You shall be of the party," Harvey Grimm promised. "I have ordered -the table for five, so as to be on the safe side. I do not understand -our friends selecting a place for a meeting, but, on the other hand, -there is a flavour of genius in such apparent recklessness. If you are -ready, I think it is time that we made a start." - -They strolled down to the café and took their places at a table just -inside the door. At precisely a quarter past one a little tremor of -excitement suddenly unloosed their tongues. - -"My God!" Harvey Grimm muttered. - -"They must be mad!" Aaron Rodd whispered, in a hoarse undertone. - -"It is Henriette de Floge," Stephen Cresswell murmured complacently. -"You will perceive soon the advantage of my presence." - -The girl approached their table smilingly. She was followed by the -young officer in Belgian uniform. The three men rose to their feet. -She smiled pleasantly at Aaron Rodd. - -"You have not yet met my brother, have you?" she asked. "Let me -present Captain Leopold Brinnen--Mr. Aaron Rodd, Mr. Harvey Grimm, -and----" - -She paused, with her eyes fixed questioningly upon the poet. The young -officer had brought his heels together and bowed ceremoniously to the -two men. - -"I am not, I hope, forgotten," the poet observed. "My name is Stephen -Cresswell. I have had the pleasure of playing Badminton with you in -Walter Donne's studio." - -She looked across at him with slightly upraised eyebrows, the faint -tracings of a somewhat insolent smile at the corners of her lips. - -"Badminton? Is that an English game? I perceive that I have a double. -I have not played it." - -"You are Mademoiselle de Floge?" the poet persisted. - -She shook her head gently. - -"On the contrary," she replied, "I am Henriette Brinnen. Leopold, this -is Mr. Stephen Cresswell." - -They all took their places, the poet a little heavily. His -stupefaction, even though it proceeded from a different cause, was only -a little less profound than that of the other two. Mr. Harvey Grimm -took up the menu once more and gave a few murmured orders to the -_maître d'hôtel_. Aaron Rodd, who was on her right-hand side, leaned -towards the girl. His face was almost haggard with anxiety. - -"Forgive me," he whispered, "but is this wise? Have you counted the -cost of it?" - -"I do not understand," she answered, a little vaguely. - -"You know that we are all watched," he reminded her. "We thought it -best even not to communicate with you direct." - -"You three are such droll men," she laughed. "There is your -nice-looking friend, Mr. Stephen Cresswell, who sits there and will not -take his eyes off me. He does not believe that he has never met me -before. And Mr. Harvey Grimm--well, he does not seem a nervous person, -does he, and just now he is almost pale. And you, too--you speak with -bated breath of risks and being watched. How, then, do you carry -through your great coups, my friend? Have you not learnt the first -axiom of the adventurer--there is nothing which dispels suspicion so -readily as candour?" - -Aaron Rodd shrugged his shoulders and busied himself with the task of -attending to his companion's wants. Conversation around the little -table became platitudinal. The three men, although they behaved in all -respects reasonably, were unable to keep their thoughts and attention -from wandering continually towards their slim, grave-looking young -guest in his somewhat battered uniform, who seemed chiefly engrossed -with his luncheon. It was hard to believe that he sat there in one of -the best-known restaurants in the world, with a great price upon his -head. In some respects he was like his sister, Aaron Rodd decided, -although there was a curious virility of expression which flashed -sometimes into his features, and a more calculating light in his hard, -clear eyes. His mouth was unusually long, straight and thin, his -cheekbones a little high. One could believe that, notwithstanding his -inconsiderable stature, his frame was like steel. He spoke English -very deliberately, with now and then the slightest American accent, but -on the few occasions when he addressed his sister it seemed to be a -relief for him to relapse into French. It was not until the coffee was -served that he leaned a little towards Harvey Grimm and dispelled by a -few words the atmosphere of unreality which had somehow or other -hovered over the little luncheon-party. - -"Sir," he proposed, "let us approach the object of this meeting." - -"With pleasure," Harvey Grimm assented. - -"For some reason or other," the young man continued, "my sister, -although, as we know to our cost, her acquaintance with you so far has -not been altogether profitable, has confidence in you. Let us speak -frankly. You gentlemen, I believe, are what is generally known as -_chevaliers d'Industrie_?" - -There was a sudden flush of colour in Aaron Rodd's cheeks. The poet, -who was a little sullen, distinctly scowled. Only Harvey Grimm bowed -placidly, seemingly unconscious of the faint note of contempt in the -other's tone. - -"In the ordinary sense of the word, that is true," he admitted. - -"Consider, then, our position," the young man continued. "My -grandfather and sister, whom I meet again after an absence of some -years, owing to the haste with which they were compelled to leave -Belgium, are almost penniless. My own--savings consist of perhaps half -a million pounds' worth of diamonds. These jewels," he went on, -knocking the ash from his cigarette, "have all been stolen. They can -only be disposed of in an irregular fashion. That is to say, the -stones must be recut. In normal times, this problem would present no -difficulties to me. To-day, when London is the only capital of Europe -open to us, I must admit that I find myself in a difficult position. -The few artificers in this country are, I understand, well known and -watched. I am bound, therefore, to employ an agent. Under the -peculiar circumstances to which I have alluded, I cannot seek for an -honest man. I am prepared to make it worth the while of men such as -yourselves to deal honestly with me." - -"My brother has your English gift of plain speech, you see," the girl -whispered soothingly to Aaron Rodd. - -The young officer lit a fresh cigarette and watched the smoke curl -upward for a moment. - -"Surely it is best?" he said softly. "These gentlemen are at the -present moment living, and living, no doubt, exceedingly well, upon the -proceeds of one of my diamonds. They should not, therefore, be -sensitive." - -"I may be allowed to remind you, sir," Harvey Grimm interrupted, "that, -incidentally, the little artifice by means of which we secured it is -responsible for your unhindered presence here to-day." - -"I take that fact into consideration," Leopold Brinnen assented, "in -the toleration with which I view the circumstance. The point is, are -you willing to deal with me?" - -"I am perfectly willing to do so, sir," Harvey Grimm replied. "I am -willing, too, and so, I am sure, are my friends, to take a certain -amount of risk. I may add that I am probably the only man in England -who can dispose of your jewels so that they cannot be traced, but -before we proceed further, let me ask you a question. Are you aware, -sir, of your position? There is an amateur detective here from New -York, named Paul Brodie, who has no other object in life than to lay -his hands upon a certain person. Scotland Yard, although just now they -are a little fed up with Mr. Brodie, have very definite intentions with -regard to the same person. You are living here openly. You are even -flaunting your well-known Belgian uniform. There are eyes upon us as -we sit at this table. There are eyes upon you and your sister and your -grandfather, from the moment you rise in the morning till the moment -you retire at night. Your rooms are at all times subject or liable to -be searched. Any place you might visit is liable to be searched. Let -me ask you, then, a plain question. More than any other quality I -admire courage. Don't you think, however, that you are playing a -little too near to the fire?" - -The young officer stroked his thin black moustache. He had listened to -Harvey Grimm's words attentively. He even indicated, in the slow -movement of his head, some measure of approbation. - -"To all that you have said, Mr. Harvey Grimm, I can make you only one -reply," he said. "Every step which I have taken in life has been -carefully thought out. The present position, although necessity has -here intervened to some extent, has been subject to the same attentive -consideration. I am safer than you think. Let that be enough. That I -have friends is proved by the little visitation which was made upon Mr. -Aaron Rodd the other day. I offer you no apologies, sir," he -continued, bowing across the table. "It was part of the game. When we -thrust the law outside our lives, as you have done and I, then we must -take our knocks philosophically. For the future, however, even though -we play the thieves' game, there is no reason why we should not play it -honestly." - -"A very admirable sentiment," the poet murmured. - -"To put this matter upon a business basis, Mr. Grimm," Captain Brinnen -continued, "supposing I supply you with a certain quantity of diamonds, -will you guarantee to have them cut as so to render them -unrecognisable, dispose of them, hand me two-thirds of the proceeds and -retain a third yourself?" - -"I have worked before upon those terms," Harvey Grimm replied. "I -accept them. There is one little matter, though, to be cleared up." - -Captain Brinnen smiled grimly. - -"I fancy that I follow you," he observed. "You refer to the mysterious -disappearance of a diamond from your friend's office?" - -Harvey Grimm coughed. - -"Bearing in mind, as I took the liberty of pointing out a few minutes -ago, that its disappearance saved you from considerable -inconvenience----" he began. - -"The affair is finished," Brinnen interrupted. "Carry out faithfully -the other transactions which we may arrange, and we will adopt--shall I -say a resigned attitude?--with regard to that incident. When are you -prepared to deal with the first parcel of stones?" - -"At any moment," Harvey Grimm promised. "You will bring them to me?" - -The girl, who had been listening eagerly to their conversation, leaned -across the table. - -"I think," she said, "that this time you had better come and fetch -them, Mr. Grimm, or, better still--send Mr. Aaron Rodd." - -"Or me," the poet suggested. - -She shook her head. - -"It is to be Mr. Aaron Rodd," she decided. "You will not be afraid?" -she added, turning towards him with a little smile at the corners of -her lips. - -"Where am I to come to, and when?" he enquired. - -She glanced at her brother, then back again towards her neighbour. - -"I shall tell you presently," she whispered. - -The little party broke up shortly afterwards. The hall outside, where -they lingered to make their adieux, was unusually crowded. Harvey -Grimm felt a touch upon his elbow. - -"A pleasant luncheon, I trust?" - -He frowned as he recognised Brodie, who was apparently waiting for a -friend. It was exactly the meeting which he had desired to avoid. He -greeted him, however, with his customary geniality. - -"Lunching late, aren't you?" he observed. - -Brodie seemed scarcely to hear him. His eyes were fixed upon the young -Belgian, who, with his arm in a sling, was being helped carefully into -his overcoat. Suddenly, however, he stretched out his arm, laid it -upon Harvey Grimm's shoulder and drew him to within whispering distance. - -"See here, Harvey," he muttered, "I don't know what game you're -playing, but if any man tries to boost me, he's going to have a rough -journey." - -Harvey Grimm was shocked. - -"My dear fellow!----" he began. - -"Don't waste your breath," the other interrupted, as he turned away. -"Remember I've got my eye on you, as well as our friend there. It may -be a waiting game, but you'll find me there at the finish, sure as my -name's Paul Brodie." - -He strode off towards the telephone booth. Harvey Grimm found his hand -gripped by his guest. - -"My sister and I thank you for a very excellent luncheon, Mr. Grimm," -Captain Brinnen said politely. "I trust that you will soon give us an -opportunity of repaying your hospitality." - -"You will come to me," the girl whispered in Aaron Rodd's ear, "at -number thirteen, Grosvenor Square, this afternoon at five o'clock...." - -The poet was inclined to be peevish as the three men walked down the -Strand. - -"In this adventure," he declared, "I do not see where I come in. Aaron -Rodd is to go and fetch the diamonds, and probably have tea with the -beautiful young lady who has changed her name, and you," he went on, -addressing Harvey Grimm, "thereupon vanish with the stones to your -mysterious treasure-house and return with the gold. I am simply not in -it. I might as well not exist." - -"It is regrettable but true," Harvey Grimm assented. "Remember, -however, that you are a self-invited new-comer to our little circle. A -place shall be found for you presently. I can promise you that the -cycle of our adventures will not be ended with the realisation of -Jeremiah Sands' diamonds. This affair, unfortunately, presents no -opportunity for your activities. I do not propose, even, to offer you -more than a trifling share in the financial results." - -"Financially," the poet announced airily, "I am independent. The taste -for my poetry has spread like a forest fire. There will be a trifle of -mine, by the by, in the _Pall Mall_ to-night. Don't forget to look out -for it." - -Harvey Grimm for once was unsympathetic. - -"Look here," he said, stopping suddenly, "I wish you'd forget your -poetry for a few minutes. There is just one way you can make yourself -useful. You saw a sleek, podgy, bulky, fat-faced looking man, with -hair brushed back, who spoke to me in the hall at the Milan?" - -The poet nodded. - -"I remember," he murmured, "wishing that you would allow me to edit -your acquaintances." - -"That man," Harvey Grimm continued, "was Paul Brodie, an amateur -detective. He has set himself the task of bringing about the arrest of -Jeremiah Sands. He came to Europe with that idea. It was he who had -the old gentleman and his daughter taken to the police-station from my -rooms. We have been working together, but he's out with us now, and he -blames us for that fiasco. I should like to know why he is still -hanging about the Milan Court." - -"I will return there," the poet promised. "I will endeavour to engage -him in conversation." - -Harvey Grimm smiled pityingly. - -"Oh, my ingenuous youth!" he murmured. "Your ideas of tackling a -detective are bright and engaging, yet, do your best. The very -imbecility of your methods may lead to success. I should very much -like to know where Paul Brodie is proposing to spend this afternoon." - -Cresswell nodded in mysterious fashion and left them. Harvey Grimm -passed his arm through his friend's, as they turned into the little -street which led down to Aaron's Rodd's offices. - -"Aaron," he said earnestly, "if your little expedition this afternoon -should by any chance involve you in any manner of trouble, remember -that there's one golden motto--silence. You make a cult of it in -private life. If anything should happen to you--don't depart from it." - - * * * * * - -At precisely the appointed hour, Aaron Rodd was shown by a footman in -deep black livery into a small but charmingly-furnished room in the -largest house which he had ever entered. On his way thither he had -caught the sound of many voices, laughing and talking, the tinkling of -teacups, the scraping of a violin. Evidently some sort of reception -was in progress, for outside a canvas shelter was stretched to the -curbstone, and a long row of automobiles and carriages was in evidence. -It was almost ten minutes before the door was abruptly opened and -Henriette Brinnen appeared. She had changed her clothes since -luncheon, and was wearing a gown of some soft grey material, and a -large hat with black feathers. In her hand she was carrying a small -brown paper package, sealed at both ends. The little smile with which -she welcomed him was bewildering. - -"I have kept you waiting," she exclaimed, "and I must send you away -again quickly! Believe me, I am not always so inhospitable. This -afternoon, as it happens, Madame is receiving and I must help her. I -would ask you to come and be presented but it is more important that -you proceed swiftly with your mission." - -"Of course," he assented, taking the parcel from her hand. - -"Tell me first," she begged, keeping her fingers upon the closed door, -"why were you so sad and silent all luncheon-time?" - -He laughed a little hardly, hesitated, and was suddenly frank. - -"Because," he told her, "I have not yet got used to my new rôle in -life." - -"But it is amusing, surely?" - -"Perhaps I am old-fashioned," he sighed. "I rather resent being driven -into the crooked ways." - -"You are thinking only of yourself, then?" - -"To be perfectly truthful," he assured her, "I was thinking very little -of myself. I am afraid for you." - -"But why for me?" - -"Because you are reckless," he answered. "Your brother may be the -cleverest adventurer who ever kept the police at arm's length, but -there is always the risk. You cannot go on playing a part for ever. -You may hide at the Milan Court and call yourself what you will, and -the chances are with you, but to borrow some one else's identity, to -advertise yourself as the companion of a reigning princess, to occupy a -position of trust and favour in her household and help to receive her -guests, how long do you think that will go on?" - -She laughed at him but her eyes were full of kindness. - -"You speak only of my brother's cleverness," she said. "Is that -because I am a woman? Let me assure you, my dear friend, in many ways -I am his equal. Your fears are exaggerated. I am right, am I not, -when I assume that your present position is new to you?" - -"It is," Aaron Rodd confessed. "Until these last few weeks--until the -day, in fact, when I first saw you in the Embankment Gardens and Harvey -Grimm sauntered, an hour later, into my office--I have lived miserably, -perhaps, but honestly." - -She laughed once more in his face. - -"Oh, but you are so foolish!" she murmured. "Believe me, no person is -really honest. We all live upon our neighbours. There is only one -thing in life which is common to all religions--honour. By honour I -mean fidelity to one's friends. Take that into your heart, dear Mr. -Aaron Rodd, and you can hold your head as high as any man's on earth." - -He stooped and kissed her fingers as she stood by the open door, an -action, curiously enough, which he had never contemplated in his life -before in connection with any woman, yet which seemed to him at that -moment an entirely natural proceeding. - -"That, at least," he promised, "is something which I can hold on to." - -He descended the stairs, the clasp of her fingers still tingling on -his, was handed from the grave major-domo, who guarded the hall, to -another servant, and on to the footman, who summoned a taxicab for him. -He gave the address of his office and was driven promptly off. A few -yards from the corner of the Square, however, the taxicab slackened -speed and stopped by the side of the pavement. Almost before he -realised what was happening, the door was opened. An inspector, in -uniform and peaked cap, let down the vacant seat and sat opposite to -him. Mr. Paul Brodie, smoking a large cigar, followed and took the -place by his side. The cab went on. Aaron Rodd remained stonily -silent. The eyes of the two men were fixed upon the brown paper parcel -which he had had no time to conceal. - -"Sorry to take you out of your way, Mr. Rodd," Brodie said, with -ponderous sarcasm, "but we just want you to call for a moment at the -Marlborough Street police-station. In the meantime, you wouldn't care -to tell us, I suppose, what you have in that small parcel you are -holding so carefully?" - -Aaron Rodd sat perfectly still. A chain of wild ideas flashed through -his brain, only to be instantly dismissed. He thought of throwing the -parcel out of the window, hurling himself upon the two men and making a -fierce struggle for liberty. There was something ignominious in the -facility of his capture, in the completeness of his failure. Yet he -realised perfectly well that escape by any means was hopeless, that -behaviour of any sort incompatible with his supposed position would be -an instant confession of guilt. - -"I am engaged on confidential business on behalf of a client," he -announced stiffly, "and I cannot conceive what authority you have to -delay me or to ask me questions." - -Mr. Brodie nodded sympathetically. - -"That's perfectly correct," he admitted, "perfectly correct." - -Not another word was spoken until the cab drew up outside the -police-station. Mr. Brodie paid the taxicab driver, and Aaron Rodd, -with an escort on either side of him, crossed the pavement, passed -through the bare stone hall and into a small waiting-room. A -superintendent, who was writing at a desk, glanced up as they entered. -Mr. Brodie leaned down and said a few words in his ear. The former -nodded and turned to Aaron Rodd. - -"Have you any objection," he asked, "to our examining the parcel which -you are carrying?" - -"None whatever," Aaron Rodd answered coolly. - -Mr. Brodie took it from him and carried it to the desk. The -superintendent broke the seals and withdrew the lid from an oblong -wooden jeweller's box. There was a mass of cotton-wool inside, which -he hastily removed. Then his fingers suddenly stopped. He gazed -downwards and frowned. Mr. Brodie's face was a study. The -imprecations which broke from his lips were transatlantic and -sufficing. Aaron Rodd, emboldened by their consternation, stepped -forward and looked over their shoulders. At the bottom of the box -reposed a small, black opal scarf-pin, the safety-chain of which was -broken. The superintendent rose to his feet, whispered something -sharply to Mr. Brodie, who lapsed into a gloomy silence, and turned to -Aaron Rodd. - -"Do you mind telling me where you were taking this box, Mr. Rodd?" he -asked. - -"To a jeweller's, to have the pin mended," was the prompt reply. - -The superintendent replaced the wadding, thrust the lid back along its -grooves, tied up the box and returned it to its owner. - -"We are very sorry to have interfered with your mission," he said, "but -before you leave us I am going to ask you, so that we may be perfectly -satisfied, to allow me to search your person." - -Aaron Rodd shrugged his shoulders. - -"Pray do as you will," he consented, holding out his arms. - -The superintendent went carefully through his pockets, felt his -clothing and returned to his place. - -"We are very sorry to have detained you, sir," he said, "the -necessities of the law, you know. Inspector, get Mr. Rodd another -taxi-cab." - -"I know something about the law," Aaron Rodd declared, trying hard to -feel that this was not some absurd nightmare, "and I still fail to -realise on what possible authority you can practically arrest a -solicitor leaving the house of an exceedingly distinguished client, -break the seals of a private packet, and dismiss him without a word of -explanation." - -The superintendent glanced severely at Mr. Brodie. - -"We are unfortunately in the position, Mr. Rodd," he confessed, "of -having been misled by false information. We can do no more nor less -than apologise. Our action, mistaken though it seems to have been, was -undertaken in the interests of the law, with the profession of which -you are connected. I hope, therefore, that you will be tolerant." - -Aaron Rodd received his packet, wished the three men a brief "Good -afternoon" and left the police-station. He drove at once to his -office, where he found the poet reclining on three chairs drawn up to -the window, with a block of paper in his hand and a pipe in his mouth. - -"Where's Harvey Grimm?" Aaron demanded. - -The poet laid down his pencil and waved his hand. - -"Gone!" - -"Gone? Where?" - -"I have no idea," was the bland reply. "I spent an hour or two at the -Milan, conversing with several friends, and incidentally looking out -for Mr. Brodie. Then an idea came to me. I needed space and solitude. -I thought of your empty rooms and I hastened here. If you would like -to listen----" - -"Damn your poetry!" Aaron Rodd interrupted. "Tell me what you mean -when you say that Harvey Grimm has gone? He was to have been waiting -here for me." - -"As I left the Milan," the poet explained, "I enquired of the -hall-porter if Mr. Harvey Grimm had returned. The man told me that not -only had he returned but that he had left again in a taxicab, a few -minutes afterwards. I understood the fellow to say that he had gone -into the country and would not be back for several days." - -Aaron Rodd put his hand to his forehead. Already a dim suspicion of -the truth was finding its way into his brain. Then there was a gentle -tinkle from the bell of his newly installed telephone. He took up the -receiver. The voice which spoke was the voice of Harvey Grimm. - -"That you, Aaron?" - -"Yes!" - -"Anything happened?" - -"Yes!" - -"It's O.K. You needn't explain. Back in about a week. So long." - -Aaron Rodd laid down the receiver. He was still a little bewildered, -oppressed by a certain sense of humiliation. He threw the packet which -he had been carrying so carefully upon his desk and scowled. - -"What's upset you?" Cresswell asked amiably. - -"Seems to me I'm nothing but a cat's-paw," Aaron Rodd replied gloomily. -"A messenger boy could have done my job." - -"Don't worry," the poet advised. "By the by, you don't happen to know -of a rhyme for silken, do you?" - -The telephone bell, ringing once more, intervened to save the poet from -the ink-pot which Aaron's fingers were handling longingly. - -"What is it?" he demanded, taking up the receiver. - -"Just a little message for Mr. Aaron Rodd, please," was the soft reply. -"Please forgive me--it was so necessary. And the pin was for you--a -little peace-offering. Will you please have the chain mended and wear -it?" - -That was all. There was no pause for any reply. The connection was -finished. Aaron laid down the receiver, lit a cigarette and almost -swaggered back to his desk. - -"Sorry, old fellow," he said genially. "I can't seem to think of one -for the moment. I'll have a try." - - - - -_Chapter IV_ _Ulysses of Wapping_ - -On the following morning, Aaron Rodd, somewhat to his surprise, -received a visit from his only client. Mr. Jacob Potts, who was a -publican and retired pugilist, and whose appearance entirely coincided -with his dual profession, looked around the apartment with a little -sniff. - -"Ho!" he exclaimed. "Better times arrived, eh? 'Ad a spring-cleaning, -'aven't you? Telephone, too, and new chairs! Golly! Does it run to -cigars?" - -Aaron Rodd shamelessly offered him a box of Harvey Grimm's Cabanas. -His client bit off the end of one with relish and seemed inclined to -swallow it. He eventually spat it out, however, lit the cigar, and, -throwing himself back in a chair, crossed his rather pudgy legs. - -"Know anything about maritime law?" he began. - -"Not much," Aaron Rodd admitted. "A lawyer very seldom knows anything -outside his little bent," he went on. "We have great rows of books -properly indexed, turn up the point and read the decisions." - -"Where are your'n?" Mr. Jacob Potts enquired, looking around the -somewhat bare walls. - -"Pawned," Aaron Rodd confessed. "All the same, I can go into the law -library and give you an answer on any point you like to put forward, -within a very few minutes." - -Mr. Potts nodded. - -"That's why I kind of took a fancy to you years ago, when you was a -nipper," he confessed. "No doubling and twisting about you. Just a -straightforward answer to a straightforward question. 'Do you know -anything about maritime law?' sez I. 'No,' sez you, 'but I can find -out.' And so you can. Now, one of the regular kidney of you fellows'd -have been messing about for half an hour and then have read it all out -of a book. You never tumbled to it yet, guv'nor, did you, what my new -line of business was?" - -"Never," Aaron Rodd acknowledged. "From your conversation at various -times I gathered that you saved money in the ring, acquired a -prosperous public-house property, and were in some way or other -responsible for the organisation of labour in your neighbourhood." - -Mr. Jacob Potts grinned. - -"Let it go at that," he decided. "Well, the point I want to know about -is this. Supposing in the course of business I committed an offence -against the law, you understand, and I legs it for a nootral country, -you see--might be Holland, for instance--can I be 'auled off a Dutch -boat in nootral waters on my way to Holland?" - -"It would depend," Aaron Rodd replied, "on the nature of your offence. -I will let you know your exact position, if you like to come in a -little later." - -"That goes," Mr. Potts agreed. "I've a call to make at a public-house -in Craven Street. There's a promising lad there I saw with the gloves -on for the first time in 'is life the other night. I thought of making -a match with 'im against Canary Joe. 'Ave you ever seen Canary Joe -box?" - -"I have never seen a boxing match in my life," Aaron Rodd replied. - -"Lumme!" Mr. Jacob Potts gasped. "Well, I suppose yours ain't a -sporting profession. Mine is--in every sense of the word," he added -with a grin. "What about twelve o'clock, guv'nor? That'll give me -time to get a can of beer and some bread and cheese." - -"I shall be quite ready for you at that time," Aaron Rodd promised. - -The ex-publican departed, and Aaron Rodd, after giving him time to get -away, followed him out into the street, spent half an hour in the -nearest law library, and returned with a volume under his arm. He -found the poet seated on the top of the stairs outside his rooms. - -"My dear fellow," the latter exclaimed peevishly, as he rose to his -feet, "this new habit of yours of locking the door after you is most -inconvenient." - -"Why not go to your club and wait?" Aaron Rodd suggested. "It's only a -few yards away." - -"Inhospitable," the other sighed, "and I have come to you filled with a -most generous idea. Listen. This may seem a commonplace thing to you -but to me it is an epoch in my career. I have opened a banking -account." - -"I noticed that the book-shop was thronged, as usual, as I came by," -Aaron Rodd remarked. - -"This week," the poet declared solemnly, "will practically sever my -connection with the book-shop. My publishers insist upon it that my -work must be distributed in the regular fashion. Henceforth, the poems -of Stephen Cresswell will be on sale at every reputable -bookseller's--at four and sixpence, if you please. I have also an -agent, and, as I before remarked, a banking account. Things have -changed with me, Aaron Rodd. Only yesterday I found myself in need of -a ten-pound note, referred the matter to my publishers and found them -most affable.... How are adventures this morning?" - -"Nothing doing," was the prompt reply, "until Harvey Grimm comes back. -My only client has been to ask me a question about maritime law. He is -coming back directly." - -The poet ignored the hint. - -"My presence here will do you good," he pointed out. "He will perhaps -take me for another client. He is not a man of culture by any chance?" - -"He is not," Aaron Rodd admitted tersely; "nor is he one of those who -have been whacked into reading one of your poems." - -"He must have read about them, at any rate," Cresswell insisted a -little irritably. "If you introduce me, you had better mention my -identity. Fame so far has left me quite unspoiled. I still feel a -little thrill of pleasure in noticing the effect which the mention of -my name has upon strangers.... Come in," he added pleasantly, in -response to a thunderous knock at the door. - -The door opened and Mr. Jacob Potts entered, bringing with him a strong -atmosphere of old ale and bread and cheese. To Aaron Rodd's surprise, -he recognised the poet with a broad grin. - -"My Ulysses of Wapping!" the latter exclaimed, holding out his hand. -"What a meeting!" - -Mr. Jacob Potts jerked his thumb towards Cresswell as he turned to the -lawyer. - -"One of my clients," he remarked. - -Aaron Rodd was puzzled. He had once paid a visit to the river-side -public-house over which Jacob Potts presided, and he found it hard to -associate Cresswell in any way with the atmosphere there. Mr. Jacob -Potts had pressed a thick forefinger to his lips. - -"Mum's the word, guv'nor," he declared reassuringly. "Don't you worry." - -The poet picked up his hat. - -"From this gentleman," he asserted grandiloquently, "I have no secrets. -To be frank with you, it was he and another friend who are responsible -for those incidents in my career with which you have been -professionally connected." - -Mr. Jacob Potts glanced at him admiringly. - -"That's 'ow 'e talks down at Wapping. Ain't it wonderful!" he observed. - -Stephen Cresswell edged towards the door. - -"When you have finished with our friend here," he said, addressing -Aaron, "come across to the Milan. I have a proposition to make anent -the opening of my banking account. It is connected with food and -drink. Au revoir! Farewell, my river-side Goliath," he added, waving -his hand to Jacob Potts. "Remember, our little bargain still goes." - -Mr. Potts' large face was convulsed into humorous wrinkles. - -"That's a queer gent.," he declared, as the door closed. "Come to me, -'e did, sometime ago--heard I'd been a bit of a bruiser and asked me to -teach him a knock-out blow, something quick and not dangerous. Lord -love me, I used to let 'im go on, and give 'im 'is fill o' beer, for -the sake of hearing 'im talk! 'Ow I larfed when I tumbled to 'is -game--me and the missis! He'd written some stuff wot no one would -read, and 'is idea was to advertise it. Up you goes to an old gent at -a dark corner. ''Ave you read my book?' he arsks. 'No!' sez the old -gent. 'Cresswell's Poems, eightpence a copy, number thirty-two -Manchester Street,' he sez, and biffs 'im one. Then other nervous old -gents, 'ear about this and buys the poems, give the proper answer when -they're tackled and 'ome they goes to tea. 'Oly Moses, it was a great -scheme, but it was a greater before I'd done with it!" - -"Where did you come in?" Aaron Rodd asked curiously. - -Jacob Potts drew his chair a little closer to Aaron Rodd's desk. - -"Well," he explained, "it's giving things away a bit, but to one's -lawyer I don't know as it matters. I'm a kind o' provider of men as -can be trusted to give any one a clout on the side of the 'ead and no -questions arst. I could lay my hand at the present moment on some -titty of 'em, good to give any ordinary person a dom'. Why, the third -night after yon chap'd come to me, I'd twenty-five of 'em out, all -asking the same question, at ten bob a time. It cost 'im a bit." - -"But where on earth did he get the money?" Aaron Rodd asked. "He was -broke when we met him first." - -"I financed him," Jacob Potts confessed. "I tell you the idea fair -tickled me. I found the coin and he paid me back like a gentleman. I -only sends 'em out now when we're slack with other work, but whenever -we 'ave a little affair doing, whatever the cost may be, we always -commence it the same way--''Ave you read Stephen Cresswell's poems?' -'No,'--and then biff!" - -The publican leaned back in his chair and his fat body shook with -laughter. He mopped the tears from his eyes with a big red bandanna -handkerchief. - -"To think of meeting 'im 'ere!" he murmured weakly. "You see, we 'as -our jokes even in the serious professions. Not that I ever let my boys -go too far," he concluded, "and I keep 'em out of trouble as much as I -can. That's why I want to know the law about this sea business." - -Aaron Rodd read him extracts from the volume he had brought back, and -explained several doubtful points. The publican's face was a little -grave when he had finished. - -"I ain't at all sure," he decided, "that I fancy trusting any of my -best boys with this job, and I loathe foreigners, any way." - -"Well, I won't ask you any questions," Aaron Rodd said, "but if you -want any free advice, here it is. You've made plenty of money. I -should keep friends with the law, if I were you. You can't employ such -a band of ruffians as you've been talking about, and not find a wrong -'un amongst them now and then." - -"If one o' my lads," Jacob Potts declared solemnly, "was to squeal, I -tell you the rest would be on 'im like a pack of fox'ounds on a fox. -They'd tear 'im limb from limb, that's wot they'd do." - -"That wouldn't do you a great deal of good if you were in prison," -Aaron Rodd reminded him. "However, you know the law now." - -"I know it, and I ain't sweet on the job," Mr. Jacob Potts confessed. -"'Owsomever! Good morning to you, Mr. Rodd, and much obliged. You'll -add your little bit on to my quarterly account.... Wot 'o, another -client!" he added. "I'm toddling." - -He shook hands with his adviser and reached the door just as it was -opened and Henriette entered. He stood for a moment as though -stupefied. Then, as he disappeared through the doorway, he turned -round and winked solemnly at Aaron. - -"Wishing you good morning, guv'nor!" he said as he closed the door. - -Curiously enough, as on that first morning when, they had met in the -Embankment Gardens, a little ray of wintry sunshine, which had stolen -in through the dusty, uncurtained windows, lay between them. Aaron -Rodd, whose first impulse had been one of joy at this unexpected visit, -stopped suddenly in his progress across the room. There was something -so entirely different about her, a change so absolute and mystifying. -The faintly supercilious deportment and expression of the young woman -of the world, carrying herself so easily and with such natural grace -and self-possession, seemed to have deserted her. She was suddenly a -frightened child seeking for shelter, and with a lightning-like effort -of imagination he seemed to see her flying for sanctuary from those -terrors of which he had already warned her. - -"Is anything wrong?" he enquired quickly--"anything fresh, I mean?" - -She sank into his chair. She was panting a little, as though she had -been hurrying. - -"I am afraid!" she confessed. "I am terrified! Give me your hand to -hold, and listen." - -She gripped his strong fingers. They both almost held their breaths. -There was no sound except the distant rumble of traffic. By degrees -she grew calmer. - -"You are not worrying about my errand?" he asked anxiously. "You know -what happened to me?" - -"It isn't that," she told him simply. "That was all planned -beforehand. You didn't mind?" - -"Of course not," he assured her. - -"It is something which happened before I came to England," she went on, -"something terrible, something from which it seems to me I can never -escape. Listen.... I must tell you one day--I shall tell you now. -Leopold has always been fortunate, but the luck went against me one -day. I was face to face with detection. I had the whole of the jewels -in my possession. I was confronted with the worst. I hadn't time to -think. I killed the man who would have brought ruin on all of us, -and--and, on me, worse than ruin.... Do you hear?--I killed him!" - -Aaron Rodd sat speechless. She seemed so small and delicate-looking. -It was incredible! - -"He was a great man, a colonel in the Prussian Guards. He had high -connections, some of them Belgian. The threats of his people reached -my ears even before I had escaped. They swore to get me back into -Belgium, and if I were once there, God knows what would happen to me! -At first, when I reached London, I felt safe. I managed to become -attached to the household of Madame. Surely in London was sanctuary! -And lately I have felt different. This man--I will not tell you his -name--he is connected even with the family of Madame herself. I begin -to fear that they have suspicions. The Princess has been cold to me -lately. There are several others in the household who seem to look -askance at me. I have had letters from relatives in Belgium, inviting -me to go back. Some of them, I know, have been forgeries. During the -last few days I have been followed about. Only yesterday there was a -little fog. I was in the square, near the corner of Brook Street. -Suddenly I heard swift footsteps just behind me, there was a whistle, a -taxicab drove up by the kerb. There was a man in it, sitting back in -the corner. I saw his face--it was cruel, horrible! I could hear -another man running from out of the fog towards me. I knew what they -wanted--to thrust me into the taxicab. And just at that moment I -shrieked, and two strangers came from one of the big houses and I clung -to them. The taxicab drove off and the man seemed to melt away. The -two gentlemen thought I was mad. They escorted me to another taxicab. -Since then I dare not move alone." - -"How did you come here?" he asked. - -"In one of Madame's cars. It waits for me outside. Even at the corner -of this street there were two men who frightened me. To-day my week of -service is up with Madame. She has not encouraged me to stay longer. -She looks at me with the eyes of suspicion. And at the Milan Court I -am afraid! My grandfather is so old--the world is finished for him. -And Leopold is so cold and mysterious. He comes and goes with never a -word.... There! You see what has happened to me!" she exclaimed, with -a little quaver in her tone. "I have lost my nerve. And I have been -brave, Monsieur Aaron Rodd--believe me, I have been brave." - -"Of course you have," he answered encouragingly, "and of, course you -will continue to be brave. You must not fancy things. Believe me, you -are safe here--safe, at least, against being sent back to Belgium -against your will. The fears for you and about you----" - -"Well, what are they?" she interrupted anxiously. "Tell me about them?" - -"These diamonds," he continued slowly. "If I might venture to say so, -it seems to me that your brother is making a mistake in dragging you -into the affair at all. We could have done our business with him and -left you out of it." - -"But he is watched every hour of the day," she explained. "They cannot -find the jewels, and they can prove nothing against him unless they do -find them, but they know very well that soon he must dispose of them, -and they never willingly let him out of their sight. Besides, we are -all to share in the proceeds. Why should we not take a little of the -risk? Oh, believe me," she went on eagerly, "I can face anything that -comes to me through the jewels. It is the other thing I am afraid of. -I cannot speak even to you of that awful moment. The man who guessed -our secret--he offered silence. We were alone...." - -She broke off suddenly, absolutely incapable of speech. She was white -almost to the lips. Her eyes were filled with reminiscent horror. He -leaned over and took her hands once more a little clumsily in his. - -"Don't think of it," he begged. "That part of it, at any rate, is done -with. One must fight for what one has, for the sake of others." - -"I know--I know!" she agreed, trying to smile at him. "But tell me -again--there isn't any way, is there, that the Belgian authorities--I -suppose they do still control their own law-courts--could be cajoled -into having me sent back? I am frightened. I begin to wonder whether -these men, who I am sure have been watching me, are emissaries from the -foreign police." - -He smiled reassuringly. - -"Not a chance," he declared. "They have something else to do just now. -Believe me, you are frightening yourself about nothing. If you are -being watched, and I should think it extremely probable that you are -being watched, it is simply because you are living under the same roof -as your brother and because you are an exceedingly likely medium for -the disposal of the jewels." - -"If I were sure that that was all!" she murmured. - -"It is all," he told her confidently. "There! Besides, in that other -case, remember that you are not friendless. I don't think I need tell -you," he went on, a little awkwardly, "that if there were any way I -could help, any way I could ensure your safety, it would make me very -happy." - -"I think that I felt that," she answered softly. "I think that that is -why I came to you. Leopold has gone to one of his hiding-places--I do -not know where--and he will not be back for several days. Please do -not go far away. Be where I can telephone to you, or come." - -"I wouldn't ask anything better," he promised. - -Her eyes glowed for a moment. She gave him her hand impulsively, and -he was dizzy with the strangeness and the joy of it. He had been so -long debarred from intercourse with her sex that femininity was making -a late but extraordinarily subtle appeal to him. He found himself, -even in the moment when he was studying the colour of her eyes, -counting the wasted years of his life, remembering with a sick regret -the lines upon his face, the streak of grey in his hair. - -"You are going back now to the Milan?" he enquired. - -"From here. You could not----?" - -"Of course I could," he assented eagerly, taking down his hat. "I -promised to meet our friend Cresswell there." - -"That ridiculous Poet!" she laughed. "Whatever made him a friend of -yours?" - -"He would tell you Fate," was the smiling reply. "Harvey Grimm would -tell you a sense of humour. I really don't know what I could say about -it. He isn't a bad fellow." - -"You are sure you have no more business to attend to?" she asked -earnestly. "I can sit and wait quite patiently while you finish." - -He sighed as he closed his desk. - -"I am afraid my office itself is rather a farce," he told her. "As a -lawyer I have been a failure. My only client passed you on the stairs -as he went out." - -She heard him a little incredulously. - -"That seems so strange," she observed. "I am sure that you are clever." - -"The majority of the world seems to have come to a different -conclusion," he sighed, as he stood on one side to let her pass out. - -"Here comes your client back again," she whispered. "I will wait for -you upon the landing." - -Mr. Jacob Potts came puffing up the stairs. He beckoned mysteriously -to Aaron Rodd and drew him on one side. - -"Guv'nor," he whispered, "'ave you got any pals in this building?" - -"I don't know that I have, particularly," was the somewhat doubtful -reply. "Why?" - -"Gave me quite a turn," Mr. Potts confessed. "There's two of my boys -below, two of them who are on that job I came to consult you about." - -"They are probably shadowing you," Aaron Rodd suggested. - -"I'd give 'em shadow, if they tried that game on!" Mr. Jacob Potts -asserted truculently. "'Owsomever, you've got the office, if there's -any pals of yourn about.... If you've any fancy, sir," he added, as he -turned away, "for seeing a little bout to-night down at my place, I've -arranged for that young fellow I spoke about to come down and put 'em -on with Canary Joe. 'Arf-past nine, and no questions arst of a friend." - -"I'll remember," the other promised. - -"Won't keep you longer," Mr. Potts observed, turning heavily away. -"There's other clients than me about this morning, wot 'o!" - -He turned back from the doorway and indulged in a huge and solemn wink. - -"'Arf-past nine," he called out, "nothing charged for admission, but -the salt air down Wapping way encourages the thirst, which is good for -the trade. Bring a pal, if you've a mind." - -Aaron waited until his client had reached the first landing before he -rejoined Henriette. They drove in what was, to him, unaccustomed -splendour to the Milan, and parted in the little hall. - -"It is foolish," she said, as she held out her hand, "but I feel better -because I have been frank with you. Sometimes my fears seem so unreal, -and then sometimes I close my eyes and I get these horrible little mind -pictures. Ah, but you do not know the terror of them! This is -England, though, and that was what they all said--'In England you will -be safe.' Tell me you are sure that I am safe?" - -"Absolutely," he declared confidently. - -She waved her hand to him from the lift, and he proceeded to the -smoking-room in search of Cresswell. - - * * * * * - -The poet, having received forty pounds from his publishers, was -thoroughly disposed towards a frivolous evening. He was consequently a -little dismayed when, as they sat at dinner that same evening, Aaron -Rodd, who had been a little distrait, suggested an alteration in their -evening's entertainment. - -"I wonder," he said, "if, instead of going to the 'Empire,' you would -care to see a bout between Canary Joe and a youthful barman who I -understand possesses genius?" - -The poet made a wry face. - -"I am rather fed up with biffing just now," he confessed, "but Canary -Joe--why, that's old man Potts' protégé." - -Aaron nodded. - -"The affair is to take place in a room at the back of his -public-house," he observed. - -Cresswell sipped his wine and considered. His attitude was obviously -unfavourable. - -"I am in the humour," he declared, "for a more enervating atmosphere, -the warmth and comfort of the Empire lounge, the charm of feminine -society--even from a distance," he added hastily. "I am feeling human -to-night, Aaron Rodd--very human." - -"It is possible," his companion continued slowly, "that an -adventure----" - -The poet's manner changed. - -"More than anything in the world I am in the humour for an adventure," -he asserted eagerly. - -"Then I think we will see Canary Joe," Aaron Rodd decided. "You shall -be my guide." - -The long taxi-ride would have been a little depressing but for the -poet's uproarious spirits. He sang himself hoarse and filled the -vehicle with cigarette smoke. They reached at last a region of small -streets all running one way; in the background a vision of lights, -suspended apparently from nowhere, the sound of an occasional siren, -the constant, sometimes overpowering odour of river-side mud. When at -last the taxicab came to a standstill, they were near enough to the -river to hear its rise and fall against a little bank of shingle. From -behind the closely-drawn windows of the public-house, one side of which -seemed to abut on to the river-side, came the sound of many voices. -They dismissed the taxicab and pushed open the swing-doors. The poet, -who had been complaining bitterly of thirst on the way down, led the -way to the counter. - -"Two whiskies and sodas, Tim," he ordered. "Where's the guv'nor?" - -The man jerked his thumb over his shoulder. - -"Up in the room, getting things to rights," he announced. "If you take -my advice, Mr. Cresswell, you'll slip in there as soon as you've had -your drink. There'll be a crowd when the gong goes, and they're a -tough lot to struggle with for seats." - -Aaron glanced around. The room was filled with a motley throng of -river-side loafers, with here and there a sprinkling of sailors. One -huge Dutchman, in a soiled nautical uniform, was already furiously -drunk. The two young men slipped up the stairs, to which the poet led -the way, and passed through the door into the further apartment, just -as the Dutchman's truculent eye fell upon them. - -"Shouldn't wonder if we didn't tumble across something in the way of an -adventure here," the poet remarked cheerfully. "We ought to have -changed our clothes. Hello, here's the boss." - -Mr. Jacob Potts, on his way down the long, dimly lit room, came to a -sudden standstill. His expression scarcely confirmed the welcome which -the heartiness of his invitation earlier in the day had promised. He -glanced at the two visitors in something like dismay. Nothing, -however, could damp the poet's spirits. - -"We've come down to see the scrap, guv'nor," he declared. - -"If you have," Mr. Jacob Potts replied, with something which sounded -threatening in his tone, "you're welcome. If so be that you've any -other reason for your coming, maybe a word of advice from me wouldn't -be out of place, and that word's git." - -"When we've seen the scrap and not before," Cresswell chuckled. "Do -you know that it cost the best part of a quid to get down here, -guv'nor? Bring 'em in and let's see what stuff they're made of." - -Jacob Potts looked at the speaker doubtfully. - -"You've 'ad a drop, young fellow, you 'ave," he muttered. - -"Trenchantly and convincingly put, old chap," the poet replied, -steadying himself by the back of the chair. "My dear friend and I are -making an evening of it." - -Mr. Potts' face cleared a little. - -"Boys will be boys," he assented amiably, "and there's none of you the -worse for a drop o' good liquor on board. Fact is I'm a bit jumpy -to-night," he confessed. "My boys have got a little game on--to-night -of all nights! Did you happen to notice," he asked anxiously, "if that -goll-darned Dutchman was down there?" - -"There is a son of Holland in the bar," the poet replied, "in a -glorious state of inebriation. He is seeking for some one to destroy. -Tell you the truth, we fled before him. His eye rested upon us and he -scowled." - -Mr. Jacob Potts lifted a blind and stared out towards the river. - -"That's his steamer lying there," he muttered. "I wish to God he'd get -aboard her!" - -Aaron Rodd moved softly to his side. - -"Is this little game you spoke of," he enquired--"the game your boys -have on to-night--the one which brought you up to consult me about -maritime law this morning?" - -"It is," Jacob Potts admitted, "and wot about it?" - -Aaron Rodd shrugged his shoulders. Before he could reply, however, a -gong sounded. The door of the room was thrown open and a surging mob -from the bar streamed in. - -"Front seats," yelled the poet, making a dive forward, but Aaron caught -him firmly by the arm. - -"Stephen," he whispered, "there's something up here to-night. We may -have to come into it. Let's get seats by the door, where we can slip -out quietly. I'm not joking." - -Considering all things, Cresswell was wonderfully amenable. They stood -on one side and let the crowd rush past them and eventually found two -seats against the side wall, within a few yards of the door. Mr. Jacob -Potts seemed for the moment to have forgotten their existence. He was -standing in the middle of the little ring, which was roped off on a -raised platform, stamping with his heel upon the floor. There were -shrill whistles and cries of "Order." - -"Gents," Mr. Potts announced, "this is a light-weight scrap, twelve -rounds, between our old friend Canary Joe and a youngster I found in -Craven Street--Jimmy Dunks." - -He pointed first towards a pimply-faced young man, with flaxen hair -brushed smoothly down over his forehead, attired in scarlet -knickerbockers and a pink vest, over which heterogeneous attire he had -thrown a soiled, light-coloured ulster. His opponent wore a thin -flannel vest, a pair of dilapidated golfing knickerbockers and the -remains of a dressing-gown. They both arose and made awkward -salutations. Canary Joe was evidently the favourite, but Mr. Potts -himself led the applause for his opponent. - -"Fair do's, gents," he begged. "This young 'un's a stranger, but from -what I've seen of 'im I believe 'e's out to do 'is best, and we none of -us can't do more." - -There were a few more preliminaries and the two young men faced one -another. They moved round for a moment like cats, amidst an almost -breathless silence. Then there were one or two wild plunges, a little -more cautious sparring, and a yell of applause as the young man in the -golfing knickerbockers landed his right very near his opponent's mouth. - -"Don't you treat 'im too light, Canary," they yelled from the back. -"Keep your eye on 'is left." - -There was a brief pause at the end of the first round. Canary Joe sat -scowling at his opponent as he received the attentions of his second. -The next round, although without decisive effect, was more vigorous; -the third produced a black eye each. The audience settled down to -enjoy itself. Suddenly the door at the back of the room was opened and -from somewhere below came the sound of a gong struck three tunes. -There were little murmurs of annoyance, disjointed oaths and growls -from various quarters, but, without a single moment's hesitation, at -least a score of the audience rose to their feet and made for the door. -Aaron Rodd and his companion watched them as they slunk by. The poet -was exceedingly interested. - -"Someone's going to get a biffing to-night," he confided. "I wonder -what it's all about." - -Aaron acted on an inexplicable impulse. - -"Let's go and see," he suggested. - -The poet rose at once to his feet. He was ready enough, if a trifle -dubious. - -"They won't want us butting in," he remarked. "All the same, we might -see a little of the fun. It will be more like the real thing than -this." - -They passed down the few stairs into the bar. Several of the men had -paused for a drink, but others had already slunk out into the street. -Following on the heels of the hindmost, Aaron Rodd and his companion -found themselves almost swallowed up in a sudden fog which had rolled -in from the river. From somewhere in the midst of the chaos they heard -a quick, authoritative voice. - -"Joe, you and half a dozen of you take the corners of the street. Hold -up anything that tries to come down. Start a fight amongst yourselves -if there are coppers about. You others come out on the wharf." - -"That Dutchman's in this, I'll swear," the poet whispered. "Let's try -and find our way down to the river. I know where the gate is." - -Almost as he spoke, a heavy hand descended upon his shoulder, and a -dark, evil face was thrust almost into his. - -"Look here, guv'nor," the man said, "you mayn't be after any 'arm down -'ere but it's one o' them nights we don't need strangers around. You -tumble? The old man's wolves are out and they've a nasty way of -snapping anything that comes along." - -"What's the game, Sid?" the poet asked engagingly. "We're only here -for a bit of sport." - -"Never you mind what the game is," was the terse reply. "You get back -and watch those two chickens scratching one another's faces." - -There was a moment's silence. Then from a few yards off came the sound -of a slight moan, as from a person suffocating. - -"What's that?" Aaron Rodd demanded sharply. - -"Never you mind what it is," was the swift reply from their unseen -adviser. "Take your carcases inside, if you want to keep them whole." - -He vanished in the fog. Aaron Rodd gripped his companion's arm. - -"Stephen," he muttered, "that was a woman's voice!" - -"Sounded like it," the poet assented. "Have you got your electric -torch in your pocket?" - -"Yes!" - -They heard the rattle of a key in the gate which led out on to the -wharf. For some time it refused to turn. Again they heard the moan, -and Aaron's blood ran cold. - -"I can't stand this, Stephen," he whispered hoarsely. "Come on." - -"One moment," the poet answered. "They can't get the gate open. I -don't believe the guv'nor's on to this. Stay where you are for a -minute." - -He hurried back, tore up the stairs and into the dimly lit room, filled -still with breathless expectancy. It was the end of another round, -during which Canary Joe had obtained some slight advantage. The poet -walked straight up the room, regardless of the growls which assailed -him, and touched its presiding spirit upon the shoulder. - -"Guv'nor," he said, "you told me, when we had dealings, that you'd -never taken on any job in which there was a woman to be harried." - -"That's right, boy," Jacob Potts agreed. - -"There's a woman in the game to-night, a woman who has been brought -down here by some of your lot, and who is down there now, either -drugged or half conscious. They are trying to get her on the -Dutchman's steamer." - -"How do you know it's a woman?" was the brief demand. - -"I tell you we both heard her groan," the poet insisted. - -Jacob Potts rose to his feet. - -"Boys," he said, addressing the belligerents, "and gents, there will be -a ten minutes' interval. Sorry, but it's business. Joe will serve the -drinks, which for this occasion only will be free." - -The ten minutes' interval, softened by the promise of free drinks, -displeased no one. Jacob Potts, still in his shirt-sleeves, strode out -of the place, through the front room of the public-house and out into -the street, where a queer, unnatural silence Seemed to reign. - -"There ain't no woman about 'ere!" he exclaimed. - -Aaron Rodd suddenly flashed his torch. The iron gate was closed. -There was no one before it. They could hear the sound of men's -footsteps a few yards away on the old wooden wharf. - -"They've just gone through," Aaron whispered fiercely. "Come on!" - -Jacob Potts produced a key from his pocket and swung the gate open. - -"If you fellows have made a fool of me," he muttered, "there'll be -trouble, but if my boys have let me in, there'll be hell!" - -Just as he finished speaking they once more heard the faint, smothered -cry from in front, followed by a man's oath. They saw the flashing of -a light and heard the fall of a rope from the wharf into the river. -Jacob Potts quickened his pace. - -"Turn on that glim o' yours, guv'nor," he growled, "and mind where -you're going. 'Ullo there?" - -There was a confusion of answering voices. - -"It's the guv'nor!" they heard some one say. - -Then the light of Aaron Rodd's torch flashed upon the short, wooden -dock, and upon the half-dozen men grouped at the top of the crazy steps -at its furthest extremity. One of them came back. It was the man who -had warned the poet and Aaron. - -"Guv'nor," he said earnestly, "this ain't your show. You leave us -alone and get back to the fight." - -"That be damned!" Jacob Potts replied firmly. "It's no job of yourn to -tell me wot to do. You know very well there's just one thing I stick -at, and I asks you a plain question, Sid, and a plain answer expected. -Is that bundle you're carrying a woman, or ain't it?" - -"It's a woman," the man proclaimed doggedly, "and it's going on board -the 'Amsterdam.'" - -The answer of Jacob Potts was bellicose and unprintable. He strode -along the little wharf, followed by Aaron Rodd and Cresswell. Behind -came the man called Sid, his face darker and more evil than ever, his -breath coming short with anger. - -"Boys," Jacob Potts exclaimed, "drop that! You hear me? Women ain't -in the game. You've all been told that." - -There was a moment's hesitation. Then they heard the voice of their -leader, hoarse and vicious. - -"Get on with it, boys. It's going to be the river for any one who -stands in our way to-night." - -There were six of them altogether, besides Sid. Three of them moved -now towards the steps, below which a boat was bobbing up and down. -Another man was seated in it, holding to the side by a boat-hook, and -the three men at the top of the steps were carrying something. Sid and -the other two turned round. - -"Guv'nor," the former began---- - -There was a sickening crash as Jacob Potts' fist caught him almost in -the mouth. He rolled over and up again on to his feet, remaining -warily out of reach, but after that one blow easily able to keep his -assailant occupied. Aaron Rodd had sprung for the steps, and received -a blow on the side of the head from one of the other men which sent him -reeling almost into the river. - -"Get her aboard," Sid cried out. "We can tackle this lot. No one can -get down the street. The boys'll see to that." - -Then there was a fierce, ugly silence for several moments. Jacob -Potts, winded from the first, the river on either side of him and -murder in the man's face whom he fought, panted and groaned with every -fresh movement. Aaron Rodd found himself suddenly in a new world, a -new uplifting instinct sending the blood tingling through his veins. -He was fighting, a thing he had never done since his school-days, -fighting with long, swinging blows, making scarcely an effort to -protect himself, fighting in an atmosphere indescribable, the thirst -for blood hot in his veins, with one desire throbbing in his heart--to -kill or throw into the river the man who kept surging up towards him. -It was a vicious face, fair-complexioned once, but dark now with engine -grease, with bleary eyes, mouth wide open all the time, disclosing a -broken row of hideous sickly-looking teeth. But for the man's evil -life he would have disposed of his opponent with his first few blows, -for he had been in his day a bruiser of some repute, but Aaron Rodd -knew no pain, felt no fear, and he was the first conqueror. Through -sheer fortune, hitting wildly with all his strength, his long right arm -landed full on the point of his assailant's jaw. The man went over -with a sickening crash. Sid, who was sparring still with Jacob Potts, -leaned for a moment downwards. - -"Lay her down in the boat and come up, one of you," he shouted. -"Bill's done in. Get down and let the other boys through. They're at -the gate. We'll finish off these blighters then." - -One of the men, who had been stepping into the boat, turned back. -Suddenly there was a scream from below and Aaron Rodd knew that his had -been no dream. The voice was Henriette's. - -"Help! Help!" she cried. - -Her voice was smothered but Aaron Rodd's shout rang through the night. - -"We're here, Henriette! We'll rescue you. Hold on." - -Then there was the sound of a mighty splash. The poet, who had -suddenly closed with his man, had got him to the very edge of the -wharf. Apparently one or both had lost their balance. For a moment -the fighting ceased. Every one listened. A few yards away they could -hear the long, level strokes of a man swimming--one man only. Then -Jacob Potts' voice broke the tense silence. - -"I'm--I'm done," he moaned. - -Aaron Rodd, who had been waiting for the two men running up the steps, -swung round. A peaceful man all his life, he was suddenly a fiend. He -seized the electric torch from his pocket and brought it down with all -his strength on the head of Jacob Potts' opponent. The man fell over -with scarcely a cry, just as the publican reeled backwards. The -realisation of what had happened gave him a moment's extra strength. - -"You've done him, sir," he faltered. "Can you keep those other two off -for a moment whilst I get my wind? That brute--hit me--below the belt. -I forgot he wouldn't fight fair. Mind this little one. He'll trip -you." - -Aaron Rodd turned almost with a laugh to meet his two assailants. It -seemed to him that there was a new joy in the world. He whirled the -torch over his head, missed the skull of the nearest of the new-comers -and brought it crashing on to his shoulder. At the same time he -himself received a fierce blow from the second man, staggered, tripped -and recovered himself. The whole place went round. He put his hands -up for a moment before his head, felt them battered down, struck wildly -again and again. One of his blows went home with a sickening thud and -the joy of it thrilled him. Both men were closing in upon him, -however. On the other side of the wharf they could hear the gate being -rattled. There was a low whistle, twice repeated. The man from the -boat shouted. - -"Climb the gate, boys." - -"There's more of 'em," Jacob Potts gasped. "Keep it up for a moment, -Mr. Rodd. I'm coming in to help you." - -Then there was another hush, ominous, in a sense mysterious. There was -a sound which conveyed little enough to Aaron Rodd, but which the -others recognised promptly enough--the long, mechanical swing of oars. -Without a second's hesitation, Aaron's two assailants turned and ran, -fleet-footed and silent, off the wharf, and vanished somewhere in the -darkness. The gate was rattled no more and from up the street came the -sound of flying footsteps. Jacob Potts began to sob. - -"It's the police--the river police! That ever I should be glad to -welcome 'em! Get down to the boat, Mr. Rodd. My God, what's come to -you, sir!" - -Aaron Rodd walked from one side of the quay to the other like a drunken -man. There were all manner of stars in front of him. He gripped hold -of the rope and stole down the steps. He was suddenly steadied by a -great excitement. With a black shawl torn back from her head in that -last struggle, her feet and hands tied together, the remains of a gag -hanging from her mouth, her face livid, her eyes full of horrible fear, -lay Henriette. She saw him swaying over her, gripping the end of the -rope, his face streaming with blood but with all manner of things in -his eyes, and she made a little movement, tried to hold up her hands, -tried even to smile. - -"Oh, thank God! Thank God!" - -The sound of the oars was no longer audible. A long boat, crowded with -men in dark uniform, came gliding out of the shadows. A boat-hook -gripped the side of the quay. The poet, looking like a drowned -retriever, stood up in the bows and cheered lustily. One of the -uniformed men, who seemed to be an inspector, flashed a lantern upon -the scene. - -"What's wrong here?" he asked quickly. - -Aaron Rodd kneeled upon the slippery steps and pointed to the girl. -One of the men clambered into the boat and cut the ropes. They half -carried her up on to the wharf. The policemen followed. They flashed -lanterns around. The man Sid was lying on his side, motionless. Aaron -Rodd's first assailant was tying in a doubled-up heap, moaning to -himself. Mr. Jacob Potts was just beginning to recover himself. - -"So you're in this, are you, Potts?" the inspector remarked grimly. -"The boys broken loose, eh?" - -"Just a little scrap," the publican groaned. - -Then Aaron Rodd was suddenly aware of a new sensation. He felt a pair -of warm arms thrown around his neck. The poet, who had been shaking -himself like a dripping dog, sprang to his side. The sky came down and -the planks beneath his feet seemed jumping towards his throat. But -Aaron Rodd, though the world around him was fading fast from his -consciousness, had found new things and he was quite happy. - - - - -_Chapter V_ _The Mysterious Assistant_ - -Abraham Letchowiski stood in the doorway of his small but brilliantly -lit shop in one of the broad thoroughfares leading out of the Mile End -Road, and beamed upon the Saturday night passers-by. He was, in his -way, a picturesque looking object--patriarchal, almost biblical. He -wore a long, rusty-black frock-coat, from which the buttons had long -since departed, but which hung in straight lines about his tall, spare -form. His dishevelled grey beard reached to the third button of his -waistcoat. His horn-rimmed spectacles were pushed back to his -forehead. Every now and then he harangued a likely-looking couple in -mild and persuasive accents. - -"Young shentleman, shtop von minute. Bring the beautiful young lady -inside. I am selling sheap to-night, very very sheap. Young -shentleman, you want a real diamond ring? I have the sheapest diamond -rings in the vorld. I am Letchowiski, the gem merchant. You bring -your moniesh to me. You get better value than anyvere in Vitechapel or -the Vest End. Come inside, my tears." - -A few of the passers-by answered him with chaff. One or two of the -more forward of the girls threw him a kiss. Old father Letchowiski on -a Saturday night was a familiar feature of the dingy marketing -thoroughfare, but to-night more than one fancied that his heart was not -in it. Presently, during a lull, he turned back into his shop, -fingered lovingly a few of his wares, gewgaws of the most glaring -description, and then turned to a small boy who stood behind the -counter, a remarkable, cross-eyed youth, standing little higher than -the counter, with black hair, a narrow face and sallow complexion. - -"David, you call me the moment anyone puts their head in the shop. You -hear? Call loudly." - -"All right, granfer," the boy replied. "Can I go to the door and shout -at them?" - -"If you like," the old gentleman agreed tolerantly. "If you sell -anything, perhaps I give you a little commission." - -A beatific smile spread over the boy's face as he scrambled under the -counter. Abraham Letchowiski opened a door which led into the rear of -the premises, drew aside the curtain and peered for a moment back again -through the shop into the street, over the head of the small boy, who -with outstretched hands was making the night hideous with cries of -fervid invitation. Then he dropped the curtain, descended two stairs, -passed through a small, ill-ventilated sitting-room, the table of which -was laid for a homely meal, on through another door, and along a dark -passage. Through a further door at the end came a chink of brilliant -light. He knocked twice softly and stepped inside. A man with a -tired, livid face, his clothing covered by a long smock, heavy -spectacles disfiguring his features, was stooping over a tiny lathe. -The soft whir of a dynamo from a corner purred insistently. A -brilliant droplight from the ceiling was lowered almost over the bench. -Something glittered in the white hands of the workman as he turned -around with a little start. - -"Letchowiski!" he muttered. "Well?" - -"Finish for to-night," Letchowiski whispered imploringly. "All the -evening I have been uneasy. Just now I stand in my doorway and I shout -my wares and my eyes search. There is a man in the clothing shop -opposite. He pretends to deal with Hyam for a suit, but I see him -often with his eyes turned this way. He is like the man of whom you -have told me--the man Brodie." - -The artificer did not hesitate for a moment. He looked in the mirror -opposite to him and straightened a little more naturally the coal black -hair which only an artist could have arranged. With his foot he -stopped the dynamo. From a cupboard opposite to him he brought out a -dozen cheap watches and spread them around. One of these he proceeded -with neat fingers to take to pieces. - -"It is well to be careful, Abraham Letchowiski," he agreed softly. "Go -back to the shop. Is supper ready?" - -"There is a little cold fish upon the table," Letchowiski replied. "It -is useless to wait for Rosa. We will sit down, you and I, when you -wish." - -A faint flicker of disgust crossed the face of the listener. He -watched the disappearing figure of the old man. Then he half closed -his eyes. - -"It is the end," he reminded himself softly. "All that remains is to -get away." - -Mr. Harvey Grimm took off his overalls and looked at himself carefully -in the glass. He was wearing a well-worn blue serge suit, a flannel -shirt and collar, a faded wisp of blue tie. His black hair was -plastered down on to his forehead, ending on one side in a little curl, -after the fashion of the neighbourhood. The man was so consummate an -actor that his very cast of features seemed to have assumed a Semitic -aspect. He readjusted his spectacles, busied himself at the bench for -a few more minutes, covered over the dynamo, and finally made his way -stealthily into the shop. He paused for a moment with his hand upon -the counter, listening to the old man who stood in the doorway. His -fingers played with a tray of atrocious-looking pieces of cut-glass, -set in common brass. Abraham Letchowiski, in one of his pauses for -breath, glanced around and saw him. - -"You have finished?" he asked eagerly. - -"Finished," was the quiet reply. "Let us eat together." - -The jeweller abandoned his place, which was promptly taken by the small -boy. - -"You go and have your supper, granfer," he begged. "I do some good -business." - -"Aren't you hungry?" the old man asked affectionately. - -The small boy shook his head. - -"I rather stay here and do business," he declared. "Young shentleman -went by just now wants diamond ring to give to the lady. He promised -to come back." - -They left him standing upon the threshold, eager and expectant, and -took their places in the musty little room before the fragment of cold -fish, at which Harvey Grimm glanced for a moment in disgust. They had -barely settled down before the door was thrown vigorously open. A -tall, dark young woman, dressed in all the finery of the neighbourhood, -swung into the room. She held out her cheek to her grandfather, but -her bold black eyes rested upon Harvey Grimm. - -"What a supper!" she exclaimed scornfully. "And after I've been away -for nearly ten days, too! You don't expect me to eat this, do you?" - -"Sit down, my dear, and take a little," the old man begged nervously. -"If I had been sure that you had been coming--but we are never sure of -you, Rosa. We expected you last Saturday, but you never came." - -"Pooh! that is your own look-out," the girl declared. "You are rolling -in money, grandfather, and you live like a pauper. I wonder your young -men stay," she added, showing a row of white teeth as she beamed upon -Harvey Grimm. "I'm sure I shouldn't, unless you treated me better than -this." - -"If you like, my dear," Abraham Letchowiski suggested, "I will go out -and buy some fruit." - -She pushed him back in his place. - -"Sit still," she ordered. "I will eat with you what there is. -Afterwards we will see." - -They proceeded with their very scanty meal. The girl talked loudly -about her situation in the great tailoring establishment, dwelt on the -fact that she had just been made forewoman over one of the departments, -invited their admiration of the cut of her skirt, standing boldly up, -with her arms akimbo, to display the better the allurements of her -luxurious figure, her eyes flashing provocatively the whole of the -time. Harvey Grimm, who had been at first silent and unresponsive, -seemed suddenly to fall a victim to her charms. He met her more than -half-way in the flirtation which she so obviously desired. They were -seated arm in arm, whispering together, his lips very close to her -flushed cheek, when the little door leading to the shop was suddenly -opened. Paul Brodie stood there, looking down upon them, and behind -him another man, also in plain clothes. - -There was a brief and somewhat curious silence. The two new-comers -seemed content with a close scrutiny of the dingy, odoriferous -apartment. It was Abraham Letchowiski who first spoke. He rose to his -feet and leaned over the table. The hand which lowered his spectacles -on to his nose was shaking. - -"Vat you vant here?" he demanded. - -"Sorry to disturb you, sir," Brodie said pleasantly, bowing towards -Rosa. "We want to search your premises. Don't be alarmed. Unless you -have something to conceal we shall do you no harm, and we'll take care -of all your treasures." - -"But who are you, then?" the old man persisted. "Vy should you search -my premises? I have done nothing wrong. I have lived honest always." - -"That's all right," Brodie declared soothingly. "We ain't going to -hurt you any." - -"You know me, Mr. Letchowiski," the other man observed. "My name's -Bone--John Bone. I am the detective attached to the police-station -around the corner. We won't worry you any more than we're obliged to, -but on this gentleman's information we are bound just to have a look -round." - -"But my pizness--it' will be ruined!" Abraham Letchowiski cried, -wringing his hands. "If my customers know, they will never believe -again that I am an honest man. I shall be ruined! They will come no -more near my shop!" - -"Nothing of the sort," the detective assured him. "I have only left -one man outside and he is in plain clothes. We can search this room -and the bedroom and your workshop, without attracting anyone's -attention. Come, Mr. Letchowiski, you and I know one another." - -The old man was still vociferous in his expressions of dismay. - -"I am seventy-three years old," he moaned. "I have never been in -trouble. I am honest, just as honest as a man can be." - -"Then keep your hands exactly as they are now," Brodie told him. "So!" - -With the ease of experience he ran his fingers over the old man's -clothing, searching him from head to foot. - -"Well, I never!" Rosa exclaimed, her eyes flashing angrily. "Fancy -treating an old man like that! Is anyone going to try to do it to me, -I should like to know? They'll feel my fingernails, if they do." - -"It will not be necessary," John Bone replied politely. "We watched -you enter." - -"What you looking for?" she asked, her curiosity getting the better of -her anger. - -"Ah!" the detective murmured. "Is this your assistant, Mr. -Letchowiski?" he went on. - -Harvey Grimm rose slowly to his feet and held out his hands. - -"I am not an assistant of anybody's," he declared, and his voice seemed -to have undergone an extraordinary change. "My name is Ed. Levy, and I -am a skilled watchmaker." - -John Bone searched him briefly from head to foot. All the while, -Brodie was going round the apartment. Cupboards were peered into, -ornaments turned upside down, the boards and walls tapped, every -possible hiding-place ransacked. John Bone disappeared for a few -minutes up the stairs, and they heard his heavy tramp in the bedroom -above. As soon as he had returned, the two men made their way towards -the inner door. - -"Come with us down to the workshop, Abraham Letchowiski," the detective -invited. - -"Vot you want me for?" the old man asked querulously. - -"Never mind. Come along with us. We may have questions to ask." - -They disappeared, the old jeweller groaning in the rear. As they -passed through the door, Paul Brodie glanced for a moment back. The -young man, who had called himself Ed. Levy, had passed his arm once -more through Rosa's. Their faces were close together. An amorous grin -had parted the young man's lips and he was whispering in the girl's -ear. Brodie smiled at his half-conceived suspicion, as he turned away. -Rosa and her grandfather's assistant were left alone. - -"What you think?" she asked him. "Has grandfather been doing anything, -eh?" - -"Not he," was the confident reply. "Abraham Letchowiski is too old and -too clever to run such risks at his time of life. Besides, he has -plenty of money." - -Rosa assented. She was apparently convinced of her grandfather's -probity. - -"You're right," she declared. "He has got plenty of money, and no one -to leave it to except David and me. A nice dowry for me, eh?" - -"Lucky girl!" Harvey Grimm sighed. - -"These young men--they know it," she went on. "There's Mr. Hyam, from -opposite, and the two Solomons. But I don't like them--they're too -clumsy. I like you." - -He held her hand tighter. She presented for his examination her -fingers, exposing a very large and brilliant ring and a massive gold -bracelet. - -"I love jewellery," she confided. "Isn't that beautiful? Some day you -give me a ring, eh, and I wear it--which finger you like me to wear it -on?" - -"Some day," he promised, "when I am earning a little more, I will give -you a jewel that will make all the girls in your workshop mad with -envy." - -"If you want to earn more money," she asked, "why do you work for -grandfather? All the young men make jokes about him. He never pays -anyone half what they are worth." - -Harvey Grimm nodded mysteriously. - -"You wait," he told her. "I never stay long anywhere. I am a -journeyman repairer. I earn more money that way. I have about -finished here now." - -"To-night," the girl whispered, "you take me to a cinema palace. -There's a fine one at the corner of the street. If you like," she -added with a sigh, "I pay for my own seat." - -He hesitated for a moment. Then he smiled. - -"We will start directly these men have gone," he promised, "and I will -pay for both." - -"That is better," she acquiesced, with an air of relief. "It is always -better for the gentleman to pay. Tell me," she went on, a little -abruptly, "what do they look for, these men? They are a long time in -the workshop." - -"It is always the same," he told her. "Wherever I go, I find it. -There are always robberies, day by day, up in the West End, and they -think there is nowhere else the stones can be brought and sold but in -this neighbourhood. Every little jeweller's shop from here to the far -end of the Mile End Road is ransacked. This is the second time they -have visited us." - -"Then they are very foolish people," Rosa declared. "Grandfather -wouldn't buy anything that was stolen. He is too nervous. He has no -courage. Yet," she went on thoughtfully, "if he is really as rich as -they say he is, one wonders how he makes it all out of this poky little -shop." - -Harvey Grimm nodded his head many times in wise fashion. - -"A very clever man, Abraham Letchowiski," he declared. "Oh, I know -many things! Those brooches he sells hundreds of at a shilling -each--they cost one halfpenny. The engagement rings with the rubies or -sapphires--you take your choice--nine shillings he charges for those, -tenpence halfpenny they cost him. Money comes soon when one can -persuade people to buy. Then he lends money everywhere, when it is -safe. Many of these tradespeople in the street owe him money. Hush! -They are coming back. After the cinema, perhaps, we have a little -supper together, eh?" - -She hugged his arm affectionately, which was precisely what he meant -her to do. The entrance of the three men found them engaged in amorous -whisperings. Brodie scarcely glanced in their direction. He was -frowning sullenly. - -"Just a few minutes in the shop, Mr. Letchowiski," the detective said, -"and we'll move on and leave you in peace." - -They passed up the two steps and through the little door, which they -closed behind them. Harvey Grimm for a moment seemed to forget his -companion. He rose to his feet and stealthily crept to the curtained -window. He stood there, peering through a chink into the shop. It was -becoming difficult now to retain that wonderful composure. The hand -which had stolen into his trousers pocket was tightly clenched upon a -small, hard object. - -"Why do you watch there?" Rosa demanded petulantly. "Come back to me. -Grandfather will be here directly." - -Her new admirer made no reply. His eyes were riveted upon Paul Brodie, -who held in his hands the little tray, piled with abominable gewgaws. -Presently he set it down again upon the counter. Harvey Grimm bit his -lip until the blood came. - -"Why do you bother about those stupid men?" she protested. "Come back -here, or I shall come to you." - -He heard her rise with a great rustle. He felt the odour of patchouli -and cheap sachets about him. She crept to his side just as the shop -door opened and the two men went out. Then he turned and kissed her -full on the red, pouting lips. She giggled hysterically for her -grandfather had just pushed open the curtained door and was standing -looking down upon them. He stamped his foot, shook his head and raised -his hands. - -"You kiss my granddaughter--you?" he cried. - -Harvey Grimm held out his finger. The old man suddenly stopped. He -crossed the room towards his high-backed chair and sank back with a -little sigh of relief. - -"I am too old for excitement like this," he mumbled. "I am getting -very old." - -Rosa turned towards him. - -"Mr. Levy is going to take me to a picture palace, grandfather," she -announced. "Would you like me to call and ask Mr. Hyam to come across -and sit with you?" - -The old man shook his head. - -"No, no!" he replied. "It would mean coffee for two and I have no -money. You go to the cinema with Mr. Levy and enjoy yourself, my dear. -These men have terrified me. I am old--too old. I shall go to -Deucher's and get some coffee by myself. Come and get your supper," he -cried through the open door to the boy. "I will come into the shop for -a little time." - -The boy came reluctantly from behind the counter and pushed past his -cousin and her escort into the sitting-room. Rosa turned back to speak -to him for a minute and Harvey Grimm was alone in the shop. He -stretched out his hand towards the tray of gewgaws, and a little shower -of its contents slipped into his overcoat pocket. Presently Rosa -reappeared, drawing on her gloves. - -"We go now," she declared. "Walk slowly out of the shop. I like Mr. -Hyam to see us, from opposite. He is always bothering me to go out -with him. I like you best. There! This way." - -They made a very deliberate progress along the crowded street until -they reached the cinema palace. Harvey Grimm paid for sixpenny seats, -and sat arm in arm with Rosa in an atmosphere which seemed to reek of -fried fish, rank tobacco smoke and cheap scent. His left hand held her -purposely ungloved fingers inside her muff. His right hand toyed with -forty thousand pounds' worth of diamonds thrust into common settings -which sometimes pricked his fingers. When the performance was over -they left, still arm in arm. - -"Rosa," he announced, "to-night I give you a treat. I tell you a -secret as well. I am leaving your grandfather's. I have a much better -place. I have saved money, too." - -She clung to him in unrestrained affection. - -"How much?" she whispered. - -"Never mind," he replied. "Maybe three hundred pounds, maybe more. -To-night I have the spending fit upon me. We take a taxicab and we -drive together up west. I give you some supper at the Monico." - -She drew a little breath of delight. Suddenly she was serious. - -"Let us go by the Tube," she suggested. "We shall save three shillings -towards the supper. You can buy me a bottle of scent with that." - -He laughed and handed her into the taxicab which he had already hailed, -directed the man to drive to the Monico and stepped in by her side. - -"I can buy you a bottle of scent all right," he assured her, "and in -here, don't you see, we are quite alone, Rosa. In the restaurant there -will be people." - -"We might have had the taxicab home," she sighed, her head upon his -shoulder. - -"Listen," he explained, "after supper I pay for your taxicab, if you -will, but I must leave you. I have to see a man on business at -half-past eleven. It is my new employer." - -For a moment she drew away and looked at him doubtfully. - -"On business at half-past eleven?" she repeated. "What is your -business? Are you an honest man, Ed. Levy, eh?" - -"I am as honest as your grandfather," he answered, "and listen, I am -clever. I can make money--make it quickly." - -She sat a little closer to him and with her own fingers drew his arm -around her waist. - -"Shall we be married soon?" she whispered. "Grandfather must die some -day soon, and there's no one knows how much money he's got. David and -I will have it all." - -"We'll talk about that," Harvey Grimm promised. - - -At a few minutes after twelve on the following morning, Harvey Grimm, -very spruce and very debonair, pushed open the swing-doors of the small -smoking-room of the Milan, and crossed the room with the obvious -intention of proceeding towards the bar. A little welcoming chorus -assailed him from a circular lounge in the right-hand corner of the -room. Seated there were four of his friends whom at first he scarcely -recognised. There was Aaron Rodd with his arm in a sling, a piece of -sticking-plaster on his forehead and a thick stick by his side; the -poet, with a bandaged head and a shade over his eye; Henriette, looking -a little fragile but very animated; and her brother, still in uniform, -leaning back in an easy chair by her side. Harvey Grimm stared at them -all in blank and ever-increasing astonishment. - -"Has there been an earthquake?" he asked, as he shook hands and -exchanged greetings with everybody, "or have I, in my country -seclusion, missed a scrap?" - -"You have missed the scrap of your life," Cresswell replied eagerly. -"You have saved your skin at the expense of untold glory." - -"Tell me about it," the new-comer begged, as he took his place in the -little circle. - -"Where can one find words?" the poet began expansively. "It was an -Homeric sight, a battle royal! It took place in the darkness, upon a -slippery wooden wharf, with the black waters of the river beneath, and -murderous parasites assailing us on every side. It was an epic of -biffing, the glorious triumph of the unfit over the river-side apache. -And let me tell you this, my friend Harvey--for an untrained fighter -the world doesn't hold a man who can hit so quickly and so hard as our -newly established hero, Mr. Aaron Rodd. I have decided that he has -earned immortality. I am composing a poem which I shall dedicate to -him." - -"Could I hear what it was all about?" Harvey Grimm asked meekly. - -"Me," Henrietta sighed. - -Then they told their story, all of them in turn, except Brinnen, -supplying details. Towards the end, however, the poet took up the -running and finished alone. - -"His face," the latter declared, gripping Aaron Rodd by the arm, "was -like a pastel in white chalk against the soft background of velvety -blackness. Heaven lit the burning light in his eyes. The swing of his -right arm was like the pendulum of fate----" - -"Oh, keep this rot for the poem!" Aaron Rodd interrupted forcibly. "If -you want to gas, what about your own swim to the river police-station?" - -"A series of truly Homeric episodes," the poet assented, with a gentle -sigh. "My pen shall give them immortality. I shall not forget to -allude to the part which I, too, played in this drama of fog and river. -The water was very cold," he added, suddenly finishing his cocktail. - -"And our friend from the country?" Brinnen asked quietly. "How has he -fared?" - -There was a breathless silence. Harvey Grimm nodded slightly. He -glanced around the room, of which they were the only occupants. Both -doors were closed. - -"All is well," he announced softly. "I returned last night. The -business is finished." - -"How much?" Brinnen enquired eagerly. - -"There will be forty-five thousand pounds. I could not draw it all -last night, but it will be paid within a week. I have nine thousand -with me. Six of that I will hand over at any moment you please." - -"There is no one in the room," Brinnen murmured suggestively. - -Harvey Grimm drew out a pocket-book, ran some notes through his -fingers, and passed them over to Brinnen. Once more the latter glanced -around the room. Then with his left hand he produced from the pocket -of his coat a necklace of brilliants, one of which, the centre one, -seemed to shine with a faint, rosy light. - -"Better see what you can do with that," he remarked, tossing it lightly -across. - -Harvey Grimm held the necklace for a moment in his fingers before he -slipped it into the concealment of his pocket. During that moment he -caught an impression of Henriette's eyes, full of amazement, fixed upon -it. She turned towards her brother. - -"Leopold," she exclaimed wonderingly, "I do not remember----" - -He brushed her words aside. - -"You have not seen all," he told her significantly. - -Harvey Grimm rang the bell. - -"I warn you," he said, "that it will be a few days before I can abandon -civilisation again, even for a task like this." - -Brinnen moved uneasily in his chair. - -"It is work, this," he pointed out, "which carries with it a special -urgency. Remember that its results will last for a lifetime." - -"Quite true," was the somewhat grudging admission. "It also means -great risks. I have been as near the end of things, within the last -twenty-four hours, as I care to be." - -The waiter appeared with a tray full of cocktails. Harvey Grimm -accepted his and leaned back in his chair with a beatific aspect. - -"This," he murmured, "is one of the decadent luxuries denied to me in -my country seclusion. Like many other things in life, it is almost -worth while to lose it for a time, for the sake----" - -He broke off in his speech. They all leaned a little forward in their -chairs. From a side door at the further end of the apartment, leading -to the private suites in the hotel, a lift man suddenly appeared, with -a valet upon his heels. They crossed the room with almost feverish -haste. They were obviously distressed. A small boy followed, a moment -or two later, with face as pale as death. There was a confused murmur -of voices just outside the glass door leading to the main portion of -the hotel, and a moment afterwards they reappeared with the manager -between them, all talking excitedly at the same time. Then the door -opened once more and a woman, tall and dark, in a long dressing-gown of -green silk, rushed in. She threw out her hands towards the manager. - -"Send for the police!" she cried. "My husband--he is murdered! ... and -my jewels--they are all stolen! The police, do you hear?" - -They all vanished through the distant door, the woman clinging to the -manager's arm and talking excitedly all the time. The little party -looked at one another. - -"That was Madame de Borria, the wife of the South American -millionaire," Harvey Grimm said slowly. - -"The woman who wears the necklace with the rose diamond!" Henriette -exclaimed breathlessly. - -Then there was a queer, tense silence. Captain Brinnen lifted his -glass to his lips and finished his cocktail. - -"There is more than one rose diamond in the world," he observed coolly. - - - - -_Chapter VI_ _Paul Brodie Strikes_ - -Mr. Jacob Potts, blowing very hard, and with his tongue protruding from -the corner of his mouth, finished an elaborate signature, patted his -waistcoat pocket, in which he had just deposited a cheque, laid down -the pen, and, leaning back in his chair, crossed his legs. He was once -more occupying the distinguished position of being Aaron Rodd's only -client. - -"I never thought to do it," he declared. "I never thought to part with -'The Sailor-boys' while I was, so to speak, in the prime of life. It's -'aving the lads turn agin me that's done it. It shows, Mr. Rodd," he -added impressively, "what money will do in this world." - -"Financially," Aaron Rodd reminded him, "you are independent, -absolutely independent of work." - -"I know, but what's a man to do?" Mr. Potts replied with a sigh. -"There was plenty down there always to keep me occupied, and those -lads--well, I could have sworn to their running straight till that -blarsted Dutchman came along. I tell you, Mr. Rodd," he went on, "I've -done some deals in my life, and I've been up against propositions where -money didn't seem much object. I've 'ad jobs brought to me which I -wouldn't allow my lads to tackle, where they, in a manner of speaking, -thrust a blank cheque down under my nose, but I never in my born days -knowed money chucked about like them as was at the back of that -Dutchman was willing to chuck, it about. Why, for an ordinary job, if -my boys got a tenner apiece they thought themselves on velvet. From -wot Tim, my barman, told me, and he generally noses out wot there is -going abaht, there was two 'undred quid for each of those boys if they -got the young woman on board. No wonder they were kind of off their -chumps!" - -"Where exactly did they mean to take her?" Aaron Rodd asked. - -Mr. Jacob Potts grinned. - -"I bet she knows, sir, and I should 'ave thought she'd told you before -this," he replied. "Give every man 'is due, I say, and for an amateur -that 'ad no more idea than a babe unborn how to put up his dukes, I -must say you did fairly let into 'em, Mr. Rodd. I never seed a man -lose 'old of 'imself so, in a manner of speaking, and as for that young -gent as writes poetry, why, I'd make a bruiser of 'im in six months. -'E don't seem to feel pain.... And bein' as we're on the subject of -that scrap, sir, are you above taking a word of advice from an old man?" - -"I certainly am not," Aaron Rodd assured him. - -"If I was you, I should go a bit quiet with the young lady and 'er -friends," Jacob Potts said seriously. "I've nowt straightforward to -tell agin 'em, and that's a fact, but a bit here and a bit there is -good enough for a man with a level head. There's three or four of 'er -kidney in this country, and, if I'm not greatly mistook, they're wrong -'uns." - -"I can't think that the young lady comes altogether under that -designation," Aaron Rodd protested stiffly. "At the same time, Mr. -Potts, I must admit that her associations are mysterious." - -"Steer clear of them, sir, and take an old man's advice," the -ex-publican begged. "I've 'ad things 'inted to me about them that I -shouldn't like altogether to put into words----" - -Aaron Rodd saw his client out and found an old friend ascending the -staircase. Harvey Grimm was whistling softly to himself, his hat was -at its usual jaunty angle, his violets were as fresh as ever, his -clothes as carefully brushed. Only his expression was different. He -was almost serious. He took Aaron by the arm. - -"Put on your hat, my friend," he said. "We will walk for a little -time." - -Aaron obeyed and they made their way down to the Embankment Gardens. - -"Listen," Harvey Grimm began, looking around to be sure that no -passers-by were within hearing distance, "there is such a thing as -tempting Fate a little too far. I think we have come to the point when -we had better draw in." - -"Explain yourself, please," his companion begged. - -"During the last few weeks," Harvey Grimm proceeded, "I have broken up -and cut into different shapes nearly a hundred thousand pounds' worth -of diamonds. I have actually handled nearly eighty thousand pounds in -money. You and I are fifteen thousand pounds each to the good. Our -friends want to go on. Frankly, I've got the funks. I'd like to cry -off for a time." - -"That doesn't sound like you," Aaron remarked. - -"Perhaps not," his friend admitted. "All the same, I've no fancy for -thrusting my neck into the noose. Brodie doesn't even know it himself, -but he was hot on the scent last time, He found out, somehow or other, -the very house in which I was living. We were in the same room. He -even had me searched. Once I saw him stare. I thought it was all up. -Then his suspicion passed. It was just the way one of the Jewish girls -down there had accepted me which put him off, but I tell you, Aaron, it -was touch and go. Then the diamonds themselves--there was a stroke of -genius there of which I am proud. I hadn't long to do it either. -Where do you think I hid them?" - -"No idea." - -"Of course you haven't! Listen. I had set them roughly, in common -brass fittings, like a pile of common brooches that were being sold, -and I mixed them all up together, let them lie there on the counter of -the little jeweller's shop where I have been doing my work and where I -was hiding. Brodie took up some and let them fall through his fingers. -I tell you that was the closest shave of my life!" - -"I think we should be wise to drop it," Aaron declared earnestly. "We -are off the rocks now, Harvey. I am content with what I've got." - -"That's how I'm feeling," the other assented, "and yet there's this -last necklace. It seems rather playing it low-down on Brinnen not to -get rid of that for him. You see, unless it's broken up quickly, it's -more dangerous stuff to handle than the others." - -"Why?" Aaron demanded. - -"Don't be foolish," Harvey Grimm admonished, a little impatiently. -"There's the hotel where it was stolen, right in front of you. Here am -I with the necklace, a hundred yards away. There's Brinnen on the same -floor. There's Madame de Borria--why, it's a dare-devil piece of work, -anyway." - -"You don't mean that it's Madame de Borria's necklace you've got?" -Aaron Rodd groaned. - -"Of course it is!" Harvey Grimm replied, a little testily. "You saw it -yesterday, didn't you? There it is in my overcoat pocket, the pocket -nearest you, at the present moment." - -Aaron Rodd paused abruptly before a bench and sat down. It was quite -close to where he had first seen Henriette. - -"Look here," he said, "for God's sake, Harvey, jump into a taxi at -Charing-Cross there and take the thing off somewhere." - -"Take it off?" was the grim response. "I'd give a cool hundred to be -rid of it at this minute. The trouble is that if I make a single move -in the direction of any of my haunts, the whole thing will be blown -upon." - -"You mean that you are being followed?" - -"Brodie hasn't been fifty yards away from me since nine o'clock," -Harvey Grimm muttered. "Madame de Borria saw him yesterday, just after -the theft, and he persuaded her to put the matter into his hands. See -that window--the end one but three on the top storey but two?" - -Aaron looked up to where the spotless white front of the Milan gleamed -through the budding trees. - -"I see it," he admitted. - -"That is the window of Madame de Borria. Now count five windows to the -left and one down--that is my room. Now up again, and two on to the -right, and you come to the apartments of Captain Brinnen, known to Paul -Brodie as the redoubtable Jeremiah Sands. When you add to these -geographical coincidences the fact that the necklace is at the present -moment in my pocket, and that I can't move a yard without being -followed, you will understand that one needs all one's wits this -morning. We are getting just a little near the bone." - -"Nearer than you imagine, perhaps," Aaron Rodd whispered. "Here's -Brodie." - -Harvey Grimm was, for a moment, curiously still. His frame seemed to -have stiffened into a sort of rigid attention. One felt that his brain -was working with the same concentrated force. He neither moved nor -looked in the direction which his companion had indicated. Instead he -leaned a little further back in the corner of the seat and lit a -cigarette. - -"One needs to remember," he murmured, "that it is really quite a long -time since I have seen this unwelcome intruder upon our privacy." - -Brodie came strolling along the asphalt walk, puffing out his cheeks -and gazing about him, as though exercise and an interested -contemplation of the river were the sole reason for his peregrinations. -He appeared to recognise the two men only in the act of passing them. -He at once stopped short and greeted them in his usual hearty fashion. - -"Pleasant little spot, this, for an hour's recreation," he declared. -"I was thinking about you, by the by, Grimm, as I walked along." - -"I am flattered," was the calm reply. "I should have thought that all -your attention would have been engrossed upon the little affair over -yonder. I understand that Madame de Borria has placed the recovery of -her necklace in your hands. Quite a feather in your cap, my friend, if -you succeed." - -Brodie glanced casually at the block of buildings in front. - -"Yes," he assented, "I have that on my mind, of course. By the by, -were you going back to your rooms, by any chance?" - -"I was on my way there." - -"Come, that's fortunate. With your permission, we will walk along -together." - -The two men rose and they all strolled along towards the hotel. - -"Curiously enough," Brodie went on, "I was wondering whether I should -be likely to run up against you to-day, Grimm. We wanted to ask your -advice, Inspector Ditchwater and I, about that little affair the night -before last. You heard the particulars, I suppose?" - -"I was in the smoking-room," Harvey Grimm admitted, "when Madame came -running down in her dressing-gown. Naturally, we heard the story told -a good many times." - -"Just so! Madame, it seems," the detective continued, "heard nothing, -knew nothing, until late in the morning, when her maid told her that -the floor valet was unable to obtain admittance to her husband's room. -She at once stepped through the communicating door and found him still -unconscious, with the necklace missing." - -"Has he recovered yet?" Harvey Grimm enquired. "Is he able to give any -account of what happened?" - -"I saw him for a few minutes last night," Brodie replied. "He seemed -still very dazed and confused, but he talked quite coherently. His -story is simple enough and doesn't help us much. He was fast -asleep--he can't even say at what hour--when he was awakened by the -thrusting of a gag into his mouth and a bandage over his eyes. He -thought at first it was a nightmare and he tried to spring out of bed. -He was held down, however, quite firmly, and something placed under his -nose which made him feel just as though, to use his own words, he was -sinking back to sleep again. He remembers nothing more until the -morning, when he was found by his wife. The moment they released the -gag he was violently sick, and the room certainly smells ethery." - -"What about the necklace?" - -"Well, the necklace, for some reason or other, seems to have been kept -in a tin dispatch-box in his room. It was locked, of course, but the -keys were under his pillow, a fact which the thief, whoever it was, -seems to have known. The box was simply opened and the necklace taken." - -"It all sounds as though the thief must have been some one staying in -the hotel," Aaron observed. - -The detective smiled pleasantly upon him. They had left the Gardens -now and were approaching the back entrance to the Milan. - -"The legal mind, Mr. Rodd," he remarked--"the legal mind. Yes, I may -say that we have come to that conclusion ourselves, Ditchwater and I. -Some one staying in the hotel, we think." - -They passed through the mahogany doors and Brodie rang the bell for the -lift. - -"By the by, Grimm," he suggested, "have you any objection--you have so -often asked me to have a look at your rooms here?" - -"Delighted, I'm sure," the other assented cheerfully. "We had better -get out on the restaurant floor and take the lift on the other side of -the café. I am afraid you won't see them at their best just now. I -only returned yesterday from a week's absence." - -"That so?" Brodie murmured. "Say, these little trips away from town -are very pleasant! I don't seem to be able to get away from my work -often enough. Not that I've been doing much good," he confessed -dolefully, "during the last few months. Things have been going rather -against me, Grimm. I've put in a lot of work and it don't seem to have -panned out according to expectations." - -"Too bad!" Harvey Grimm sympathised. "You're up against a genius, -though, Brodie--there's no question about that." - -Paul Brodie nodded solemnly. - -"I tell you, sir," he declared, "that Jeremiah Sands is more than a -genius. He has the devil's own luck, too, and I have come to the -conclusion," he added, dropping his voice to a confidential undertone, -"that the young lady is almost as clever as he is. I don't mind -admitting," he went on, as they passed through the café and stood -waiting for the other lift, "that at one time, Grimm, I was inclined to -think that you'd put it over me--that little affair of the faked -diamond, you know, when we tried to make a scoop in Mr. Rodd's office. -I have changed my mind, though. Jerry Sands was too clever ever to -walk into a trap like that. I guess I did you an injustice there, -Grimm, and you, Mr. Rodd. Things have been a bit better with you -lately, though, haven't they?" he wound up, a little abruptly. - -Aaron Rodd raised his eyebrows. He had the air of one who considered -the last remark impertinent. - -"Have they?" he observed coolly. - -"No business of mine, of course," Brodie went on. "Say, is this your -floor, Grimm?" - -The lift had come to a standstill and they stepped out. - -"My rooms are this way," the latter announced. - -The little party traversed a corridor, at the further end of which -Harvey Grimm threw open a door, leading through a small entrance-hall -into an octagonal sitting-room, having a pleasant outlook on the -Thames. A man was standing with his back towards them, gazing out of -the window. He turned around at their entrance. - -"Ah, our friend Ditchwater!" Brodie murmured. "You know Inspector -Ditchwater, don't you, Grimm?" - -"I know him, certainly," Harvey Grimm replied, frowning, "but I can't -imagine what the mischief he is doing in my rooms?" - -"Perhaps I ought to have explained," the detective said apologetically. -"We have taken the liberty, Grimm, of making a few slight -investigations in your apartments." - -"The devil you have!" their tenant exclaimed, gazing through the -half-open door into the inner room. "Is that the reason why my bedroom -seems all upside down?" - -"Probably," the detective admitted--"quite probably. You see," he -continued, "you are, in your way, my friend, an exceedingly interesting -person to the police in this country, as you were at one time, I -believe, to the police of New York. When a little affair such as we've -been talking about happens only, as it were, a few yards away from your -rooms, why, naturally, we've some interest in your doings." - -"Have you anything against me?" Harvey Grimm asked quietly. - -"A few questions," the other murmured. "See here, Grimm," he went on, -with a sudden change of tone, "you've been absent from town for exactly -nine days, until yesterday morning. Just where have you spent those -nine days?" - -Harvey Grimm moved to the sideboard and helped himself to a cigarette -from an open box. - -"Well," he observed, "I'm hanged if I can see that that's anybody's -business except my own." - -"I will admit, sir," Brodie proceeded, "that there is, at the present -moment, not the slightest necessity why you should answer that -question--it is, in fact, a matter slightly removed from the immediate -object of our visit this morning--and yet it is a question which I am -going to press upon you, and which, should you feel so disposed, Mr. -Grimm, you might possibly answer with great benefit to yourself. The -long and short of it is this. Is it worth your while to put yourself -right with the authorities and with me, or isn't it? I tell you, as -man to man, I have a theory of my own about you and your -disappearances." - -"I should have thought," Harvey Grimm remarked, after a brief pause, -"that Inspector Ditchwater, having made himself so free with my -apartments, would have been in a position to have told you everything -himself. However, come this way." - -He led them into the bedroom. A portmanteau, not wholly unpacked, was -open upon the stand. - -"My portmanteau," he pointed out, "which, as you have doubtless already -ascertained from the hall-porter, came back with me the night before -last. There's the label." - -Mr. Brodie turned it over and examined it. - -"Exford," he murmured. - -"Just so," Harvey Grimm assented. "Now what about those two sets of -fishing-rods there?" - -The detective fingered the label and read the address aloud. - - - "'_Mr. Harvey Grimm, The Crown Hotel, Exford._'" - - -"That, of course," Harvey Grimm continued drily, "is not evidence, as -the label is in my own handwriting, but you will find that the golf -clubs there bear a railway label, I think." - -The detective turned the bag around and nodded. - -"Very interesting," he admitted, "but Exford--at this time of the year!" - -"You're no sportsman, Brodie," Harvey Grimm said reproachfully, "or -you'd know all about the March trout. Just a moment. Come back into -the sitting-room." - -He led the way, searched for a moment on the sideboard and threw a -Daily Mirror on to the table. Brodie adjusted his eyeglasses. In the -left-hand corner of one of the inner pages was a small picture of a man -fishing, and underneath:-- - - - _Fine catch of Mr. Harvey Grimm, a London sportsman, in the River - Ex, last Monday._ - - -"Quite a good likeness, too," the detective observed, as he laid down -the newspaper. "Say, this is very interesting, Grimm! It disposes -altogether of one of my theories. I had no idea that you possessed -such simple tastes. I've done a little sea-fishing myself. Well, -well! Still--now, Ditchwater!--you got back in time last night to help -yourself to Madame de Borria's necklace!" - -It was all an affair of seconds. Ditchwater had suddenly caught Harvey -Grimm's two arms from behind whilst Brodie's hand had dived into his -coat pocket. The necklace glittered upon the table. There was a -moment's intense silence. Brodie was breathing quickly. There was a -gleam of triumph in his eyes. - -"Dear me," Harvey Grimm exclaimed, "fancy your finding that!" - -The detective bent over his prize. - -"The middle diamond is, without doubt," he announced, "a rose diamond. -Quite a peculiar red light. Ditchwater, step round to Madame de -Borria's rooms. Ask her if she will be so good as to come here at -once." - -The inspector disappeared. Harvey Grimm relit his cigarette, took off -his overcoat in a dazed way, threw it over the back of a chair, and -hung up his hat. - -"I shouldn't bother to do that, Grimm," the detective advised him -quietly. "I am afraid we shall have to ask you to come and pay us a -little visit. You've got plenty of common sense, I know. It isn't -necessary, I suppose, to tell you that there are a couple more men in -the corridor?" - -"I've no idea of making a fool of myself," Harvey Grimm replied, "but -do you mind if I help myself to a whisky and soda? Your methods are a -little nerve-shaking." - -The detective stepped in front of the sideboard. - -"Say, I don't believe for a moment, Grimm," he said, "that you're up -against it badly enough for that, but I don't think I'd worry about a -drink just now." - -"Mix it for me yourself, then," the other suggested. - -The detective hesitated for a moment, and then did as he was asked, -keeping his back, however, to the sideboard, and reaching first for the -whisky and then for the soda-water. - -"Say when?" he invited courteously, with his hand on the siphon. - -"That'll do nicely. Thank you, Brodie. Your very good health!" - -Harvey Grimm drained the tumbler and set it down. Almost as he did so, -there was a knock at the door, the sound of voices and Madame de Borria -entered. The detective had just time to throw a newspaper over the -necklace before she appeared. - -"You sent for me?" she exclaimed, turning at once to Brodie. "Tell me, -have you news of my necklace?" - -"Do you mind just running over its points once more?" Brodie asked. - -She made a little grimace. - -"I wrote it all out for Scotland Yard," she reminded him patiently. -"The stones are very fine but without any special character. There are -sixty-three of them, almost equal in size until you come to the front. -It is the front that is so wonderful. The middle stone is a rose -diamond, the only one in the world which flashes a natural pink cross. -There is nothing else like it. The two on either side are slightly -pink, and there is one yellow one, two places from the middle stone. -But it is the middle stone, Mr. Brodie, that is worth all the rest put -together. It is the most wonderful in the world. Please do not keep -me in suspense." - -The detective lifted the newspaper from the table. It was seldom that -he permitted himself any emotion. There was a slight gesture of -triumph, however, as he turned towards the woman. She literally sprang -upon the necklace, turned it over, gazed at it blankly for a moment and -flung it back upon the table. - -"You brought me here to look at this!" she exclaimed -contemptuously--"and after you have heard my description, too! Why, my -necklace has twice as many stones, and my rose diamond has the flash of -the cross!" - -Both Brodie and the inspector stood for a moment as though stupefied, -incapable of speech. Harvey Grimm threw his cigarette into the hearth. - -"Madame de Borria," he said, "I should, perhaps, add my apologies to -those which our good friend there is engaged in framing. The necklace -is mine, or rather it is entrusted to me for sale. I am well aware -that it does not resemble yours, which I have often seen and admired. -Mr. Brodie, however, in his excessive zeal, gave me no time for -explanations. He descended upon my rooms, seized the necklace from my -overcoat pocket--scarcely a likely receptacle, I think, for stolen -goods," he added, with a little expostulatory grimace--"and sent off -for you." - -The lady turned almost savagely upon the detective. - -"So this is the way," she said, "you conduct your affairs, Mr. Paul -Brodie! You insult a harmless gentleman whom no one but an idiot could -mistake for a thief, you drag me from my room to look at a necklace -which does not resemble mine in the slightest, and meanwhile the thief -gets further and further away," she added, with biting sarcasm. "Oh, -you are very busy, are you not, catching him! You are very near that -two thousand pounds!" - -She stamped her foot and turned away. Brodie opened the door for her. -His attitude was apologetic--almost cringing. - -"Madame de Borria," he said, "I'm sorry. But two necklaces! Who could -conceive such a thing! Rest assured, however, that this is not the -end." - -She strode away without another word. Brodie came back into the room. -He fingered the brim of his hat thoughtfully. - -"Say, are you in the habit of carrying valuable necklaces about with -you in your overcoat pocket, Grimm?" he asked. - -Harvey Grimm took up his stand very deliberately on the hearthrug. - -"I am," he announced. "I also occasionally wear a coronet instead of a -hat, and a suit of armour instead of pyjamas. I do these things -because I choose, and because it's damned well no one else's business -except my own." - -"So you're going to take that tone, are you?" Brodie observed -thoughtfully. - -"Between ourselves, I think it's time I did," was the prompt reply. -"The sooner you make up your mind that I am a harmless individual, the -better. I told you openly, within twenty-four hours of making your -acquaintance upon the steamer, that I was an expert in precious stones. -That is how I make my living, and it is perhaps as reputable a way as -yours. The necklace which you have had the impertinence to accuse me -of stealing, is entrusted to me for sale, and if at any time there was -any real reason for me to disclose the name of the owner, I would do -so. At present, however, I consider that I have humoured you far -enough. You will oblige me by leaving my rooms at once and taking -Inspector Ditchwater with you." - -"So that's the line, eh?" - -"That is the line," Harvey Grimm assented, "and what are you going to -do about it?"' - -"Personally," Inspector Ditchwater decided, turning towards the door, -"I am going to wish you good-morning and offer you my apologies, Mr. -Grimm. We seem to be always in the wrong when we act upon Mr. Brodie's -information, and the report I'm going to make to head-quarters will -perhaps save you any further trouble." - -Brodie's face was imperturbable. He accepted the situation, however, -and followed Ditchwater from the room. The two men left behind -listened to their retreating footsteps. Harvey Grimm threw himself -into an easy chair. - -"So that's that," he observed. "An exciting quarter of an hour, eh, -Aaron?" - -"I am bewildered," Aaron Rodd admitted. "I don't understand, even now. -Wasn't it Madame de Borria's necklace, then?" - -"That one wasn't!" - -"You don't mean to say that you've got two necklaces?" - -"Feel in the other pocket," Harvey Grimm directed him. - -Aaron obeyed. From the right-hand pocket of the overcoat which was -hanging over the chair, he drew out a second and more beautiful -necklace. As he held it before him, the cross flashed out from the -rose diamond in the centre. - -"Good God!" he exclaimed. "You mean to say that it was here all the -time?" - -"Of course it was. I told you that I was in a tight corner. He never -gave me a chance to hide it. I knew these rooms would be searched. -Fortunately, he chose the left-hand pocket of my overcoat instead of -the right." - -"What are you going to do with it?" Aaron asked breathlessly. - -Harvey Grimm glanced at the clock. It was a quarter to one. - -"You shall see," he replied. "Just open the door, will you? I think I -heard some one ring. Put the necklace away first--in that drawer will -do." - -Aaron did as he was told. A short, dark man, dressed with extreme -care, pushed past him into the room. It was the husband of Madame de -Borria. - -"I have come," he announced. "How is the good Mr. Grimm, and what is -the news this morning?" - -"The news is," Harvey Grimm told him, "that the detective your wife -employed has been up here, searching for the necklace." - -"Marvellous!" the little man declared, rolling himself a cigarette -nervously. "How sagacious! What foresight! But as to results eh...?" - -Harvey Grimm, with a little sigh of relief, thrust his hand into the -drawer, produced the necklace and handed it to the South American. - -Mr. de Borria's face glowed with satisfaction. - -"I have had a leetle trouble with Madame," he announced, "but it is -past. She agreed at last eagerly to the advertisement. You have seen -it?" - -Harvey Grimm nodded. - -"Two thousand pounds reward and no questions asked," he murmured. - -Mr. de Borria drew from his pocket a battered and soiled cardboard box, -into which he proceeded to stow the necklace. - -"I make a package here, as you see," he pointed out. "I have received -an anonymous note which makes a demand upon my honour that, if I accede -to its terms, I destroy it. It is destroyed!" - -"The letter----?" Harvey Grimm began. - -Mr. de Borria tapped his forehead. - -"In the air--in my brain," he exclaimed. "What does it matter? It is -destroyed. I go to the place named, I produce the two thousand -pounds--behold!--and the necklace is mine." - -He laid a pocket-book upon the table and drew out a sheaf of notes, -which he carefully counted into two heaps. One he pushed towards -Harvey Grimm, the other he replaced in his pocket. Then he smiled. He -had the engaging smile of a child. - -"So!" he pronounced. "We are all happy and contented. Madame my wife -will wear her necklace to-night and once more rejoice. I shall have -that thousand pounds in my pocket which is so necessary for a man like -myself in this your great city of gallantry and happiness. And you, my -dear Mr. Harvey Grimm, who played the burglar and assisted me in my -little scheme, you, too, have a thousand pounds. So! Now that all is -well, shall we visit the little lady down in the American Bar? -Afterwards, I will take a taxi just to nowhere, and I will come back in -another taxi from nowhere. I shall break into my wife's rooms, and she -will hold out her arms to me, and she will have her necklace, and I -have got my thousand pounds. _Enfin_! Let us descend." - -Harvey Grimm took up his hat and Aaron Rodd followed suit. - -"It seems to me," Aaron remarked, as he brought up the rear of the -little procession, "that the only man who gets nothing out of this is -Mr. Brodie!" - - - - -_Chapter VII_ _The Infidelity of Jack Lovejoy_ - -Cresswell and Aaron Rodd were dining with Captain Brinnen and his -sister at a corner table in the Milan Restaurant. Harvey Grimm had -once more left them for an unknown destination, and they were all aware -that the period of his absence would be this time more than ever one of -strain. As though by general consent, however, the conversation did -not touch once upon personal matters. They spoke a good deal of the -war. Brinnen himself was roused by sundry reflections into a momentary -bitterness, an expression of that peculiar irritation common to many of -his country-people, notwithstanding their underlying gratitude. - -"You people in England," he declared, "you have no perceptions, no -brains with which to combat a perfectly-developed system of espionage; -nothing but an infinite complacency, an infinite stupidity. The people -who hate you walk in your midst, unharmed. Even if they are pointed -out, your officials shrug their shoulders and smile in a superior -fashion. 'They can do us no harm,' they assure you. 'There are -reasons why we prefer to leave them alone.' And you are at war, you -people! Ah, if only you would realise it!" - -"You are quite right," Aaron Rodd admitted. "We have grown too -accustomed to look upon espionage and secret service as the _bonne -bouche_ of the novelist. I suppose they do exist." - -"They not only exist," Brinnen continued, "but they are becoming a very -important factor in the progress of the war. Look at this room. Did -you ever see a more cosmopolitan gathering! There are Belgians, -Russians, Americans. The two young men who have just come in are -Roumanians, over here no one knows why. This, however, I could tell -you. If England takes no heed of their presence, Germany does. They -will be watched by Germany until they leave, and, for all your army of -censors, Germany will know, day by day, just what they do. And, even -nearer to us, I could give your Secret Service a very useful piece of -advice concerning the young man at the third table from here, with the -lady in white spangles." - -Aaron Rodd and the poet both glanced cautiously in the direction -indicated. A tall, clean-shaven young man, dark, with big black eyes, -a mass of sleekly-brushed black hair and rather puffy cheeks, -good-looking in a stagy sort of way, was entertaining an artistically -decorated young ornament of the musical comedy stage. - -"You know him, perhaps?" Brinnen enquired. - -Both men shook their heads. - -"He is always about here," Cresswell remarked, "generally in the bar." - -"He is an American actor," Brinnen continued. "His name on the -programmes is Jack Lovejoy. His real name is Karl Festonheim, and he -was born in Cologne. His father and his grandfather, his mother and -his grandmother, were Germans. He married a German wife--a negligible -affair, perhaps, as the matrimonial arrangements of those sort of -people are inclined to be, but still it shows his tendencies. The man, -like many thousands of others, calls himself an American because he -went there as a boy and has lived there ever since. Yet every relative -he has lives in Germany, every spark of real feeling such a person may -happen to possess, is German, he eats like a German, he lives like a -German, he even talks like one. Yet that young man has no difficulty -about passports. He can live in London, listen to the secret voices of -your nation, and make his way unhindered and unharmed over to Germany -whenever he chooses." - -"There are, of course, many technical difficulties," Aaron Rodd pointed -out, "in dealing with naturalised Americans, whatever the country of -their birth." - -"You are very punctilious over here," Captain Brinnen observed, with -fine sarcasm. "However, I give that young man as an instance because I -know that certain information concerning the whereabouts of three of -your cruisers, earlier in the war, was conveyed by him to the German -Admiralty. I cannot prove this, but I know it. I also know that -while, if you speak to him, he will tell you that he is out of a job, -that the war has played the deuce with musical comedy, he has refused -three parts within the last month, on some pretext or another, because -he is better occupied." - -Stephen Cresswell sat up in his place. An expectant light shone in his -eyes. - -"An adventure!" he murmured. - -"If you, sir," Brinnen remarked, "could develop the sagacity of a -French or German Secret Service man, and fasten upon the life of that -young man, you would probably gain the adventure which you seek." - -"I am the very man for the task," the poet declared eagerly. "I have -stuck like a leech to my friend Aaron Rodd here, in the hopes of -travelling with him a little way into the land where adventures are as -plentiful as gooseberries. The only one to which he has introduced me -has been highly satisfactory, in its way," he declared, bowing to -Henriette, "and the remembrance of it will be a happiness to me all my -life, but one cannot live on one adventure alone. I am eager for more. -I claim that young man, Rodd, do you hear? I claim him." - -"He is yours," the other acquiesced grimly. "Poor fellow! One is -almost inclined to pity him." - -Cresswell smiled in superior fashion. - -"My dear fellow," he said, "you are, without doubt, a man of energy and -brains, but what you lack is initiative. Initiative is the gift -vouchsafed to genius. I have genius, therefore I have initiative. To -you, the affair connected with this young man appears at present to be -as impenetrable as a blank wall. You would not know where to start. -Wait. You shall watch my methods." - -"In the meantime," Henriette whispered, gazing intently towards the -doorway, "behold, Madame de Borria and her recovered necklace!" - -They all turned their heads. The South American woman was on her way -through the room and around her neck flashed the light from her -wonderful necklace. Aaron Rodd leaned a little forward in his chair. - -"She is soon wearing it again," he remarked. - -Brinnen shrugged his shoulders. - -"Why not? It was lost only for a few hours. Madame had the good sense -to follow her husband's advice and to offer that greatest of lures to -the educated thief--a reward and no questions asked. Madame deserves -to have recovered her necklace--and it becomes her well.... Shall we -take our coffee outside?" - -They all rose to their feet and left the restaurant together. The poet -thrust his arm through Brinnen's and led him on one side, talking -earnestly. Aaron was left alone for a few minutes with Henriette. -They found a corner as far as possible from the strains of the -over-persistent band. - -"It is three months to-day," he reminded her, "since I saw you first in -the gardens of the Embankment." - -"What a memory!" she murmured. "And I, like the very forward person -you have since discovered me to be, made tentative overtures to you -with the object of discovering whether you were a lawyer not too -squeamish about your clients or their business." - -His face hardened a little. - -"Are we coming soon," he asked, "to the end of your stock--or rather -your brother's stock of jewels?" - -"Why?" she whispered, looking up at him with slightly contracted -eyebrows. - -"Because I am tired of it," he declared frankly, "tired of it in -connection with you, that is to say. I spend whole days, sometimes, in -a positive state of terror. Luxury is a small thing compared with -freedom and life. You have had over forty thousand pounds now. Why -don't you take your grandfather somewhere away into the country? Even -if you have to be content with half that sum, you could live on it and -be safe. Let your brother go his own way. It isn't really worth -while, Henriette." - -She looked at the point of her slipper carefully for a moment. She -wore a perfectly plain black velvet gown, and only a single pearl -hanging from a strip of black velvet around her neck. Her fingers were -ringless. Even her hair was arranged in the simplest of coils, yet -there was no one else in the room quite like her. - -"Henriette," he went on, leaning over her, "if you don't speak I shall -make a fool of myself." - -She started, and looked timorously into his eyes. Then as quickly she -looked away again. Her hands clasped the arms of her chair. She -seemed suddenly interested in the orchestra. - -"Say--what you were going to say," she begged. - -"You know," he obeyed, almost roughly. "I am nearly forty years old. -I have no money except the ten or fifteen thousand pounds I have made -by helping to dispose of your stolen jewels, and I'm sick of it all, -sick of it because I've found something in life worth living -differently for. You know what that is. Leave your brother to live -his own life. Bring your grandfather and come away somewhere, -Henriette, and marry me. It sounds absurd, doesn't it," he went on, a -little wistfully, "but in a way you've been so kind to me. You must -have known." - -She suddenly laid her hand upon his. It was a delightful little -gesture. - -"Please don't say any more just now," she implored. "I shall remember -every word that you have said, and I don't think I have ever felt so -much like----" - -"Like what?" - -"Doing what you ask," she continued quickly. "There! Just now--for a -little time--we must think of other things. You see, here comes my -brother and Mr. Cresswell. Whatever is Mr. Cresswell going to do? -Look!" - -The American actor and his companion had taken seats almost opposite to -them. Suddenly Cresswell left his host's side and crossed the room -towards them. With a slight bow he addressed Lovejoy. Brinnen, who -had strolled over to where his sister and Aaron Rodd were seated, -smiled a little cynically. - -"What you call, in your expressive language, rather the methods of a -bull in a china shop," he observed. "I fancy that we shall see our -friend return, a little chastened." - -"You don't know Stephen," his friend murmured. "He has more confidence -than any other man on earth. Look!" - -A waiter had been summoned to bring a chair. The poet was seated now -next the young lady, to whom he had just been introduced. They were -all three chatting amiably. A waiter was receiving an order for coffee -and liqueurs. - -"That is what he calls initiative," Henriette whispered. - -"The first steps are easy," Brinnen remarked, "and, after all, one must -remember that Lovejoy is by no means a clever person. He is conceited -and bumptious. Well, at any rate we must wish Mr. Cresswell luck." - -"I was just asking your sister," Aaron said abruptly, "whether we were -almost coming to the end of your hidden stores." - -The young Belgian glanced around for a moment quickly and flicked the -ash from his cigarette. - -"Why?" - -"Because I am beginning to fear the risk more every day for your -sister's sake," Aaron continued steadily. "Our friend Mr. Brodie has -made a good many mistakes but he is not an entire fool. Grimm admitted -only the other day that he had tracked him down to the very place where -he recuts the diamonds--had been within a few feet of them." - -"Nothing came of it, though," Brinnen observed, frowning. - -"It may not be so every time," Aaron Rodd persisted. "I was trying to -persuade your sister to be content with small things. Your grandfather -is very old. Think what the shock would be to him if anything were to -happen to either of you. Put what you have left in a safe deposit, if -you like, for a time, and start again disposing of them when things -have blown over a little." - -The brother and sister exchanged glances which to Aaron were -inexplicable. - -"What does Mr. Harvey Grimm say about it?" the former asked. - -"Oh! Grimm will go on till he drops," Aaron Rodd declared. -"Adventure, danger, whatever the cost, is the spice of life to him. -But he is just a man alone. It's a different thing when a girl like -your sister is concerned. It is for her sake that I want to see the -thing closed up." - -Brinnen dropped his eyeglass and rubbed it for a moment with his -handkerchief. - -"You seem to take a great interest in my sister, Mr. Rodd," he said -calmly. - -"I have just asked her to marry me," Aaron Rodd replied bluntly. - -Brinnen turned slowly around. He was suddenly like his grandfather. -His eyebrows were a little uplifted. His expression was the expression -of one who listens to some unthinkable thing. - -"Absurd!" he muttered. - -"It is nothing of the sort," Aaron Rodd answered simply. "If your -sister has been guiltily concerned in your adventurous life, I, too, -have turned myself into a receiver of stolen property. We are in the -same boat, only I want to get her out of it. I have asked her to marry -me and come over to America. We could start life again on what I have." - -She leaned over suddenly and spoke to her brother in a low tone, and in -a language which was strange to Aaron Rodd. His expression changed a -little as he listened. Then the waiter appeared with their coffee and -liqueurs. When they were served and he had left, Captain Brinnen -reopened the subject. - -"I gather that you yourself, Mr. Rodd," he observed, "have hankerings -towards the humdrum life, the life of honesty and the virtues and that -sort of thing." - -"I have tried for many years to make an honest living," Aaron replied -shortly. "The only time I ever crossed the line was long ago, when -Harvey Grimm and I were in America. It wasn't anything very serious -then. Our present transactions have been my only other essay. I come -of an old-fashioned New England family, and however one may laugh at -their principles and the narrowness of their outlook, I have those -principles in my blood, and, frankly, I hate this life. If it's bad -for me, it's worse for your sister. I want to take her away." - -"I will consider what you have said, Mr. Rodd," Brinnen replied. "For -the present we will, if you please, abandon the conversation." - -A little glance of entreaty from Henriette closed Aaron's lips. They -spoke of general things for a few moments. Then Captain Brinnen rose -to his feet. - -"I am afraid that I must take my sister away now, Mr. Rodd," he -announced. "She has an engagement for this evening. But before we -leave," he added, holding out his hand, "whatever I may feel concerning -the proposals you have made, I should like once more to express my -thanks for your great courage the other night. My sister and I owe you -more than we can ever repay." - -"Your sister," Aaron said, with a boldness which surprised him, "can -repay me if she will." - -She looked into his eyes, and they seemed to him larger and softer than -he had ever seen them. There was a little quiver at her lips, too, -even though her words were light ones. - -"You are growing into a courtier, Mr. Rodd," she murmured. "Au revoir!" - -They passed up the stairs and Aaron sank back in his chair. There was -a certain satisfaction mingled even with his disappointment. At least -he had spoken his mind. Then the little group on the other side of the -way arose, and the poet, catching his eye, beckoned to him in friendly -fashion. - -"This," the poet declared, as Aaron approached, "is my friend Aaron -Rodd. Aaron, allow me to present you to a lady whom you have often -worshipped from a distance, Miss Pamela Keane." - -Aaron, who had no idea who Miss Pamela Keane was, bent over her hand -and cursed the poet under his breath. The latter, who was thoroughly -enjoying himself, laid his hand upon Lovejoy's shoulder. - -"And also to my friend Mr. Jack Lovejoy," he continued. "Lovejoy is -the one man in London who makes me wish that I could write for the -musical comedy stage. One has one's limitations, alas!" - -There followed a few minutes' desultory conversation. Then Miss Pamela -Keane picked up a wonderful collection of golden trifles and turned -towards the exit. - -"We shall meet again, Mr. Cresswell," she said, smiling upon him. "Do -bring Mr. Rodd with you, if he cares to come. Au revoir!" - -She turned away, followed by Lovejoy. The poet linked his arm through -Aaron's and demanded another liqueur. - -"You didn't really know the fellow, did you?" Aaron asked curiously. - -"Not I," he replied, "but, as I have told you many times, I am a born -adventurer. I am equal to any situation. Have I ever mentioned that I -am also something of a snob?" - -"I don't seem to remember the confession." - -"Well, I am. I have an aunt who is the wife of a baronet. I make use -of her occasionally. In the days of my more abject poverty I used to -go there for a free meal when I had a black coat. She is by way of -being a patroness of the arts, entertains all sorts of jumbled up -parties. In all probability Mr. Lovejoy has either been asked to one -of them or wishes he had. Hence my self-introduction. 'Mr. Lovejoy,' -I say in my best manner, 'I believe I had the pleasure of meeting you -at my aunt's, Lady Sittingley's?' He hesitates, and I can see that I -have him fixed. He hasn't the least intention of ever denying that he -was there, although he doesn't know me from Adam. And there you are, -you know. It's the natural spirit of the adventurer." - -"What was that about going on there to-night?" Aaron enquired. - -"We are both going, my boy," was the cheerful reply. "Miss Pamela -Keane is entertaining a few friends to _chemin de fer_ at her flat in -Buckingham Gate. I have explained that I do not play, but we are going -to look in for a glass of wine and a chat. As a matter of fact, I just -want to cast my eye over Lovejoy's friends, do you see?" - -"There's no need for me to come," Aaron Rodd protested. - -"There is every need," the poet insisted, watching the arrival of the -liqueurs with satisfaction. "I like companionship. I like some one -with whom to compare impressions after such a visit as this. You may -notice something which has escaped me." - -Aaron frowned a little wearily. - -"Captain Brinnen was probably talking quite at random," he remarked. -"Lovejoy doesn't seem to me to be the type of man who'd take a serious -interest in anything except his own pleasures." - -"Quite right," the other agreed shrewdly, "but he might reasonably take -an interest in the means of procuring those pleasures. And as to our -jewel-collecting friend talking at random, I don't believe it. A man -with a face and a character like his doesn't chatter. We'll just -spruce up here a bit and follow them right along...." - - -The two men spent the next two hours in entirely different fashion. -Stephen Cresswell made a host of new friends with marvellous facility, -flirted with many pretty but unnamed ladies, ate _pâté de foie gras_ -sandwiches and drank champagne as though it were his first meal of the -day. Aaron, on the other hand, found the customary stiffness of his -manner only intensified by the Bohemianism of his fellow-guests. The -women, with their laughing eyes, their frankly flirtatious speeches, -their general air of good-fellowship and lack of reserve, seemed to him -simply intolerable. Every time he thought of Henriette, he hated his -surroundings and longed for the solitude which, notwithstanding his -efforts, he was only partially able to achieve. To escape the new -acquaintances whom the poet was continually bringing up to him, he even -played for an hour. Afterwards, when the rooms became more crowded, he -escaped into a corner and sat looking on. It was exactly the sort of -gathering he had expected--a good many young ladies from the stage with -their escorts, a strong element of the betting fraternity, a theatrical -agent or two, and a sprinkling of those nameless people, always well -dressed, always mysterious, who seem to pass through life so easily -without toiling or spinning. He was just deciding that, so far as the -object of their visit was concerned, the evening had been wasted, when -Pamela Keane came suddenly across the room and sat down by his side. - -"I want to talk to you, Mr. Rodd," she said, throwing herself back in a -chair and displaying an amazing amount of white silk stocking. - -"You are very kind," he murmured. - -"Mr. Cresswell tells me that you are a lawyer?" - -"That is so," Aaron admitted, a little startled. - -"Where are your offices?" - -"Seventeen Manchester Street, Adelphi," he replied, "third floor." - -"Can I come and see you at eleven o'clock to-morrow morning?" - -"With pleasure!" - -"Good! I'll be there. Not a word to Jack, mind. Come and have a -glass of champagne." - -He drank his glass of champagne and watched his companion drink three. -Then she floated off to greet some new-comers and Aaron made his -escape. The poet called him up in the hall. - -"The usual sort of crowd here," he remarked, as they left the house. -"Pretty hot lot, some of those bookmakers and jockeys, but I didn't see -a soul whom I'd ever suspect of getting off his own little run. What -about you?" - -"Come and see me at twelve o'clock to-morrow morning," was all the poet -could get out of his companion that night.... - - -Miss Pamela Keane was marvellously punctual. In a blue serge costume -straight from Paris, a hat which was a marvel of simplicity, a -wonderful veil and a wave of perfume, she swept into Aaron Rodd's room -the next morning as eleven o'clock was striking. He handed her the -clients' chair, into which she sank, a little breathless. - -"Say, this is some climb," she remarked. "Don't you have any elevators -in your offices on this side?" - -"Plenty," he assured her. "I have a very small practice and these are -out-of-the way premises." - -She lifted her veil. Her face was thick with powder and her eyes -seemed to him artificially brightened. There was some stuff which he -didn't understand upon her lashes, and in contradistinction to these, -to him, somewhat ghastly allurements, her expression was hard, her -tone, as she spoke, almost rasping. - -"See here, Mr. Rodd," she began, "I have come to talk to you about Jack -Lovejoy. Know anything about me?" - -"Nothing," he confessed. - -"I don't suppose you've ever seen me on the stage, even?" - -"Never!" - -"So much the better. I didn't want to go to one of these -know-everybody-and-everything theatrical lawyers, who call you 'my -dear' and promise you the earth. Well, I married a millionaire over in -the States, and I fixed things so that he couldn't get rid of me -without it costing him something. I've got an income of five thousand -pounds a year, Mr. Rodd, and though that ain't the earth, it's useful." - -"Naturally," he assented. - -"I've done more than I should like to tell you for Jack Lovejoy," she -went on. "Of course, we live together, and we're as much married as -the law allows. He'd got nothing but what he was earning, and that -wasn't much, when I took him up. Now he's got his motor-car and -anything he wants. I'm not a changeable woman. I'm older than he is, -of course, but I'm barely forty, and all I wanted of Jack was that he -should play the game. He's not doing it, Mr. Rodd." - -The lawyer shrugged his shoulders ever so slightly. The question of -Lovejoy's infidelities appeared to him profoundly uninteresting. - -"I'll tell you how I know," she went on. "We had a little trouble a -month ago and I've waited for him to come to me for his cheque since, -instead of handing it over. He hasn't been and he's had all the money -he wanted. He's getting it from somewhere. What I want to know is -where?" - -Aaron was a little more interested. - -"Betting? Card playing?" he suggested. - -She waved her hand scornfully. - -"I know the firm with whom he does his betting, and he owes them a tidy -sum already. And as to card playing, why, any of 'em would clean him -out in no time. He hasn't the brains of a rabbit. It's a woman. He -goes to see her every day at six o'clock. I've found that out for -myself, and I've found out the direction he goes in. For the rest I -have come to you." - -"To me?" Aaron exclaimed, a little startled. - -"Yes! It's part of your job, ain't it? Supposing it was a divorce I -wanted, I should have to go to a lawyer, shouldn't I? I'm not -imagining you hang about street corners yourself, but you've got to -employ some one to have him watched, and you've got to begin this -afternoon. I can give you a start all right from luncheon time. He'll -bring me anywhere I say--Milan Grill-room, to-day, at two o'clock. We -shall leave there, perhaps, at half-past three, and he'll drive me -home. From that point he'll have to be watched. He may come in for an -hour or he may not, but it's where he goes to afterwards that I want to -know. Will you take this job on, Mr. Rodd?" - -"With pleasure," he agreed. "It's a little out of my line but I think -I can arrange it." - -"Then that's that," the lady remarked, rising. "I've got to be at my -dressmaker's at half-past. Ring me up when you've anything to report." - -Aaron Rodd bowed his client down the stairs, went back to his office -and threw the windows wide open. Then he telephoned for the poet. - -"I am going to do a disgraceful thing," he told him, upon his arrival. -"I'm going to betray a client's confidence." - -"Would it well out easier with the help of a matutinal?" the poet -suggested, with a glance at the clock. "My throat's as dry as a -lime-kiln this morning." - -Aaron shook his head and told the story. - -"Now get at it," he enjoined, as he bundled him out. "It's your job, -not mine, and I have a letter to write...." - - -The poet, a few days later, paid an afternoon call. He rang the bell -of a flat in Northumberland Court, enquired for Mrs. Abrahams, and -after a moment's hesitation was shown into a small drawing-room in -which half a dozen people were seated. The lady who was evidently a -hostess, a large, Jewish-looking woman, rose from her place on the -couch and regarded him with mingled distrust and curiosity. The poet, -however, who had seen Jack Lovejoy in a corner of the room, was not in -the least abashed. - -"You haven't forgotten me, I hope, Mrs. Abrahams?" he said, bending -gallantly over her hesitating hand. "I met you at my aunt's, Lady -Sittingley's, and you were kind enough to say that I might come and see -you sometime. I ventured to bring you the small offering I promised -you--my poems, bound now, I am thankful to say, with a little more -dignity than when we last met." - -Mrs. Abrahams' face cleared slightly but she remained somewhat -disturbed. - -"Of course! You are Mr. Cresswell, aren't you, the poet? I remember -the curious stories there were about the beginning of your popularity. -You have really brought me that book? How charming of you!" - -"I have promised myself this pleasure for a long time," Cresswell -assured her. - -"Let me see," she went on, making room for him by her side, "when was -it that I met you at your aunt's?" - -"I have no memory, even for such inspiring events," he confessed -ingenuously, "but I think it was about three months ago." - -She sighed gently. - -"This terrible war," she murmured, "makes it difficult to remember -anything. You will have some tea, Mr. Cresswell? Let me introduce you -to Professor David." - -The poet bowed to his neighbour and glanced around the little circle, -winding up with a nod to Lovejoy, who seemed hopelessly out of place. -They were, for the most part, a very gloomy and serious little company. - -"I interrupted an interesting conversation, I am sure," the poet -declared genially. "May it not continue?" - -There was a moment's rather awkward silence and Mrs. Abrahams sighed. - -"Alas!" she said, "I am afraid there was nothing original about our -conversation this afternoon. It was the war--always the war." - -Cresswell balanced his plate upon his knee, sipped his tea and talked -commonplace nonsense for a quarter of an hour. Then he got up to leave. - -"Coming my way, Lovejoy?" he enquired. - -The young actor hesitated for a moment and then acquiesced. Mrs. -Abrahams bade them both farewell. She extended to neither of them any -invitation to return. - -"Rather a heavy sort of crowd for you, isn't it?" Cresswell asked, as -they descended in the lift. - -"Mrs. Abrahams was kind to me when I first came to London," Lovejoy -remarked, a little vaguely. "I promised I'd look in there some day and -I happened to be near this afternoon." - -"Just so," the poet murmured, as they paused at the corner of the -street. "So long!" - -Jack Lovejoy stepped into a taxi and was driven away westwards. - -Cresswell crossed the road, turned into Whitehall, made his way into a -block of public buildings, and after half an hour's delay was shown -into the presence of an important-looking gentleman, who bade him take -a seat and peered at him doubtfully over the top of his eyeglasses. - -"Sir Lionel," his visitor began, "I have come to you because I have -some information which should be exceedingly valuable to the home -branch of the Secret Service." - -"Young man," the official replied, "you are the fifteenth caller within -the last few hours who has brought me information guaranteed to save -the Empire." - -"Lucky number, the fifteenth," the poet remarked cheerfully. "Do you -happen to know Mrs. Abrahams of Northumberland Court?" - -"I know her slightly," Sir Lionel admitted. "She is a friend of -several members of the Cabinet." - -"Why isn't she interned?" Cresswell demanded. "She is a German." - -"Her husband was born in England." - -"But she is a red-hot German, all the same," the young man persisted. -"I have been making enquiries about her myself and I find that for -years before the war she was doing nothing but run down the culture and -customs of this country as compared with Germany." - -The official shrugged his shoulders. - -"There is no information that I am aware of against Mrs. Abrahams," he -said, "and you must remember that she is, as I told you, a friend of -several members of the Cabinet. They would not be likely to listen to -anything against her." - -"What a country!" the poet sighed. "What officialdom! What methods of -making war!" - -"Have you anything against Mrs. Abrahams?" Sir Lionel enquired. - -"I have," was the prompt reply. "I have no proof to offer because I am -an unofficial person and I cannot take those steps which are necessary -to procure proof, but I can assure you that every afternoon, from four -till six, Mrs. Abraham's drawing-room in the Northumberland Court is a -bureau for the meeting of various persons whose interests are inimical -to this country." - -"Dear me!" the other exclaimed blandly. "What do they do there?" - -"I can't tell that," Cresswell admitted. "My idea is that they each -bring information of various sorts, which Mrs. Abrahams transmits to -Germany." - -"Isn't that rather an assumption on your part?" - -"An assumption with a very definite background," the poet persisted, -unruffled. "For instance, take this afternoon. Amongst Mrs. Abraham's -visitors were Professor David, who has spent half his life in Germany, -has stumped this country lecturing on German ideals, and since the war -has maintained a sedulous and enigmatic silence. There were also -present Mr. Halston, who married a German and has had to resign his -seat in Parliament owing to his doubtful sympathies; Jack Lovejoy, the -German-American actor; two men, who, from their conversation, are, I -gathered, censors; and the Minister of a country whom we all know quite -well to be inimical to us. These men meet every afternoon. They -aren't there for fun, are they, and it isn't by chance that they all -have the same point of view." - -Sir Lionel stifled what seemed suspiciously like a yawn. - -"You must forgive me if I seem a little unmoved," he observed, "but we -hear so many of these vague stories. The matter shall be looked into, -Mr. Cresswell, but I may as well warn you at once that Mrs. Abrahams -has several friends in the Cabinet, and they are not likely to -countenance any proceedings unfavourable to her." - -The poet rose from his chair. - -"Thank you, Sir Lionel," he said humbly. "I begin to realise----" - -"What?" - -"That a friend of a Cabinet Minister in this Government can do no -wrong," the young man declared, picking up his hat. - - -Aaron Rodd and the poet lunched together the next day at the Milan. -Miss Pamela Keane saw them from the other end of the room, where she -was talking to the _maître d'hôtel_ about a table, and at once came -over towards them. - -"Well?" she asked Aaron Rodd. - -"I have some information already," the latter replied. "I am not in a -position to make a definite report, but if it interests you to know it, -I do not think that Mr. Lovejoy's afternoon philanderings are of an -amorous nature." - -"Say, do you hear that!" she exclaimed, her face suddenly lightening. -"If it interests me to know it! Isn't that exactly what I came to you -for? Well, can't you give me an idea what he is up to, then?" - -"Not at present," Aaron Rodd regretted, "but you might, if you would, -help me with another hint." - -"Get on with it, then," the lady urged. "He may come in at any moment." - -"Can you tell me in which direction his sympathies lie with regard to -the war?" - -Miss Pamela Keane was for a moment serious. Then she shrugged her -shoulders. - -"Well, you know," she said, "there are a good many of us Americans who -think that Great Britain's been asking for trouble for some years back. -A little too much of the Lord Almighty, you know. I shouldn't say that -Jack was overmuch in sympathy with you Britishers." - -"That helps," Aaron Rodd admitted. "In two or three days at the most I -think I can let you have a report. So far as I can see at present," he -added, "I think that it will be satisfactory to you." - -"Say, you're smarter than you look, Mr. Rodd," she declared, as she -turned away with a little nod. "Come round and see me any time." - -The two men finished their luncheon and walked round to Scotland Yard. -Inspector Ditchwater, for whom they enquired, received them with some -surprise. - -"Gentlemen," he said, "this is a most unexpected pleasure." - -"We have come," Aaron Rodd began, "to lay certain information before -you which has come to me professionally, and to ask for your aid. The -facts are these. A certain Mrs. Abrahams, who is a German woman by -birth, married to an anglicised German Jew, who was naturalised fifteen -years ago, is in the habit of receiving a little circle of friends -every afternoon. These friends are every one of them of more or less -German sympathies, although they some of them occupy public posts in -this country. One of them, I have reason to know, is receiving money -continually from Mrs. Abrahams. I have no proof of anything, and I am -not in a position to proceed far enough in the matter to secure it. -The authority of the law is needed. My friend here, Mr. Cresswell, has -been to the Home Office and has interviewed Sir Lionel Rastall. He, -however, declines to intervene in the matter because Mrs. Abrahams, who -is a woman of a great deal of superficial culture and many -acquaintances, is a friend of several Cabinet Ministers." - -"If Sir Lionel declines to interfere," the inspector pointed out, "what -can we do?" - -"Get on to the track and find some proof," Aaron Rodd suggested. -"There isn't any one can stop you then from behaving in a commonsense -manner." - -"And lose our promotion and get snubbed for our pains," the detective -remarked. "I don't care much about the job, Mr. Rodd, thanking you all -the same. I don't mind telling you that Mrs. Abrahams was on the list -of suspected persons kept here, and has been crossed off at the special -instructions of a highly-placed personage. It isn't my business to -interfere with her or her doings." - -The two visitors withdrew, a little perplexed. The poet, however, was -undaunted. - -"My friend," he said, "this was to be my adventure and I tell you I've -a trump card left yet. Come along." - -They paid one more call at a large and imposing establishment no great -distance away. After a wait of nearly an hour, an orderly came in. - -"The Chief will see you and your friend, Mr. Cresswell," he announced. -"Be as quick as you can, please." - -The poet, who loved words, showed that he knew how to dispense with -them. He shook hands with the somewhat grizzled-looking, handsome -soldier who welcomed them. - -"This is my friend Mr. Rodd, a solicitor," he said. "Sir Horace, I -have put my hand by accident upon a nest of conspiracy within a quarter -of a mile from here. The Home Office or the police won't touch it -because the woman chiefly concerned is _persona grata_ with Cabinet -Ministers. Will you take it on?" - -"I will," Sir Horace promised, "if there's anything in it. Get on with -your information." - -"The woman's name is Abrahams, and she has a flat in the Northumberland -Court," the poet continued. "I followed a young man there the other -afternoon, who is born a German but calls himself an American. Mrs. -Abrahams was entertaining a small party of friends, every one of whom -is of German sympathies, although two are employed as censors by His -Majesty's Government. The young man I followed is drawing money from -her nearly every week, and spends most of his spare time motoring round -London with one of the new naval air defence commanders." - -"That all?" - -"Pretty well," the poet admitted, "but there's espionage work going on -there every afternoon."' - -"Sounds probable," the other agreed. "Now what do you want me to do? -I can't raid the place without more information." - -"Lend me two men and I'll take the risk of something turning up," the -poet begged. - -Sir Horace scribbled a few lines on a piece of paper. - -"Get out with you," he said. "My regards to your aunt. Show this to -the orderly in Room C and he'll give you a couple of plainclothes -policemen." - -The poet gripped Aaron Rodd's arm triumphantly as they stepped outside. - -"A man!" he exclaimed. "A man at last!" ... - -It was two days before anything fresh happened. Then, about half-past -five in the afternoon, Aaron Rodd and the poet, who had wandered round -by the front of the Northumberland Court to see that their watchers -were in position, almost ran into the arms of a huge, roughly dressed -man, with close-cropped brown beard, a man who looked ill-at-ease in -his clothes and walked with a rolling gait. - -"My God!" the poet muttered. "It's the Dutchman! Come on, Aaron." - -They turned round and followed him at a short distance. He entered the -Northumberland Court. They followed him, a few minutes later, and -Cresswell addressed the hall-porter, whom he knew slightly. - -"My name's Cresswell," he said. "I'm on a Government job. Tell me -what flat that man asked for who has just gone in?" - -"Number sixty-seven, sir," the man replied--"Mrs. Abrahams'." - -"Seen him here before?" - -"He comes about once a week, sir, generally on a Sunday." - -"I shan't move from here," Cresswell declared, turning to his -companion. "I shall hold on to that chap myself if he comes out before -we can get the men together. Will you hurry, Aaron? There's one at -the corner of Parliament Street." - -"And the other's here," a quiet voice said behind. "It's all right, -Mr. Cresswell. I've sent for Jimmy. I saw that man go in. Know who -he is?" - -"I do that," the poet assented. - -"His ship's been searched twice," the inspector went on. "We had a -Secret Service man on board the last time they crossed. Nothing was -discovered, but he's under suspicion. When I saw him turn in here, I -thought things might be coming our way." - -"Inspector," Cresswell asked eagerly, "your powers will allow you to -hold him, won't they?" - -"I think I'll have to stretch them a bit, sir," the man replied. -"We'll wait till he comes out. You'd better let the hall-porter get an -extra constable. This Dutchman is a pretty difficult customer to -tackle." - -The hall-porter, who had been divided between curiosity and -nervousness, departed with alacrity. The men spread themselves out a -little. The poet and Aaron Rodd affected great interest in the -lighting of cigarettes. A small boy in buttons eyed them with immense -inquisitiveness. There was something up! He whispered the news to the -lift-boy, who had strolled out for a breath of fresh air. A ripple of -electrical interest thrilled the group. The hall-porter returned, an -unwilling constable in the rear. - -"What's this?" he enquired of the elder of the two plain-clothes men. -"I can't leave my beat unless there's a charge." - -The man showed him a badge. The constable saluted. - -"Wait just outside," the former whispered. The hall-porter suddenly -thrust his head through the swing doors. - -"Party you're enquiring for, sir, has just come out of number two," he -announced. "He's stepping into a taxi." - -There was a rush for the door, which the poet led. The taxicab was -disappearing round the corner as they reached the entrance of the next -block of flats. The hall-porter, still dangling his whistle, watched -their approach with amazement. - -"What address--that taxi?" the inspector asked quickly. - -"Monico's, Shaftesbury Avenue." - -"Another taxi, quick!" - -The man blew his whistle. A taxicab from the rank obeyed the summons. - -"The fellow can't suspect anything if he's really gone to the Monico," -the inspector observed. - -They all crowded into the vehicle. In a few minutes they were at the -café. The poet gave a little sigh of relief as he peered eagerly -around. Somehow or other, he felt that this was his own special -adventure and that the onus of its success rested upon him. At a table -a little way in the room the Dutchman was seated, with a huge tumbler -of what seemed to be brandy and water in front of him. He was in the -act of striking a match to light a cigar which was already in the -corner of his mouth. Suddenly his eyes fell upon the poet. A vague -sense of recognition, coupled with a premonition of danger, seemed to -oppress him. His frame seemed to grow tenser. Even underneath his -clothes one could fancy that his muscles were stiffening. He watched -the four men approach, and those few of the neighbouring loungers who -chanced to be looking that way, held their breaths. The atmosphere -around seemed to have become electric. The inspector stood by the -Dutchman's table. Although he was not in uniform, his official bearing -was unmistakable. - -"I want you, my man," he said. "You must come with me to the -police-station." - -"Why?" - -"I am acting under special orders," the inspector told him. "I can -satisfy you as to my authority. The thing is, are you coming quietly?" - -Apparently the Dutchman was not, for pandemonium ensued. The inspector -was no light-weight and he was on guard, but his adversary's rush was -irresistible. He went crashing over against an opposite table and the -Dutchman's left fist sent the second man prostrate. The inspector, -however, was not yet done for, and Aaron Rodd and Cresswell suddenly -sprang simultaneously into the fray. Men and women leapt from their -tables. There were shrieks, a crash of breaking glass. The policeman, -who had been knocked down, staggered to his knees and blew his whistle -furiously. The Dutchman, kicking, shaking, even trying to bite the -poet's fingers, which had somehow seized his throat, dragged his -assailants yard by yard towards the door. The whole place was in an -uproar. Suddenly the swing-doors were pushed open. Two uniformed -constables hurried in. Even then the Dutchman did not abandon the -struggle. He wrenched himself almost free from the three men who had -momentarily relaxed their hold, dealt the leading constable a terrific -blow, which only just missed the side of his head, and knocked his -helmet into pulp. That, however, was the end. The other constable was -a powerful fellow and within thirty seconds the Dutchman was -handcuffed. There was a crowd now upon the pavement. The Dutchman, -his face covered with blood and his eyes glaring like the eyes of a -wild animal, was bustled into a taxi. Aaron and the poet were left -behind. They were neither of them much the worse for the struggle, but -Aaron's collar was torn to pieces and the poet's coat had been ripped -down one side. A waiter was hovering around them admiringly. - -"Bring you something to drink, gentlemen?" he suggested. - -They drank a brandy and soda each. Then the poet rose. He was -conscious of various bruises but he was very happy. - -"Home and seclusion, I think, for a time, my friend," he said. "What a -heavenly scrap!" - - * * * * * - -Late that evening, a very immaculately dressed young man of most -superior appearance discovered the poet in an easy chair in his club, -awaiting the midnight rush of journalists and actors. The young man -presented a card. - -"You will find my name there, sir," he said, "and also the Service on -behalf of which I pay you this visit." - -Cresswell scrutinised the card and sat up in his chair. - -"Have a drink?" he suggested. - -His visitor begged to be excused. - -"The Chief asked me to find you at the earliest possible moment," he -announced, "to first of all express his thanks and the thanks of his -department for your valuable services." - -"Had the Dutchman got the goods on him?" the poet asked eagerly. - -"He had indeed! He was carrying documents of high importance which -were obviously destined for our enemies," the young man said. "Their -contents are to a certain extent a secret, and I am to ask you to add -to your services by allowing the matter to slip from your memory." - -"What's going to become of Mrs. Abrahams?" Cresswell enquired. - -"We received an indirect suggestion to-night from the Home Office," the -young man replied, "that the lady in question should be cautioned. If -it is any relief to you, let me assure you that my chief is not the -sort of man to listen to such tosh. The lady will be interned, -whatever her friends may attempt on her behalf. Two of the other -people implicated, both in the censor's office, I regret to say, will -be shot. You appear to have discovered a bureau which existed for the -purpose of collecting and dispatching abroad, every week, various items -of information likely to be of service to our enemies." - -"What'll the Dutchman get?" - -The young man hesitated. - -"I have already somewhat exceeded my latitude," he said gravely. "May -I ask you to consider what I have said in confidence, to forget this -little adventure, and never again in this life to worry about the -Dutchman?" - -"I won't," the poet promised, with a chuckle. "By the by, what about -Jack Lovejoy?" - -"There is a reference only to some promised information from a person -whom we concluded to be that young man," was the reply. "He has been -asked to leave the country within twenty-four hours." - -The young man took his leave and a few moments later Aaron Rodd -appeared. He was wearing a pearl pin of wonderful quality, which the -poet eyed curiously. - -"A little farewell present," the former explained, as he settled down, -"from Miss Pamela Keane." - - - - -_Chapter VIII_ _The Yellow Eye_ - -At a few minutes before the popular dining hour, Aaron Rodd, having -selected a table, ordered, in consultation with the chief _maître -d'hôtel_, a small dinner, and possessed himself of a theatre guide, sat -in the reception lounge of the Carlton Grill-room, awaiting the arrival -of Henriette. There was a mirror exactly opposite to him, and as he -sipped his cocktail he caught a glimpse of his own face. He set down -his glass, momentarily startled. Somehow, it seemed to him like being -brought face to face with the ghost of his youth. He rose to his feet -and lounged over towards the mirror on the pretext of examining some -illustrated papers. In the intervals of glancing at them, he looked -furtively at his own reflection, trying to account for the change he -saw there. At the poet's earnest solicitation he had visited a -first-class tailor, had bought the right shape of collar, had learnt to -tie his evening bow with the proper twist. A personally conducted -visit to a fashionable hairdresser had followed, and his fine black -hair, no longer ragged and unkempt, was brushed back from a face which -seemed, even to its owner, to have changed in some marvellous way -during the last few months. He was, without a doubt, younger. There -was a new expression about his lips, from which the hardness seemed to -have gone, and, curiously enough, he was conscious that notwithstanding -all his anxieties, never more poignant than at this particular moment, -life had taken a sudden and sympathetic turn with him. Since the -coming of Harvey Grimm, he had at last been lifted up from that weary -rut of depression and ill-being; but since the coming of Henriette, he -had been transported bodily into the world where human beings live, -where the flowers have a different perfume, and the sun shines always, -even if sometimes from behind the clouds. - -"But you, then, also are vain!" a rather surprised, very amused voice -exclaimed almost in his ears. "Why, you remind me of Mr. Cresswell, -standing there preening yourself before the mirror!" - -For a moment he felt almost embarrassed. Then he smiled as he bent -over Henriette's fingers. - -"I was wondering," he confessed, "what could have brought so great a -change into my life--and then you came." - -Her eyes softened as she looked at him. Her lips parted. She studied -him for a moment apprisingly. - -"You are changed, you know," she decided. "You look younger. You -seem, somehow, to have moved from one world into another. You were -looking very melancholy that first day when we met in the Gardens. I -do not think that adventures have disagreed with you." - -"If one could only stop them now!" he exclaimed eagerly. - -She laid her finger upon her lip. The _maître d'hôtel_ stood bowing -before them. - -"Madame will come this way?" - -Henriette approved of the table, approved of the dinner, approved of -her companion. As for Aaron Rodd, the shadows which sometimes -terrified him seemed to have passed far away into the background. He -was deaf and dumb to the voices and glances of their neighbours, -attracted by his companion's unanalysable elegance, her aristocratic -little face with its flawless complexion, her little air--foreign, -perhaps, but all the more attractive--of quaint, individual -distinction. She wore no ornaments except the pearls which hung from -her neck. Her hair, to his untutored eyes, might have been arranged -with her own fingers. Her gown, as always, was black, this time of -chiffon, and it was not for him to know that its simplicity represented -the last word in fashion. He simply found her adorable, and dinner was -almost concluded before she uttered a little cry. - -"Why, we have not yet decided what theatre to go to!" - -He sent for a messenger. - -"Do try," she begged, "and get some seats for the _Casino_. I want so -much to see the revue." - -The boy brought them a plan of the theatre, and Aaron secured a small -box. Very reluctantly they left their table a short time later. - -"I have loved my dinner so," she declared, as they sat together in the -taxi. "I think that I am getting greedy, everything tasted so good." - -"And I think that I, too, am greedy," her companion whispered, leaning -towards her, "because I want so much--even the greatest thing in the -world could have to offer." - -She suddenly clutched his arm with her white fingers, drew it tightly -to her. - -"Hold my fingers, please," she begged. "Sit just like this. Don't let -us spoil anything. Will you be content, please?" - -He leaned a little towards her. Her eyes were half pleading with his, -half doubtful. - -"I will be content," he promised, "if..." - -She drew away from him a moment later. - -"I did not mean to let you kiss me," she declared naively. - -"I meant to if I could," he confessed. - -She laughed a little hysterically, but not unhappily. - -"Let us pretend that we have behaved like a couple of bad children," -she said, "because we must not just now talk of these things. That was -just a slip." - -"A slip," he repeated. - -"A very wonderful, delightful slip," she murmured. "And here we are." - -They found themselves soon in a little box, small even for two people. -Henriette settled down, almost from the first, to enjoy the -performance. She laughed at the whimsical Frenchman, applauded the -versatile leading lady, entered with wonderful facility into the spirit -of the place. And then, some half-hour after their entrance, Aaron -Rodd felt the fingers which he was holding under cover of a programme -suddenly twitch. He glanced up. To his amazement, all the joy and -light-heartedness had passed from her face. Her features seemed as -though they might have been carved out of a piece of ivory. Her lips -were a little parted, her eyes filled with fear. She was gazing with -strange intensity upon the figure of a girl who, heralded by much -applause, had suddenly bounded on to the stage. He leaned towards her. - -"Is anything wrong, Henriette?" he asked softly. - -She roused herself a little. - -"Yes!" she whispered. "That girl--do you see what she is -wearing--around her neck?" - -He glanced down on to the stage in puzzled fashion. The girl in -question, French and a new-comer, who was singing a little song of the -boulevards with a good deal of appropriate action, wore no jewellery -except a single rather curious yellow stone, suspended from her neck by -a platinum chain. - -"You mean that yellow thing?" - -She looked at him in surprise. - -"But of course you do not know!" she exclaimed. "That is the great -yellow diamond. It belongs to----" - -"To whom?" he interrupted eagerly. - -"To Leopold's--to my brother's collection," she explained hesitatingly. - -He was puzzled for a moment. Then the sense of her words, and their -import, began to dawn upon him. - -"You mean that the stone is amongst those that your brother has -acquired?" he continued diffidently--"one of those he has not yet tried -to have recut?" - -"Yes!" she murmured. - -There was a moment's embarrassed silence. Henriette was obviously -distraught. She watched the rather fascinating figure upon the stage -with strained eyes. - -"It isn't," she went on, turning abruptly to her companion, "that I -mind if Leopold chooses to amuse himself. He has probably lent the -girl the diamond for her first appearance. I see that it is her debut -to-night. It is not that. But he is so rash, so daring. That stone -is known throughout the world--its history, its description have been -published everywhere. Why, if there is anyone in the house who knows -anything of the history of gems, they will recognise it. It will be -traced--so easily traced to Leopold. Oh, what folly! I must go and -see her. I must go at once!" - -She rose to her feet. They drew a little into the background of the -box. - -"I am afraid it will be rather difficult," Aaron Rodd warned her. - -"It must be arranged," she insisted. "We will go together and find -some one at the box office who will take a message round." - -They spent a more or less uncomfortable ten minutes at the box office, -where they were assured that, owing to the smallness of the theatre, -visits to the artistes were not permitted. The manager at last -appeared and began an explanation on similar lines. Henriette -interrupted him. - -"Monsieur," she begged, "it is a great exception. There is something -which Mademoiselle should know, something which it is very important -for her to know, and I am the only person who can tell her. You will -make an exception, please, this once?" - -The manager was quite human and a person of discrimination. He made no -further difficulty. - -"If you will both please follow me," he invited. "Mademoiselle Larilly -has just gone off." - -He led them by a tortuous way to the back of the stage and knocked at -the door of a room. - -"_Entrez!_" was the shrill response. - -Their guide ushered Henriette and Aaron Rodd into a tiny little -apartment, prettily furnished notwithstanding the bare floors. -Mademoiselle Larilly was standing before a pier-glass, admiring -herself. She swept round at their entrance. - -"Madame?" she murmured in surprise. - -The manager spoke a hasty word or two of explanation, in French, and -disappeared. Henriette waited until the door was closed. Then she -turned to the girl. - -"Mademoiselle," she said, "I owe you, perhaps, an apology for this -unusual visit. I come for your sake as well as my own and another's. -Will you tell me, please, who lent you the diamond which you wear?" - -The girl held it tightly to her bosom: - -"It has not been lent to me," she declared. "It is given." - -"But that is not possible," Henriette protested. "Do you know that the -jewel you are wearing is worth nearly a million francs?" - -The girl started but she simply shrugged her shoulders. - -"Oh, la, la!" she exclaimed. "What do I care? It was given me by a -gentleman, not an Englishman, and no one has any right to ask me -questions about it. I do not receive here, mademoiselle. I have but a -few minutes to rest. If you would please go." - -Henriette made efforts to modify the haughtiness of her tone, the air -of aloofness with which she seemed shrouded. - -"Mademoiselle Larilly," she said, "I will not believe that you wish -evil things to the gentleman who lent or gave you that jewel, yet, -believe me, you will bring harm upon him if you wear it in public. You -will bring a great--the greatest of all misfortunes." - -The girl opened her hands a little and gazed at the gem. She shook her -head. - -"That I cannot help," she decided. "It is his affair. He must know -better than you. I promised him to wear it. He may even be here -to-night. I shall keep my word." - -"Mademoiselle----" Henriette began. - -Then the words died away on her lips. The door of the dressing-room -had opened and closed without any knock. Mr. Paul Brodie stood there, -suave and with a little smile upon his lips. He bowed politely--a -gesture which seemed to include every one. Mademoiselle Larilly -glanced at him contemptuously. - -"But who allowed you to enter?" she demanded. "I do not receive here. -I will send for the manager. It is an impertinence when people come to -my room without permission." - -Mr. Brodie held out his hand deprecatingly. - -"Miss Larilly," he begged, "pray do not disturb yourself. I am one of -those who must go anywhere they choose, at any time." - -"Indeed!" she exclaimed indignantly. "You are not the owner of the -theatre or the author of the revue, and I do not know you. I beg you -to leave at once." - -"Young lady," Mr. Brodie continued, his eyes fastened upon the gem -which hung from her neck, "I have not the good fortune to be either of -the gentlemen you mention, but I represent a force which has to be -reckoned with by law-abiding people. I am of the police." - -She stood quite still. Once more her hands clutched at the jewel which -rested on her bosom. - -"The police?" she repeated. "But I do not understand! What do -you----what do the police want with me in my room?" - -"Now come, Miss Larilly," Mr. Brodie went on soothingly, "it's nothing -you need worry about. I just want your permission to examine the jewel -which you are wearing." - -"No!" she refused sharply. "No one shall do that. The jewel has been -lent to me, lent to me on one condition--that I permit no one to touch -it." - -"Look here, young lady," Brodie protested, quietly but forcibly, "I -don't want to make any disturbance, and I'd sooner deal with this -matter in a friendly fashion. All the same, if you're out for trouble, -I can soon bring you plenty of it. Come, it won't take you long to -slip that off your neck." - -She began to look a little frightened. She glanced towards Henriette -as though for guidance. Henriette, however, seemed almost on the point -of breaking down herself. She had sunk into the chair which Aaron had -fetched. - -"Courage," Aaron whispered in her ear. "That brute is watching you." - -Brodie had drawn closer to Mademoiselle Larilly. She held her hands -tightly against her bosom. - -"If you come a step further," she cried, "I will shriek! I will call -the artistes to defend me--the manager! You must come to me when I am -not playing, if you would ask questions." - -"Young lady," the detective said with a new sternness, "you can call -the manager, if you will, and I shall repeat to him what I say to you. -If you do not suffer me to examine that jewel, I shall stop the -performance and have you taken to the police-station." - -She was obviously terrified now. The rouge upon her cheeks seemed like -a great daub of red. She set her teeth, her hands flew apart. - -"It is a miserable country!" she exclaimed passionately. "In France -this could not happen. Look, then, at the stone, and go, but -remember--I will give it up to no one. If you take it, you must drag -it from my neck and I will follow you, shrieking, even on to the stage. -I will not be robbed! How do I know that you are of the police? You -may be a thief yourself! The stone--I tell you that it is worth a -fortune." - -"I can well believe it," Brodie assented calmly. "One moment, if you -please." - -He held the stone in the palm of his hand and fitted a magnifying glass -into his eye. There was a moment's silence. Henriette suddenly -gripped her companion's hand. Mademoiselle Larilly stood there, -panting, her bosom rising and falling quickly. There was murder in her -eyes. Presently Brodie let the stone fall, replaced the magnifying -glass in his pocket. He stood, for a moment, as though thinking. Then -he turned towards the door. - -"Miss Larilly," he said, looking back at her, "my apologies. The -bauble which you are wearing is a worthless piece of yellow crystal, -worth, perhaps, twenty pounds. I was deceived--as was, perhaps, the -young lady over yonder," he added with a little ironical bow--"by a -wonderful resemblance." - -He closed the door quietly behind him. There was a queer silence in -the room. Henriette was deathly pale. Relief and bewilderment were -struggling in her face. The French girl's expression had become -electrically transformed. With a sudden little gesture she leaned -towards the closed door. Her hand flashed in front of her face. Her -gesture was significant if vulgar. - -"It is worth twenty pounds, my bauble, is it?" she mocked. "And he -thinks, that big, ugly man, that I would come on to the stage with a -bauble round my neck worth twenty pounds! Eh, but he is not a -gentleman of France, that----!" - -An inner door suddenly opened. Leopold Brinnen appeared, and behind -him the tall, slender figure of Monsieur Larkson, the leading French -actor in the revue. - -"With your permission," Brinnen began, bowing to Mademoiselle -Larilly.... "Henriette!" - -He stopped short in amazement. Henriette rose to her feet and came -towards him. - -"Leopold," she exclaimed, talking to him rapidly in French, "what have -you done? How dare you, for all our sakes, run these awful risks! If -the man Brodie had not been a fool, if he had known anything of jewels, -if he had not been blind, where should we have been at this moment? Do -you think they would have let mademoiselle go until she had told from -whence came the Yellow Eye? Oh, but you are so reckless! Take it away -from her quickly! Hide it!" - -Leopold listened to her words a little gravely. - -"Will you tell me, my sister," he enquired, "what you are doing here?" - -"I have dined and am spending the evening with Mr. Aaron Rodd," she -explained. "We sit in the box here and I recognise the Yellow Eye. I -hurry here. Mademoiselle receives me. I beg her to take it off, not -to wear it. I warn her that there is danger. She scoffs at me. And -then Brodie comes. But that man--he must be mad! He held the stone in -his hand." - -The young man smiled quietly. Then he listened at the door which led -into the passage and softly turned the key. He glanced towards -mademoiselle. - -"Ah, but if you all will," she exclaimed, "behold!" - -Her hand disappeared for a moment down her back. She threw the -platinum chain and stone which she was wearing, on to the -dressing-table. In a moment another flashed upon her bosom. - -"You see," she went on, "how simple! I obeyed. On the stage I wore -that great beautiful stone, and even before I had reached my room, in -the passage, the other hung in its place." - -Leopold Brinnen smiled amiably. Nevertheless, he was a little -apologetic as he turned towards his sister. - -"It is that man Brodie," he sighed. "He is so persistent and yet he -has not the wits for success. He wearies me with his blunders. This -is just a little lesson." - -"A little lesson," Henriette repeated reproachfully, with a sob in her -throat, "which might have cost us----" - -He waved his hand. - -"Ah, no, little sister!" he protested. "You take too gloomy a view. -Even Paul Brodie," he continued, lowering his voice so that it was -inaudible at the other end of the room, "has not yet succeeded in -forging the missing link between Jeremiah Sands and Captain Brinnen of -the Belgian Artillery. You permit now, madame," he went on, turning -back to the others, "that I present to you my sister and Monsieur Aaron -Rodd. Mademoiselle Larilly," he explained, "is the wife of Monsieur -Larkson here, whom I take the liberty also to present. What do you -say? Which stone shall mademoiselle wear when she sings her next song?" - -"One may play with fire a little too long," Aaron Rodd observed. - -"Leopold!" his sister implored, clasping her hands. - -The young man bowed. - -"It shall be as you will," he promised, holding out his hand and -accepting the stone which Mademoiselle Larilly was eagerly pressing -upon him. "Into my pocket with this one, then. Madame shall dance for -the first time in her life with a worthless bauble around her throat, -but there shall be a recompense. I insist. We will all sup together -at Giro's. You agree? And you, Rodd? My sister," he added, "will, I -am sure, be delighted to see more of you, madame, and your husband." - -"It will give me the greatest pleasure," Henriette assented. - -A call boy came shouting down the passage. - -"Giro's at eleven-thirty," Brinnen reminded them all. - -"It shall be au revoir, then, madame!" Henriette said, as she passed -through the door which Aaron was holding open for her. - - * * * * * - -There was a great relief in Henriette's face as she leaned back in the -darkest corner of the box and closed her eyes. The atmosphere of the -evening, however, had departed. She was no longer full of that -quivering, electrical gaiety. She watched the rest of the performance -with interest and talked now and then to Aaron, but their homeward -drive afterwards was performed almost in silence. She rested her -fingers in his and leaned back. - -"Forgive me if I rest," she murmured. "I am terrified. I shake now -when I think of that moment." - -"It is all over now," he reminded her. "Try and be quiet for a little -time." - -Presently she sat up. - -"Listen," she said, "it will be half an hour at least before they can -arrive at Giro's. Madame must change her toilette." - -As Madame's last toilette had been one of pink silk, in which there was -very much more stocking than skirt, the suggestion seemed probable. - -"What would you like to do?" Aaron asked. - -"I would like to call back at the Milan," she begged. "I nearly always -see my grandfather for a moment before he goes to sleep; and I can rest -and bathe my eyes. You will not mind waiting?" - -"Of course not!" - -He redirected the driver and they drew up, a few minutes later, at the -Milan. She descended at the Court entrance and crossed over at once to -the lift. - -"I will not ask you up," she said. "I shall find you here, perhaps, -in--say, ten minutes?" - -He assented and bought an evening paper. In less than the time she had -stated, the lift stopped and she reappeared. To his surprise she had -taken off her hat. She came towards him with a strange look in her -face. He could see the tears quivering in her eyes. - -"Dear friend," she whispered, "be kind to me. I have had a great blow. -My grandfather died this evening while we were away--only an hour ago." - -He murmured an eager word or two of sympathy. She laid her hand upon -his arm. - -"Will you go, please, at once to Giro's," she begged him, "and tell -Leopold? Try and prevent him, if you can, entering the supper-room. -There are so many things that will happen now," she went on. "Please -go quickly. See!" - -She raised her fingers to his lips. He caught them and kissed them. -Then she turned away and he hurried outside, jumped into a taxi and -drove to Giro's. Leopold Brinnen and a little party of guests were -standing in the hall. The former frowned as he entered alone. - -"Where is my sister?" he demanded. - -Aaron took him by the arm. - -"Captain Brinnen," he said, "I am sorry, but I am the bearer of bad -news. Your grandfather died this evening." - -The young man stood perfectly still for a moment. - -"Dead!" he muttered. "Poor fellow! ... dead!" - -Inside the room the music was crashing, and the hum of conversation was -already swelling to a tumult. A couple of early dancers were whirling -round the room. Brinnen turned to his guests. - -"I am so sorry," he explained, "Mr. Rodd here has brought me bad news. -A near relative of mine has died suddenly. You must excuse my joining -you. Luigi will serve the supper." - -There was a little murmur of sympathy. His Bohemian friends crowded -silently around him. One by one they shook his hand--a queer little -function. Then he turned away and stood for a moment on the pavement -outside, Aaron Rodd by his side. - -"Mr. Rodd," he said, "my grandfather's death may make a difference in -many ways." - -Aaron Rodd straightened himself. He was never sure of the demeanour of -this young adventurer, who seemed for the most part to treat life as a -jest. - -"In what way?" he asked. - -Brinnen replied with a question. - -"Can you communicate with Mr. Harvey Grimm?" - -Aaron shook his head. - -"I do not even know where he does his work. Forgive me for reminding -you," he added, "that your sister is in great distress." - -The young man stepped into a taxi. - -"It is necessary that I see Harvey Grimm as soon as possible," he -insisted. - -"Harvey Grimm won't be hurried over his work," Aaron declared. "For -your own sake he is better out of sight until it is concluded. Shall I -tell the man to go to the Milan?" - -Brinnen nodded. He leaned out of the window for a moment, however, -before the cab started. - -"Mr. Aaron Rodd," he said, "do you mind if I speak to you for a moment -with perfect frankness?" - -"Not in the least," Aaron assured him promptly. - -"In some respects," Brinnen continued confidentially, "I am inclined to -like you, but on the whole I have come to the conclusion that you are a -very simple fellow. That is all!" - - - - -_Chapter IX_ _The Vengeance of Rosa Letchowiski_ - -The small boy assumed an air of vast importance. He leaned over the -counter and with mysterious gestures arrested the progress of his -cousin through the shop. - -"Rosa, I've got something to thay to you, motht important," he -announced. "Come right over here." - -She paused and swung around a little unwillingly. Her scarlet underlip -was thrust outwards. She walked with her hand upon her hip, not averse -to impressing even this young cousin of hers with all the allurements -of her slipshod finery. - -"I thay, Rosa, you look fine," the boy declared admiringly. "Lithen -now. You told me to keep my eyes open, if ever I should see any more -of Mr. Levy, eh?" - -The girl's face was suddenly alight. She moved close to the counter. - -"You've heard of him?" she exclaimed eagerly. "You know where he is?" - -The boy nodded many times. He placed a finger upon his lips, in his -eyes was the glint of avarice. - -"You promithed me a shilling," he reminded her. "I worked hard. I -know now just where he ith. You can see him for yourthelf. It's worth -a shilling, Rosa, eh?" - -The girl's hand dived into the recesses of her half-fastened skirt. -She produced a cheap purse of imitation Russia leather and solemnly -counted out a sixpence and six coppers. - -"You tell me the truth," she adjured him, parting with the coins -reluctantly. - -"Honest and sure," the boy promised, sweeping them into his pocket. -"He came back again Tuesday night. He's at work now in the repairing -room." - -"You little shark!" his cousin cried indignantly. "Why, I should have -found out myself if I'd gone straight in to grandfather." - -"Maybe and maybe not," he answered, with his finger upon his nose and -his hand guarding the pocket where the shilling reposed. - -The girl was breathing quickly with excitement. The loss of the -shilling, after all, was a slight thing to a girl earning man's wages. - -"Listen," she enjoined, "don't you say I've been. I'm off back to tidy -up. I shall be here in half an hour. He won't be gone by then." - -"Sure not," was the confident assent. "He brought his valise. He'th -come to stop." - -Rosa almost tiptoed her way out of the shop, dived into the stream of -people and disappeared. It was rather more than half an hour before -her small cousin, with palms outstretched upon the counter, struggling -to sell a one-and-sixpenny brooch to a girl who had a shilling to -spend, glanced up and recognised her. His look of admiration was a -genuine tribute. For a moment the glamour of the transaction upon -which he was engaged, faded. - -"My, Rosa, you do look fine!" he exclaimed. "Them clothes must have -cost something!" - -She nodded haughtily--a vision of cheap furs, with a black hat from -which flared one great scarlet flower. She carried a bag of some -jingling metal in her hand. Her patent shoes squeaked loudly. She -displayed at least twelve inches of silk-clad limbs, and she diffused -little waves of a perfume carefully selected on account of its -far-reaching qualities. The customer, who knew her by sight, gazed -after her admiringly. - -"That's your cousin Rosa, isn't it?" she asked. - -The small boy nodded, withdrawing his eyes from the disappearing figure -with reluctance. - -"It must be wonderful to earn enough money to dress like that," he -observed enviously. "My, did you see those furs! ... The firtht -ornament Rosa ever bought from me wath one of these brooches," he went -on, reverting to the subject in hand. "Two shillings she paid, my -dear, and eighteenpence I'm asking you, jutht because I like to do -business when the old man ain't here. Maybe you could pay the extra -sixpence next Saturday...." - -Rosa swept through the door and descended the two steps into the dingy -sitting-room. In a high-backed chair drawn up to the scanty fire, his -head a little on one side, sat her grandfather, asleep. She passed on -tiptoe through the room, down the narrow passage, and softly turned the -handle of the workshop door. The air was vibrating slightly with the -monotonous hum of a concealed dynamo. Bending low over the board, with -huge magnifying glasses in his eyes, Mr. Levy, with a small, bright -instrument in his hand, was absorbed in some delicate process of -refashioning a little glittering mass, carefully held between the thumb -and forefinger of his left hand. Some instinct told the girl to keep -silence. She watched him breathlessly until the consciousness of her -presence reached him through his finer senses. He raised his knife -from its task and turned swiftly around, touched a knob with his foot -and the dynamo gradually slackened speed and died away. - -"You!" he exclaimed, removing the glasses from his eyes. - -She saw the stone upon which he had been working transferred swiftly to -his pocket. She was immensely curious. Nevertheless, the personal -element came first. - -"You're a nice man, aren't you, eh?" she demanded, coming slowly -towards him. "What about that little dinner we were going to have, eh, -and a theatre? You just leave your place without a word of warning. I -wonder grandfather took you back again." - -"My dear young lady," he began. - -"Rosa!" she pouted. - -"Rosa, then," he went on, "pleasure is a great thing, but business is a -greater. I have been away on business, the business I spoke to you of. -Now, you see, I am back again. The other place didn't suit me." - -"And grandfather took you on without a word?" - -"As you see." - -"What is it you are working at?" she asked curiously. "I never knew -you had a dynamo here, or that you needed one for watch repairing." - -"It is an idea of my own," he told her. "You see, it isn't only -watches but every article of jewellery we repair. It saves another -assistant." - -"What were you working at when I came in?" she persisted. - -"A piece of glass, cutting it up into a few of those beautiful diamond -brooches you see in the window," he explained. "But don't let's talk -about the work. How well you look!" - -She tossed her head. - -"A lot you care about how well I look," she retorted, "going away like -that with never a word!" - -"By the by," he enquired suddenly, "how did you come in? Where was -your grandfather?" - -"Grandfather was asleep in the easy chair," she told him. "I came -through on tiptoe. Like to keep yourself private down here, don't you?" - -"Part of my training," he replied. "I can't work unless I am -absolutely alone and undisturbed." - -She leaned against his bench and raised her foot as though to look at -the patent tip of her shoe. He was privileged to behold a goodly -number of inches of silk-clad limb. - -"What are you doing to-night," she asked, "after work?" - -He shook his head disconsolately. - -"Your grandfather is a hard taskmaster," he grumbled. "I generally -stick on here until I'm tired out." - -"We'll see about that," she promised. "Would you like ... Oh, bother!" -she broke off. "I promised to go to the pictures with Stolly Wykes." - -Her companion's faint sigh of regret was very cleverly assumed. - -"Perhaps another evening, then," he suggested. - -"You're such a slippery customer," she went on, "here to-day and gone -to-morrow sort of chap. I suppose I could put Stolly off," she went on -meditatively, raising her eyes and looking at him. - -"I wouldn't do that," he protested. "I can't help thinking how -disappointed I should be in his place." - -"Plenty of feeling for others you have, haven't you?" she observed -sarcastically. "I don't know as I care about going out with Stolly. -He's always worrying me to get engaged." - -"I've wondered more than once," he told her confidentially, "why you -haven't been engaged long ago. How old are you? Twenty?" - -"I am twenty-two," she confessed, "and if I'm not engaged, it's because -I haven't been over-anxious. I don't think much of these young fellows -round here. I feel, somehow, as though I wanted something different." - -He sighed sympathetically, and then, as though with an effort, turned -back to his bench. - -"If the old man wakes up and finds I'm not working," he remarked, -"he'll be annoyed." - -"You can get on with your work, then," she replied. "I'm going to talk -to him for a minute or two. Be good." - -She gave him a little backward nod, enigmatically encouraging, and left -him, closing the door softly behind her. She made her way into the -stuffy little parlour and shook her grandfather by the shoulder. - -"Wake up, old man," she exhorted. "Nice thing going to sleep over the -fire in the middle of the afternoon!" - -"Eh, what--what, my dear?" he exclaimed, sitting up. "It's Rosa, is -it? Ah! How beautiful you look, Rosa! But those furs--were they very -expensive, my dear?" - -"They were rather," the girl admitted complacently, "but I'm earning -good money and I want to get married." - -"To get married, my dear," the old man repeated, a little vaguely. -"Well, well, you find some young man with good prospects, and -money--money in his hand, mind----" - -"I've found the young man I'd like to marry," Rosa interrupted. "He's -your assistant down there." - -Abraham Letchowiski stretched out his hands in protest. He shook his -head vigorously. - -"No, no, my tear!" he cried. "You cannot marry him. He is just a -journeyman repairer. He has no money saved. He spends too much on his -clothes." - -"He's a clever workman, isn't he?" - -"Oh, he is clever," the old man admitted, "very clever indeed, but -there are many clever people in the world who have not much money." - -"Look here," the girl expostulated, "you're going to leave David and me -your money, aren't you? You've no one else?" - -"But I have not much," the old man whined, "and I may live quite some -time yet." - -"You're getting too old to work," the girl declared. "Why not take him -into partnership?" - -"Bartnership?" the old man shrieked. "Ah, my tear, you do not -understand!" - -"I understand the way to deal with you, anyhow," Rosa retorted. "You -wait!" - -She walked to the end of the passage and raised her voice. - -"Mr. Levy, please to come here." - -There was a smothered reply, and after a few moments he appeared. - -Abraham Letchowiski, now thoroughly awake, sat in the chair, wringing -his hands. - -"Rosa," he exclaimed, "I implore you! Rosa! Listen to me!" - -She cut him short. She seemed, somehow, to dominate the little -room--strong, forceful and determined. - -"Mr. Levy," she announced, "grandfather has something to say to you. -He makes such a muddle of things that, although it is rather -embarrassing, I shall say it myself. David and I are his heirs. He -has saved a great deal of money." - -"No, no, my tear--no!" the old man interrupted tearfully. - -"He has saved a great deal of money," she went on placidly. "He has no -other relatives. He is always bothering me to get married. I tell him -to-day that I have made up my mind. If you are willing, Mr. Levy, he -will take you into partnership. We will see that little David is done -fairly with. Later on, when you grow older, he shall be your partner. -Now, grandfather, sit up and hear what Mr. Levy has to say." - -For once in his life, Harvey Grimm was taken at a disadvantage. He -stood speechless and hopelessly astounded. Rosa held out her hands to -him. Before he knew exactly where he was, he was holding one of them. - -"So that's all settled," the girl pronounced, drawing him closer to -her. "Now, grandfather, Mr. Levy--Edward we must call him now--is -going to leave off work at once. We are going out to supper and a -cinema." - -The old man suddenly struck the table with his clenched fist. There -was a curious solemnity in his voice. - -"I will not have it!" he cried, his eyes flashing. "All that you have -spoken is foolish, Rosa. I will not have this young man for my -partner, nor shall you have him for your husband, even if he were -willing." - -"Why not?" she demanded. - -"Because he is not of our faith," Abraham Letchowiski declared -solemnly, "because his name is not Levy. He is not one of us." - -Rosa was taken aback. She looked at her prospective suitor -incredulously. - -"Is that true?" she asked him. "I don't care twopence whether you're a -Jew or not, but isn't your name Levy?" - -"It is not," he confessed. - -"Why don't you go about under your own name?" - -There was a moment's silence. A sudden understanding leapt into the -girl's face. - -"Wait," she cried--"the dynamo downstairs, and those men who came here -to search! What is it you do in that back room, eh?" - -There was still silence. She passed her arms suddenly through his. - -"Be sensible," she urged. "I am not a fool. I know that grandfather -loves money and loves making it. So do I. If he lets you work -secretly in his back room, it must be because you make money there. -Well, why not? You need have no fear of me. Tell me the truth? I -shall be faithful. I do not mind that you are not a Jew. I will marry -you all the same. I like you better than any of the Jews I know." - -Harvey Grimm wiped the perspiration from his forehead. It was a -situation, this, for which no foresight could have provided. - -"And I," Abraham Letchowiski thundered, "swear before the God of my -fathers that you shall marry none but a Jew!" - -The girl made a face at him and dragged him back into his easy chair. - -"Don't you be a silly old man," she enjoined. "Times have changed -since you were young. A girl has to have a husband, doesn't she? You -wouldn't have me marry any of those skimpers that come around here?" - -A fit of coughing seized the old man and he was momentarily speechless. - -She turned away from him. - -"That's all right," she declared confidently. "He'll be reasonable by -morning. You go and wash and get ready." - -Harvey Grimm sighed mournfully. His wits were serving him at last, -presenting a tardy possibility of escape. - -"Miss Rosa," he said, "I haven't had the chance to say anything. You -took me by surprise this afternoon. Perhaps I ought to have told you -when we first met, but I didn't. I am married." - -She stood looking at him for a moment, her voluptuous red lips parted, -her eyebrows contracting. - -"Married?" she exclaimed, a little hysterically. "You beast!" - -"I can't help it," he apologised humbly. "I ought to have told you but -I never thought. That is why I kept away before." - -"I see," she murmured, with the air of one whose thoughts are far away. - -Abraham Letchowiski sat up in his chair. He mopped his eyes with a -yellow handkerchief. - -"You see, my tear," he pointed out feverishly, "the young man is -honest--he tells the truth. That is the end." - -"Is it!" the girl muttered. "Perhaps! Anyway, he is going to take me -out this evening. Your wife ain't here with you, is she?" - -"No," he replied, "she is in America." - -"Go and get yourself ready, then." - -Harvey Grimm meekly acquiesced, and devoted himself for the rest of the -evening towards the entertainment of his companion. The girl's manner -was a little queer. At the restaurant to which he took her--the best -in the neighbourhood--she appeared to thoroughly enjoy the lavish meal -which he provided. She even held his hand under the table and smiled -many times into his eyes. She took his arm as they walked through the -streets, but in the theatre, which she chose in preference to a cinema, -she sat most of the time silent and absorbed. On the way home she -clung to his arm. When they reached the little jeweller's shop, she -paused. - -"Let me take you across to your rooms first," he suggested. - -She shook her head. - -"I want to find my handkerchief," she told him. "I must have left it -in the parlour. Open the door, please." - -He obeyed her, and they stumbled through the darkened shop, down the -steps, into the close, stuffy little apartment. The remains of the -fire were smouldering upon the hearth, but the room was unlit. Abraham -Letchowiski and the boy had long since gone to bed. Suddenly she threw -her arms around him. - -"Kiss me!" she cried, in a choked tone. - -He yielded, struggling, however, against her vehement embrace. His -hands gripped her shoulders. He wrenched himself free. He stood on -the other side of the table, for a moment, panting. Her eyes, -luminous, shone through the darkness at him. Then suddenly she swung -round, climbed the two steps, passed through the shop and closed the -door softly. Almost immediately she reopened it. In the dim street -light outside he could see the outline of her figure. - -"Thank you very much, Mr. Married Man," she said, "for my evening." - -He made no reply. There was a second's hesitation, a last opportunity, -of which he declined to avail himself--then the door was closed. A few -minutes later he locked it, went back to his workshop, and from a -cupboard drew out a whisky bottle and some soda. - -"Here's a cursed mess!" he muttered dolefully, as he mixed himself a -drink. - - * * * * * - -Mr. Paul Brodie laid down his cigar and newspaper and swung round in -his chair to receive a visitor, already, in his mind, a prospective new -client. A small boy had opened the door. - -"The lady, sir," he announced. - -Mr. Brodie recognised his visitor with a thrill of expectancy. - -"Say, this is Miss Letchowiski, isn't it?" he exclaimed, holding out -his hand. "Glad to see you, young lady. Please take a seat." - -Rosa ignored the invitation. She came up to his desk and leaned over -it. - -"Look here," she said, "you're the man, aren't you, who came messing -round my grandfather's jewellery shop a few weeks ago? You were after -the assistant--Edward Levy." - -"Well?" Brodie ejaculated eagerly. - -"You bungled things, or else he was too clever for you," Rosa -continued. "I've come to tell you that he's back again there now, -carrying on the same game, got an electrical dynamo in the workshop, -and no end of tools. His name ain't Levy at all, and he isn't a Jew." - -"What do you suppose he is doing there?" Brodie enquired. - -"Look here," the girl went on, "if I tell you, will you swear that you -won't get my grandfather into this?" - -"I think I can promise that," was the cautious reply. - -"Breaking up diamonds, then--that's what he's doing," the girl -confided. "He's at it now." - -Mr. Brodie showed no signs of excitement, but he was already struggling -into his overcoat. - -"There will probably be a reward for this," he said to Rosa. "I shall -not forget." - -"I don't want your reward," the girl replied. "I've done it just -because--well, never mind. You go and nab him...." - -Brodie did not suffer the grass to grow beneath his feet. He drove -straight to Scotland Yard, and chafed very much at the delay which kept -him five minutes from Inspector Ditchwater's presence. - -"Inspector," he announced, as soon as he was ushered into the latter's -room, "I want you to give me a man and a warrant at once. This time I -think I've got a clue that will lead us straight to Jerry Sands." - -"Is that so?" the inspector remarked dryly. "We've been there before, -you know." - -"See here, Ditchwater," Brodie continued, "you've kind of lost faith in -me, and I can't say that I'm altogether surprised. But just listen. -The girl from Abraham Letchowiski's shop has been up to me to-day. She -says that that fellow I went after is back again there. He's got a -dynamo in the back place and a whole set of tools, and is breaking up -diamonds. Just what I suspected before, only I couldn't lay my hands -on him. This time we shall do it." - -The inspector scribbled a few lines on a piece of paper. - -"You can take your man," he said, "but don't get me into any trouble -over this. We can't be raiding people's premises for ever, on -suspicion." - -"There'll be no trouble this time," Mr. Brodie promised triumphantly. -"A jealous woman's the real thing in our job." - -"Well, I wish you luck," the inspector replied. "If you're really on -to Jerry Sands, you're on to a big thing." - -Mr. Brodie, with a plain-clothes constable, took a taxicab to the Mile -End Road. The two men entered the shop together. David was alone -behind the counter. - -"What can I show the shentlemen?" he enquired urbanely. - -"We want to speak to your grandfather," Brodie announced. "You needn't -leave the shop. I know the way." - -They passed down the little steps into the stuffy parlour. Abraham -Letchowiski was sitting in his chair, gazing into the fire and mumbling -to himself. He looked at the visitors uneasily. - -"What do you want here?" he asked. "I am not well to-day. I am not -speaking of business." - -"That's all right, Mr. Letchowiski," Brodie answered. "It's just a -word with your assistant we're after." - -The uneasiness in the old man's face changed into terror. - -"What do you want with him?" he exclaimed. "He is a respectable young -man, a very clever watchmaker. He comes from Switzerland. He has done -nothing wrong." - -Brodie turned to the constable. - -"Don't let him move," he directed. "I hear the dynamo stopping." - -He ran down the passage and threw open door. The man who had been -working at bench turned to face him. The whir of the dynamo was -slackening, but Harvey Grimm had had no time to collect his tools. -There were several curiously shaped knives and fine files and chisels -lying about. Brodie saw them, and his eyes sparkled. - -"Edward Levy," he said, "I arrest you on the charge of breaking up -stolen diamonds. I have a constable in the room outside. You'll have -to come up to the police-station with us and be questioned." - -The young man laughed scornfully. He pointed to something bright held -in the teeth of a small brass vice. With a touch of his finger he -released it. - -"Diamonds!" he scoffed. "Why, I am an expert on sham jewellery!" - -Brodie pressed incautiously forward, and Harvey Grimm's left hand swung -round with a lightning-like stroke. The detective went over like a -log, groaned for a moment and staggered to his feet. Harvey Grimm -pressed him back, forced his knotted handkerchief into his mouth, and -closed and locked the door through which he had entered. Then he threw -off his overall and caught up his coat and overcoat. - -"You're a clever fellow, Paul Brodie," he said to the writhing figure -upon the floor. "Sorry I can't stop to discuss this matter with you." - -He threw a little higher open the window which led into the yard, -vaulted through and walked swiftly down the entry. He strolled into -the broad thoroughfare, wiping the moisture from his forehead and -looking everywhere for a taxi. - -"My God!" he muttered to himself. "We're coming near the end of -things!" - -Listening all the while for footsteps behind which never came, he at -last hailed a taxicab and was driven to Aldgate. At the Mansion House -he alighted, and in another taxicab made his way to one of the streets -on the north side of the Strand. Here he entered a passageway, climbed -the stairs past a second-hand clothes shop, and on the second flight -opened the door of a room with a latchkey which hung from his chain. -He gave a little murmur of relief as he discovered a young man in a -dressing-gown, seated in an arm-chair with his feet up on the -mantelpiece, reading a paper-backed novel. The young man bore a -remarkable resemblance to Mr. Harvey Grimm. - -"Thank heaven you are in!" the new-comer exclaimed, commencing like -lightning to throw off his clothes. "Turn on the bath, Jim--quick as -you can--and take these clothes down to the shop. Shove 'em away -anywhere." - -The young man was already busying himself about the place. - -"Anything wrong, sir?" he asked. - -"I've just had the devil of a squeak," Harvey Grimm declared. "It'll -be touch and go this time. How did I spend the morning?" - -"We made a point of calling at your tailor, sir," the young man -replied, "also your hosier. We looked in at Bendlebury's in Cork -Street, and we had a cocktail--two, I think--at Fitz's bar." - -"Capital!" Harvey Grimm muttered. "What did I do last night?" - -"Last night we wore dinner clothes, sir," the young man went on. "We -dined at Romano's----" - -"Alone, I trust?" Harvey Grimm snapped. - -"Quite alone, sir," the young man assented. "We conversed for a time -with two ladies at an adjoining table. Luigi spoke to us twice." - -Harvey Grimm bolted through the door, and a few moments afterwards -there was a sound of splashing. When he reappeared, a short time -later, his complexion seemed to have undergone a marvellous change, and -the most wonderful wig in the world had disappeared. The young man -helped him into a blue serge suit. In five minutes he was dressed. - -"My George, this is quick work!" Harvey Grimm murmured, his eyes -sparkling. "There's ten pounds on the table, Jim. Put it in your -pocket. I'll drop in to-morrow or the next day. Clean gloves and my -malacca cane. Don't wait two moments after I've gone. Get rid of all -the clothes I have been wearing, in the darkest corner of the store. -There goes the wig," he added, throwing it on the fire. "There won't -be any more Mile End for a little time. Get to work like blazes, Jim, -and good-bye!" - -The young man handed him a sheet of paper. - -"There are our movements, sir, since you left last Wednesday. You will -find about a dozen recognitions a day." - -Harvey Grimm thrust the paper into his pocket, stole swiftly down the -stairs, paused for a moment on the threshold--it was his one moment of -danger--and then strolled jauntily out. The street was almost empty. -A few seconds and he was in the Strand. He plunged into a -tobacconist's shop, bought half-a-dozen cigarettes, one of which he -lit, and a few minutes later he climbed the stairs leading to Aaron -Rodd's office. There was no immediate answer to his knock, so he -opened the door and stepped inside. A tall figure in khaki was -standing in front of the looking-glass, going through sundry mysterious -evolutions. Harvey Grimm stared at him in blank amazement. - -"Good heavens!" he gasped. "It's Cresswell!" - -The poet turned round and saluted Harvey Grimm in jaunty fashion. - -"Cheero, Harvey!" he exclaimed. "You see, I've taken the plunge." - -"Fine fellow," Harvey Grimm murmured. "Tell us about it?" - -"I came in to tell Aaron," the poet went on, "but he is, for some -unaccountable reason, absent. The fact is, at first I didn't feel the -call of this sort of thing at all. In my soul I hate war to-day, that -is in its external and material aspects--the ugliness, the bloodshed, -the mangled bodies and all the rest of it. But a few days ago old -Harris asked me to write them a patriotic poem. I tell you I no sooner -got into the swim of it than I felt the fever burning in my own veins. -I will read you the poem shortly. It will create a great sensation. -The first person whom it brought into khaki was myself." - -"You seem to have done the job pretty quickly," Harvey Grimm observed. - -"I joined an Officers' Training Corps only a few days ago," Cresswell -explained. "I went to my tailor's for a uniform and found that he had -one made for a man exactly my height, who was down with pneumonia. So -I just stepped into it and here I am. I came round to tell Aaron, to -take a fond farewell and all that sort of thing. I'm afraid my -adventures will be of a different sort for a time. We've had some fun, -though," he added, with a reminiscent gleam in his eyes. - -"We shall miss you," Harvey Grimm sighed, "but I am beginning to fancy -that our own number's about up. I've had the narrowest shave of my -life this morning, and I don't feel that I am out of the wood yet. -Where is Aaron, I wonder?" - -"He was out when I arrived," the poet replied. "I've been waiting here -for an hour." - -Harvey Grimm consulted his watch. - -"It is time," he decided, "for number one. It is several days since I -tasted a cocktail. After that we might lunch together." - -The poet assented with alacrity. They left a note for Aaron and made -their way round to the Milan. The bar was rather more crowded than -usual and they took their cocktails to a settee in a corner of the -room. Harvey Grimm sent for a page and wrote the name of Captain -Brinnen on a piece of paper. - -"Will you see whether you can find this gentleman in the hotel?" he -directed. "He is staying, I believe, in the Court." - -The boy departed. Harvey Grimm, who as a rule was a temperate man, -drank up his cocktail quickly and sent for another. - -"Do you believe in forebodings, Stephen?" he asked. - -"I was brought up on them," the poet replied. "There is Irish blood in -my veins. I am most superstitious." - -"I have had an exciting adventure this morning," Harvey Grimm went on. -"So far as any human being can see, I am out of it as I have been -before. I have made the most careful arrangements, too--but there, -it's well for you not to know too much. There's just this about it. I -wish to God I could see that Belgian and get rid of a few baubles." - -"Let me have them," his companion begged. "No one would suspect me." - -Harvey Grimm shook his head. - -"They're not your trouble, my boy," he said. "Besides, you're too -damned careless." - -The page returned a few moments later. - -"The gentleman left the hotel yesterday, sir," he announced. "The hall -porter----" - -"Well?" Harvey Grimm interrupted. - -"The hall porter," the boy continued, a little confused, "said -something about the gentleman having changed his name." - -Harvey Grimm's face grew sterner, and the look of trouble about his -eyes more pronounced. He put a shilling in the boy's hand and sent him -away. - -"There's something up here," he muttered. "First of all Aaron -disappears, and now Brinnen has changed his name. My God, if they only -knew what his other name really was!" - -The poet chuckled. - -"And to think," he murmured, "that I have been in it! What a man!" - -"The devil of it is for me," Harvey Grimm declared, "that I've fifty -thousand pounds' worth of his stolen jewls around my body at the -present moment. I fought my way out of a trap this morning. I tell -you, Stephen, as a rule this sort of thing stimulates me. I hold my -head, a little higher, I whistle gayer tunes, I am looking out for the -bright things in life every second of the time, and my feet scarcely -touch the earth. But to-day it's all different. I can't walk without -turning round. I can't hear that door open without starting. Hell! -... Bring me another cocktail, waiter." - -"Steady, old chap! Your nerves are dicky, that's what's the matter -with you." - -"It's the first time in my life," Harvey Grimm muttered, "but I've got -them now. I feel that I'm cornered. I did Brodie in this morning. I -left him at eleven o'clock, gagged and tied in the workshop he tracked -me to. I was Edward Levy there, and there isn't one of them except the -old man who knew otherwise. Brodie himself never recognised me. The -only fear is if the old man peaches. He's had a couple of thousand of -the best, and he hoards gold and loves it as though it were his own -lifeblood. Thank God, here are the cocktails!" - -"I shall write an epic about you this afternoon," the poet declared. -"You're tense, Harvey, that's what you are. You're strung up. There's -a different sense in the words you speak, a sort of quivering -significance in everything you say. You're feeling life, man." - -"I'm feeling afraid, if that's anything," Harvey Grimm confessed, -raising his glass. "There was a woman in it, of course--and God knows -I was careful!--a fierce, strong young Jewess. If she gets her -grandfather by the throat, she'll wring the truth out of him." - -Cresswell rose to his feet. - -"It will do you good to eat, my friend," he suggested. "I find you -exciting, vibrating, stimulating, but you are wearing yourself out." - -Harvey Grimm sat with tightly clenched fists. - -"I'm afraid to go in the restaurant," he said. "Do you notice how that -man at the bar is staring, Cresswell? Who's he?" - -"Don't be a silly ass!" his companion exclaimed. "That's Greaves, the -London correspondent of the _New York Trombone_. He'd be all over our -story if he knew it. Come along. Pull yourself together, man ... -upright!" - -Harvey Grimm did his best. He walked into the restaurant with almost -his usual airy _bonhomme_. An acquaintance stopped the two men. - -"Wouldn't look at me in Fitz's, Grimm," he complained. "Getting proud, -old chap?" - -"Sorry," Harvey Grimm replied. "I saw your back afterwards. I was -looking at a man over your shoulder." - -They seated themselves at their usual table. Another chance -acquaintance paused to speak to them. - -"Thought you'd given up this place, Grimm. Saw you at the Piccadilly -on Thursday." - -"I like a change sometimes," the latter observed. "How's the new play -going?" - -"Capitally, thanks!" - -The actor passed on. Harvey Grimm glanced at a sheet of paper which he -brought out from his pocket. - -"Yes," he murmured, "I was at the Piccadilly on Thursday. Nothing like -being thorough in these things, Stephen. My alibi was pretty -successful, eh?" - -"Mean to say you get a chap to go about when you're in hiding, and -establish alibis for you?" the poet asked wonderingly. - -"That's exactly the idea," Harvey Grimm agreed, "and to tell you the -truth, if I hadn't a fit of nerves on me I should say that my alibis -would take a little upsetting." - -They ordered luncheon and a bottle of wine, but for some reason or -other the old spirit was lacking. They missed Aaron Rodd and -speculated as to the cause of his absence. Cresswell, too, seemed to -have inherited a new seriousness with his unaccustomed attire. It was -their mutual recognition of the drawing to an end of one little cycle -of their life, and try though he might, Harvey Grimm could never escape -from the queer sense of foreboding which had haunted him for the last -few hours. And then, towards the end of the meal, a page-boy came into -the room, gazed around for a moment and approached their table. - -"Two gentlemen would like to speak to you, Mr. Grimm," he announced. - -Harvey Grimm laid down his knife and fork. He nodded to the boy, but -there was a queer, hunted look in his eyes as he turned towards his -companion. - -"Stephen, old fellow," he muttered, "it's come." - -The poet laid his hand upon his friend's shoulder. - -"Look here, Harvey," he asked, "do you want to make a scrap of it? I'm -your man, if you do. Or I say, have you anything you'd like to hand -over to me? I can stand the racket." - -Harvey Grimm shook his head firmly. - -"No," he decided, "if it's the end, well, I'll face it. If only Jerry -hadn't cleared out I might have got rid of the stones. Good-bye, -Stephen, and good luck to you! Better follow me out, perhaps, if I -don't return." - -He made his way without undue haste from the room, exchanging one or -two greetings, pausing, even, in the swing doors to say a few words -with a friend. Then, when he stood in the little lobby, he knew that -there was truth at the back of all his forebodings. It was a -well-known Scotland Yard inspector and a subordinate, both in plain -clothes, who were standing there with their hats in their hands. The -inspector greeted him cheerily, but dropped his voice. - -"Mr. Grimm," he said, "I'll have to trouble you to come along to -head-quarters. Just a few questions, you understand--as quietly as you -like. You see, we've come here in mufti. Go back and say good-bye to -your friend, if you want to." - -"That's very considerate of you, Inspector," was the grateful reply. -"I'll just tap the window, if you'll allow me." - -The poet obeyed the summons promptly. Harvey Grimm met him by the door -and took his arm. - -"They're after me, Stephen," he confided. "They're doing it jolly -civilly, though. There's a time for going on to the bitter end and -there's a time for dropping it. I'm dropping it. Once more, good luck -to you!" - -The two men gripped hands. The page-boy came up again and touched -Harvey Grimm on the shoulder. - -"Wanted on the telephone, sir," he announced. - -The former turned towards the inspector. - -"Pray, don't hurry, Mr. Grimm," the latter remarked courteously. "Our -time is entirely yours." - -Harvey Grimm stepped into the telephone box and took up the receiver. -The voice that answered his enquiry was hoarse, as though with some -unnatural emotion. - -"Is that Harvey Grimm?" - -"Yes!" - -"This is Aaron--Aaron Rodd. Where are you? Can you come and help? -I'm in trouble." - -"So am I," Harvey Grimm replied, a little bitterly. "What's yours?" - -"I came down to Tilbury this morning with Henriette, to see her brother -off. We couldn't find him. Henriette got on the wrong steamer and -they've taken her off. It was a trap, Harvey, do you hear? They've -got her!" - -"Where are you?" - -"I'm at Tilbury, telephoning from the docks," was the hoarse reply. -"The whole thing was a sell. The munition boat by which Brinnen was -supposed to leave has never been heard of. Can you come down?" - -Harvey Grimm closed the door tightly behind him and almost whispered -down the telephone. - -"Can you hear, Aaron?" - -"Yes!" - -"Jerry Sands has got away all right. He wasn't on any munition boat! -I was arrested five minutes ago. I'm being taken to Scotland Yard, and -I've fifty thousand pounds' worth of his diamonds on me! I shouldn't -worry about the girl if I were you, Aaron. I think Jerry Sands' sister -can take care of herself!" - -"Where's Cresswell?" - -"Here with me." - -"Could he come?" - -"He's joined an O.T.C. I don't suppose he could get leave. Besides, -can't you understand, Aaron? She is Jerry Sands' sister and they're -off together somewhere, for certain.... What's that? ... What? ..." - -There was a confused babel of sounds--nothing more distinct. The -connection had been cut. Harvey Grimm spent five minutes in vain, -trying to re-establish it. Then he left the booth. - -"Nice cropper for us, Stephen," he announced to the poet, who was -waiting outside. "That was Aaron. The girl's given him the slip down -at Tilbury. He's like a madman, of course." - -The inspector, who had lit his second cigarette, strolled up. - -"I am afraid," he said, "that people are beginning to recognise us. -Don't you think----?" - -"You are quite right, sir," Harvey Grimm assented. "You have been very -considerate. I am entirely at your service now. Good luck to you, -Cresswell. Go back and finish your luncheon. You can sign the bill -for me." - -The poet played the game and departed, after a hearty handshake. -Harvey Grimm took his seat in a taxicab, the inspector by his side, the -constable opposite. They drove off. - -"Enquiries, eh?" Harvey Grimm ruminated. "I wonder what you want to -enquire about?" - -"I fancy," the inspector said confidentially, "that the Chief will -start by having you searched." - -"What do you expect to find, if it's a fair question?" - -The inspector smiled. He had thrust his arm in friendly fashion -through his companion's. - -"We've an idea," he replied, "that this time we shall find a few of -Jerry Sands' diamonds." - - - - -_Chapter X_ _The End of Jeremiah Sands_ - -Aaron Rodd clasped his arms a little further around the barrel against -which he was leaning, trod water with his feet and thought about death. -The curtain of a slight mist had fallen around him. There was nothing -visible but the cold, grey sea, sometimes high above his head, -sometimes like a water-slide tumbling away many feet below him. All -around him he could hear the hooting of the steamers, sounding their -weird notes of warning from some unseen, unimaginable world. A few -feet away, also clinging to a barrel, was a bronzed and hairy man in -nautical attire, who was using the most awful language. - -"No good wasting your breath," Aaron gasped. "Try another shout." - -The man did as he was advised, without eliciting any reply from the -other side of the grey walls, whereupon he proceeded once more, in -lurid language, to express his opinion of murdering foreigners, and -mysterious gents who tempted honest tug-masters into doubtful -enterprises. Suddenly he broke off. - -"Crikey! 'Ere's something on the top of us!" he exclaimed. "Shout, -guv'nor, quick!" - -Once more Aaron Rodd drew a long breath and shouted. His voice sounded -like a child's falsetto, lost in the stentorian roar of his companion's -demand for immediate help and rescue. Then the grey fog was suddenly -pierced. A huge, dark mass seemed to be gliding almost on the top of -them. From somewhere up in the clouds came an answering shout. Aaron -Rodd's companion was moved to one supreme and successful effort. A -clear, loud voice shouted directions to them. - -"We're lowering ropes. Catch hold, if you can, before the wash. We'll -lower boats in a minute." - -Half a dozen ropes came down like curving snakes. One of them hit the -water scarcely a foot from Aaron. He gripped it tightly. - -"Twist it round your body, mate," his companion spluttered. "Twist it -two or three times round and hold on for dear life." - -The next few minutes were barely realisable. Aaron felt himself tossed -like a cork on to the top of a seething mass of churned-up sea, flung -down again with the roar of it in his ears, left for a moment in peace -and then dragged through the water at such a pace that he found himself -wondering whether his arms were going to be torn from his body. Then -he was shot forward with a new impetus. His body and arms ached with -the strain. He was only half conscious. - -"That's done it, matey," he heard his companion shout. "Hold on, -there's the boat coming." - -Aaron Rodd never wholly lost consciousness. He heard the measured beat -of the oars, the sharp, clear voice of the officer standing up in the -stern. He saw the boat emerge from the gloom, heard the quick orders, -felt himself lifted up by the shoulders, felt the luxury of something -solid beneath his feet. The officer in charge of the boat looked at -the two men curiously. - -"What's this?" he asked. "Collision?" - -Aaron Rodd's companion took a long breath and tried to explain what it -was. The officer listened to him, spellbound. The men almost forgot -to row. - -"Some one seems to have been playing a dirty trick on you, eh?" the -former remarked, when at last the mariner ceased through sheer -exhaustion. "Well, you can tell the Commander when we get on board." - -Gradually a fuller consciousness returned to Aaron Rodd. He was able -to walk along the deck of the ship they boarded, to grope his way, -unaided, down the narrow stairs into the small cabin below, where a man -was seated at a table with a chart before him. He pushed it away as -the two men were ushered in. - -"Hullo, what's this?" he exclaimed. - -The officer who had brought them made a brief report. The Commander -nodded. - -"Fetch them some hot whisky, quick," he directed. "Now tell us your -story." - -The tug-master got in first, but after a few sentences the Commander -stopped him. - -"I think I'll get at the truth quicker from you," he decided, nodding -to Aaron. "Quick, please." - -Aaron pulled himself together and took a long gulp of the hot whisky -which was at that moment brought in. - -"May I enquire if this is an English man-of-war?" he asked, as he set -the glass down. - -"His Majesty's destroyer, _Flying Fox_," was the brief reply. "Now -tell me what you two men are doing on barrels in the North Sea?" - -Aaron Rodd found a few terse and explicit words. - -"Early this morning," he said, "I escorted a young lady to Tilbury. We -went there on the strength of a bogus telegram, which informed us that -her brother, who is a Belgian officer, was leaving there at midday on a -munition ship bound for Havre. We found a ship's boat waiting for us -at the dock mentioned in the telegram, but they refused to take me on -board with her. I thought this reasonable, as it was supposed to be a -Government vessel, and I stayed behind to wait for her. She was no -sooner safely on board than the steamer hoisted the Norwegian flag and -steamed off." - -The Commander stared for a moment. Then he looked away. - -"Sounds a queer story," he observed. - -"It's a true one," Aaron assured him. "Of course, there's a reason for -this abduction. The young lady some months ago----" - -"I don't want the whole story," the Commander interrupted. "I want to -know how you got into the North Sea?" - -"I was coming to that," Aaron Rodd proceeded. "My companion can bear -me out as to the rest. I hired his tug, meaning to follow the steamer -into whatever port it might go if they refused to take me on board. We -caught her up and signalled her to stop. She manoeuvred a little, -disclosed a gun, and blew us to pieces. The captain here and I are the -only two who ever came up again." - -The Commander glanced at the lieutenant, who had remained in the room. -Not a word passed between them. - -"Who are you?" he enquired. - -"My name is Aaron Rodd," was the prompt reply. "I am an American, but -I have practised law in England for a good many years. I know my story -sounds fanciful, but there's no getting away from the sequel. The -tug-master here can confirm every word of it." - -The tug-master proceeded to do so, and the two officers listened for a -time as though fascinated. The Commander interrupted him at last. - -"What's the name of this boat?" he asked. - -"She had ss. _Christiania_ painted across her stern," the tug-master -said, "and she was flying the Norwegian flag, but the ship's name's new -painted. I passed close alongside yesterday, and a queer-looking lot -they were on board." - -The two officers exchanged quick glances. - -"The _Christiania_," the Commander murmured softly. - -He paused for a moment and bent over the chart. Then he looked up. - -"Take Mr. Rodd and the tug-master to the ward-room," he directed. "Rig -them both out in some dry clothes and see that they have everything -they want." - -Aaron Rodd had forgotten the discomfort of his condition. He had only -one idea in his brain. - -"Sir," he told the Commander, "that ship, the _Christiania_, is in the -pay of the Germans." - -"You may be right, Mr. Rodd," the latter assented. "When you have -changed your clothes, come down and have another chat, if I am not on -the bridge." - -Even then Aaron lingered. - -"Sir," he went on, "I know that there's nothing I can say will keep you -for one moment from what you think to be your duty. I have just had a -fortune left me in America. I'll give a destroyer to the British Navy -if you'll overhaul the _Christiania_, search her, and take that young -lady off." - -The Commander smiled. - -"The British Navy doesn't need bribing, sir," he said. "I've had a -hint about the _Christiania_ myself. I'll see what can be done. Now -off you go and get into those dry clothes." - -The two unexpected guests were hospitably entertained in the wardroom, -and Aaron Rodd made a very creditable appearance, an hour later, in -some oddments of naval uniform. They found their way on deck, but were -only allowed at the top of the companion-way. The fog had lifted. -There were half a dozen steamers in sight, and the destroyer seemed to -be completing a rather violent curve. Suddenly there were loud orders. -The roar of the machinery was lessened. She glided through the water, -slackening speed at every instant. Looking down the deck they could -see a sight which thrilled them both. The tug-master understood it -better than Aaron. - -"She's cleared for action, guv'nor!" he exclaimed. "The gunners are -all at their posts. See the signal. My God, that's the _Christiania_!" - -He pointed to the steamer round which they had circled. - -"They've signalled her to stop," he continued. "If I get my hands on -the captain! ... Hullo, another signal! Watch it, guv'nor. That's the -last call--'Heave to at once or'----" - -"Or what?" Aaron Rodd asked. - -The tug-master smacked his lips. - -"Those little six-inch boys will talk," he replied, with gusto. "We -could send the _Christiania_ to the bottom in something less than -thirty seconds. You watch the angle of those guns. Look at the man's -face who's just had an order! He's trained on her. My God!" - -The _Christiania_ had pursued her course. Suddenly there was a -deafening roar, a vibration which shook the ship. Fifty yards in front -of the _Christiania_ the sea was all churned into foam. - -"It's just an 'int!" the tug-master exclaimed in delight. "It's a -blankety 'int! Look at 'em running about on board." - -There were signs of an immense commotion on board the _Christiania_. -Another signal slowly fluttered to the masthead. The tug-master, who -was watching the steamer's progress, grinned. - -"They're giving in," he declared. "They've stopped the engines. Oh, -if they'd only let me go on board her!" - -The lieutenant came running lightly down the bridge and approached -Aaron. - -"We are sending a crew on board the _Christiania_," he announced. -"You'd better go and see if you can identify the young lady. There's a -boat being lowered from the other deck." - -"May I go along, sir?" the tug-master asked eagerly. - -The officer shook his head. - -"You stay where you are, my man," he directed. "You'll get -compensation for your tug, if your story turns out to be true." - -The man sighed. - -"There's two sorts of compensation," he muttered, as he spat upon his -hands. - -Aaron Rodd sat by the side of the lieutenant, and though he had never -done such a thing in his life before, he stepped confidently up the -rope ladder after him and boarded the _Christiania_. The captain was -waiting to receive them. He was a small, very fair man, who spoke -English with a harsh and guttural accent. His manner was exceedingly -perturbed. - -"By what right, will you tell me, this piracy?" he demanded, barely -accepting the lieutenant's salute. "My papers were cleared in London. -My cargo----" - -"A few words with you below, if you please, Captain," the lieutenant -interrupted. "You had better stay on deck, Mr. Rodd," he added, -looking around. - -Aaron walked up and down and endeavoured unsuccessfully to converse -with various members of the crew. The ship bore all the usual -evidences of being a small cargo steamer, but there was, to his fancy, -something sinister in the appearance of the sailors and the sound of -their conversation as they pointed to the destroyer--long, grey and -evil-looking, rising and falling upon the waves, a short distance away. -Suddenly a man who might have been a steward appeared from below and -touched him on the shoulder. - -"Come this way, please," he invited. - -He led Aaron downstairs into a dark, odoriferous saloon. The captain -and the English lieutenant were seated at the top of one of the long -tables. The latter motioned Aaron Rodd to approach. - -"The captain denies having any passenger on board, Mr. Rodd," he -observed. - -"I saw a young lady taken on board at Tilbury," Aaron pronounced -firmly. "She was brought here under a false pretext, and she is here -now." - -"It is not true," the captain declared furiously. "There is no young -lady on board." - -"What do you say to that, Mr. Rodd?" the lieutenant enquired. - -Aaron leaned a little forward. He stretched out his hand, and the -captain for a moment shrank back. - -"The man is lying," he said calmly. "The young lady was brought here -under the pretext of seeing her brother. If this vessel is allowed to -proceed on its way to Norway she will be intercepted somewhere by a -German boat, and the young lady will be made a prisoner. That is a -certainty." - -"The gentleman has made a mistake," the captain insisted. "There were -many vessels lying in the Thames yesterday morning. We do not carry -passengers." - -The boatswain of the destroyer, who had accompanied them on board, -entered the saloon and, coming up to the lieutenant, saluted. - -"Could I have a word with you, sir?" he asked. - -The lieutenant rose to his feet and retired for a few moments to the -further end of the saloon. When he returned, his manner had undergone -a change. - -"Captain Hooge," he said, "in confirmation of this gentleman's story I -find that you have two concealed guns on board, and there are other -suspicious circumstances which my boatswain has pointed out, which -confirm my own impressions about you. I am signalling for a prize crew -and shall take you to Harwich." - -The captain sprang to his feet. His eyes were red with fury. - -"You damned, meddlesome Englishmen!" he cried. "If you keep me here -another hour, you will hear of it! My Government will protest. It is -contrary to the accepted principles of maritime law." - -"It is very much against the principles of maritime law, as I read it," -the lieutenant answered coolly, "for you to blow to pieces, with a -concealed gun, a tug which simply came up to ask you questions. Now be -a sensible man, Captain Hooge. I shall have your ship searched from -top to bottom. If the young lady is found, you will have to stand your -trial in an English court on an extremely serious charge." - -"If there is any young lady on board," the captain declared sullenly, -"it is without my knowledge. I will go and see the purser." - -"We will come, too," the lieutenant said dryly. - -They passed down a little companion-way. The captain opened the door -of a small stateroom and talked for some time in Norwegian to a bearded -and spectacled man. The latter, after some time, turned towards the -two men and spoke in English. - -"There is a young lady here. She must have boarded us by accident. We -were on the point of starting, and we could not land her. Come this -way." - -They followed the man down a long gloomy passage. He knocked at the -door of a stateroom at the end of it. A faint voice answered. The -door was thrown open. Henriette, white and eager, stood shrinking back -against the wall. There was a rush of cold air into the place. - -"Aaron!" she exclaimed in blank astonishment. "Aaron Rodd!" - -Words failed her altogether. It seemed too wonderful. She peered into -his face, shook him by the shoulders, and finally, almost collapsed in -his arms. - -"It's all right, Henriette," he cried, his own voice shaking. "You're -quite safe." - -"But where did you come from? How did you get here?" she gasped. - -"I followed in a tug," he told her. "These pleasant people blew us up." - -"I heard the gun!" she cried. "I saw the tug. I saw it go down! I -saw the men swimming in the water. It was horrible." - -"I was one of them," Aaron continued. "The master and I were picked up -by an English destroyer. This is one of the officers. I managed to -make them believe my story and we overhauled and boarded your steamer. -We are going to take it into Harwich. You are safe, Henriette." - -She began to sob. The tears stood in Aaron's own eyes as he saw thrust -through the open porthole the umbrella on which she had tied various -fragments of clothing. - -"I have been waving this out of the porthole," she explained -hysterically. "I thought they might see. I was locked in until a -moment ago." - -"Better bring the young lady up on deck," the officer suggested. -"We've no accommodation for you on board the _Flying Fox_, but I am -going to signal the Commander for a prize crew, and place the captain -and officers of this ship under arrest, so you'll both feel quite safe -here. You'll be in Harwich in five hours and we shall be standing by -all the time." - -"You won't leave me, Aaron? she begged. - -"Not I!" he answered heartily. - -"I expect I shall take the steamer in," the officer remarked. "You are -quite safe now, young lady," he added reassuringly. "I should come on -deck and get a little fresh air, if I were you." - -She clung to Aaron as they passed out. They met the captain and the -purser talking together in the companion-way. The former saluted a -little awkwardly. - -"Sorry to hear that there was a mistake, miss," he said. "We were -expecting a young lady on board, the daughter of the owner, who had -been giving her people some trouble." - -Henriette simply looked at the man. He turned away. - -"I want to go on deck," she whispered to Aaron. "I want to get away -from this atmosphere. Come quickly, please.... Oh, look, look!" - -Half a dozen English sailors came down the companion-way. They were in -war trim and they looked like ruddy goliaths by the side of the pale, -anæmic-looking crew of the _Christiania_. Henriette gave a little sob. - -"I feel safe," she cried, "safe, after all.... Aaron!" - -"Yes, dear?" - -Her little face, so white and pitiful, was strained up to his. The -ghost of one of her old provocative smiles quivered at her lips. - -"Even Leopold," she murmured, "will not be able to say 'no' any longer. -Do you know that you are a wonderful person? You are like one of those -heroes in romances. There never was such a rescue." - -He pressed her arm. - -"Our last adventure," he whispered, "is going to be the greatest of -all." - - * * * * * - -The magistrate's court was crowded almost to suffocation when for the -third time Harvey Grimm was charged with having aided and abetted in -the theft of various jewels found in his possession. The solicitor for -the Treasury rose at once when called upon, urbane, even apologetic, -yet firm. - -"I trust that this time, Mr. Dyson," the magistrate remarked, "you are -in a position to offer sufficient evidence to enable me either to -discharge or to send the prisoner for trial?" - -The solicitor for the Treasury proceeded to explain. He reminded their -Worships that the prisoner had been discovered last week, owing to the -assiduous efforts of Mr. Brodie, actually engaged in secretly cutting -up and disguising valuable diamonds. There was no question at all but -that these diamonds were stolen. The trouble which the prosecution had -to contend with was the fact that they were stolen in America, and that -some of the stones had been mutilated in such a fashion as to render -them almost unrecognisable. A commission from the police force of New -York had already sailed, not only to identify the jewels, but with a -strong hope of identifying the prisoner as a confederate of one of the -most notorious jewel thieves of this generation. He was exceedingly -sorry to have to ask for a fourth remand, but in this case there was no -alternative. - -He sat down. A mild-mannered man arose from his side and addressed the -magistrate. - -"Your Worship," he said, "I am defending the prisoner. In the event of -the prosecution having no further evidence to offer to-day, which I -understand to be the case, may I be allowed to call a witness?" - -The magistrate coughed. - -"You would be within your rights, Mr. Ransome," he admitted, leaning -forward and looking over his eyeglasses, "but I need scarcely remind -you that, to a certain extent, by calling witnesses for the defence at -this stage of the proceedings you might possibly prejudice your -client's case." - -The solicitor bowed. - -"My client being a wholly innocent man, your Worship," he said, "is -only anxious to have the truth known as soon as possible." - -"You can do as you choose, Mr. Ransome," the magistrate consented. - -There was a moment's whispering. A name only partially heard was -called outside, and a ripple of interest passed through the court when -Captain Brinnen, still in his Belgian uniform, entered the witness-box. -The solicitor for the prosecution looked a little staggered. The -solicitor for the defence stood up. - -"Will you tell the magistrate your name?" he asked. - -The witness bowed. - -"Leopold Francis Henri Brinnen de Floge." - -"And your titles?" - -"Comte de Malaison, Baron d'Asche, Chevalier di Scolo, Vicomte de -Floge." - -There was a distinct sensation in court, a sense of impending events -which left every one pleasantly excited. Harvey Grimm leaned forward, -gripping at the rail in front of him. - -"You are, I believe," the solicitor continued, "a godson of the late -King of the Belgians?" - -"That is so," the witness admitted. - -"Do you know anything of the prisoner?" - -The witness glanced at Harvey Grimm and, meeting his astounded stare, -greeted him in friendly fashion. - -"Certainly," he replied. "Mr. Harvey Grimm is a valued acquaintance. -I engaged him recently to recut and, if possible, to present to me in -an altered form a variety of precious stones." - -"May I ask your reason for this?" the solicitor enquired. - -"It is a matter of almost political history," the witness explained, -turning towards the magistrate. "The De Floge collection of diamonds -is famous, I believe I may say, throughout the world. They were the -subject, at the time of the outbreak of the war, of a lawsuit between -the German branch of the De Floge family and my own. During the -hearing of the case, the jewels were deposited by common consent at the -Antwerp Museum, where anybody who is an expert in these matters will -tell you that they have been inspected by connoisseurs from all over -the world. With the invasion of our country, my grandfather and I -determined to do our best to prevent these jewels, which were worth an -immense sum, from falling into the hands of the enemy. The curators of -the Antwerp Museum, although they were under a bond, consented, under -the circumstances, to hand them over to our branch of the family, and -they were transported to my grandfather's chateau, which is very near -the French frontier, just before the sack of Antwerp. Subsequently my -grandfather and my sister, the Comtesse de Floge, after a series of -remarkable adventures, in which the latter especially was concerned, -managed to escape to England with the bulk of the jewels. My cousin, -however, who represents the German side of our family, has seized our -lands and home and has made desperate attempts in various directions to -secure also the jewels, which the authorities would now award him as a -matter of course. I deemed it wise, bearing all these things in mind, -to yield to my grandfather's almost passionate insistence and dispose -secretly of as many as possible." - -There was a great sensation in court. Mr. Harvey Grimm asked for a -chair and sat down. - -"Did you," the solicitor for the defence asked, "impose entire secrecy -upon Mr. Harvey Grimm?" - -"Under the peculiar circumstances of the case, I did," was the prompt -reply. - -The solicitor turned to the magistrate. - -"There is nothing left, your Worship," he said, "but for me to ask you -to sanction the immediate release of my client." - -He resumed his seat. The solicitor for the prosecution promptly arose. - -"I may be allowed, your Worship," he asked, "to cross-examine the -witness?" - -"Certainly," the magistrate assented. - -"May I ask you, sir, whether you have any evidence in support of these -extraordinary statements of yours?" - -The young man bowed. - -"Certainly," he replied. "The Belgian Minister, who was my father's -greatest friend and relative, and the Princess Augusta, my godmother, -are both, I believe, present." - -The solicitor for the prosecution turned to the magistrate. - -"If these witnesses may be called and are found to support the story, -your Worship," he said, "the case for the prosecution is withdrawn." - -Leopold de Floge left the witness-box, strolled along the back of the -benches, and held out his hand to Harvey Grimm. - -"My profound regrets and apologies," he murmured. "I wait here and we -will lunch together." - -The court rocked itself with excitement. The Belgian Minister was -called and promptly took his place in the witness-box. Asked if he -knew the last witness, his reply was comprehensive. - -"The Vicomte de Floge," he said, "is the first nobleman in Belgium. He -is a godson of the late king, is himself connected with the royal -family, and is a young man whose gallantry in the field has won special -commendation from the King." - -"Do you know anything about the De Floge diamonds?" - -"Certainly," the witness replied. "They are of historical and -priceless value, and special efforts were made to seize them at Antwerp -Museum. My friend, the Vicomte de Floge, was able to rescue them just -in time. I may say that he consulted me, and under the difficult -circumstances I advised him to dispose of as many as possible secretly. -Very powerful influences have been brought to bear through a neutral -country, to effect their restoration." - -The magistrate bowed and the witness stood down. There was a moment's -whispered consultation between the two solicitors. Then one of them -stood up. - -"The case for the prosecution is withdrawn, your Worship," he announced. - -Harvey Grimm and Leopold de Floge, by the courtesy of the magistrate, -left the court by the back entrance, arm in arm. The former was -looking a little haggard from his six days' detention, and was scarcely -his usual spick-and-span self. He was a little dazed, too. He leaned -back in a luxurious motor-car and tried to realise what had happened. -His first question was not an unnatural one. - -"Will you tell me," he asked earnestly, "why your grandfather, and you, -and your sister, all practically confessed that you were Jeremiah -Sands, the international jewel thief?" - -"I must admit that the idea was my own," De Floge explained. "You see, -we were extremely anxious that no one should know whose jewels these -really were. The one way to ensure absolute secrecy was to dispose of -them as stolen property. That is what we did, and I must say that -under the circumstances, Mr. Grimm, your silence was more than -admirable. To a great extent, I must admit, we were humouring my -grandfather, who was oppressed the whole of the time with a nervous -fear of being ordered by the British Government to restore them. His -death makes all the difference--in fact, I have this morning entrusted -the whole of the rest of my collection to Christie's, and they will -offer them for sale as soon as the South American buyers can be duly -advised. It is, perhaps, just as well that we have passed the crisis, -for I see by this morning's papers that Jeremiah Sands was arrested at -Chicago yesterday." - -Harvey Grimm cleared his throat. - -"You haven't such a thing as a cigarette, I suppose?" - -De Floge produced his case at once. - -"My profound apologies," he said. "I should have known the one thing -you needed most after this regrettable detention." - -"To think," Harvey Grimm muttered to himself, "that I stole way down to -Letchowiski's and lived in terror of my life, with that rat of a Brodie -dogging my footsteps, and all the time I might have fitted up a -laboratory and have done my work at home!" - -"That would never have done," De Floge objected. "By the decision of -the Belgian courts--German inspired, of course, but still according to -the law of the land--the whole of the jewels are, in a way, stolen -property. Still--it is not the sort of theft that counts." - -Harvey Grimm looked out of the windows. There was a queer sort of -plaintive happiness dawning in his face. - -"It's London all right," he murmured, "the Strand, too.... I never -thought to see them again--not till I was an old man, at any rate. -Where are we going?" - -"The Milan for luncheon," De Floge replied, "where you will meet some -friends. I have more wonders to tell you. Will you hear them first or -wait till you have had a cocktail?" - -"More wonders," Harvey Grimm murmured, "and this is the city which -lacks the spirit of adventure! I think," he went on, as they stepped -out of the car and walked towards the smoke-room, "you must leave this -to me. There is just one concoction--I can't call it by a name. I -must speak to Coley. What a cigarette!" he went on. "For six days----" - -"I know," De Floge interrupted. "I am sorry. We will try and make up -for it." - -They drank a cocktail together, and the sense of unreality began to -fall away. Once more the earth was firm beneath Harvey Grimm's feet. - -"The money I have wasted!" he groaned. "Why, I had a young actor -establishing alibis for me all the time I was away! ... Where's Aaron?" - -"Just back from the North Sea with my sister," De Floge replied. "He -will tell you a story that will make your hair stand on end." - -"And the poet?" - -"Down with an Officers' Training Corps. He is coming up to lunch, if -he can get off." - -Harvey Grimm glanced at the clock. His companion interpreted his -thoughts. - -"You have an hour," he said. - -"A shave and a bath," the other murmured ecstatically. - -"And the corner table as you come in, in the grill-room," De Floge -added. "We will all meet there at one-thirty...." - -Some time before the hour had elapsed Harvey Grimm was entirely his -usual self. Shaved and bathed, clad in one of his favourite blue serge -suits, patent shoes and spotless gaiters, a bunch of violets in his -buttonhole, a sense of stupefied but immeasurable satisfaction -radiating from him, he took his place at the round luncheon table, -between Aaron Rodd and Henriette, and raised the glass of amber liquid -which he found waiting there, to his lips. De Floge, however, checked -him. - -"My friends," he said, "but wait. Here is Mr. Cresswell." - -The poet came to them with outstretched hands. - -"My heartiest congratulations!" he exclaimed, pausing before Harvey -Grimm. "You will be able to write a ballad of the Bow Street cells. -Perhaps I will collaborate. It will mean immortality for you. Where -do I sit?" - -A place was found for him. He, too, raised the wine-glass which he -found in front of him, to his lips, but was checked by De Floge. - -"We will, with your permission," the latter proposed, "drink to the -happiness of my dear sister, Henriette, and your friend--and mine, too, -that is to be," he added, with a bow--"Mr. Aaron Rodd. They are to be -married this month, and if you would care for a wonderful entertainment -during the service of our luncheon, they shall recount their adventures -of the last six days. I promise you, Mr. Harvey Grimm, that yours will -seem to you monotonous." - -They listened to the story, told by one and supplemented by the other. -It was all amazing. The poet was frankly envious. - -"After all," he grumbled, "it seems to me that I am the one who treads -the dreary path of commonplace life." - -De Floge leaned across towards him. - -"Sir," he said, "that is not wholly true, for both you and I, along -different paths, are pledged to the greatest and most wonderful -adventure the world can offer. We have drunk to the happiness of my -sister and Mr. Aaron Rodd. I drank to you a short while ago, Mr. -Harvey Grimm, full of respect for that sporting spirit which kept you -silent in captivity. We will drink now, all of us, to the common -cause, to the great adventure of life and death, to the end which is -written in letters of blood across the scarred face of Europe--to -Vengeance and Victory!" - - - -THE END - - - - Printed in Great Britain at - _The Mayflower Press, Plymouth_. - William Brendon & Son, Ltd. - - - - * * * * * - - - - - _WORKS BY THE SAME AUTHOR_ - - THE STRANGE CASE OF MR. JOCELYN THEW - AMBROSE LAVENDALE, DIPLOMAT - THE HON. ALGERNON KNOX, DETECTIVE - THE DOUBLE TRAITOR - THE WICKED MARQUIS - MR. LESSINGHAM GOES HOME - THE PAWNS COUNT - HAVOC - THE OTHER ROMILLY - THE LIGHTED WAY - THE TEMPTATION OF TAVERNAKE - THE MISCHIEF MAKER - THE FALLING STAR - THE PLUNDERERS - THE ADVENTURES OF PETER RUFF - THE BLACK WATCHER - THE BLACK BOX - THE KINGDOM OF THE BLIND - - _LONDON : HODDER & STOUGHTON, LTD._ - - - - - - - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's Aaron Rodd, Diviner, by E. 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Phillips Oppenheim -</title> - -<style type="text/css"> -body { color: black; - background: white; - margin-right: 10%; - margin-left: 10%; - font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; - text-align: justify } - -p {text-indent: 4% } - -p.noindent {text-indent: 0% } - -p.t1 {text-indent: 0% ; - font-size: 200%; - text-align: center } - -p.t2 {text-indent: 0% ; - font-size: 150%; - text-align: center } - -p.t2b {text-indent: 0% ; - font-size: 150%; - font-weight: bold; - text-align: center } - -p.t3 {text-indent: 0% ; - font-size: 100%; - text-align: center } - -p.t3b {text-indent: 0% ; - font-size: 100%; - font-weight: bold; - text-align: center } - -p.t4 {text-indent: 0% ; - font-size: 80%; - text-align: center } - -p.t4b {text-indent: 0% ; - font-size: 80%; - font-weight: bold; - text-align: center } - -p.t5 {text-indent: 0% ; - font-size: 60%; - text-align: center } - -h1 { text-align: center } -h2 { text-align: center } -h3 { text-align: left } -h4 { text-align: center } -h5 { text-align: center } - -p.poem {text-indent: 0%; - margin-left: 10%; } - -p.thought {text-indent: 0% ; - letter-spacing: 4em ; - text-align: center } - -p.letter {text-indent: 0%; - margin-left: 10% ; - margin-right: 10% } - -p.footnote {text-indent: 0% ; - font-size: 80%; - margin-left: 10% ; - margin-right: 10% } - -.smcap { font-variant: small-caps } - -.chap1 { margin-left: 0% ; - text-align: left ; - /* float: left */ } - -.chap2 { text-align: right; - /* margin-right: 50%; */ - float: right } - -p.transnote {text-indent: 0% ; - margin-left: 10% ; - margin-right: 10% } - -p.quote {text-indent: 4% ; - margin-left: 10% ; - margin-right: 10% } - -p.finis { font-size: larger ; - text-align: center ; - text-indent: 0% ; - margin-left: 0% ; - margin-right: 0% } - -</style> - -</head> - -<body> - - -<pre> - -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Aaron Rodd, Diviner, by E. Phillips Oppenheim - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world 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 -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: Aaron Rodd, Diviner - -Author: E. Phillips Oppenheim - -Release Date: October 16, 2017 [EBook #51076] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK AARON RODD, DIVINER *** - - - - -Produced by Al Haines - - - - - -</pre> - - -<h1> -<br /><br /> -AARON RODD<br /> -DIVINER -</h1> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -BY -</p> - -<p class="t2b"> -E. PHILLIPS OPPENHEIM -</p> - -<p class="t4"> -AUTHOR OF "THE OTHER ROMILLY"<br /> -"THE BLACK WATCHER," ETC. -</p> - -<p><br /><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -HODDER AND STOUGHTON<br /> -LIMITED LONDON -1920 -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p class="t2b"> -Contents -</p> - -<p class="t3"> -CHAPTER I -</p> - -<p class="noindent"> -<a href="#chap01">The Cunning of Harvey Grimm</a> -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -CHAPTER II -</p> - -<p class="noindent"> -<a href="#chap02">Poetry by Compulsion</a> -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -CHAPTER III -</p> - -<p class="noindent"> -<a href="#chap03">An Alliance of Thieves</a> -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -CHAPTER IV -</p> - -<p class="noindent"> -<a href="#chap04">Ulysses of Wapping</a> -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -CHAPTER V -</p> - -<p class="noindent"> -<a href="#chap05">The Mysterious Assistant</a> -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -CHAPTER VI -</p> - -<p class="noindent"> -<a href="#chap06">Paul Brodie Strikes</a> -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -CHAPTER VII -</p> - -<p class="noindent"> -<a href="#chap07">The Infidelity of Jack Lovejoy</a> -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -CHAPTER VIII -</p> - -<p class="noindent"> -<a href="#chap08">The Yellow Eye</a> -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -CHAPTER IX -</p> - -<p class="noindent"> -<a href="#chap09">The Vengeance of Rosa Letchowiski</a> -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -CHAPTER X -</p> - -<p class="noindent"> -<a href="#chap10">The End of Jeremiah Sands</a> -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p><a id="chap01"></a></p> - -<h3> -<span class="chap1"><i>Chapter I</i></span> <span class="chap2"><i>The Cunning of Harvey Grimm</i></span> -</h3> - -<p> -A queer, unexpected streak of sunshine, which -by some miracle had found its way through a -pall of clouds and a low-hanging mist, suddenly -fell as though exhausted across the asphalt -path of the Embankment Gardens. A tall, -gaunt young man, who had been seated with -folded arms in the corner of one of the seats, -stared at it as though bewildered. His eyes -suddenly met those of a young lady in deep -black, who was gazing about her in similar -stupefaction. Almost at once, and with perfect -spontaneity, she smiled upon him. -</p> - -<p> -"But it is astonishing, this!" she exclaimed. -"Sunshine in London—in January!" -</p> - -<p> -The young man was a little confused. He -was very diffident, and such lack of -conventionality on the part of a perfect stranger -surprised him. -</p> - -<p> -"It is unusual," he admitted. -</p> - -<p> -"It is a thing which I have never seen," she -went on, dropping voice a little and glancing -towards a bath-chair close at hand, in which an -elderly and very delicate-looking old gentleman -was muffled up in furs and apparently asleep. -"It is something, even, for which I had not -dared to hope. We seem so far here from -everything that is bright and beautiful and -cheerful." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd, who was a shy and awkward -being, felt unexpectedly at his ease. He was -even anxious for further conversation. He -had a rather long, pale face, with deep-set eyes -and rugged features. He was soberly, even -sombrely dressed in dismal black. He had the -air of a recluse. Perhaps that was why the -young lady smiled upon him with such confidence. -</p> - -<p> -"You are not English?" he ventured. -</p> - -<p> -She shook her head. -</p> - -<p> -"What we are now, alas!" she sighed, -glancing towards the bath-chair, "I scarcely -know, for we have no country. Like every one -else in such a plight, we come to England." -</p> - -<p> -"It is your father who sleeps there?" he -enquired. -</p> - -<p> -"It is my grandfather," she told him. -"Together—he and I and my brother—we -have passed through terrible times. He has -lost all power to sleep at night. In the -daytime, when it does not rain, he is wheeled out -here, and, if it is only not too cold, then he -sleeps as he does now, and I watch." -</p> - -<p> -"You are very young to have charge of him." -</p> - -<p> -She smiled a little pitifully. -</p> - -<p> -"One grows old so quickly in these terrible -days! I am already twenty-one. But you," -she went on—"see how inquisitive I am!—I -saw you yesterday from the distance, seated -here. There are nursemaids and queer -fragments of humanity who seem to pass through -these gardens and loiter, and sometimes there -are those with affairs who go on their way. -But you—what do you think of as you sit -there? You are a writer, perhaps?" -</p> - -<p> -He laughed a little harshly. His voice was -not altogether pleasant. -</p> - -<p> -"I am a lawyer," he declared, "without a -practice. Sometimes the ghosts who call at -my empty office stifle me and I come out here -to escape from them." -</p> - -<p> -"A lawyer? An <i>avocat</i>?" she repeated -softly to herself. -</p> - -<p> -Evidently she found something to interest -her in the statement. She glanced towards the -sleeping man. Then she came a little nearer. -He was conscious of a very delightful and -altogether un-English perfume, aware suddenly -that her eyes were the colour of violets, framed -underneath with deep but not unbecoming -lines, that her mouth was curved in a fashion -strange to him. -</p> - -<p> -"Englishmen, they say, are so much to be -trusted," she murmured, "and a lawyer, -too..." -</p> - -<p> -"I am an American by birth," he interposed, -"although I have lived over here nearly -all my life." -</p> - -<p> -"It is the same thing. We need advice so -badly. Let me ask you one question. Is it -not the first principle of a lawyer to hold -sacred whatever confidence his client may -confide in him?" -</p> - -<p> -"Absolutely," he assured her. -</p> - -<p> -"Even if that confidence," she persisted, -"should bring the person who offered it within -the hold of the law?" -</p> - -<p> -"A lawyer may refuse a client," he said, -"but he may never betray his confidence." -</p> - -<p> -"Will you tell me your name and address?" -she asked eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -"My name is Aaron Rodd," he told her. -"My address is number seventeen, Manchester -Street, Adelphi, and my office is on the third -floor." -</p> - -<p> -"Mr. Aaron Rodd," she repeated, with a -queer little foreign intonation. "That is a -strange name and I shall remember it. When -might one visit you, monsieur? At three -o'clock this afternoon?" -</p> - -<p> -"I shall be in all day." -</p> - -<p> -"Then au revoir!" she exclaimed, with an -abrupt gesture of farewell. -</p> - -<p> -The old gentleman had opened his eyes and -was gazing fretfully about. She crossed the -asphalt walk swiftly towards him. An -attendant, who seemed to have gone to sleep -standing on one leg; gripped the handle of the -bath-chair. The girl passed her arm around -the old man's shoulders and whispered -something to the attendant. They passed away -together. The little streak of sunshine had -gone. Aaron Rodd thrust his ungloved hands -into his coat pockets and made his way in the -opposite direction.... -</p> - -<p> -About an hour later, a small, rubicund man, -a man whose dark hair was turning grey, but -whose eyes were bright and whose complexion -was remarkably healthy, paused before the -door-plate of an office building in one of the -back streets leading from the Adelphi. He -was dressed with extreme neatness, from the -tips of his patent boots to his grey felt hat, -and he was obviously of a cheerful disposition. -He glanced down the list of names, twirling -his cane in light-hearted fashion and whistling -softly to himself. Suddenly he paused. His -cane ceased its aimless configurations and rested -for a moment upon a name about half-way -down the list, the name of Mr. Aaron Rodd, -Solicitor and Commissioner for Oaths. There -was also an indication that Mr. Rodd's offices -were to be found upon the third floor. His -prospective visitor glanced around, and, -discovering that there was no lift, started out -for the stone stairs. On the first landing he -encountered a small boy, descending with a -roll of papers under his arm. Him the -new-comer, whose name was Mr. Harvey Grimm, -promptly addressed. -</p> - -<p> -"My young sir," he said pleasantly, "from -the red tape around that bundle of papers -which you are carrying, I gather that you have -legal connections. You are probably the -confidential clerk of the gentleman whom I -am proposing to visit. Can you tell me, before -I attempt another flight of these very dusty -and unsympathetic steps, whether Mr. Aaron -Rodd is within?" -</p> - -<p> -The boy glanced at his questioner suspiciously. -</p> - -<p> -"I am not in Mr. Rodd's office," he replied. -"I'm Steel and Agnett, second floor." -</p> - -<p> -"That," Mr. Harvey Grimm sighed regretfully, -"is unfortunate. A very excellent firm -yours, my boy. Do not let me any longer -interfere with your efforts on their behalf." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd's prospective visitor, with a -sigh, recommenced the ascent. The boy looked -after him for a moment dubiously and then -disappeared. Arrived at the third floor, at -the extreme end of the corridor the former -discovered a door, on which was painted the -name of <i>Mr. Aaron Rodd</i>. He knocked, was -bidden to enter, and stepped at once into a -single, bald and unpromising-looking apartment. -</p> - -<p> -"Good morning, Aaron!" he said cheerfully, -closing the door behind him and advancing -across the dusty floor. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd, who had been seated before a -desk, apparently immersed in a legal document, -first raised his head and then rose slowly to his -feet. His first look of expectancy, as he had -turned towards his visitor, faded by degrees -into a very curious expression, an expression -which seemed made up of a great deal of -amazement and a certain amount of dread. With his -left hand he gripped the side of the desk. -</p> - -<p> -"My God!" he exclaimed. "It's Ned——" -</p> - -<p> -His visitor held out his hand. -</p> - -<p> -"No, no, my dear Aaron," he interrupted -firmly, "you are deceived by a slight -resemblance. You are thinking, probably, of that -poor fellow Ned Stiles. You will never see -Ned again, Aaron." -</p> - -<p> -The intelligence appeared to cause the -listener no grief. Neither did it carry with it -any conviction. -</p> - -<p> -"Harvey Grimm is my name," the new-comer -went on, "Mr. Harvey Grimm, if you -please, of Chicago. You remember me now, -without a doubt?" -</p> - -<p> -He extended his hand confidently. His -smile was ingratiating, his air that of an -ingenuous child anxious for a favourable -reception. Aaron Rodd slowly thrust out his -ink-stained fingers. -</p> - -<p> -"I remember you all right," he admitted. -</p> - -<p> -The visitor, having established his identity, -seemed disposed to abandon the subject. He -glanced around the room, and, discovering a -cane-bottomed chair on which were piled some -dust-covered documents, he calmly swept them -away, annexed the chair, which he carefully -flicked around with a silk handkerchief, and -brought it to the side of the desk. -</p> - -<p> -"Sit down, my dear fellow, I beg you," he -invited, laying his hat on the floor by his side, -hitching up his blue serge trousers and smiling -in momentary satisfaction at his well-polished -shoes. "I have appropriated, I fancy, the -client's chair. Am I right, I wonder, in -presuming that there has not been much use -for it lately?" -</p> - -<p> -"Perfectly right," was the grim reply. -</p> - -<p> -"Hard times these have been for all of us," -Harvey Grimm declared, with an air of placid -satisfaction. "You are not expecting a client -this morning, I presume?" -</p> - -<p> -"Nor a miracle." -</p> - -<p> -"In that case I will smoke," the new-comer -continued, producing a small, gold case, selecting -a cigarette and lighting it. "Try one." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd hesitated and finally accepted -the offer. He smoked with the air of one -unused to the indulgence. -</p> - -<p> -"Mr. Harvey Grimm of Chicago," he muttered, -studying his visitor's very immaculate -appearance. "Haven't I heard the name -somewhere, or seen it in the papers lately?" -</p> - -<p> -"Possibly," was the suave reply. "My -arrival in London has, I think, created some -slight interest. Even your press, I find, is -not above recording the movements of a -capitalist." -</p> - -<p> -"A what?" -</p> - -<p> -"A capitalist," Harvey Grimm repeated -calmly. "With a name like mine, and an -abode like Chicago, I am amazed that you did -not divine it." -</p> - -<p> -"Seven years ago," Aaron Rodd observed, -"we divided seventeen pounds, four shillings -and eightpence. It was, I believe, our united -capital." -</p> - -<p> -"And to judge by your surroundings," his -companion sighed, "I fear, my friend, that -you have been emulating the man who tied -up his talent in a stocking. I, on the other -hand——" -</p> - -<p> -"Have changed your name and become a -capitalist," Aaron Rodd interrupted drily. -</p> - -<p> -"Precisely!" -</p> - -<p> -There was a moment's silence. Mr. Harvey -Grimm, with the beatific smile of opulence, -was whistling softly to himself. His -companion's thoughts had apparently travelled -back into the past. -</p> - -<p> -"Well," the latter said at last, "I will -imitate your candour. The document I was -examining with so much interest when you -came in, is a seven-year-old lease, long since -cancelled. The few black boxes you see around -the room are, with one exception, bogus. I -sit here from morning till night and nothing -happens. I sit here and brood." -</p> - -<p> -"Dear me! Dear me!" his visitor murmured -sympathetically. -</p> - -<p> -"By turning my chair around," Aaron Rodd -continued, "I can just catch a glimpse of the -river across the Gardens there. I sit and -watch, wonder whether a tug will go past next -or a lighter, watch the people in the gardens, -wonder where they are going, why they are -loitering, why hurrying. I speculate about -the few passers-by down in the street there. -Sometimes I close my eyes and I fancy myself -in Lincoln's Inn, seated in a padded morocco -chair, with a Turkey-carpet on the floor, and -rows of boxes, black tin boxes, with wonderful -names inscribed upon them in white lettering, -reaching to the ceiling, and my secretary -poring over my engagement book, wondering -when it would be possible for me to squeeze in -half an hour for an important client." -</p> - -<p> -"Too much of the dreamer about you," -Harvey Grimm pronounced. "Perhaps, after -all, it is the fault of your work. It's a sedative -profession, you know, Aaron. It wouldn't -suit me to have to sit and wait for clients." -</p> - -<p> -"It's the black bogey of my life," the other -assented, with a thin note of passion in his -tone. "If only one could get out and work, -even if one didn't get a penny for it!" -</p> - -<p> -"And financially?" Harvey Grimm enquired, -with an apologetic cough. -</p> - -<p> -"On the rocks," was the bitter reply. "You -can understand," he went on, with a heedless -sarcasm, "what a wonderful thing it is for me -to welcome a capitalist in my shabby office." -</p> - -<p> -"And an old friend," was the cheerful -reminder. "Come, come, Aaron, we must -look into this. I must place some of my affairs -in your charge." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd's lip curled with bitter incredulity. -</p> - -<p> -"Some of your affairs! I had a taste of -those in the old days, Ned—I mean Harvey. -You brought me to the brink of Sing-Sing, you -drove me over here to make a fresh start." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm waved his hand. These -reminiscences were indelicate. -</p> - -<p> -"My dear fellow!" he protested. "Now -come, answer me a few questions. Such -affairs of business as have fallen to your lot -have been conducted with—er—discretion?" -</p> - -<p> -"If you mean have I preserved my reputation," -the lawyer replied grimly, "I have. -I have no temptation to do otherwise." -</p> - -<p> -"That is capital," his friend declared. -"That helps us at once. And now, I think," -he went on, glancing at his neat little -wristwatch, "lunch." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd's first movement was almost -eager. He checked himself, however. Then a -glance at his visitor's immaculate toilet and -distinctly opulent appearance reassured him. -</p> - -<p> -"There will be no trouble, I presume," he -said a little diffidently, "as to the settlement -of our bill? I warn you before we start that a -shilling and a few coppers——" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm laid his hand almost affectionately -upon the other's shoulder. -</p> - -<p> -"My dear Aaron," he expostulated, "you -are a little confused. You have not yet taken -in the position. A capitalist is, of course, a -relative term. I will not press that point. -But let me assure you that I have a suite of -rooms at the Milan, ample credit for any meals -I choose to take there, even money to pay for -them, if necessary." -</p> - -<p> -"I am not fit to go to the Milan," Aaron -Rodd muttered, brushing himself vigorously. -</p> - -<p> -"That is entirely your mistake," his friend -replied, rising to his feet and lighting another -cigarette. "A judicious shabbiness is to-day -an approved form of eccentricity. With your -ascetic face, my dear Aaron, that little wisp -of black tie, your clean but frayed collar, your -sombre, well-worn clothes, you would be -mistaken by the casual observer for either a -Chancery lawyer with an indifferent housekeeper, -or a writer of dramatic blank verse, -which every one admires but no one buys. -Reassure yourself, Aaron. I predict that as a -companion you will do me every credit." -</p> - -<p> -For the first time a grim, hard smile parted -the lips of the man who was making out with -rather weary fingers the accustomed card to -affix to his door. -</p> - -<p> -"The needy adventurer is what I feel like -in these days," he observed. -</p> - -<p> -"And why not adventurer?" Harvey -Grimm protested, as they descended the stone -steps. "We are all needy, that is to say we all -need something or other, and we all—those -of us who understand life, at any rate—seek -adventures. Even with the success I have -myself attained—I will be quite frank with you, -my dear Aaron—I am entirely unchanged. I -can assure you that I am not above finding -interest and pleasure, as well as profit, in any -adventure which may come to hand." -</p> - -<p> -His companion chuckled drily. -</p> - -<p> -"I can well believe it," he murmured. -</p> - -<p> -They strolled up the street, a somewhat -curiously assorted couple. Mr. Harvey -Grimm's grey felt hat, his neat and somewhat -jaunty figure, rather suggested the successful -trainer of careful habits, or elderly jockey -enjoying the opulence of middle age. Aaron -Rodd, on the other hand, looked exactly what -he was—the lean and hungry professional -man with whom the times have gone ill. -</p> - -<p> -"Queer neighbourhood, this, you've chosen -for your office, Aaron," his friend remarked, -pausing as they neared the corner. "What -sort of people come into these parts, anyway?" -</p> - -<p> -"It's just a backwater. There's the broad -stream of London flowing on to success and -prosperity a few yards up the hill. If you -listen for a moment you can hear it. These -little streets are just parasitical branches, still -alive and still struggling, but fit for nothing -but to be snapped off. All the furtive -businesses in the world might be conducted -behind these silent, unwashed windows and -blank doorways—shabby theatrical agencies, -doubtful publications, betting offices of poor -reputation. People come here to hide or to -escape notice. There was a murder committed -down by the railings at the end of the -street, only a year or so ago." -</p> - -<p> -"Obviously," Harvey Grimm remarked -cheerfully, "the region of melancholia and -tragedies. We must see how things go, Aaron. -Perhaps, later on, it would be as well for you -to move to a better-known part. Just at -present, however, it is well enough." -</p> - -<p> -The tall young man looked down at his companion -half derisively, half eagerly. He knew -him too well to ask many questions, knew him -too well to hope unduly, knew, too, the danger -into which this simple luncheon might lead -him. Yet only a few nights ago he had thought -of the river! It was better to take luncheon -with Harvey Grimm at the Milan than to feel -the black waters sucking his breath away! -</p> - -<p class="thought"> -***** -<br /> -</p> - -<p> -"Feeling better, Aaron?" Harvey Grimm -enquired of his friend, about an hour and a -half later. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd was both feeling and looking -better and acknowledged the fact. His manner -towards his host, too, showed signs of a subtle -change. The latter was obviously <i>persona -grata</i> in the restaurant. Their table, although -a little retired, was in a coveted corner, and -attentions of every sort had been respectfully -offered them. Nevertheless, his guest felt some -sense of relief when he saw the bill signed with -a little flourish and accepted with a low bow by -their waiter. Harvey Grimm leaned back in his -chair and removed the cigar for a moment -from his lips. -</p> - -<p> -"You've no faith in me, Aaron," he declared, -with an encouraging smile. "That's what you -always lacked, even in the old days—faith. -You're losing touch with the world, you know, -cooped up in that musty office of yours. You -don't expect anything to happen to you so -long as you grub away there, do you?" -</p> - -<p> -"Nothing has happened, at any rate," -Aaron Rodd admitted. -</p> - -<p> -"I will not say that it is your fault," his -companion continued tolerantly. "You are -by nature of a meditative and retiring -temperament. It is a piece of extraordinarily -good fortune for you that I never forget old -friends." -</p> - -<p> -"Have you anything to propose to me?" -Aaron Rodd asked bluntly. -</p> - -<p> -His host leaned across the table. -</p> - -<p> -"Always so downright, my dear Aaron," he -murmured, "so material! However, you have -asked the question and here is my answer. -I am proposing to remain in London for some -little time. There are various schemes which -have suggested themselves to me, which might -readily lead to an enlargement of my income. -For their prosecution, my dear Aaron, I need -one, only one companion whom I can trust, -one man who is out for the big things. That -is why I come to you. I offer you a partnership -in the concern—Harvey Grimm and Rodd, -Traffickers in Fate, Dealers in Adventures. -How your hand shakes, man! There, you've -dropped the ash from your cigar!" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd's thin lips were quivering. His -eyes seemed full of unutterable things. -</p> - -<p> -"I have made such a fight of it," he -muttered. "You've got me, though, Harvey. -I've eaten my last crust. I should have had -to sell my office stool for a meal to-morrow." -</p> - -<p> -His friend shook his head genially. -</p> - -<p> -"My dear Aaron," he protested, "such a -confession from a man of brains, when one -considers how the world is overrun with fools, -is a terrible one." -</p> - -<p> -"One has a conscience," Rodd sighed, "and -a profession like mine doesn't lend itself to -crooked dealing." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm smiled tolerantly. He had -the air of one listening to a child. -</p> - -<p> -"The wolves of the world," he said, "keep -their conscience, and as regards wrong-doing, -it's just success that makes the difference.... -My dear fellow!" he broke off, looking up -into the face of a man who had paused at their -table and whose hand was now reposing heavily -upon his shoulder. "My dear Brodie, this is -most opportune. Let me present you to my -friend, Mr. Aaron Rodd. Aaron, this is -Mr. Brodie—in the language of the cinemas," he -added, dropping his voice a little and leaning -forward, "the sleuthhound of Europe, the -greatest living detective." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd sat for a moment motionless, -the cigar slipped from his fingers on to the -plate. All his new hopes seemed crumbling -away. His eyes were fixed upon the hand -which gripped his companion's shoulder. -Harvey Grimm began to laugh softly. -</p> - -<p> -"Cheer up, my pessimistic friend!" he -exclaimed. "This isn't the grip of the law -which is upon my shoulder. Mr. Brodie and I -are friends—I might even say allies." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd recovered himself and -murmured a few words of mechanical greeting. -The new-comer meanwhile took the chair -which the waiter had offered him. He was a -tall, burly man, clean-shaven, with steely grey -eyes, and grey hair brushed back from his -forehead. His manner was consequential, his -tone patronising. -</p> - -<p> -"So this is our third hand, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -"Guessed it in one with your usual -astuteness," Harvey Grimm acknowledged -cheerfully. "A lawyer of unblemished character, -not momentarily affluent, with the principles -of a latitudinarian." -</p> - -<p> -"Has he got the nerve?" Mr. Brodie -demanded. "If we are on the right track, -there's no room for weaklings in the job." -</p> - -<p> -"Aaron Rodd's all right," his friend -declared confidently. "You leave that to me. -I'll answer for him." -</p> - -<p> -The younger man leaned across the table. -</p> - -<p> -"Do I understand," he enquired, "that our -enterprise is on the side of the law?" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm smiled. -</p> - -<p> -"The present one, my dear Aaron. I should -explain to you, perhaps, that Mr. Brodie is not -officially attached either to Scotland Yard or to -Police Headquarters in New York. He spent -some years at Scotland Yard and, having the -good luck to inherit a small fortune, and feeling -himself handicapped by the antiquated -methods and jealousies of his competitors, he -decided to strike out for himself as an -independent investigator. Some day he will tell us -a few of his adventures." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Brodie had folded his arms and was -looking very imposing. -</p> - -<p> -"I have hunted criminals," he asserted, -"in every quarter of the world. I have -methods of my own. I have a genius for -making use of people." -</p> - -<p> -"So you see, my dear Aaron," Harvey -Grimm pointed out, "at present Mr. Brodie -and I are the greatest of friends. He recognises -the fact that I am what is baldly spoken of -as an adventurer, and that the time may come -when we shall find ourselves in opposite camps, -but just at present it is our privilege to be of -service to Mr. Brodie." -</p> - -<p> -Then a thing, ordinary enough in its way, -happened in a curious manner. Mr. Brodie -was a large man but he seemed suddenly to -fade away. There was his empty chair and a -dim vision of a retreating figure behind one of -the central sideboards. Aaron Rodd seemed -dimly conscious of a look of warning flashed -between the two men, but nothing equal to the -swift secrecy of Mr. Brodie's movements had -ever confused his senses. Harvey Grimm -leaned across the table, holding his liqueur -glass in his hand. -</p> - -<p> -"Slick fellow, Brodie," he murmured. "No -good his being seen talking to us when the -quarry's about, eh? Nice brandy, this. On -the dry side, perhaps, but with a flavour -to it." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd understood that he was to ask -no questions and he discussed the subject of -brandy in a sufficiently ignorant manner. -He, too, however, within the course of the -next few seconds, found need for the exercise -of all his powers of self-control. Only a few -yards away from him was a young man in some -foreign uniform, with his arm in a sling, -discussing with a <i>maître d'hôtel</i> as to the locality -of his table. By his side was the girl with -whom he had talked that morning in the -Embankment Gardens, and behind the two, -a somewhat pathetic picture, was the old -man, his face as withered as parchment, his -narrow white beard carefully trimmed, leaning -heavily upon a stick. Almost as he realised -their presence they moved on, escorted by the -<i>maître d'hôtel</i> to a table in a distant corner. -Aaron Rodd drew a long breath as they -disappeared. His companion looked at him -curiously. -</p> - -<p> -"Are those the people," the lawyer asked -eagerly, "on whose account Brodie moved -away?" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm watched them settle in their -places. -</p> - -<p> -"They are," he admitted. "A pathetic-looking -trio! ... And, now, my dear Aaron," -he went on, "we will discuss your little -adventure in the Embankment Gardens this morning. -You perceive that the moment is appropriate." -</p> - -<p> -"My little adventure?" Aaron Rodd -repeated blankly. "Why—you mean to say -you were there, then? You saw her speak -to me?" -</p> - -<p> -"Certainly! I was seated a little further -down, talking with my friend Mr. Brodie. -We had our eyes upon the young lady." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd felt a sudden disinclination to -speak of that little gleam of sunshine. -</p> - -<p> -"She spoke to me quite casually," he -declared. "Afterwards she asked me my -profession. I told her that I was a lawyer. -Perhaps she had already guessed it. I suppose -I do rather look the part." -</p> - -<p> -"You do indeed, my friend! And then?" -</p> - -<p> -The younger man hesitated. His partner's -benevolent face suddenly assumed a sterner -aspect. -</p> - -<p> -"Aaron," he reminded him, "we are on -business. The truth, please—no reservations." -</p> - -<p> -"She asked me," the other went on, -"whether the confidence of a client is always -respected by one in my profession." -</p> - -<p> -"And your reply?" -</p> - -<p> -"I assured her, of course, that under any -circumstances it was." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm leaned back in his chair. -He rolled the remaining drop of brandy around -in his glass, his expression was beatific. -</p> - -<p> -"My dear Aaron," he said, "fate smiles -upon our new partnership. The young lady -is going to pay you a visit?" -</p> - -<p> -"At three o'clock this afternoon, if she -keeps her word." -</p> - -<p> -"Finish your brandy and come with me to -my apartment," Harvey Grimm directed. -"We have matters to discuss and arrange -before you receive that visit." -</p> - -<p class="thought"> -***** -<br /> -</p> - -<p> -An hour or so later, Aaron Rodd was seated -once more before his dilapidated, ink-stained -desk. The gloom of the winter afternoon was -only partly dissipated by the single gas-jet -burning above his head. The same old lease -was spread out underneath his hands. In -his face, however, there was a distinct change. -The listlessness had gone. He had the air of -one awaiting events. So he had sat for the -last half-hour, with his eyes fixed alternately -upon the outside door, purposely left ajar, and -the inner one which led to his humble -bed-sitting-room. -</p> - -<p> -There came at last the sound for which he -had been waiting. Up that last flight of stone -stairs he could hear distinctly the slow -movement of weary footsteps, the continual tapping -of a stick, the occasional cough and querulous -complaint of a tired old man, and by the side -of those shuffling footsteps, others, marvellously -light, the swish of a silken skirt, the -music of a clear, very sweet young voice. -</p> - -<p> -"You see, we are arrived," she was saying. -"There is the name upon the door. You will -be able to sit down directly. Courage, dear -grandfather. Remember it is for Leopold's -sake." -</p> - -<p> -Then there followed a gentle knock, the -somewhat hesitating entrance of the two, the -half-doubtful look of the girl towards the tall, -gaunt young man whose face seemed almost -saturnine underneath that unshaded light. -As he moved forward, however, she recognised -him, and a smile of relief parted her lips. -</p> - -<p> -"Ah! it is Mr. Rodd, is it not—the gentleman -with whom I spoke in the Gardens this -morning—the lawyer?" -</p> - -<p> -He bowed. Anxiety made his voice sound -even harsher. Many things had happened -since the morning. -</p> - -<p> -"You have kept your promise, then," he -remarked. "You have come to consult me. -I am at your service. One moment." -</p> - -<p> -He brought two of the chairs which stood -stiffly against the wall, and placed them by -the side of his desk. The old man sat down -with an air of relief. The passage up the -stairs had apparently exhausted him. -</p> - -<p> -"We are very haphazard clients, I fear, -Mr. Rodd," he said wearily. "This is -unfortunately one of my bad days. I must -leave my granddaughter to explain the reason -of our visit, and in what manner we hope to -be able to make use of your services." -</p> - -<p> -"If I do so, grandfather," she said, turning -a little towards him, "I am going to tell the -whole truth." -</p> - -<p> -"If it must be," he murmured uneasily. -</p> - -<p> -The girl took up at once the burden of -explanation. -</p> - -<p> -"My grandfather, my brother and myself," -she began, "are staying at the Milan Hotel. -We make use of a name, the name of Brinnen, -to which we have some right, even though it -may be a shadowy one. We happen to be -Belgians by birth, a fact which at the present -moment makes our position easier. To be -honest with you, however, my brother has just -returned from America. He has been engaged -for some time in more hazardous enterprises, -even, than defending his country against the -Germans." -</p> - -<p> -The old man interrupted her impatiently. -</p> - -<p> -"These explanations are waste of time," he -insisted. "Tell this gentleman quickly what -we desire of him." -</p> - -<p> -She patted his hand and glanced half -apologetically across at Aaron Rodd. He had -resumed his seat before his desk, his face half -hidden by his hand. Listening to the girl's -voice, he had become conscious of a -long-forgotten sentiment. Encumbered though she -was with a difficult mission, there was a certain -fineness of speech and manner, an appeal for -sympathy in even this last gesture, which he -found strangely disturbing. -</p> - -<p> -"You need explain to me no more than you -wish," he told her, a little stiffly. "I shall -be glad to be of any service to you. There -is no need for you to enter into any painful -details." -</p> - -<p> -She shrugged her shoulders protestingly. -</p> - -<p> -"You and my grandfather are of one mind," -she remarked. "Then I will make a confession -which may sound abrupt but which is -nevertheless true. We three—my brother, my -grandfather and myself—are not entitled to the -sympathy we receive. We are, to a certain -extent, impostors. Is your standard of morals -a very high one, Mr. Rodd?" -</p> - -<p> -"I—I scarcely really know," he stammered. -"As a lawyer I am brought into contact with all -conditions of people. I have before now done -my best for the criminal as I have for the -honest man." -</p> - -<p> -"It is reassuring," she admitted. "Behold, -then, my full confession. You have to do now -with criminals—or may I say adventurers? -We have, we three, to dispose of secretly a -very large amount of precious stones. I -have come to you for advice. The ordinary -avenues of sale are closed to us. How can we -get into touch with some one who will buy -them and ask no questions?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd was conscious of a little shock. -Up to this last moment he had been doubtful. -Notwithstanding the story which had been -unfolded to him by Harvey Grimm, he had -clung to his first impressions, impressions -from which he was parting now with dire -reluctance. -</p> - -<p> -"It is not an easy matter," he admitted, -"but if anyone can help you, I can." -</p> - -<p> -The girl nodded. -</p> - -<p> -"There must be secrecy," she declared. -"You see, my brother is, in a way, notorious. -He has been very daring and very successful. -For the sake of those who buy them, as well as -for our own sake, the jewels must not be -recognised afterwards. -</p> - -<p> -"I have a friend who might arrange it," -Aaron Rodd announced. "I must warn you, -however, that selling your stones in this way -you cannot possibly receive their full value." -</p> - -<p> -"We do not expect that," the old man -mumbled. "What we want, though, is the -money—quickly." -</p> - -<p> -"My friend could doubtless manage that," -the lawyer declared. -</p> - -<p> -"When can we see him?" the girl asked -eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -"At once," was the prompt reply. "He -was with me when you came and I sent him -into my private apartments. If it is your wish, -I will fetch him." -</p> - -<p> -"By all means," the old man insisted eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -"Yes, yes!" the girl echoed. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd rose to his feet and crossed the -room to the door which led into his private -apartment. He opened it and beckoned to its -unseen occupant. -</p> - -<p> -"I have some clients here who would like -a word with you, Grimm," he announced. -"There may, perhaps, be some business." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm made his appearance at once. -His air of curiosity, as he looked into the room, -was very well done. -</p> - -<p> -"Business?" he repeated. -</p> - -<p> -"This gentleman and young lady," Aaron -Rodd explained, "are clients of mine. Their -names are unnecessary. They have consulted -me as to the disposal of valuable jewels, their -claim to which—might be open to question." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm threw the cigar which he had -been smoking into the fire-place. -</p> - -<p> -"I see," he murmured. "Better tell me the -circumstances." -</p> - -<p> -The girl repeated her story, with a few more -details. The old man listened in a sort of -placid stupor. He interrupted only once. -</p> - -<p> -"It is a foolish way, this. There is a man -in Amsterdam——" -</p> - -<p> -"You will tell me what you advise, -monsieur," the girl begged. "We must have -money, and the jewels must be made unrecognisable." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm took a small magnifying -glass from his pocket and screwed it together. -</p> - -<p> -"You have probably brought some of the -stones with you," he observed briskly. -</p> - -<p> -The girl hesitated. She turned to her -companion as though for guidance. He was still -mumbling to himself, however, something -about Amsterdam. -</p> - -<p> -"It is absolutely essential," Harvey Grimm -continued, "that I should know something -definite about the character of the stones you -have to offer—that is if you wish me to deal -with them." -</p> - -<p> -There was a brief silence. Then the girl -rose to her feet and deliberately turned away -from the three men for several moments. -When she swung around again, she held in her -hand a small chamois leather bag. Very -carefully she opened and shook out its contents -into the palm of Harvey Grimm's outstretched -hand. -</p> - -<p> -"The large one," she said simply, "belonged -to an American millionaire. My brother -says that it is worth twenty thousand pounds. -He, too, is a wonderful judge of precious -stones." -</p> - -<p> -The old man seemed to wake up for a moment. -</p> - -<p> -"It is worth," he faltered, "a king's ransom." -</p> - -<p> -They all three bent over the little collection -of jewels. Aaron Rodd's expression was one -of simple curiosity. His knowledge of diamonds -was <i>nil</i>. His partner's manner, on the other -hand, underwent a curious change. There -was a hard glitter in his eyes and unsuspected -lines about his mouth. The atmosphere of the -little room had become charged with new -forces. The girl's face was tense with -excitement, the old man seemed suddenly and -subtly different. -</p> - -<p> -"Do not waste time," the former begged, a -little feverishly. "It is not safe to bring these -jewels into the daylight, even here. If you -will buy, state your price. Give us an idea. -We can meet again, perhaps." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm turned towards them. -</p> - -<p> -"The small stones are negligible," he -pronounced. "The large stone is worth quite as -much as you say. To cut it up, however, and -then sell it in a secret market, is another thing. -The most you could hope for would be five -thousand pounds." -</p> - -<p> -The girl's face was a little vague. -</p> - -<p> -"Tell me," she enquired, "in English money -how much is that a year?" -</p> - -<p> -"Two hundred and fifty pounds." -</p> - -<p> -"So that if there were ten stones like that," -she went on, a little wistfully, "that would be -an income of two thousand, two hundred and -fifty pounds. One could live comfortably on -that? One could hide somewhere in a quiet -country place and live like gentlefolk?" -</p> - -<p> -"Certainly," Harvey Grimm assured her. -</p> - -<p> -She turned a little doubtfully towards her -companion. -</p> - -<p> -"I am afraid," she sighed, "that grandfather -is almost past realising what money means. -In any case, we must consult my brother." -</p> - -<p> -Then there came without warning an interruption -which seemed equally startling to all of -them. Without any preliminary summons, the -door of the office was thrown open. The -detective, Brodie, followed by a man in plain clothes -out with an unmistakably professional appearance, -entered the room. The latter closed -the door behind him. Brodie approached the -little group. The girl's eyes were lit with -terror. Harvey Grimm dropped his handkerchief -over the jewels, whilst his partner stepped -forward. Aaron Rodd's tone was harsh with -anxiety, his face seemed more drawn than ever. -</p> - -<p> -"What do you want here?" he demanded. -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Brodie smiled tolerantly. His eyes were -fixed upon the table. He pushed the questioner -on one side and lifted the handkerchief which -Harvey Grimm had thrown over the diamonds. -Then he turned towards his companion with a -little cry of triumph. -</p> - -<p> -"That," he declared, pointing to the jewel -upon the table, "is one of the Van Hutten -diamonds." -</p> - -<p> -"I do not understand," the girl said quietly -enough, although she was shaking from head -to foot. "It belongs to us. It is the property -of——" -</p> - -<p> -"Cut it out," Brodie interrupted brusquely. -"We'll talk to you, young lady, at police -head-quarters." -</p> - -<p> -The girl turned to Aaron Rodd. -</p> - -<p> -"Who is this man, and what does he want?" -she cried. "Is this a trap into which you have -drawn us? Is it a crime, here in England, then, -to offer jewels for sale?" -</p> - -<p> -"We'll talk this all out at the police -station," Brodie intervened curtly. "Inspector?" -</p> - -<p> -The man in plain clothes stepped forward -and took command of the situation. -</p> - -<p> -"My instructions are," he announced -politely, "to ask you both to come with me to -the police-station." -</p> - -<p> -The old gentleman simply looked dazed. He -rose to his feet obediently and turned towards -the girl. She patted his arm reassuringly, but -there was a look in her face which brought a -sob into Aaron Rodd's throat. He was filled -all the time with a silent fury. He cursed the -moment which had taken him into the -Embankment Gardens, which had brought Harvey -Grimm once more into his life. The single -look which the girl had flashed upon him was -like a dagger in his heart. -</p> - -<p> -Brodie had replaced the diamonds, one by -one, in the little bag. He handed them over -to his companion and motioned them all -towards the door. The old gentleman moved -wearily along, leaning upon his granddaughter's -arm. Aaron Rodd hurried forward and opened -the door. He tried to say something, but the -girl turned from him contemptuously. He -stood on the threshold, listening to their slow -footsteps as they descended into the street. -Then he swung back into the room, slammed -the door and sank into the chair in front of his -desk. It was as though he had passed through -some terrible nightmare. He sat gazing out -through the shadows. Had it all really -happened? Then he caught a faint, unfamiliar -breath of perfume which suddenly set his heart -beating with unaccustomed vigour. A little -morsel of white lace lay underneath the chair -upon which she had been seated. He stooped -and picked it up, smoothed it out, and let it -slip from his fingers almost in despair. It was -all true, then! She had sat in that chair, had -come to his office, trusting him, had walked -into the Harvey-Grimm-cum-Brodie trap! -</p> - -<p class="thought"> -***** -<br /> -</p> - -<p> -It was an hour or more before Harvey Grimm -returned. He closed the door after him and -came briskly across the floor. -</p> - -<p> -"Well, young fellow," he exclaimed, "you -can't say that I haven't fished you out of the -backwaters." -</p> - -<p> -"I wish to God you'd left me there!" was -the bitter reply. "Tell me what's happened -to her?" -</p> - -<p> -"To her?—oh, the young lady!" Harvey -Grimm murmured, with an illuminating smile. -"She's all right. She's back at the Milan by -this time." -</p> - -<p> -"They couldn't identify the diamond, -then?" Aaron Rodd asked eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -"Not by a long chalk," was the smiling -reply. "To tell you the truth, Brodie's about -the sickest man in London just now. The stone -he rolled out in front of the expert they had -waiting down at Scotland Yard was——" -</p> - -<p> -"Was what?" -</p> - -<p> -"A lump of paste," Harvey Grimm declared, -lighting a cigarette. "Queer business, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -"There's no charge against the old gentleman -and his granddaughter, then?" Aaron Rodd -demanded breathlessly. -</p> - -<p> -"None whatever. Why not try a cigarette, -Aaron? You're all nerves." -</p> - -<p> -The lawyer pushed the box away from him. -</p> - -<p> -"You may think this sort of thing's worth -while," he declared gloomily. "I can't say -that I do. There'll be no reward to share, and -it seems to me that we've made an enemy——" -</p> - -<p> -"There's no reward," Harvey Grimm agreed, -"but there's this." -</p> - -<p> -He drew his handkerchief from his pocket. -A diamond almost as large as a cobnut rolled -over and lay upon the desk. Aaron Rodd -stared at it in amazement. -</p> - -<p> -"What's that?" he demanded. -</p> - -<p> -"One of the Van Hutten diamonds," was -the triumphant reply. "Look at it well. -You won't see it again. By this time -to-morrow it will have been cut." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd was stupefied. He looked from -the stone up to his companion's face. Even -his demand for some elucidation was mute. -</p> - -<p> -"I had the duplicate ready," Harvey Grimm -explained. "That was my game. I changed -them underneath my handkerchief. It was -perfectly easy. They've got the imitation one -at police head-quarters and they aren't feeling -particularly pleased with themselves. That -fellow Brodie is about the bummest detective -who ever crossed the Atlantic." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd was sitting transfixed. His -fingers were shaking as they beat upon the -desk. -</p> - -<p> -"My God," he exclaimed as light streamed -in upon him, "we're thieves!" -</p> - -<p> -"Don't talk like a fool," the other -admonished. "It's a fair enough game between -crooks. We've stolen a stolen jewel, and by -doing it we've saved the girl and her -grandfather and her brother, too, from gaol. That's -fair do's, isn't it? When I've finished with -that, there'll be a matter of three or four -thousand pounds for us to divide. What about -it, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -He swept the jewel back into his pocket. -Aaron Rodd's fingers were still idly beating -upon the desk. The walls of his dusty, bare -apartment had fallen away, the thrall of his -sordid poverty lay no longer like a dead -weight upon his spirits. Three or four thousand -pounds to divide! -</p> - -<p> -"What you need," Harvey Grimm declared -briskly, handing him his hat, "is a drink. -Come right along." -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p><a id="chap02"></a></p> - -<h3> -<span class="chap1"><i>Chapter II</i></span> <span class="chap2"><i>Poetry by Compulsion</i></span> -</h3> - -<p> -Mr. Paul Brodie walked, unannounced, into -Aaron Rodd's office, a matter of ten days after -the episode of the changed diamond. He had -lost a little of his bombast, and he carried -himself with less than his usual confidence. -His eyes, however, had lost none of their old -inquisitive fire. He was perfectly aware, even -as he greeted the two men who rose to welcome -him, that Aaron Rodd was wearing a new suit -of clothes, that the office had been -spring-cleaned, that the box of cigarettes upon the -desk were of an expensive brand, and that the -violets in the buttonhole of Harvey Grimm's -immaculate coat had come from a Bond Street -florist. -</p> - -<p> -"Good morning, gentlemen," he said airily, -subsiding into the chair which the latter had -vacated for him. "Nice little trio of -conspirators we are, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm shrugged his shoulders. -</p> - -<p> -"It's rough on you," he admitted—"gives -you kind of a twist, of course, with the -police—but I can't see any sense in the thing yet. -They weren't meaning to trade off that bit of -paste on a diamond expert surely!" -</p> - -<p> -The detective scratched his chin. -</p> - -<p> -"That bit of paste," he declared, "was all -they had on them, anyway. Seems as though -they hadn't quite sized you up—you and -Mr. Rodd here—and were paying you a test visit. -Gee, they're clever!" -</p> - -<p> -"You had them searched, I suppose," the -other enquired, "to be sure they hadn't the -real goods with them?" -</p> - -<p> -"You bet!" the detective assented gloomily. -"Made it all the worse for us afterwards. I -tell you I daren't show my face at Scotland -Yard these days." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm nodded sympathetically. -</p> - -<p> -"Still, they must know that these people -aren't what they profess to be," he observed. -</p> - -<p> -"That's all very well," Brodie agreed, "but -every one goes about with kid gloves on in this -country. That's why I threw up my job and -went over to the States. Even a criminal, a -known criminal, has got to be treated as though -he were a little God Almighty until the charge -is right there and the proof lying handy. I -spent last night with Inspector Ditchwater. -He's as sure as I am that the young man is no -other than Jeremiah Sands, but he'd sooner -let him slip through his fingers than take a risk." -</p> - -<p> -"How does it come about, then," Aaron -Rodd asked quietly, "that a famous diamond -thief is wearing the uniform of a Belgian -officer, that he is decorated and wounded?" -</p> - -<p> -"Simple as possible," Brodie explained. -"We knew perfectly well that Jeremiah Sands -was a Belgian. That little fact had been in -every description of him that's ever been -issued. He chucked his little enterprises in -New York, the moment war was declared, and -sailed for Europe, bringing the loot with him. -He was as clever as paint, though. He played -the old game of sending a double to Chicago, -and he was in Belgium before we knew the -truth. There, from what we gather, he handed -over the stuff to the old man and his sister, -and took up his soldiering job. The worst of -it is he's covered up his traces so well that we -haven't a chance unless we can catch him, or -one of the three, with the goods. Meanwhile, -there he is, less than a quarter of a mile away, -with half a million of loot under his nose; -there's a reward of twenty-five thousand -dollars for his apprehension; and here we -three men sit, needing the money, and pretty -well powerless." -</p> - -<p> -"I wouldn't go so far as that," Harvey -Grimm said quietly. "I don't fancy you've -come to the end of your tether yet, Brodie." -</p> - -<p> -The detective knocked the ash from his cigar -and rose to his feet. -</p> - -<p> -"Well," he admitted, "I ain't giving up, -sure. All the same, this little failure has made -things difficult for me. If I put my head in at -head-quarters and whisper 'Jeremiah Sands,' -they're down my throat. I just looked in to -see how you boys were," he added. "They'll -have tumbled to you both now, so I'm afraid -the game's off so far as you are concerned. -So long! See you round at the Milan about -cocktail time, Harvey, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Brodie took his leave, with more -expressions of cordiality. Aaron Rodd closed -the door carefully after him and came back -into the room. For several moments neither -of the two men spoke. Harvey Grimm carefully -selected a cigarette and lit it. Then he walked -to the door, opened it and peered down the -stairs. -</p> - -<p> -"Too damned amiable!" he muttered as he -returned to his place. "Did you see the way -he peered around? You have brightened -things up a bit, Aaron." -</p> - -<p> -"I haven't done more than was absolutely -necessary," the young lawyer protested. "The -place was simply filthy." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm suddenly burst into a hearty -laugh and slapped his knee. -</p> - -<p> -"That's all right, old fellow," he declared. -"It don't matter a snap of the fingers. That -chap Brodie does get me, though. A baby -could see through him. He's got just sense -enough to believe that we pinched the -diamond—that's why he's been round here. It just -don't matter a damn, Aaron, what he suspects. -That diamond doesn't exist any longer. -Neither our friends whom we—er—relieved of -its incriminating possession, nor Paul Brodie, -will ever see that stone again. Let's lunch." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd reached for his hat and followed -his friend out into the street. At the end of the -little dingy thoroughfare, as they made their -way up towards the Strand, Harvey Grimm -paused abruptly in front of what seemed to be a -small book-shop. There were only one or two -volumes in the window, of what seemed to be -editions de luxe of some unknown work. -There was a single modern engraving and a -water-colour of Futurist propensities for -background. Harvey Grimm eyed these treasures -appreciatively. -</p> - -<p> -"This place pleases me," he announced. -"It has an air of its own. We will spend a few -minutes here." -</p> - -<p> -The two men entered and looked about them, -a little bewildered by their surroundings. -They seemed to have stepped into a small and -feminine sitting-room, the walls of which were -hung with water-colours of unusual subjects -and colouring. There was a little pile of -paper-covered volumes upon the table. A young -lady of sombre and uncertain appearance came -forward, and Harvey Grimm promptly -removed his hat. -</p> - -<p> -"We have perhaps made a mistake?" he -observed tentatively. "From the exterior -appearance of your establishment, I gathered -that we might possibly be able to procure here -something unusual in the way of literature. -In a small way I am a collector of old -books." -</p> - -<p> -"We are entirely modern here," the young -woman replied. "I can show you hand-made -pottery, or the water-colours of a young -Futurist artist, or I can offer you the poetical -works of one or two of our most modern poets. -Second-hand books or <i>objets d'art</i> we do not -deal in. We consider," she concluded, "that -modernity, absolute modernity, is the proper -cult." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm fanned himself for a moment -with his hat. His companion was gazing, with -his mouth a little open, at a picture upon the -wall which appeared to him to represent the -bursting of a ripe tomato upon a crazy landscape. -</p> - -<p> -"An impression of war," the young woman -remarked, following his gaze. "A wonderful -piece of work by a young Futurist painter." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm studied it for a moment -through his eyeglass, and coughed. He turned -back to the table and picked up a -paper-covered volume. -</p> - -<p> -"Poetry," he murmured, "is one of my -great solaces." -</p> - -<p> -"Have you met with the work of Stephen -Cresswell?" the young woman enquired, -almost solemnly. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm repeated the name several -times. -</p> - -<p> -"For the moment——" he confessed. -</p> - -<p> -"Eightpence," the girl interrupted, depositing -one of the paper-covered volumes in his -hand. "Perhaps your friend would like one, -too. I can promise you that when you have -read Cresswell's Spring Lyrics, you will find -all Victorian poetry anæmic." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm handed a copy to his -companion, laid down two shillings and pocketed -the eightpence change a little diffidently. -</p> - -<p> -"You would perhaps like to look around," -the young lady suggested. -</p> - -<p> -She vanished into an inner room. Almost -at that moment the door leading into the street -was violently opened, and a young man of -somewhat surprising appearance abruptly -entered. He was over six feet in height, he -wore a flannel shirt and collar much the worse -for wear, a brown tweed coat from which every -button was missing, and through an old pair of -patent boots came an unashamed and very -evident toe. The two visitors stared at him -in amazement. The young man's eyes, from -the moment of his entrance, were fixed upon -the paper volume which Harvey Grimm was -carrying. -</p> - -<p> -"Sir," he enquired, "am I to conclude that -you have purchased a copy—the copy of poems -you hold in your hand?" -</p> - -<p> -"I have just done so," Harvey Grimm -admitted, "also my friend." -</p> - -<p> -The young man pushed past him towards -the inner room. -</p> - -<p> -"Bertha," he exclaimed loudly, "eightpence, -please! You have sold two copies of -my poems. The eightpence!" -</p> - -<p> -There was a momentary silence and then -the clinking of coins. The young man -reappeared and made for the door with an air of -determination in his face. Harvey Grimm -tapped him on the shoulder. -</p> - -<p> -"Sir," he said, "forgive me if I take a -liberty, but am I right in presuming that you -are the author of this volume?" -</p> - -<p> -"I am," was the prompt reply, "and I am -going to have a drink." -</p> - -<p> -"One moment, if you please," his questioner -begged. "This, you must remember, is an -impertinent age. Modernity demands it. Are -you not also hungry?" -</p> - -<p> -"Ravenous," Mr. Stephen Cresswell confessed, -"but what can one do with eightpence?" -</p> - -<p> -"You will join my friend and myself," -Harvey Grimm declared firmly. "We are -going to take a chop." -</p> - -<p> -The young man's tongue seemed to wander -around the outside of his lips. -</p> - -<p> -"A chop," he repeated absently. -</p> - -<p> -"At a neighbouring grill-room," Harvey -Grimm went on. "Come, I have bought two -copies of your poems. I have a claim for your -consideration." -</p> - -<p> -"Do I understand," the young man asked, -"that you will pay for the chop?" -</p> - -<p> -"That will be my privilege," was the prompt -assertion. -</p> - -<p> -"You are doubtless mad," the poet observed, -"but you are probably opulent. Let us hurry." -</p> - -<p> -They left the place and crossed the street, -the young man in the middle. Aaron Rodd -was speechless. His eyes seemed fascinated by -the deficiencies of their new friend's toilet, a -fact of which he himself seemed sublimely -unconscious. Harvey Grimm, however, proceeded -to make a delicate allusion to the matter. -</p> - -<p> -"Some little accident, I gather," he -remarked, "has happened—forgive my noticing -it—to your right shoe." -</p> - -<p> -The poet glanced carelessly downwards. -</p> - -<p> -"It occurred this morning," he sighed. "To -tell you the truth, I had scarcely noticed it. -There was a green streak in the sunrise. I -hastened——" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm had paused in front of a -boot shop. -</p> - -<p> -"This place," he said firmly, "will do as -well as another." -</p> - -<p> -"Why not?" the young man agreed, entering -promptly, seating himself upon the nearest -vacant chair and holding out his foot. -"Something light," he begged. "You will observe -that my foot is long and narrow." -</p> - -<p> -The shopman withdrew the tattered remnants -of shoes and stared in amazement at his -prospective customer's bare feet. The latter -held out his hand for a cigarette and tapped it -against the side of Harvey Grimm's case. -</p> - -<p> -"It appears to me," he continued, gazing -at his mud-stained feet, "that I came out -without socks. The sunrise again. However, -it is a deficiency which I perceive that you are -in a position to remedy." -</p> - -<p> -He selected without embarrassment a pair -of socks and shoes, and was perfectly willing to -don a tie which they purchased from a small -haberdasher's shop at the end of the street. -That affair disposed of, however, he became -quite firm. -</p> - -<p> -"The affair of the chop——," he insisted. -</p> - -<p> -"We are there," Harvey Grimm interrupted, -leading him to an hotel grill-room. -</p> - -<p> -The young man paused before the large, -open grid and carefully indicated the chop -which he considered suitable for his consumption. -He then seated himself opposite his two -friends and expressed himself in favour of a -mixed vermouth. -</p> - -<p> -"A very pleasing encounter, this," he -declared, drawing the eightpence from his pocket -and looking at it thoughtfully. "May I ask, -sir, whether you are acquainted with my poems?" -</p> - -<p> -"Not yet," Harvey Grimm confessed. -</p> - -<p> -"Your purchase, then, was accidental?" -</p> - -<p> -"Entirely," his patron explained. "My -friend and I are adventurers. We seek the -unusual. The appearance of the shop where -we met you attracted us. The young lady to -whom we addressed some enquiries tendered -us a copy of your verses." -</p> - -<p> -The young man sighed. -</p> - -<p> -"It is a scandalous thing," he said, "to be -published in paper covers at eightpence—fourpence -to the author. So you are adventurers. -You mean by that thieves?" -</p> - -<p> -"Sir," Aaron Rodd interrupted, "I am a -solicitor." -</p> - -<p> -"My ignorance," the young man declared, -"is amazing, but that, I presume, is a legalised -form of robbery? I am one of the few persons -in the world who give value for the money I -earn. I produce, create. If only ten thousand -people in the city were to pay eightpence for -a copy of my works, I should be affluent, as -you two are. I should lunch here every day -and drink Burgundy." -</p> - -<p> -"Then in a very short time," Harvey Grimm -reminded him, "you would cease to write -poetry." -</p> - -<p> -His protégé shook his head. -</p> - -<p> -"A well-nurtured body is an incentive to -poetic thought," he insisted. "There is a -richness of imagery which comes with after-dinner -composing; a sort of mental starvation, -an anæmic scantiness of similes, which follows -the fruit luncheon and cold water of necessity. -Adventurers, gentlemen, are you? That is to -say you are people with wits. Tell me, -then—bring me an idea from the practical -world—how shall I make ten thousand people buy a -copy of my poems?" -</p> - -<p> -"Come, that's an interesting problem," -Harvey Grimm declared. "Of course, if one -were to answer you in a single word, that one -would be advertisement." -</p> - -<p> -"If I could write my name across the -heavens, or flash it from a million lights -through the clouds," the young man remarked, -"I would do so, but these things call for either -miraculous powers or money. I have neither." -</p> - -<p> -"Your case," Harvey Grimm promised, -"shall have our attention, my friend's and -mine. In the meantime, the moment seems -opportune, pending the arrival of our chops, -for a glance at your work. Permit me." -</p> - -<p> -The poetaster crossed his legs, leaned back -in his chair, thrust an eyeglass into his eye, -and turned over the pages of the paper volume -which he had been carrying. Aaron Rodd -followed his example. The poet, entirely -unembarrassed, eyed hungrily each covered -dish which passed. At the arrival of the meal, -Harvey Grimm solemnly pocketed his book -and replaced his eyeglass. Aaron Rodd went -on reading for a moment. Then he glanced -surreptitiously at their guest and laid his -volume face downwards upon the table. -</p> - -<p> -"Your poems, I perceive," Harvey Grimm -observed, as he helped himself to a potato, -"are not written for the man in the street." -</p> - -<p> -"They are written," the poet declared, -falling hungrily upon his chop, "for any one -who will pay eightpence for them." -</p> - -<p> -Conversation faded away. It was not until -the service of coffee and cigars that anything -more than disjointed words were spoken. The -young man's face was still colourless but his -eyes were less hard. He took out his pencil -and toyed for a moment with the menu. -</p> - -<p> -"Some little trifle," he suggested, "commemorative -of the occasion?" -</p> - -<p> -"I would rather," Harvey Grimm confessed, -"think out some scheme for advertising your -work. There's a little thing here about a -lame 'busman——" -</p> - -<p> -"Any scheme you suggest," the young man -assented dreamily. "I frankly admit that the -dispersal of my productions is a matter in -which I have failed. The appreciative few may -have purchased but the man of the day passes -on, ignorant of the great need he really has of -poetry. Ten thousand copies of my poems, -sold in London, would produce at once a more -gracious spirit. You would observe a difference -in the deportment, the speech, the greater -altruism of the multitude. How shall I force -my works into their hands and their eightpences -into my pocket?" -</p> - -<p> -"Fourpence only," Aaron Rodd reminded -him. "The publishers get half." -</p> - -<p> -"In the event of a large circulation," the -poet pointed out, with a wave of the hand, -"better terms might be arrived at. You, as a -legal man, can appreciate that possibility." -</p> - -<p> -"There is only one idea which occurs to -me," Harvey Grimm declared, after a brief -pause. "Come and we will make an experiment." -</p> - -<p> -They marched out into the streets and -walked solemnly along towards Leicester -Square. Suddenly Harvey Grimm stopped -short and accosted a small, grey-haired man -who was carrying a bag and walking quickly. -</p> - -<p> -"I beg your pardon, sir," the former began. -</p> - -<p> -"What is it?" the little man demanded. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm took him gently by the lapel -of his coat. The little man seemed too -surprised to resist. -</p> - -<p> -"I want the privilege of a few minutes' -conversation with you," Harvey Grimm -continued. "You are one of the uneducated ten -thousand who, on behalf of my friend here, -Stephen Cresswell, the great poet, I am anxious -to reach. Have you read Cresswell's poems?" -</p> - -<p> -"I am in a hurry," the little man insisted, -gazing at his interlocutor in a bewildered -manner, and struggling to escape. -</p> - -<p> -"The whole world is in a hurry," Harvey -Grimm observed, drawing the paper volume -from his pocket with the other hand. "This -volume of poems will cost you eightpence. It -will bring relief to its impoverished author, you -yourself will become an enlightened——" -</p> - -<p> -"I wish you'd let me go," the little man -protested angrily. "I don't know you, and I -don't want to stand about the streets, talking -to a stranger. Let me go or I'll call a policeman." -</p> - -<p> -"A policeman can afford you no assistance," -Harvey Grimm assured him. "I shall remain -polite but insistent. You will buy this volume -of poems for eightpence, or——" -</p> - -<p> -"Or what?" his victim demanded. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm leaned down and whispered -in his ear. The little man's hand shot into -his pocket. He produced sixpence and two -coppers, snatched at the book and hurried off. -The victor in this little rencontre turned to his -companions with an air of triumph and handed -the eightpence to the poet, who immediately -pocketed it. -</p> - -<p> -"The whole problem is solved," he declared. -</p> - -<p> -"You are a great man, sir," the poet -exclaimed, grasping him by the hand, "but -what was it you whispered in his ear?" -</p> - -<p> -"I simply told him," Harvey Grimm said -blandly, "that I should biff him one. The cost -of a new hat is ten and sixpence; the price of -your poems is eightpence." -</p> - -<p> -"You are a great man, sir," the poet -repeated heartily. "Watch the newspapers." -</p> - -<p class="thought"> -***** -<br /> -</p> - -<p> -With a bunch of early violets in his buttonhole, -neatly and correctly dressed from the -crown of his hat to his patent boots, -Mr. Harvey Grimm, one morning about a -fortnight later, turned down the narrow street -which led to his friend Aaron Rodd's office. -He took a few steps and paused in surprise. -A little crowd encumbered the pavement in -front of him. There were at least half a dozen -taxicabs waiting by the side of the pavement. -A printer's van was busy unloading. A -constant procession, consisting chiefly of elderly -and middle-aged men, were entering and leaving -the little book-shop. Waiting his turn, -Harvey Grimm stepped in. The whole of the -central table was taken up by great piles of a -little paper-covered volume, recognisable at -once as the Poetical Works of Stephen Cresswell, -and as fast as the flow of customers could -be served, they departed with one or more -copies in their pockets. The young lady whose -hair was more untidy than ever, and who -wore a stupefied air, doled them out in doll-like -and mechanical fashion. She had lost her -air of superiority. She pointed no longer to -the sketches upon the walls or the pottery -beyond. She behaved like a dazed automaton. -Now and then Harvey Grimm could hear her -reply to enquiries. -</p> - -<p> -"There will be a cloth edition of Mr. Cresswell's -works out in a few days," she said. -"The printers have promised them by the -end of the week." -</p> - -<p> -In the background were two very obvious -newspaper men, waiting so far unsuccessfully to -get in a word with her. Mr. Harvey Grimm -elbowed his way by some means or other into -the line, paid his eightpence and retired into -the recesses of the little suite of rooms beyond -for a moment's breathing-space. A rush of at -least a dozen old gentlemen had made exit -temporarily impossible. As he stood and -watched the scene, he was conscious of a -fashionably dressed young man lounging in an -easy chair a few yards away. The young man -suddenly arose. -</p> - -<p> -"My benefactor!" he cried. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm gripped his copy of poems -tightly and held it up. -</p> - -<p> -"Pax!" he exclaimed. "I have one." -</p> - -<p> -The poet smiled wearily. He drew his erstwhile -patron a little further back into the most -retired portion of the premises. -</p> - -<p> -"Listen," he said, "this has been the most -stupendous, the most colossal joke of the day. -On the first night I sandbagged a wholesale -provision merchant who admitted that he had -never read my poems, and he wrote to <i>The -Times</i> the next morning. I made myself -objectionable to seven others the following -night. They, too, made various complaints. -After that I retired—their description of my -identity was becoming embarrassing." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Harvey Grimm was a little puzzled. -</p> - -<p> -"But the thing has been going on right up -till last night," he declared. "The papers -for days have been a source of joy to me." -</p> - -<p> -"After the first few nights," the young man -explained, "I was compelled to engage substitutes. -I have acquaintances whose life has -been spent—shall we say on the fringe of -things? With their aid I made the acquaintance -of various professional gentlemen from -the east end, who for a suitable remuneration -took up this business with avidity. They were -of all sizes and they operated in all localities, -choosing their victims, so far as possible, with -discretion. There was but one question—'Have -you read the poems of Stephen -Cresswell?'—generally a bewildered negative and -then biff! The people began frantically to -enquire who was Stephen Cresswell, where were -his poems to be obtained? People who had -the slightest pretensions to literary knowledge -were assailed with questions. <i>Punch</i>——" -</p> - -<p> -"I saw <i>Punch</i>," Mr. Harvey Grimm -interrupted. "Very clever!" -</p> - -<p> -"Then the stream began," the young man -continued. "I can assure you that from the -opening time till dark this place is mobbed. -You see, on the third night a confederate was -saved from an imaginary assault by promptly -producing a copy of my poems. He wrote to -the paper in mock indignation but describing -his escape. Then the rush began. Eleven -thousand copies have been sold, some at a -premium. Eleven thousand fourpences have -found their way into my pocket. A morocco-bound -and vellum-covered edition are waiting -in the press for one thing." -</p> - -<p> -"And that?" -</p> - -<p> -"The name of my benefactor. I wish to -dedicate the third, fourth and fifth editions -of my poems to you," the young man declared -grandiloquently. -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Harvey Grimm pondered. -</p> - -<p> -"It is an immense compliment," he -acknowledged. "We will talk of it." -</p> - -<p> -"In the meantime," the poet went on, -"listen. The curse of these days is jealousy -and imitation. A young man of worthy -upbringing but wholly ignorant of art, who -perpetrated the daubs which you see upon -the walls here, was struck with my success. -Only last Thursday an elderly gentleman, -such a one as might have been selected by -my own employés, was stopped in Hampstead -and asked whether he had seen the -sketches of Sidney Wentworth, displayed in -Manchester Street, Adelphi. The fool -admitted that he had never heard of them and -down he went. I ask you, sir, was there ever -a more flagrant case of spoiling a man's -market? From the moment this absurd affair -was reported, public feeling has begun to -change. Curiously enough, there has been very -small resentment, even on the part of those -who have suffered slight pains in the cause of -art, as to my methods. Now, however, that -the idea has commenced to spread that such -means are becoming a regular curriculum of -the advertiser, I have noticed distinct expressions -of indignation. In plain words, I can see -the end coming." -</p> - -<p> -"Nothing lasts," Mr. Harvey Grimm -pointed out, "and you must admit you've -had a run for your money." -</p> - -<p> -"I've had more than that, sir," the poet -admitted. "I am established. Many of the -leading periodicals of the day, including <i>Titbits</i> -and the <i>London Mail</i>, have invited me to -contribute to their pages. The Society of -Authors has made me a tempting proposition -to join their ranks. You may look upon me, -sir, as a man whose future is now assured." -</p> - -<p> -"I am delighted to hear it," Mr. Harvey -Grimm declared heartily. "I fear I must now -be getting on." -</p> - -<p> -The young man took down, his hat, possessed -himself of a pair of expensive doeskin gloves -and a silver-topped cane. -</p> - -<p> -"I will let you out by the back way," he -suggested. "It is my desire to accompany you." -</p> - -<p> -"I am going to call upon a friend in the -neighbourhood," Harvey Grimm remarked. -</p> - -<p> -"The friend with whom I met you first?" -</p> - -<p> -"The same." -</p> - -<p> -"I shall accompany you," the young man -announced, cautiously opening a side door and -peering up and down a stone-flagged passage. -"The way is clear, sir. Come with me." -</p> - -<p> -They sallied out and found themselves in the -street. The young man gripped the arm of his -companion. -</p> - -<p> -"For the moment," he confessed, "I am -weary of poetry. I seek life. You are an -adventurer, you have told me. I shall link -my fortune with yours. You have a brain, sir, -enterprise, and I should imagine that you are -untrammelled by the modern conscience. I am -in the same position. Poetry is affording me, -for some time, at least, the means of sustenance. -Let us go together a little further afield." -</p> - -<p> -The older man looked his companion up and -down. He was a strong, well-built young -fellow, and the hollows of his cheeks had -already filled out. Notwithstanding his -mannerisms, he was without doubt a young -man of resolution. -</p> - -<p> -"We will see," Harvey Grimm suggested, -"what Aaron Rodd has to say about it." -</p> - -<p> -"I like your friend's name," the young man -declared solemnly. "I am sure that he will -accept me as a comrade." -</p> - -<p> -They trod the few remaining yards of pavement, -ascended the stone stairs, and, after a -preliminary knock at the door, Harvey Grimm, -exercising the privilege of familiarity, turned -the handle and stepped inside, followed by his -companion. For a single moment neither of -them spoke. Harvey Grimm's first conscious -action was to close the door behind him. -Then they stood inside the apartment, transfixed. -Around them was a scene of the wildest -disorder. The linoleum had been torn up and -thrown into a corner, planks had been torn -bodily from the floor, the cupboards stood open -and their contents were thrown right and left. -The little row of tin boxes stood on their sides, -and masses of dusty parchment littered the -whole place. Seated in his chair before the -desk was Aaron Rodd, with a gag in his mouth, -his arms bound behind him, his legs tied together. -His face was livid, his eyes half closed. -He showed no signs of life at their coming. -The poet produced a knife. -</p> - -<p> -"We must set him free," he said. -</p> - -<p> -His companion, subconsciously amazed at -the young man's initiative, followed him to the -desk. Methodically the latter, having -removed the gag from Aaron Rodd's mouth, cut -the bonds which held him, one by one. Harvey -Grimm produced a small brandy flask and held -it to his lips. The poet threw open a window -and swung the chair round. Aaron Rodd -groaned. -</p> - -<p> -"He is coming to," Cresswell remarked -hopefully. -</p> - -<p> -He caught up a sheaf of newspapers and -fanned the swooning man vigorously. Then -he suddenly paused. Harvey Grimm followed -the direction of his gaze. A sheet of -violet-coloured note-paper was pinned upon the desk. -The poet sniffed. -</p> - -<p> -"What a delicious odour!" he murmured. -"And how familiar!" -</p> - -<p> -They both approached a little nearer. The -sheet of note-paper, fluttering a little in the -breeze which streamed through the window, -gave out the subtlest and most delicate -perfume, a perfume which seemed like a waft -from a field of violets, carried on a west wind. -There were only a few words, written in a -delicate feminine handwriting:— -</p> - -<p class="quote"> -"<i>Should there not be honour, even -amongst thieves?</i>" -</p> - -<p> -The young man struck a theatrical attitude. -</p> - -<p> -"Fate has sent me to join you," he declared, -waving his hand towards the sheet of -violet-coloured paper. "I recognise the handwriting. -I know well the perfume. I can tell you who -wrote that note." -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p><a id="chap03"></a></p> - -<h3> -<span class="chap1"><i>Chapter III</i></span> <span class="chap2"><i>An Alliance of Thieves</i></span> -</h3> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd was walking along the, to him, -unfamiliar thoroughfare of Bond Street when -he was suddenly confronted with a vision. A -large limousine motor-car was drawn up just -in front of him. An elderly lady with white -hair, leaning upon the arm of a powdered -footman, crossed the pavement, followed by -a girl who was smothered in sables, carried a -small dog under her arm, and wore a great -bunch of violets partially concealed by her -furs. Aaron Rodd's abrupt pause was not one -of politeness alone. With an eagerness which -took no account of manners or discretion, he -gazed at the girl, open-eyed, open-mouthed, -blankly, unashamed. If anything were left -to complete his bewilderment, it was the little -smile upon her lips as she met his eyes. -</p> - -<p> -"Good afternoon, Mr. Aaron Rodd!" she -murmured, as she passed. -</p> - -<p> -She disappeared through the swing doors of -the shop. Aaron stared after her as though -expecting a backward glance, stared at the -very handsome motor-car, at what appeared -to be a coronet upon the panel, at the -imperturbable expression of the powdered footman, -standing with a rug over his arm, looking into -vacancy. Then he limped on a few feet and -devoted himself to an absorbed contemplation -of some Japanese trifles in a curio shop. -</p> - -<p> -He lost count of time in his firm determination -to await her return. As a matter of fact, -it was only a few minutes before he was -conscious of her reappearance. She hesitated for a -moment on the threshold of the shop, shook -her head at the footman who was already -opening the door of the car, and approached -Aaron Rodd. He turned abruptly from the -window and greeted her with grave politeness. -She glanced at his left arm, still in a sling; at -the heavy walking-stick by which he supported -himself. -</p> - -<p> -"Good afternoon, Mr. Rodd," she said. -"You have met, perhaps, with a little -accident? It is so?" -</p> - -<p> -"Your friends were a little rough," he replied. -</p> - -<p> -"I shall be annoyed with them," she -promised. "You received my message?" -</p> - -<p> -"Certainly," he replied. "On the whole -I agree with you." -</p> - -<p> -She shrugged her shoulders. -</p> - -<p> -"And what are you doing in Bond Street?" -she asked him. -</p> - -<p> -"I am on my way to meet my friend -Harvey Grimm." -</p> - -<p> -She nodded. -</p> - -<p> -"That is your clever confederate, who stole -our diamond," she remarked suavely. -</p> - -<p> -"A very fortunate circumstance for you," -he ventured to remind her. "If that stone—the -real one, I mean—had been discovered in -your possession at the police-station, I fancy -that your position in this country would have -become a little difficult." -</p> - -<p> -"Oh, la, la!" she laughed. "You should -have seen the face of Mr. Brodie though, when -they examined the imitation stone! I do not -think that the English police are pleased with -him. They were very kind to my grandfather -and me." -</p> - -<p> -"Nevertheless," he advised, "if I were your -brother, I think that I would keep away from -London just now." -</p> - -<p> -"And why?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd glanced up and down the -pavement to be sure that there were no -listeners. -</p> - -<p> -"That fellow Brodie is not such a fool as he -seems," he declared. "He has made one -mistake. I do not think that he is likely to -make another." -</p> - -<p> -She laughed. -</p> - -<p> -"If it is to be a duel of wits," she murmured, -"between Leopold and Mr. Brodie, do you -know, I believe that Leopold will win." -</p> - -<p> -"There is such a thing as over-confidence," -he reminded her. -</p> - -<p> -"I have so many ways," she told him, with -twinkling eyes, "of diverting these people -from the scent. Do you recognise the old lady -upon whom I am in attendance to-day, the old -lady who went with me into that shop?" -</p> - -<p> -"I have not that pleasure," he replied -grimly. "Is she one of the gang?" -</p> - -<p> -"She is a royal princess—the Princess -Augusta. If you do not believe me, look in -this week's <i>Tatler</i> and you will see her -picture—perhaps mine. You are a very funny man, -Mr. Aaron Rodd, and you have treated us very -badly indeed, but I like you—yes, I like you -quite well. How much money did you get for -that stone you stole from us?" -</p> - -<p> -The colour mounted mercilessly to his -temples. He seemed suddenly bereft of words. -</p> - -<p> -"Do not be foolish," she continued quickly. -"Really, as you know, I am an adventuress -myself, and I rather admire you both. I think -that we ought to make friends. You could -be of great service to us. There is no need for -us to quarrel because you have had the best -of this first little exchange. What do you say -to that, my friend?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd found himself and became once -more a man. He looked her squarely in the eyes. -</p> - -<p> -"I would rather be friends with you," he -said, "than any one in the world." -</p> - -<p> -For a moment the triumph was his. It was -she who was almost embarrassed by his -directness. Then intervention came. -</p> - -<p> -"Ah!" she exclaimed, "the Princess! Au revoir!" -</p> - -<p> -She stepped lightly away from him, with a -little nod of farewell. The footman stood -bare-headed as he opened the door of the car. -One of the principals of the establishment -which the grey-haired lady had just quitted -stood bowing upon the pavement. In the -face of all this, the girl turned deliberately -around and waved her hand as the car drove -off. Aaron Rodd limped down Bond Street, -called for a taxi and drove to the Milan -Court.... -</p> - -<p> -His two auditors listened to Aaron Rodd's -story with varying expressions—the poet with -pleased and affable sympathy; Harvey Grimm, -on the other hand, with obvious irritation. -They were seated in a corner of the smoke-room -and the latter at once despatched a waiter for -a copy of the <i>Tatler</i>. When it arrived, they -all three pored over one of the leading -illustrations. There was no doubt whatever in the -minds of any of the three men as to the -identity of the girl who was depicted as being -amongst the ladies-in-waiting of a royal personage. -</p> - -<p> -"That," the poet declared, "is a young lady -whose name is Henriette de Floge. She has -an underhand service at Badminton and she -wants to learn to be a futurist. She attended -a class last year, organised by an artist friend -of mine in Chelsea. Ye gods!" -</p> - -<p> -"That, without a single doubt," Aaron -Rodd assented, laying his forefinger upon the -illustration, "is the young lady who was in -attendance this afternoon upon the Princess -Augusta." -</p> - -<p> -"And it is equally and absolutely and -conclusively certain," Harvey Grimm pronounced, -"that she came to Manchester Street, Adelphi, -as the confederate of Jeremiah Sands." -</p> - -<p> -"Who," the poet asked eagerly, "is Jeremiah -Sands? I like the name." -</p> - -<p> -"Jeremiah Sands," Harvey Grimm told him, -"is the head and brains of the smallest but -most formidable band of criminals who have -ever succeeded in eluding justice for nearly ten -years. There is a reward of twenty-five -thousand dollars for his arrest in America, and -he is wanted in most of the capitals of Europe. -He has a dozen aliases and a score of -personalities. This much about him is certain. -He is either of Belgian or French birth, he is a -young man, and he has spent the greater part -of the last seven years in America. The -universal excuse given by the police of every -country for their failure to apprehend him, is -that for at any rate the last five years he has -simply accumulated his booty and has made -no effort to dispose of it. As you know, most -of the thieves of the world are traced -backwards through the receiver of stolen goods. -His last exploit in New York was the theft -of the Van Hutten jewels. It was, without a -doubt, one of those diamonds which was mislaid -in Aaron Rodd's office, and it was one of -Jeremiah Sands' agents who paid our friend -here that last domiciliary visit in search of it." -</p> - -<p> -"What, by the by, became of that -diamond?" the poet enquired. -</p> - -<p> -"We are living upon it," Mr. Harvey Grimm -confessed. -</p> - -<p> -The poet sighed enviously. -</p> - -<p> -"It is a beautiful existence," he declared. -"When are we going to embark upon another -adventure of the sort?" -</p> - -<p> -"The aftermath of the last one is still -enveloping us," Mr. Harvey Grimm reminded -him. "There is Scotland Yard, who have seen -the imitation stone and who suspect us of -changing it. Then there is Mr. Jeremiah Sands, -who knows that we did, and who is only just -beginning to realise that we have been clever -enough to dispose of it. Finally, there is -Mr. Brodie, the amateur detective, who has the -same idea and who is furious with us for letting -him down with the authorities. Between the -three, you see, our position is a little difficult. -Personally, I am much interested in our friend -Aaron's account of his conversation with the -young lady. Her suggestion of some measure -of alliance appeals to me." -</p> - -<p> -"And me," the poet agreed. "Let us approach -them at once. I should like to come -into contact with this Jeremiah Sands." -</p> - -<p> -There was a brief interval whilst a waiter -deposited before them a tray of cocktails, -subtly ordered by the poet by means of sundry -evolutions with his forefinger. Afterwards, -Mr. Harvey Grimm sat for a few moments in -silence, smoothing out his immaculate doeskin -gloves. -</p> - -<p> -"Listen," he said presently, after a cautious -glance around the room, "I will tell you my -impressions. Jeremiah Sands has never been -caught, for two reasons—first, because he has -stored up all his booty and has never been in -the hands of the receivers; secondly, because -he has hiding-places in every capital of Europe, -all of them safer than London or New York. -At the present moment he is like a rabbit which -has been ferreted out of its hole. Europe is -suddenly closed to him. He has been driven -to London. He is ill at ease here. He has -lost many of his agents. To maintain his -Belgian nationality he has been forced into the -army. The perfect machinery of his wonderful -system must be seriously dislocated. The time, -too, has probably arrived when he finds it -necessary to dispose of some of his plunder. -Let us offer him a tentative amity." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd frowned. -</p> - -<p> -"Do you think that he would trust us after -that last little affair? I don't mind being -the thief or the thief-catcher," he added -bluntly, "but I rather hate being the third -party." -</p> - -<p> -"The only party we have to consider is -ourselves," Harvey Grimm replied deliberately. -"To tell you the truth, I fear that we have lost -the confidence of Paul Brodie. I am not sure -whether it would be worth our while to try -and regain it. The sharing of rewards is a -poor game. I would rather hear what Jeremiah -Sands has to say." -</p> - -<p> -He took up his pencil and scrawled a few -lines across a half sheet of note-paper. They -both looked over his shoulder:— -</p> - -<p class="quote"> -"<i>If the young lady with violets would -like to resume her conversation with a -certain person in Bond Street this morning, -please reply in Friday's 'Telegraph.'</i>" -</p> - -<p> -"I propose," Mr. Harvey Grimm explained, -"to insert this in to-morrow morning's -<i>Telegraph</i>, to send a copy to Mr. Brinnen and await -results." -</p> - -<p> -"Brilliant!" the poet exclaimed. "It gives -the proper flavour to the whole thing. But -why not write a note and send it up by the -waiter?" -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Harvey Grimm smiled. -</p> - -<p> -"My young friend," he said, "you are an -adventurer of the bull-dog type. Let me tell -you this. I happen to know it to be a fact. -From the moment when Mr. Paul Brodie -communicated his suspicions as to our friends, -to Scotland Yard, their every movement, and -without doubt their correspondence, has been -closely watched. I will guarantee to you that -not a letter is delivered to either Captain -Leopold Brinnen, to Mr. Brinnen or to the -young lady, which does not run a very -considerable risk of being opened." -</p> - -<p> -The poet listened with a pleased smile. -</p> - -<p> -"I like the flavour of this sort of thing," he -acknowledged. "Let us insert the advertisement, -by all means. If the young lady suggests -a meeting, I shall recommend myself as the -most suitable person to keep the appointment." -</p> - -<p class="thought"> -***** -<br /> -</p> - -<p> -Soon after midday, two mornings later, -Mr. Stephen Cresswell entered the smoking-room -at the Milan. He was carrying a <i>Daily Telegraph</i> -under his arm, he wore a bunch of violets -in his buttonhole, and he was dressed with -great care. He approached the table where -Harvey Grimm and Aaron Rodd were awaiting him. -</p> - -<p> -"You, too, have seen the answer to our -advertisement?" he exclaimed. "Capital!" -</p> - -<p> -"We were just now discussing it," Harvey -Grimm assented. -</p> - -<p> -The poet sat down, made signs to the waiter, -hitched up his trousers and made himself -thoroughly comfortable. -</p> - -<p> -"I have decided," he announced, "that I -am the proper person to entertain the young -lady." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm nodded thoughtfully. -</p> - -<p> -"Tell us through what channel of thought, -my young friend, you have arrived at that -conclusion?" he begged. -</p> - -<p> -The poet straightened his tie. There was no -doubt that he was a remarkably good-looking -young man. -</p> - -<p> -"I am a modest person," he said, "but it is -useless to deny that nature has been kind to -me. Then, too, there is a peculiar and romantic -importance attached to the successful poet -whose reputation has been enhanced in so -singular a fashion. The young lady will be -interested in me from the start. She will be -proud to remember that we are old acquaintances, -and she will treat me with greater confidence -than any ordinary person." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm lit a cigarette deliberately. -Aaron Rodd's heavy eyebrows seemed to have -contracted a little. -</p> - -<p> -"Why are you so sure that it will be the -young lady who will keep the appointment?" -the former enquired. -</p> - -<p> -Stephen Cresswell placed his forefinger upon -the advertisement in the paper which he had -been carrying:— -</p> - -<p class="quote"> -<i>Milan Café, luncheon,</i> 1.15 <i>Wednesday. -Will discuss. Bond Street.</i> -</p> - -<p> -"That tells us nothing," Harvey Grimm -pointed out. "So far as the probabilities are -concerned, I should say that it is extremely -unlikely that either the young lady or any -of those associated with her will keep the -appointment. Any negotiations we may have -will probably be conducted through a third -party." -</p> - -<p> -The poet's face fell. He ordered another -cocktail brusquely. -</p> - -<p> -"How shall we know whom to look out for, -then?" he demanded. -</p> - -<p> -"The onus of recognition will rest with the -others," Harvey Grimm replied. "I have -engaged a table just inside the door. We shall -take our places there before one-fifteen and -await the arrival of whoever may come." -</p> - -<p> -"In case it should be the young lady," the -poet persisted, "you would find that my -previous acquaintance with her would be of -immense service to us. She would place -confidence in me." -</p> - -<p> -"You shall be of the party," Harvey Grimm -promised. "I have ordered the table for five, -so as to be on the safe side. I do not understand -our friends selecting a place for a meeting, -but, on the other hand, there is a flavour of -genius in such apparent recklessness. If you -are ready, I think it is time that we made a -start." -</p> - -<p> -They strolled down to the café and took their -places at a table just inside the door. At -precisely a quarter past one a little tremor of -excitement suddenly unloosed their tongues. -</p> - -<p> -"My God!" Harvey Grimm muttered. -</p> - -<p> -"They must be mad!" Aaron Rodd whispered, -in a hoarse undertone. -</p> - -<p> -"It is Henriette de Floge," Stephen -Cresswell murmured complacently. "You will -perceive soon the advantage of my presence." -</p> - -<p> -The girl approached their table smilingly. -She was followed by the young officer in -Belgian uniform. The three men rose to their -feet. She smiled pleasantly at Aaron Rodd. -</p> - -<p> -"You have not yet met my brother, -have you?" she asked. "Let me present -Captain Leopold Brinnen—Mr. Aaron Rodd, -Mr. Harvey Grimm, and——" -</p> - -<p> -She paused, with her eyes fixed questioningly -upon the poet. The young officer had -brought his heels together and bowed -ceremoniously to the two men. -</p> - -<p> -"I am not, I hope, forgotten," the poet -observed. "My name is Stephen Cresswell. -I have had the pleasure of playing Badminton -with you in Walter Donne's studio." -</p> - -<p> -She looked across at him with slightly -upraised eyebrows, the faint tracings of a -somewhat insolent smile at the corners of her -lips. -</p> - -<p> -"Badminton? Is that an English game? -I perceive that I have a double. I have not -played it." -</p> - -<p> -"You are Mademoiselle de Floge?" the -poet persisted. -</p> - -<p> -She shook her head gently. -</p> - -<p> -"On the contrary," she replied, "I am -Henriette Brinnen. Leopold, this is -Mr. Stephen Cresswell." -</p> - -<p> -They all took their places, the poet a little -heavily. His stupefaction, even though it -proceeded from a different cause, was only a -little less profound than that of the other two. -Mr. Harvey Grimm took up the menu once -more and gave a few murmured orders to the -<i>maître d'hôtel</i>. Aaron Rodd, who was on her -right-hand side, leaned towards the girl. His -face was almost haggard with anxiety. -</p> - -<p> -"Forgive me," he whispered, "but is -this wise? Have you counted the cost of it?" -</p> - -<p> -"I do not understand," she answered, a -little vaguely. -</p> - -<p> -"You know that we are all watched," he -reminded her. "We thought it best even not -to communicate with you direct." -</p> - -<p> -"You three are such droll men," she laughed. -"There is your nice-looking friend, Mr. Stephen -Cresswell, who sits there and will not take his -eyes off me. He does not believe that he has -never met me before. And Mr. Harvey Grimm—well, -he does not seem a nervous person, -does he, and just now he is almost pale. And -you, too—you speak with bated breath of -risks and being watched. How, then, do you -carry through your great coups, my friend? -Have you not learnt the first axiom of the -adventurer—there is nothing which dispels -suspicion so readily as candour?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd shrugged his shoulders and -busied himself with the task of attending to -his companion's wants. Conversation around -the little table became platitudinal. The three -men, although they behaved in all respects -reasonably, were unable to keep their thoughts -and attention from wandering continually -towards their slim, grave-looking young guest -in his somewhat battered uniform, who seemed -chiefly engrossed with his luncheon. It was -hard to believe that he sat there in one of the -best-known restaurants in the world, with a -great price upon his head. In some respects -he was like his sister, Aaron Rodd decided, -although there was a curious virility of -expression which flashed sometimes into his -features, and a more calculating light in his -hard, clear eyes. His mouth was unusually -long, straight and thin, his cheekbones a little -high. One could believe that, notwithstanding -his inconsiderable stature, his frame was like -steel. He spoke English very deliberately, -with now and then the slightest American -accent, but on the few occasions when he -addressed his sister it seemed to be a relief for -him to relapse into French. It was not until -the coffee was served that he leaned a little -towards Harvey Grimm and dispelled by a few -words the atmosphere of unreality which had -somehow or other hovered over the little -luncheon-party. -</p> - -<p> -"Sir," he proposed, "let us approach the -object of this meeting." -</p> - -<p> -"With pleasure," Harvey Grimm assented. -</p> - -<p> -"For some reason or other," the young man -continued, "my sister, although, as we know -to our cost, her acquaintance with you so far -has not been altogether profitable, has -confidence in you. Let us speak frankly. You -gentlemen, I believe, are what is generally -known as <i>chevaliers d'Industrie</i>?" -</p> - -<p> -There was a sudden flush of colour in Aaron -Rodd's cheeks. The poet, who was a little -sullen, distinctly scowled. Only Harvey Grimm -bowed placidly, seemingly unconscious of the -faint note of contempt in the other's tone. -</p> - -<p> -"In the ordinary sense of the word, that is -true," he admitted. -</p> - -<p> -"Consider, then, our position," the young -man continued. "My grandfather and sister, -whom I meet again after an absence of some -years, owing to the haste with which they were -compelled to leave Belgium, are almost -penniless. My own—savings consist of perhaps -half a million pounds' worth of diamonds. -These jewels," he went on, knocking the ash -from his cigarette, "have all been stolen. -They can only be disposed of in an irregular -fashion. That is to say, the stones must be -recut. In normal times, this problem would -present no difficulties to me. To-day, when -London is the only capital of Europe open to -us, I must admit that I find myself in a difficult -position. The few artificers in this country are, -I understand, well known and watched. I am -bound, therefore, to employ an agent. Under -the peculiar circumstances to which I have -alluded, I cannot seek for an honest man. I -am prepared to make it worth the while of -men such as yourselves to deal honestly with me." -</p> - -<p> -"My brother has your English gift of plain -speech, you see," the girl whispered soothingly -to Aaron Rodd. -</p> - -<p> -The young officer lit a fresh cigarette and -watched the smoke curl upward for a moment. -</p> - -<p> -"Surely it is best?" he said softly. "These -gentlemen are at the present moment living, -and living, no doubt, exceedingly well, upon the -proceeds of one of my diamonds. They should -not, therefore, be sensitive." -</p> - -<p> -"I may be allowed to remind you, sir," -Harvey Grimm interrupted, "that, incidentally, -the little artifice by means of which we secured -it is responsible for your unhindered presence -here to-day." -</p> - -<p> -"I take that fact into consideration," -Leopold Brinnen assented, "in the toleration -with which I view the circumstance. The -point is, are you willing to deal with me?" -</p> - -<p> -"I am perfectly willing to do so, sir," -Harvey Grimm replied. "I am willing, too, -and so, I am sure, are my friends, to take a -certain amount of risk. I may add that I am -probably the only man in England who can -dispose of your jewels so that they cannot be -traced, but before we proceed further, let me -ask you a question. Are you aware, sir, of your -position? There is an amateur detective here -from New York, named Paul Brodie, who has -no other object in life than to lay his hands -upon a certain person. Scotland Yard, -although just now they are a little fed up with -Mr. Brodie, have very definite intentions with -regard to the same person. You are living here -openly. You are even flaunting your well-known -Belgian uniform. There are eyes upon -us as we sit at this table. There are eyes upon -you and your sister and your grandfather, from -the moment you rise in the morning till the -moment you retire at night. Your rooms are at -all times subject or liable to be searched. Any -place you might visit is liable to be searched. -Let me ask you, then, a plain question. More -than any other quality I admire courage. -Don't you think, however, that you are playing -a little too near to the fire?" -</p> - -<p> -The young officer stroked his thin black -moustache. He had listened to Harvey -Grimm's words attentively. He even indicated, -in the slow movement of his head, some -measure of approbation. -</p> - -<p> -"To all that you have said, Mr. Harvey -Grimm, I can make you only one reply," he -said. "Every step which I have taken in life -has been carefully thought out. The present -position, although necessity has here intervened -to some extent, has been subject to the -same attentive consideration. I am safer than -you think. Let that be enough. That I have -friends is proved by the little visitation which -was made upon Mr. Aaron Rodd the other day. -I offer you no apologies, sir," he continued, -bowing across the table. "It was part of the -game. When we thrust the law outside our -lives, as you have done and I, then we must -take our knocks philosophically. For the -future, however, even though we play the -thieves' game, there is no reason why we should -not play it honestly." -</p> - -<p> -"A very admirable sentiment," the poet -murmured. -</p> - -<p> -"To put this matter upon a business basis, -Mr. Grimm," Captain Brinnen continued, -"supposing I supply you with a certain -quantity of diamonds, will you guarantee to have -them cut as so to render them unrecognisable, -dispose of them, hand me two-thirds of the -proceeds and retain a third yourself?" -</p> - -<p> -"I have worked before upon those terms," -Harvey Grimm replied. "I accept them. -There is one little matter, though, to be cleared -up." -</p> - -<p> -Captain Brinnen smiled grimly. -</p> - -<p> -"I fancy that I follow you," he observed. -"You refer to the mysterious disappearance -of a diamond from your friend's office?" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm coughed. -</p> - -<p> -"Bearing in mind, as I took the liberty of -pointing out a few minutes ago, that its -disappearance saved you from considerable -inconvenience——" he began. -</p> - -<p> -"The affair is finished," Brinnen interrupted. -"Carry out faithfully the other transactions -which we may arrange, and we will adopt—shall -I say a resigned attitude?—with regard -to that incident. When are you prepared to -deal with the first parcel of stones?" -</p> - -<p> -"At any moment," Harvey Grimm promised. -"You will bring them to me?" -</p> - -<p> -The girl, who had been listening eagerly to -their conversation, leaned across the table. -</p> - -<p> -"I think," she said, "that this time you -had better come and fetch them, Mr. Grimm, -or, better still—send Mr. Aaron Rodd." -</p> - -<p> -"Or me," the poet suggested. -</p> - -<p> -She shook her head. -</p> - -<p> -"It is to be Mr. Aaron Rodd," she decided. -"You will not be afraid?" she added, turning -towards him with a little smile at the corners -of her lips. -</p> - -<p> -"Where am I to come to, and when?" he -enquired. -</p> - -<p> -She glanced at her brother, then back again -towards her neighbour. -</p> - -<p> -"I shall tell you presently," she whispered. -</p> - -<p> -The little party broke up shortly afterwards. -The hall outside, where they lingered to make -their adieux, was unusually crowded. Harvey -Grimm felt a touch upon his elbow. -</p> - -<p> -"A pleasant luncheon, I trust?" -</p> - -<p> -He frowned as he recognised Brodie, who -was apparently waiting for a friend. It was -exactly the meeting which he had desired to -avoid. He greeted him, however, with his -customary geniality. -</p> - -<p> -"Lunching late, aren't you?" he observed. -</p> - -<p> -Brodie seemed scarcely to hear him. His -eyes were fixed upon the young Belgian, who, -with his arm in a sling, was being helped -carefully into his overcoat. Suddenly, -however, he stretched out his arm, laid it upon -Harvey Grimm's shoulder and drew him to -within whispering distance. -</p> - -<p> -"See here, Harvey," he muttered, "I don't -know what game you're playing, but if any -man tries to boost me, he's going to have a -rough journey." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm was shocked. -</p> - -<p> -"My dear fellow!——" he began. -</p> - -<p> -"Don't waste your breath," the other -interrupted, as he turned away. "Remember -I've got my eye on you, as well as our friend -there. It may be a waiting game, but you'll -find me there at the finish, sure as my name's -Paul Brodie." -</p> - -<p> -He strode off towards the telephone booth. -Harvey Grimm found his hand gripped by his -guest. -</p> - -<p> -"My sister and I thank you for a very -excellent luncheon, Mr. Grimm," Captain Brinnen -said politely. "I trust that you will soon -give us an opportunity of repaying your -hospitality." -</p> - -<p> -"You will come to me," the girl whispered -in Aaron Rodd's ear, "at number thirteen, -Grosvenor Square, this afternoon at five -o'clock...." -</p> - -<p> -The poet was inclined to be peevish as the -three men walked down the Strand. -</p> - -<p> -"In this adventure," he declared, "I do -not see where I come in. Aaron Rodd is to go -and fetch the diamonds, and probably have -tea with the beautiful young lady who has -changed her name, and you," he went on, -addressing Harvey Grimm, "thereupon vanish -with the stones to your mysterious treasure-house -and return with the gold. I am simply -not in it. I might as well not exist." -</p> - -<p> -"It is regrettable but true," Harvey Grimm -assented. "Remember, however, that you -are a self-invited new-comer to our little circle. -A place shall be found for you presently. I can -promise you that the cycle of our adventures -will not be ended with the realisation of -Jeremiah Sands' diamonds. This affair, -unfortunately, presents no opportunity for your -activities. I do not propose, even, to offer you -more than a trifling share in the financial -results." -</p> - -<p> -"Financially," the poet announced airily, -"I am independent. The taste for my poetry -has spread like a forest fire. There will be a -trifle of mine, by the by, in the <i>Pall Mall</i> -to-night. Don't forget to look out for it." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm for once was unsympathetic. -</p> - -<p> -"Look here," he said, stopping suddenly, -"I wish you'd forget your poetry for a few -minutes. There is just one way you can make -yourself useful. You saw a sleek, podgy, -bulky, fat-faced looking man, with hair brushed -back, who spoke to me in the hall at the -Milan?" -</p> - -<p> -The poet nodded. -</p> - -<p> -"I remember," he murmured, "wishing -that you would allow me to edit your acquaintances." -</p> - -<p> -"That man," Harvey Grimm continued, -"was Paul Brodie, an amateur detective. He -has set himself the task of bringing about the -arrest of Jeremiah Sands. He came to Europe -with that idea. It was he who had the old -gentleman and his daughter taken to the -police-station from my rooms. We have been -working together, but he's out with us now, -and he blames us for that fiasco. I should like -to know why he is still hanging about the -Milan Court." -</p> - -<p> -"I will return there," the poet promised. -"I will endeavour to engage him in conversation." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm smiled pityingly. -</p> - -<p> -"Oh, my ingenuous youth!" he murmured. -"Your ideas of tackling a detective are bright -and engaging, yet, do your best. The very -imbecility of your methods may lead to success. -I should very much like to know where Paul -Brodie is proposing to spend this afternoon." -</p> - -<p> -Cresswell nodded in mysterious fashion and -left them. Harvey Grimm passed his arm -through his friend's, as they turned into the -little street which led down to Aaron's Rodd's -offices. -</p> - -<p> -"Aaron," he said earnestly, "if your little -expedition this afternoon should by any chance -involve you in any manner of trouble, -remember that there's one golden motto—silence. -You make a cult of it in private life. If -anything should happen to you—don't depart -from it." -</p> - -<p class="thought"> -***** -<br /> -</p> - -<p> -At precisely the appointed hour, Aaron Rodd -was shown by a footman in deep black livery -into a small but charmingly-furnished room -in the largest house which he had ever entered. -On his way thither he had caught the sound of -many voices, laughing and talking, the tinkling -of teacups, the scraping of a violin. Evidently -some sort of reception was in progress, for -outside a canvas shelter was stretched to the -curbstone, and a long row of automobiles and -carriages was in evidence. It was almost ten -minutes before the door was abruptly opened -and Henriette Brinnen appeared. She had -changed her clothes since luncheon, and was -wearing a gown of some soft grey material, and -a large hat with black feathers. In her hand -she was carrying a small brown paper package, -sealed at both ends. The little smile with -which she welcomed him was bewildering. -</p> - -<p> -"I have kept you waiting," she exclaimed, -"and I must send you away again quickly! -Believe me, I am not always so inhospitable. -This afternoon, as it happens, Madame is -receiving and I must help her. I would ask -you to come and be presented but it is more -important that you proceed swiftly with your -mission." -</p> - -<p> -"Of course," he assented, taking the parcel -from her hand. -</p> - -<p> -"Tell me first," she begged, keeping her -fingers upon the closed door, "why were you -so sad and silent all luncheon-time?" -</p> - -<p> -He laughed a little hardly, hesitated, and -was suddenly frank. -</p> - -<p> -"Because," he told her, "I have not yet -got used to my new rôle in life." -</p> - -<p> -"But it is amusing, surely?" -</p> - -<p> -"Perhaps I am old-fashioned," he sighed. -"I rather resent being driven into the crooked -ways." -</p> - -<p> -"You are thinking only of yourself, then?" -</p> - -<p> -"To be perfectly truthful," he assured her, -"I was thinking very little of myself. I am -afraid for you." -</p> - -<p> -"But why for me?" -</p> - -<p> -"Because you are reckless," he answered. -"Your brother may be the cleverest adventurer -who ever kept the police at arm's length, -but there is always the risk. You cannot go on -playing a part for ever. You may hide at the -Milan Court and call yourself what you will, -and the chances are with you, but to borrow -some one else's identity, to advertise yourself as -the companion of a reigning princess, to occupy -a position of trust and favour in her household -and help to receive her guests, how long do you -think that will go on?" -</p> - -<p> -She laughed at him but her eyes were full of -kindness. -</p> - -<p> -"You speak only of my brother's cleverness," -she said. "Is that because I am a woman? -Let me assure you, my dear friend, in many -ways I am his equal. Your fears are -exaggerated. I am right, am I not, when I assume -that your present position is new to you?" -</p> - -<p> -"It is," Aaron Rodd confessed. "Until -these last few weeks—until the day, in fact, -when I first saw you in the Embankment -Gardens and Harvey Grimm sauntered, an -hour later, into my office—I have lived -miserably, perhaps, but honestly." -</p> - -<p> -She laughed once more in his face. -</p> - -<p> -"Oh, but you are so foolish!" she -murmured. "Believe me, no person is really -honest. We all live upon our neighbours. -There is only one thing in life which is common -to all religions—honour. By honour I mean -fidelity to one's friends. Take that into your -heart, dear Mr. Aaron Rodd, and you can hold -your head as high as any man's on earth." -</p> - -<p> -He stooped and kissed her fingers as she stood -by the open door, an action, curiously enough, -which he had never contemplated in his life -before in connection with any woman, yet -which seemed to him at that moment an -entirely natural proceeding. -</p> - -<p> -"That, at least," he promised, "is -something which I can hold on to." -</p> - -<p> -He descended the stairs, the clasp of her -fingers still tingling on his, was handed from -the grave major-domo, who guarded the hall, -to another servant, and on to the footman, -who summoned a taxicab for him. He -gave the address of his office and was -driven promptly off. A few yards from the -corner of the Square, however, the taxicab -slackened speed and stopped by the side -of the pavement. Almost before he realised -what was happening, the door was opened. -An inspector, in uniform and peaked cap, let -down the vacant seat and sat opposite to him. -Mr. Paul Brodie, smoking a large cigar, -followed and took the place by his side. The -cab went on. Aaron Rodd remained stonily -silent. The eyes of the two men were fixed -upon the brown paper parcel which he had had -no time to conceal. -</p> - -<p> -"Sorry to take you out of your way, -Mr. Rodd," Brodie said, with ponderous sarcasm, -"but we just want you to call for a moment -at the Marlborough Street police-station. In -the meantime, you wouldn't care to tell us, I -suppose, what you have in that small parcel -you are holding so carefully?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd sat perfectly still. A chain of -wild ideas flashed through his brain, only to be -instantly dismissed. He thought of throwing -the parcel out of the window, hurling himself -upon the two men and making a fierce struggle -for liberty. There was something ignominious -in the facility of his capture, in the completeness -of his failure. Yet he realised perfectly -well that escape by any means was hopeless, -that behaviour of any sort incompatible with -his supposed position would be an instant -confession of guilt. -</p> - -<p> -"I am engaged on confidential business on -behalf of a client," he announced stiffly, "and -I cannot conceive what authority you have to -delay me or to ask me questions." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Brodie nodded sympathetically. -</p> - -<p> -"That's perfectly correct," he admitted, -"perfectly correct." -</p> - -<p> -Not another word was spoken until the cab -drew up outside the police-station. Mr. Brodie -paid the taxicab driver, and Aaron Rodd, with -an escort on either side of him, crossed the -pavement, passed through the bare stone hall -and into a small waiting-room. A superintendent, -who was writing at a desk, glanced up as -they entered. Mr. Brodie leaned down and -said a few words in his ear. The former nodded -and turned to Aaron Rodd. -</p> - -<p> -"Have you any objection," he asked, "to -our examining the parcel which you are -carrying?" -</p> - -<p> -"None whatever," Aaron Rodd answered coolly. -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Brodie took it from him and carried it -to the desk. The superintendent broke the -seals and withdrew the lid from an oblong -wooden jeweller's box. There was a mass of -cotton-wool inside, which he hastily removed. -Then his fingers suddenly stopped. He gazed -downwards and frowned. Mr. Brodie's face -was a study. The imprecations which broke -from his lips were transatlantic and sufficing. -Aaron Rodd, emboldened by their consternation, -stepped forward and looked over their -shoulders. At the bottom of the box reposed -a small, black opal scarf-pin, the safety-chain -of which was broken. The superintendent rose -to his feet, whispered something sharply to -Mr. Brodie, who lapsed into a gloomy silence, -and turned to Aaron Rodd. -</p> - -<p> -"Do you mind telling me where you were -taking this box, Mr. Rodd?" he asked. -</p> - -<p> -"To a jeweller's, to have the pin mended," -was the prompt reply. -</p> - -<p> -The superintendent replaced the wadding, -thrust the lid back along its grooves, tied up -the box and returned it to its owner. -</p> - -<p> -"We are very sorry to have interfered with -your mission," he said, "but before you leave -us I am going to ask you, so that we may be -perfectly satisfied, to allow me to search your -person." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd shrugged his shoulders. -</p> - -<p> -"Pray do as you will," he consented, holding -out his arms. -</p> - -<p> -The superintendent went carefully through -his pockets, felt his clothing and returned to -his place. -</p> - -<p> -"We are very sorry to have detained you, -sir," he said, "the necessities of the law, you -know. Inspector, get Mr. Rodd another taxi-cab." -</p> - -<p> -"I know something about the law," Aaron -Rodd declared, trying hard to feel that this -was not some absurd nightmare, "and I still -fail to realise on what possible authority you -can practically arrest a solicitor leaving the -house of an exceedingly distinguished client, -break the seals of a private packet, and dismiss -him without a word of explanation." -</p> - -<p> -The superintendent glanced severely at Mr. Brodie. -</p> - -<p> -"We are unfortunately in the position, Mr. Rodd," -he confessed, "of having been misled -by false information. We can do no more nor -less than apologise. Our action, mistaken -though it seems to have been, was undertaken -in the interests of the law, with the profession -of which you are connected. I hope, therefore, -that you will be tolerant." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd received his packet, wished the -three men a brief "Good afternoon" and left -the police-station. He drove at once to his -office, where he found the poet reclining on -three chairs drawn up to the window, with a -block of paper in his hand and a pipe in his -mouth. -</p> - -<p> -"Where's Harvey Grimm?" Aaron demanded. -</p> - -<p> -The poet laid down his pencil and waved his -hand. -</p> - -<p> -"Gone!" -</p> - -<p> -"Gone? Where?" -</p> - -<p> -"I have no idea," was the bland reply. -"I spent an hour or two at the Milan, -conversing with several friends, and incidentally -looking out for Mr. Brodie. Then an idea came -to me. I needed space and solitude. I thought -of your empty rooms and I hastened here. -If you would like to listen——" -</p> - -<p> -"Damn your poetry!" Aaron Rodd interrupted. -"Tell me what you mean when you -say that Harvey Grimm has gone? He was -to have been waiting here for me." -</p> - -<p> -"As I left the Milan," the poet explained, -"I enquired of the hall-porter if Mr. Harvey -Grimm had returned. The man told me that -not only had he returned but that he had left -again in a taxicab, a few minutes afterwards. -I understood the fellow to say that he had gone -into the country and would not be back for -several days." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd put his hand to his forehead. -Already a dim suspicion of the truth was -finding its way into his brain. Then there was -a gentle tinkle from the bell of his newly -installed telephone. He took up the receiver. -The voice which spoke was the voice of Harvey Grimm. -</p> - -<p> -"That you, Aaron?" -</p> - -<p> -"Yes!" -</p> - -<p> -"Anything happened?" -</p> - -<p> -"Yes!" -</p> - -<p> -"It's O.K. You needn't explain. Back in -about a week. So long." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd laid down the receiver. He -was still a little bewildered, oppressed by a -certain sense of humiliation. He threw the -packet which he had been carrying so carefully -upon his desk and scowled. -</p> - -<p> -"What's upset you?" Cresswell asked amiably. -</p> - -<p> -"Seems to me I'm nothing but a cat's-paw," -Aaron Rodd replied gloomily. "A messenger -boy could have done my job." -</p> - -<p> -"Don't worry," the poet advised. "By the -by, you don't happen to know of a rhyme for -silken, do you?" -</p> - -<p> -The telephone bell, ringing once more, intervened -to save the poet from the ink-pot which -Aaron's fingers were handling longingly. -</p> - -<p> -"What is it?" he demanded, taking up the -receiver. -</p> - -<p> -"Just a little message for Mr. Aaron Rodd, -please," was the soft reply. "Please forgive -me—it was so necessary. And the pin was -for you—a little peace-offering. Will you -please have the chain mended and wear it?" -</p> - -<p> -That was all. There was no pause for any -reply. The connection was finished. Aaron -laid down the receiver, lit a cigarette and -almost swaggered back to his desk. -</p> - -<p> -"Sorry, old fellow," he said genially. "I -can't seem to think of one for the moment. -I'll have a try." -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p><a id="chap04"></a></p> - -<h3> -<span class="chap1"><i>Chapter IV</i></span> <span class="chap2"><i>Ulysses of Wapping</i></span> -</h3> - -<p> -On the following morning, Aaron Rodd, somewhat -to his surprise, received a visit from his -only client. Mr. Jacob Potts, who was a -publican and retired pugilist, and whose -appearance entirely coincided with his dual -profession, looked around the apartment with -a little sniff. -</p> - -<p> -"Ho!" he exclaimed. "Better times -arrived, eh? 'Ad a spring-cleaning, 'aven't -you? Telephone, too, and new chairs! -Golly! Does it run to cigars?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd shamelessly offered him a box -of Harvey Grimm's Cabanas. His client bit -off the end of one with relish and seemed -inclined to swallow it. He eventually spat it -out, however, lit the cigar, and, throwing -himself back in a chair, crossed his rather pudgy -legs. -</p> - -<p> -"Know anything about maritime law?" -he began. -</p> - -<p> -"Not much," Aaron Rodd admitted. "A -lawyer very seldom knows anything outside -his little bent," he went on. "We have great -rows of books properly indexed, turn up the -point and read the decisions." -</p> - -<p> -"Where are your'n?" Mr. Jacob Potts -enquired, looking around the somewhat bare -walls. -</p> - -<p> -"Pawned," Aaron Rodd confessed. "All -the same, I can go into the law library and -give you an answer on any point you like to -put forward, within a very few minutes." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Potts nodded. -</p> - -<p> -"That's why I kind of took a fancy to you -years ago, when you was a nipper," he -confessed. "No doubling and twisting about -you. Just a straightforward answer to a -straightforward question. 'Do you know -anything about maritime law?' sez I. 'No,' -sez you, 'but I can find out.' And so you can. -Now, one of the regular kidney of you fellows'd -have been messing about for half an hour and -then have read it all out of a book. You never -tumbled to it yet, guv'nor, did you, what my -new line of business was?" -</p> - -<p> -"Never," Aaron Rodd acknowledged. -"From your conversation at various times I -gathered that you saved money in the ring, -acquired a prosperous public-house property, -and were in some way or other responsible for -the organisation of labour in your neighbourhood." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Jacob Potts grinned. -</p> - -<p> -"Let it go at that," he decided. "Well, -the point I want to know about is this. -Supposing in the course of business I committed -an offence against the law, you understand, -and I legs it for a nootral country, you -see—might be Holland, for instance—can I be -'auled off a Dutch boat in nootral waters on -my way to Holland?" -</p> - -<p> -"It would depend," Aaron Rodd replied, -"on the nature of your offence. I will let -you know your exact position, if you like to -come in a little later." -</p> - -<p> -"That goes," Mr. Potts agreed. "I've a -call to make at a public-house in Craven Street. -There's a promising lad there I saw with the -gloves on for the first time in 'is life the other -night. I thought of making a match with -'im against Canary Joe. 'Ave you ever seen -Canary Joe box?" -</p> - -<p> -"I have never seen a boxing match in my -life," Aaron Rodd replied. -</p> - -<p> -"Lumme!" Mr. Jacob Potts gasped. -"Well, I suppose yours ain't a sporting -profession. Mine is—in every sense of the word," -he added with a grin. "What about twelve -o'clock, guv'nor? That'll give me time to -get a can of beer and some bread and -cheese." -</p> - -<p> -"I shall be quite ready for you at that time," -Aaron Rodd promised. -</p> - -<p> -The ex-publican departed, and Aaron Rodd, -after giving him time to get away, followed -him out into the street, spent half an hour in -the nearest law library, and returned with a -volume under his arm. He found the poet -seated on the top of the stairs outside his -rooms. -</p> - -<p> -"My dear fellow," the latter exclaimed -peevishly, as he rose to his feet, "this new -habit of yours of locking the door after you is -most inconvenient." -</p> - -<p> -"Why not go to your club and wait?" -Aaron Rodd suggested. "It's only a few -yards away." -</p> - -<p> -"Inhospitable," the other sighed, "and I -have come to you filled with a most generous -idea. Listen. This may seem a commonplace -thing to you but to me it is an epoch in my -career. I have opened a banking account." -</p> - -<p> -"I noticed that the book-shop was thronged, -as usual, as I came by," Aaron Rodd remarked. -</p> - -<p> -"This week," the poet declared solemnly, -"will practically sever my connection with the -book-shop. My publishers insist upon it that -my work must be distributed in the regular -fashion. Henceforth, the poems of Stephen -Cresswell will be on sale at every reputable -bookseller's—at four and sixpence, if you please. -I have also an agent, and, as I before remarked, -a banking account. Things have changed with -me, Aaron Rodd. Only yesterday I found -myself in need of a ten-pound note, referred -the matter to my publishers and found them -most affable.... How are adventures this -morning?" -</p> - -<p> -"Nothing doing," was the prompt reply, -"until Harvey Grimm comes back. My only -client has been to ask me a question about -maritime law. He is coming back directly." -</p> - -<p> -The poet ignored the hint. -</p> - -<p> -"My presence here will do you good," he -pointed out. "He will perhaps take me for -another client. He is not a man of culture by -any chance?" -</p> - -<p> -"He is not," Aaron Rodd admitted tersely; -"nor is he one of those who have been whacked -into reading one of your poems." -</p> - -<p> -"He must have read about them, at any -rate," Cresswell insisted a little irritably. "If -you introduce me, you had better mention my -identity. Fame so far has left me quite -unspoiled. I still feel a little thrill of pleasure in -noticing the effect which the mention of my -name has upon strangers.... Come in," he -added pleasantly, in response to a thunderous -knock at the door. -</p> - -<p> -The door opened and Mr. Jacob Potts -entered, bringing with him a strong atmosphere -of old ale and bread and cheese. To Aaron -Rodd's surprise, he recognised the poet with a -broad grin. -</p> - -<p> -"My Ulysses of Wapping!" the latter -exclaimed, holding out his hand. "What a -meeting!" -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Jacob Potts jerked his thumb towards -Cresswell as he turned to the lawyer. -</p> - -<p> -"One of my clients," he remarked. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd was puzzled. He had once paid -a visit to the river-side public-house over -which Jacob Potts presided, and he found it -hard to associate Cresswell in any way with -the atmosphere there. Mr. Jacob Potts had -pressed a thick forefinger to his lips. -</p> - -<p> -"Mum's the word, guv'nor," he declared -reassuringly. "Don't you worry." -</p> - -<p> -The poet picked up his hat. -</p> - -<p> -"From this gentleman," he asserted -grandiloquently, "I have no secrets. To be frank -with you, it was he and another friend who are -responsible for those incidents in my career -with which you have been professionally -connected." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Jacob Potts glanced at him admiringly. -</p> - -<p> -"That's 'ow 'e talks down at Wapping. -Ain't it wonderful!" he observed. -</p> - -<p> -Stephen Cresswell edged towards the door. -</p> - -<p> -"When you have finished with our friend -here," he said, addressing Aaron, "come across -to the Milan. I have a proposition to make -anent the opening of my banking account. It -is connected with food and drink. Au revoir! -Farewell, my river-side Goliath," he added, -waving his hand to Jacob Potts. "Remember, -our little bargain still goes." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Potts' large face was convulsed into -humorous wrinkles. -</p> - -<p> -"That's a queer gent.," he declared, as the -door closed. "Come to me, 'e did, sometime -ago—heard I'd been a bit of a bruiser and -asked me to teach him a knock-out blow, -something quick and not dangerous. Lord love me, -I used to let 'im go on, and give 'im 'is fill o' -beer, for the sake of hearing 'im talk! 'Ow I -larfed when I tumbled to 'is game—me and -the missis! He'd written some stuff wot no one -would read, and 'is idea was to advertise it. -Up you goes to an old gent at a dark corner. -''Ave you read my book?' he arsks. 'No!' -sez the old gent. 'Cresswell's Poems, -eightpence a copy, number thirty-two Manchester -Street,' he sez, and biffs 'im one. Then other -nervous old gents, 'ear about this and buys the -poems, give the proper answer when they're -tackled and 'ome they goes to tea. 'Oly Moses, -it was a great scheme, but it was a greater -before I'd done with it!" -</p> - -<p> -"Where did you come in?" Aaron Rodd -asked curiously. -</p> - -<p> -Jacob Potts drew his chair a little closer to -Aaron Rodd's desk. -</p> - -<p> -"Well," he explained, "it's giving things -away a bit, but to one's lawyer I don't know -as it matters. I'm a kind o' provider of men -as can be trusted to give any one a clout on the -side of the 'ead and no questions arst. I could -lay my hand at the present moment on some -titty of 'em, good to give any ordinary person -a dom'. Why, the third night after yon chap'd -come to me, I'd twenty-five of 'em out, all -asking the same question, at ten bob a time. -It cost 'im a bit." -</p> - -<p> -"But where on earth did he get the money?" -Aaron Rodd asked. "He was broke when we -met him first." -</p> - -<p> -"I financed him," Jacob Potts confessed. -"I tell you the idea fair tickled me. I found -the coin and he paid me back like a gentleman. -I only sends 'em out now when we're slack with -other work, but whenever we 'ave a little affair -doing, whatever the cost may be, we always -commence it the same way—''Ave you read -Stephen Cresswell's poems?' 'No,'—and then -biff!" -</p> - -<p> -The publican leaned back in his chair and his -fat body shook with laughter. He mopped the -tears from his eyes with a big red bandanna -handkerchief. -</p> - -<p> -"To think of meeting 'im 'ere!" he -murmured weakly. "You see, we 'as our jokes -even in the serious professions. Not that I -ever let my boys go too far," he concluded, -"and I keep 'em out of trouble as much as I -can. That's why I want to know the law about -this sea business." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd read him extracts from the -volume he had brought back, and explained -several doubtful points. The publican's face -was a little grave when he had finished. -</p> - -<p> -"I ain't at all sure," he decided, "that I -fancy trusting any of my best boys with this -job, and I loathe foreigners, any way." -</p> - -<p> -"Well, I won't ask you any questions," -Aaron Rodd said, "but if you want any free -advice, here it is. You've made plenty of -money. I should keep friends with the law, -if I were you. You can't employ such a band -of ruffians as you've been talking about, and -not find a wrong 'un amongst them now and -then." -</p> - -<p> -"If one o' my lads," Jacob Potts declared -solemnly, "was to squeal, I tell you the rest -would be on 'im like a pack of fox'ounds on a -fox. They'd tear 'im limb from limb, that's -wot they'd do." -</p> - -<p> -"That wouldn't do you a great deal of -good if you were in prison," Aaron Rodd -reminded him. "However, you know the law now." -</p> - -<p> -"I know it, and I ain't sweet on the job," -Mr. Jacob Potts confessed. "'Owsomever! -Good morning to you, Mr. Rodd, and much -obliged. You'll add your little bit on to my -quarterly account.... Wot 'o, another -client!" he added. "I'm toddling." -</p> - -<p> -He shook hands with his adviser and reached -the door just as it was opened and Henriette -entered. He stood for a moment as though -stupefied. Then, as he disappeared through the -doorway, he turned round and winked solemnly -at Aaron. -</p> - -<p> -"Wishing you good morning, guv'nor!" he -said as he closed the door. -</p> - -<p> -Curiously enough, as on that first morning -when, they had met in the Embankment -Gardens, a little ray of wintry sunshine, which -had stolen in through the dusty, uncurtained -windows, lay between them. Aaron Rodd, -whose first impulse had been one of joy at this -unexpected visit, stopped suddenly in his -progress across the room. There was something -so entirely different about her, a change so -absolute and mystifying. The faintly supercilious -deportment and expression of the young -woman of the world, carrying herself so easily -and with such natural grace and self-possession, -seemed to have deserted her. She was -suddenly a frightened child seeking for shelter, -and with a lightning-like effort of imagination -he seemed to see her flying for sanctuary from -those terrors of which he had already warned her. -</p> - -<p> -"Is anything wrong?" he enquired -quickly—"anything fresh, I mean?" -</p> - -<p> -She sank into his chair. She was panting a -little, as though she had been hurrying. -</p> - -<p> -"I am afraid!" she confessed. "I am -terrified! Give me your hand to hold, and -listen." -</p> - -<p> -She gripped his strong fingers. They both -almost held their breaths. There was no -sound except the distant rumble of traffic. -By degrees she grew calmer. -</p> - -<p> -"You are not worrying about my errand?" -he asked anxiously. "You know what -happened to me?" -</p> - -<p> -"It isn't that," she told him simply. "That -was all planned beforehand. You didn't -mind?" -</p> - -<p> -"Of course not," he assured her. -</p> - -<p> -"It is something which happened before I -came to England," she went on, "something -terrible, something from which it seems to me -I can never escape. Listen.... I must tell -you one day—I shall tell you now. Leopold -has always been fortunate, but the luck went -against me one day. I was face to face with -detection. I had the whole of the jewels in my -possession. I was confronted with the worst. -I hadn't time to think. I killed the man who -would have brought ruin on all of us, -and—and, on me, worse than ruin.... Do you -hear?—I killed him!" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd sat speechless. She seemed so -small and delicate-looking. It was incredible! -</p> - -<p> -"He was a great man, a colonel in the -Prussian Guards. He had high connections, -some of them Belgian. The threats of his -people reached my ears even before I had -escaped. They swore to get me back into -Belgium, and if I were once there, God knows -what would happen to me! At first, when I -reached London, I felt safe. I managed to -become attached to the household of Madame. -Surely in London was sanctuary! And lately -I have felt different. This man—I will not tell -you his name—he is connected even with the -family of Madame herself. I begin to fear that -they have suspicions. The Princess has been -cold to me lately. There are several others -in the household who seem to look askance at -me. I have had letters from relatives in -Belgium, inviting me to go back. Some of -them, I know, have been forgeries. During the -last few days I have been followed about. -Only yesterday there was a little fog. I was -in the square, near the corner of Brook Street. -Suddenly I heard swift footsteps just behind -me, there was a whistle, a taxicab drove up by -the kerb. There was a man in it, sitting back -in the corner. I saw his face—it was cruel, -horrible! I could hear another man running -from out of the fog towards me. I knew what -they wanted—to thrust me into the taxicab. -And just at that moment I shrieked, and two -strangers came from one of the big houses and -I clung to them. The taxicab drove off and -the man seemed to melt away. The two -gentlemen thought I was mad. They escorted -me to another taxicab. Since then I dare not -move alone." -</p> - -<p> -"How did you come here?" he asked. -</p> - -<p> -"In one of Madame's cars. It waits for me -outside. Even at the corner of this street -there were two men who frightened me. -To-day my week of service is up with Madame. -She has not encouraged me to stay longer. -She looks at me with the eyes of suspicion. -And at the Milan Court I am afraid! My -grandfather is so old—the world is finished for -him. And Leopold is so cold and mysterious. -He comes and goes with never a word.... -There! You see what has happened to me!" -she exclaimed, with a little quaver in her tone. -"I have lost my nerve. And I have been -brave, Monsieur Aaron Rodd—believe me, I -have been brave." -</p> - -<p> -"Of course you have," he answered -encouragingly, "and of, course you will continue -to be brave. You must not fancy things. -Believe me, you are safe here—safe, at least, -against being sent back to Belgium against -your will. The fears for you and about -you——" -</p> - -<p> -"Well, what are they?" she interrupted -anxiously. "Tell me about them?" -</p> - -<p> -"These diamonds," he continued slowly. -"If I might venture to say so, it seems to me -that your brother is making a mistake in -dragging you into the affair at all. We could -have done our business with him and left you -out of it." -</p> - -<p> -"But he is watched every hour of the day," -she explained. "They cannot find the jewels, -and they can prove nothing against him unless -they do find them, but they know very well -that soon he must dispose of them, and they -never willingly let him out of their sight. -Besides, we are all to share in the proceeds. -Why should we not take a little of the risk? -Oh, believe me," she went on eagerly, "I can -face anything that comes to me through the -jewels. It is the other thing I am afraid of. -I cannot speak even to you of that awful -moment. The man who guessed our secret—he -offered silence. We were alone...." -</p> - -<p> -She broke off suddenly, absolutely incapable -of speech. She was white almost to the lips. -Her eyes were filled with reminiscent horror. -He leaned over and took her hands once more -a little clumsily in his. -</p> - -<p> -"Don't think of it," he begged. "That -part of it, at any rate, is done with. One must -fight for what one has, for the sake of others." -</p> - -<p> -"I know—I know!" she agreed, trying to -smile at him. "But tell me again—there -isn't any way, is there, that the Belgian -authorities—I suppose they do still control -their own law-courts—could be cajoled into -having me sent back? I am frightened. I -begin to wonder whether these men, who I am -sure have been watching me, are emissaries -from the foreign police." -</p> - -<p> -He smiled reassuringly. -</p> - -<p> -"Not a chance," he declared. "They have -something else to do just now. Believe me, -you are frightening yourself about nothing. -If you are being watched, and I should think -it extremely probable that you are being -watched, it is simply because you are living -under the same roof as your brother and -because you are an exceedingly likely medium -for the disposal of the jewels." -</p> - -<p> -"If I were sure that that was all!" she -murmured. -</p> - -<p> -"It is all," he told her confidently. "There! -Besides, in that other case, remember that you -are not friendless. I don't think I need tell -you," he went on, a little awkwardly, "that if -there were any way I could help, any way I -could ensure your safety, it would make me -very happy." -</p> - -<p> -"I think that I felt that," she answered -softly. "I think that that is why I came to -you. Leopold has gone to one of his -hiding-places—I do not know where—and he will not -be back for several days. Please do not go -far away. Be where I can telephone to you, -or come." -</p> - -<p> -"I wouldn't ask anything better," he promised. -</p> - -<p> -Her eyes glowed for a moment. She gave -him her hand impulsively, and he was dizzy -with the strangeness and the joy of it. He -had been so long debarred from intercourse -with her sex that femininity was making a late -but extraordinarily subtle appeal to him. -He found himself, even in the moment when -he was studying the colour of her eyes, counting -the wasted years of his life, remembering with -a sick regret the lines upon his face, the streak -of grey in his hair. -</p> - -<p> -"You are going back now to the Milan?" -he enquired. -</p> - -<p> -"From here. You could not——?" -</p> - -<p> -"Of course I could," he assented eagerly, -taking down his hat. "I promised to meet -our friend Cresswell there." -</p> - -<p> -"That ridiculous Poet!" she laughed. -"Whatever made him a friend of yours?" -</p> - -<p> -"He would tell you Fate," was the smiling -reply. "Harvey Grimm would tell you a sense -of humour. I really don't know what I could -say about it. He isn't a bad fellow." -</p> - -<p> -"You are sure you have no more business -to attend to?" she asked earnestly. "I can -sit and wait quite patiently while you finish." -</p> - -<p> -He sighed as he closed his desk. -</p> - -<p> -"I am afraid my office itself is rather a -farce," he told her. "As a lawyer I have been -a failure. My only client passed you on the -stairs as he went out." -</p> - -<p> -She heard him a little incredulously. -</p> - -<p> -"That seems so strange," she observed. -"I am sure that you are clever." -</p> - -<p> -"The majority of the world seems to have -come to a different conclusion," he sighed, as -he stood on one side to let her pass out. -</p> - -<p> -"Here comes your client back again," she -whispered. "I will wait for you upon the -landing." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Jacob Potts came puffing up the stairs. -He beckoned mysteriously to Aaron Rodd -and drew him on one side. -</p> - -<p> -"Guv'nor," he whispered, "'ave you got -any pals in this building?" -</p> - -<p> -"I don't know that I have, particularly," -was the somewhat doubtful reply. "Why?" -</p> - -<p> -"Gave me quite a turn," Mr. Potts confessed. -"There's two of my boys below, two of them -who are on that job I came to consult you -about." -</p> - -<p> -"They are probably shadowing you," Aaron -Rodd suggested. -</p> - -<p> -"I'd give 'em shadow, if they tried that -game on!" Mr. Jacob Potts asserted truculently. -"'Owsomever, you've got the office, -if there's any pals of yourn about.... If -you've any fancy, sir," he added, as he turned -away, "for seeing a little bout to-night down -at my place, I've arranged for that young -fellow I spoke about to come down and put -'em on with Canary Joe. 'Arf-past nine, and -no questions arst of a friend." -</p> - -<p> -"I'll remember," the other promised. -</p> - -<p> -"Won't keep you longer," Mr. Potts -observed, turning heavily away. "There's -other clients than me about this morning, -wot 'o!" -</p> - -<p> -He turned back from the doorway and -indulged in a huge and solemn wink. -</p> - -<p> -"'Arf-past nine," he called out, "nothing -charged for admission, but the salt air down -Wapping way encourages the thirst, which is -good for the trade. Bring a pal, if you've a -mind." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron waited until his client had reached -the first landing before he rejoined Henriette. -They drove in what was, to him, unaccustomed -splendour to the Milan, and parted in the -little hall. -</p> - -<p> -"It is foolish," she said, as she held out her -hand, "but I feel better because I have been -frank with you. Sometimes my fears seem -so unreal, and then sometimes I close my eyes -and I get these horrible little mind pictures. -Ah, but you do not know the terror of them! -This is England, though, and that was what -they all said—'In England you will be -safe.' Tell me you are sure that I am safe?" -</p> - -<p> -"Absolutely," he declared confidently. -</p> - -<p> -She waved her hand to him from the lift, -and he proceeded to the smoking-room in search -of Cresswell. -</p> - -<p class="thought"> -***** -<br /> -</p> - -<p> -The poet, having received forty pounds from -his publishers, was thoroughly disposed -towards a frivolous evening. He was -consequently a little dismayed when, as they sat -at dinner that same evening, Aaron Rodd, -who had been a little distrait, suggested an -alteration in their evening's entertainment. -</p> - -<p> -"I wonder," he said, "if, instead of going -to the 'Empire,' you would care to see a bout -between Canary Joe and a youthful barman -who I understand possesses genius?" -</p> - -<p> -The poet made a wry face. -</p> - -<p> -"I am rather fed up with biffing just now," -he confessed, "but Canary Joe—why, that's -old man Potts' protégé." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron nodded. -</p> - -<p> -"The affair is to take place in a room at the -back of his public-house," he observed. -</p> - -<p> -Cresswell sipped his wine and considered. -His attitude was obviously unfavourable. -</p> - -<p> -"I am in the humour," he declared, "for a -more enervating atmosphere, the warmth and -comfort of the Empire lounge, the charm of -feminine society—even from a distance," he -added hastily. "I am feeling human to-night, -Aaron Rodd—very human." -</p> - -<p> -"It is possible," his companion continued -slowly, "that an adventure——" -</p> - -<p> -The poet's manner changed. -</p> - -<p> -"More than anything in the world I am in -the humour for an adventure," he asserted -eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -"Then I think we will see Canary Joe," -Aaron Rodd decided. "You shall be my guide." -</p> - -<p> -The long taxi-ride would have been a little -depressing but for the poet's uproarious spirits. -He sang himself hoarse and filled the vehicle -with cigarette smoke. They reached at last a -region of small streets all running one way; -in the background a vision of lights, suspended -apparently from nowhere, the sound of an -occasional siren, the constant, sometimes -overpowering odour of river-side mud. When at -last the taxicab came to a standstill, they were -near enough to the river to hear its rise and -fall against a little bank of shingle. From -behind the closely-drawn windows of the -public-house, one side of which seemed to abut on -to the river-side, came the sound of many -voices. They dismissed the taxicab and pushed -open the swing-doors. The poet, who had been -complaining bitterly of thirst on the way down, -led the way to the counter. -</p> - -<p> -"Two whiskies and sodas, Tim," he ordered. -"Where's the guv'nor?" -</p> - -<p> -The man jerked his thumb over his shoulder. -</p> - -<p> -"Up in the room, getting things to rights," -he announced. "If you take my advice, -Mr. Cresswell, you'll slip in there as soon as you've -had your drink. There'll be a crowd when the -gong goes, and they're a tough lot to struggle -with for seats." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron glanced around. The room was filled -with a motley throng of river-side loafers, -with here and there a sprinkling of sailors. -One huge Dutchman, in a soiled nautical -uniform, was already furiously drunk. The -two young men slipped up the stairs, to which -the poet led the way, and passed through the -door into the further apartment, just as the -Dutchman's truculent eye fell upon them. -</p> - -<p> -"Shouldn't wonder if we didn't tumble -across something in the way of an adventure -here," the poet remarked cheerfully. "We -ought to have changed our clothes. Hello, -here's the boss." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Jacob Potts, on his way down the long, -dimly lit room, came to a sudden standstill. -His expression scarcely confirmed the welcome -which the heartiness of his invitation earlier -in the day had promised. He glanced at the -two visitors in something like dismay. Nothing, -however, could damp the poet's spirits. -</p> - -<p> -"We've come down to see the scrap, -guv'nor," he declared. -</p> - -<p> -"If you have," Mr. Jacob Potts replied, with -something which sounded threatening in his -tone, "you're welcome. If so be that you've -any other reason for your coming, maybe a -word of advice from me wouldn't be out of -place, and that word's git." -</p> - -<p> -"When we've seen the scrap and not -before," Cresswell chuckled. "Do you know -that it cost the best part of a quid to get down -here, guv'nor? Bring 'em in and let's see -what stuff they're made of." -</p> - -<p> -Jacob Potts looked at the speaker doubtfully. -</p> - -<p> -"You've 'ad a drop, young fellow, you -'ave," he muttered. -</p> - -<p> -"Trenchantly and convincingly put, old -chap," the poet replied, steadying himself by -the back of the chair. "My dear friend and I -are making an evening of it." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Potts' face cleared a little. -</p> - -<p> -"Boys will be boys," he assented amiably, -"and there's none of you the worse for a drop -o' good liquor on board. Fact is I'm a bit -jumpy to-night," he confessed. "My boys -have got a little game on—to-night of all -nights! Did you happen to notice," he asked -anxiously, "if that goll-darned Dutchman -was down there?" -</p> - -<p> -"There is a son of Holland in the bar," the -poet replied, "in a glorious state of inebriation. -He is seeking for some one to destroy. Tell -you the truth, we fled before him. His eye -rested upon us and he scowled." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Jacob Potts lifted a blind and stared out -towards the river. -</p> - -<p> -"That's his steamer lying there," he -muttered. "I wish to God he'd get aboard -her!" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd moved softly to his side. -</p> - -<p> -"Is this little game you spoke of," he -enquired—"the game your boys have on -to-night—the one which brought you up to -consult me about maritime law this morning?" -</p> - -<p> -"It is," Jacob Potts admitted, "and wot -about it?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd shrugged his shoulders. Before -he could reply, however, a gong sounded. -The door of the room was thrown open and a -surging mob from the bar streamed in. -</p> - -<p> -"Front seats," yelled the poet, making a -dive forward, but Aaron caught him firmly by -the arm. -</p> - -<p> -"Stephen," he whispered, "there's something -up here to-night. We may have to come -into it. Let's get seats by the door, where we -can slip out quietly. I'm not joking." -</p> - -<p> -Considering all things, Cresswell was -wonderfully amenable. They stood on one side and -let the crowd rush past them and eventually -found two seats against the side wall, within a -few yards of the door. Mr. Jacob Potts seemed -for the moment to have forgotten their existence. -He was standing in the middle of the little ring, -which was roped off on a raised platform, -stamping with his heel upon the floor. There -were shrill whistles and cries of "Order." -</p> - -<p> -"Gents," Mr. Potts announced, "this is a -light-weight scrap, twelve rounds, between our -old friend Canary Joe and a youngster I found -in Craven Street—Jimmy Dunks." -</p> - -<p> -He pointed first towards a pimply-faced -young man, with flaxen hair brushed smoothly -down over his forehead, attired in scarlet -knickerbockers and a pink vest, over which -heterogeneous attire he had thrown a soiled, -light-coloured ulster. His opponent wore a -thin flannel vest, a pair of dilapidated golfing -knickerbockers and the remains of a dressing-gown. -They both arose and made awkward -salutations. Canary Joe was evidently the -favourite, but Mr. Potts himself led the -applause for his opponent. -</p> - -<p> -"Fair do's, gents," he begged. "This -young 'un's a stranger, but from what I've -seen of 'im I believe 'e's out to do 'is best, and -we none of us can't do more." -</p> - -<p> -There were a few more preliminaries and the -two young men faced one another. They -moved round for a moment like cats, amidst -an almost breathless silence. Then there were -one or two wild plunges, a little more cautious -sparring, and a yell of applause as the young -man in the golfing knickerbockers landed his -right very near his opponent's mouth. -</p> - -<p> -"Don't you treat 'im too light, Canary," -they yelled from the back. "Keep your eye -on 'is left." -</p> - -<p> -There was a brief pause at the end of the -first round. Canary Joe sat scowling at his -opponent as he received the attentions of his -second. The next round, although without -decisive effect, was more vigorous; the third -produced a black eye each. The audience -settled down to enjoy itself. Suddenly the door -at the back of the room was opened and from -somewhere below came the sound of a gong -struck three tunes. There were little murmurs -of annoyance, disjointed oaths and growls -from various quarters, but, without a single -moment's hesitation, at least a score of the -audience rose to their feet and made for the -door. Aaron Rodd and his companion watched -them as they slunk by. The poet was -exceedingly interested. -</p> - -<p> -"Someone's going to get a biffing to-night," -he confided. "I wonder what it's all about." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron acted on an inexplicable impulse. -</p> - -<p> -"Let's go and see," he suggested. -</p> - -<p> -The poet rose at once to his feet. He was -ready enough, if a trifle dubious. -</p> - -<p> -"They won't want us butting in," he remarked. -"All the same, we might see a little -of the fun. It will be more like the real thing -than this." -</p> - -<p> -They passed down the few stairs into the bar. -Several of the men had paused for a drink, but -others had already slunk out into the street. -Following on the heels of the hindmost, Aaron -Rodd and his companion found themselves -almost swallowed up in a sudden fog which -had rolled in from the river. From somewhere -in the midst of the chaos they heard a quick, -authoritative voice. -</p> - -<p> -"Joe, you and half a dozen of you take the -corners of the street. Hold up anything that -tries to come down. Start a fight amongst -yourselves if there are coppers about. You -others come out on the wharf." -</p> - -<p> -"That Dutchman's in this, I'll swear," the -poet whispered. "Let's try and find our way -down to the river. I know where the gate is." -</p> - -<p> -Almost as he spoke, a heavy hand descended -upon his shoulder, and a dark, evil face was -thrust almost into his. -</p> - -<p> -"Look here, guv'nor," the man said, "you -mayn't be after any 'arm down 'ere but it's one -o' them nights we don't need strangers around. -You tumble? The old man's wolves are out -and they've a nasty way of snapping anything -that comes along." -</p> - -<p> -"What's the game, Sid?" the poet asked -engagingly. "We're only here for a bit of -sport." -</p> - -<p> -"Never you mind what the game is," was -the terse reply. "You get back and watch -those two chickens scratching one another's -faces." -</p> - -<p> -There was a moment's silence. Then from -a few yards off came the sound of a slight -moan, as from a person suffocating. -</p> - -<p> -"What's that?" Aaron Rodd demanded sharply. -</p> - -<p> -"Never you mind what it is," was the swift -reply from their unseen adviser. "Take your -carcases inside, if you want to keep them -whole." -</p> - -<p> -He vanished in the fog. Aaron Rodd gripped -his companion's arm. -</p> - -<p> -"Stephen," he muttered, "that was a -woman's voice!" -</p> - -<p> -"Sounded like it," the poet assented. -"Have you got your electric torch in your -pocket?" -</p> - -<p> -"Yes!" -</p> - -<p> -They heard the rattle of a key in the gate -which led out on to the wharf. For some time -it refused to turn. Again they heard the moan, -and Aaron's blood ran cold. -</p> - -<p> -"I can't stand this, Stephen," he whispered -hoarsely. "Come on." -</p> - -<p> -"One moment," the poet answered. "They -can't get the gate open. I don't believe the -guv'nor's on to this. Stay where you are for -a minute." -</p> - -<p> -He hurried back, tore up the stairs and into -the dimly lit room, filled still with breathless -expectancy. It was the end of another round, -during which Canary Joe had obtained some -slight advantage. The poet walked straight -up the room, regardless of the growls which -assailed him, and touched its presiding spirit -upon the shoulder. -</p> - -<p> -"Guv'nor," he said, "you told me, when we -had dealings, that you'd never taken on any -job in which there was a woman to be harried." -</p> - -<p> -"That's right, boy," Jacob Potts agreed. -</p> - -<p> -"There's a woman in the game to-night, a -woman who has been brought down here by -some of your lot, and who is down there now, -either drugged or half conscious. They are -trying to get her on the Dutchman's steamer." -</p> - -<p> -"How do you know it's a woman?" was the -brief demand. -</p> - -<p> -"I tell you we both heard her groan," the -poet insisted. -</p> - -<p> -Jacob Potts rose to his feet. -</p> - -<p> -"Boys," he said, addressing the belligerents, -"and gents, there will be a ten minutes' -interval. Sorry, but it's business. Joe will -serve the drinks, which for this occasion only -will be free." -</p> - -<p> -The ten minutes' interval, softened by the -promise of free drinks, displeased no one. -Jacob Potts, still in his shirt-sleeves, strode -out of the place, through the front room of the -public-house and out into the street, where a -queer, unnatural silence Seemed to reign. -</p> - -<p> -"There ain't no woman about 'ere!" he -exclaimed. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd suddenly flashed his torch. -The iron gate was closed. There was no one -before it. They could hear the sound of men's -footsteps a few yards away on the old wooden -wharf. -</p> - -<p> -"They've just gone through," Aaron whispered -fiercely. "Come on!" -</p> - -<p> -Jacob Potts produced a key from his pocket -and swung the gate open. -</p> - -<p> -"If you fellows have made a fool of me," he -muttered, "there'll be trouble, but if my boys -have let me in, there'll be hell!" -</p> - -<p> -Just as he finished speaking they once more -heard the faint, smothered cry from in front, -followed by a man's oath. They saw the -flashing of a light and heard the fall of a rope -from the wharf into the river. Jacob Potts -quickened his pace. -</p> - -<p> -"Turn on that glim o' yours, guv'nor," he -growled, "and mind where you're going. -'Ullo there?" -</p> - -<p> -There was a confusion of answering voices. -</p> - -<p> -"It's the guv'nor!" they heard some one say. -</p> - -<p> -Then the light of Aaron Rodd's torch flashed -upon the short, wooden dock, and upon the -half-dozen men grouped at the top of the crazy -steps at its furthest extremity. One of them -came back. It was the man who had warned -the poet and Aaron. -</p> - -<p> -"Guv'nor," he said earnestly, "this ain't -your show. You leave us alone and get back -to the fight." -</p> - -<p> -"That be damned!" Jacob Potts replied -firmly. "It's no job of yourn to tell me wot -to do. You know very well there's just one -thing I stick at, and I asks you a plain question, -Sid, and a plain answer expected. Is that -bundle you're carrying a woman, or ain't it?" -</p> - -<p> -"It's a woman," the man proclaimed doggedly, -"and it's going on board the 'Amsterdam.'" -</p> - -<p> -The answer of Jacob Potts was bellicose and -unprintable. He strode along the little wharf, -followed by Aaron Rodd and Cresswell. Behind -came the man called Sid, his face darker -and more evil than ever, his breath coming -short with anger. -</p> - -<p> -"Boys," Jacob Potts exclaimed, "drop -that! You hear me? Women ain't in the -game. You've all been told that." -</p> - -<p> -There was a moment's hesitation. Then -they heard the voice of their leader, hoarse -and vicious. -</p> - -<p> -"Get on with it, boys. It's going to be the -river for any one who stands in our way -to-night." -</p> - -<p> -There were six of them altogether, besides -Sid. Three of them moved now towards the -steps, below which a boat was bobbing up and -down. Another man was seated in it, holding -to the side by a boat-hook, and the three men -at the top of the steps were carrying -something. Sid and the other two turned round. -</p> - -<p> -"Guv'nor," the former began—— -</p> - -<p> -There was a sickening crash as Jacob Potts' -fist caught him almost in the mouth. He rolled -over and up again on to his feet, remaining -warily out of reach, but after that one blow -easily able to keep his assailant occupied. -Aaron Rodd had sprung for the steps, and -received a blow on the side of the head from -one of the other men which sent him reeling -almost into the river. -</p> - -<p> -"Get her aboard," Sid cried out. "We can -tackle this lot. No one can get down the street. -The boys'll see to that." -</p> - -<p> -Then there was a fierce, ugly silence for -several moments. Jacob Potts, winded from -the first, the river on either side of him and -murder in the man's face whom he fought, -panted and groaned with every fresh movement. -Aaron Rodd found himself suddenly in -a new world, a new uplifting instinct sending -the blood tingling through his veins. He was -fighting, a thing he had never done since his -school-days, fighting with long, swinging blows, -making scarcely an effort to protect himself, -fighting in an atmosphere indescribable, the -thirst for blood hot in his veins, with one -desire throbbing in his heart—to kill or throw -into the river the man who kept surging up -towards him. It was a vicious face, -fair-complexioned once, but dark now with engine -grease, with bleary eyes, mouth wide open all -the time, disclosing a broken row of hideous -sickly-looking teeth. But for the man's evil -life he would have disposed of his opponent -with his first few blows, for he had been in -his day a bruiser of some repute, but Aaron -Rodd knew no pain, felt no fear, and he was -the first conqueror. Through sheer fortune, -hitting wildly with all his strength, his long -right arm landed full on the point of his -assailant's jaw. The man went over with a -sickening crash. Sid, who was sparring still -with Jacob Potts, leaned for a moment downwards. -</p> - -<p> -"Lay her down in the boat and come up, -one of you," he shouted. "Bill's done in. -Get down and let the other boys through. -They're at the gate. We'll finish off these -blighters then." -</p> - -<p> -One of the men, who had been stepping into -the boat, turned back. Suddenly there was -a scream from below and Aaron Rodd knew -that his had been no dream. The voice was -Henriette's. -</p> - -<p> -"Help! Help!" she cried. -</p> - -<p> -Her voice was smothered but Aaron Rodd's -shout rang through the night. -</p> - -<p> -"We're here, Henriette! We'll rescue you. -Hold on." -</p> - -<p> -Then there was the sound of a mighty splash. -The poet, who had suddenly closed with his -man, had got him to the very edge of the -wharf. Apparently one or both had lost their -balance. For a moment the fighting ceased. -Every one listened. A few yards away they -could hear the long, level strokes of a man -swimming—one man only. Then Jacob Potts' -voice broke the tense silence. -</p> - -<p> -"I'm—I'm done," he moaned. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd, who had been waiting for the -two men running up the steps, swung round. -A peaceful man all his life, he was suddenly -a fiend. He seized the electric torch from his -pocket and brought it down with all his strength -on the head of Jacob Potts' opponent. The -man fell over with scarcely a cry, just as the -publican reeled backwards. The realisation -of what had happened gave him a moment's -extra strength. -</p> - -<p> -"You've done him, sir," he faltered. "Can -you keep those other two off for a moment -whilst I get my wind? That brute—hit me—below -the belt. I forgot he wouldn't fight fair. -Mind this little one. He'll trip you." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd turned almost with a laugh to -meet his two assailants. It seemed to him -that there was a new joy in the world. He -whirled the torch over his head, missed the -skull of the nearest of the new-comers and -brought it crashing on to his shoulder. At the -same time he himself received a fierce blow -from the second man, staggered, tripped and -recovered himself. The whole place went round. -He put his hands up for a moment before his -head, felt them battered down, struck wildly -again and again. One of his blows went home -with a sickening thud and the joy of it thrilled -him. Both men were closing in upon him, -however. On the other side of the wharf they -could hear the gate being rattled. There was a -low whistle, twice repeated. The man from -the boat shouted. -</p> - -<p> -"Climb the gate, boys." -</p> - -<p> -"There's more of 'em," Jacob Potts gasped. -"Keep it up for a moment, Mr. Rodd. I'm -coming in to help you." -</p> - -<p> -Then there was another hush, ominous, in a -sense mysterious. There was a sound which -conveyed little enough to Aaron Rodd, but -which the others recognised promptly enough—the -long, mechanical swing of oars. Without -a second's hesitation, Aaron's two assailants -turned and ran, fleet-footed and silent, off the -wharf, and vanished somewhere in the darkness. -The gate was rattled no more and from -up the street came the sound of flying footsteps. -Jacob Potts began to sob. -</p> - -<p> -"It's the police—the river police! That -ever I should be glad to welcome 'em! Get -down to the boat, Mr. Rodd. My God, what's -come to you, sir!" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd walked from one side of the -quay to the other like a drunken man. There -were all manner of stars in front of him. He -gripped hold of the rope and stole down the -steps. He was suddenly steadied by a great -excitement. With a black shawl torn back -from her head in that last struggle, her feet -and hands tied together, the remains of a gag -hanging from her mouth, her face livid, her -eyes full of horrible fear, lay Henriette. She -saw him swaying over her, gripping the end of -the rope, his face streaming with blood but with -all manner of things in his eyes, and she made -a little movement, tried to hold up her hands, -tried even to smile. -</p> - -<p> -"Oh, thank God! Thank God!" -</p> - -<p> -The sound of the oars was no longer -audible. A long boat, crowded with men in -dark uniform, came gliding out of the shadows. -A boat-hook gripped the side of the quay. -The poet, looking like a drowned retriever, -stood up in the bows and cheered lustily. -One of the uniformed men, who seemed to be -an inspector, flashed a lantern upon the scene. -</p> - -<p> -"What's wrong here?" he asked quickly. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd kneeled upon the slippery steps -and pointed to the girl. One of the men -clambered into the boat and cut the ropes. -They half carried her up on to the wharf. The -policemen followed. They flashed lanterns -around. The man Sid was lying on his side, -motionless. Aaron Rodd's first assailant was -tying in a doubled-up heap, moaning to himself. -Mr. Jacob Potts was just beginning to -recover himself. -</p> - -<p> -"So you're in this, are you, Potts?" the -inspector remarked grimly. "The boys -broken loose, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -"Just a little scrap," the publican groaned. -</p> - -<p> -Then Aaron Rodd was suddenly aware of a -new sensation. He felt a pair of warm arms -thrown around his neck. The poet, who had -been shaking himself like a dripping dog, sprang -to his side. The sky came down and the planks -beneath his feet seemed jumping towards his -throat. But Aaron Rodd, though the world -around him was fading fast from his consciousness, -had found new things and he was quite happy. -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p><a id="chap05"></a></p> - -<h3> -<span class="chap1"><i>Chapter V</i></span> <span class="chap2"><i>The Mysterious Assistant</i></span> -</h3> - -<p> -Abraham Letchowiski stood in the doorway -of his small but brilliantly lit shop in one of the -broad thoroughfares leading out of the Mile -End Road, and beamed upon the Saturday -night passers-by. He was, in his way, a -picturesque looking object—patriarchal, almost -biblical. He wore a long, rusty-black -frock-coat, from which the buttons had long since -departed, but which hung in straight lines -about his tall, spare form. His dishevelled -grey beard reached to the third button of his -waistcoat. His horn-rimmed spectacles were -pushed back to his forehead. Every now and -then he harangued a likely-looking couple in -mild and persuasive accents. -</p> - -<p> -"Young shentleman, shtop von minute. -Bring the beautiful young lady inside. I am -selling sheap to-night, very very sheap. Young -shentleman, you want a real diamond ring? -I have the sheapest diamond rings in the vorld. -I am Letchowiski, the gem merchant. You -bring your moniesh to me. You get better -value than anyvere in Vitechapel or the Vest -End. Come inside, my tears." -</p> - -<p> -A few of the passers-by answered him with -chaff. One or two of the more forward of the -girls threw him a kiss. Old father Letchowiski -on a Saturday night was a familiar feature of -the dingy marketing thoroughfare, but to-night -more than one fancied that his heart was -not in it. Presently, during a lull, he turned -back into his shop, fingered lovingly a few of -his wares, gewgaws of the most glaring -description, and then turned to a small boy who -stood behind the counter, a remarkable, -cross-eyed youth, standing little higher than the -counter, with black hair, a narrow face and -sallow complexion. -</p> - -<p> -"David, you call me the moment anyone -puts their head in the shop. You hear? Call -loudly." -</p> - -<p> -"All right, granfer," the boy replied. "Can -I go to the door and shout at them?" -</p> - -<p> -"If you like," the old gentleman agreed -tolerantly. "If you sell anything, perhaps I -give you a little commission." -</p> - -<p> -A beatific smile spread over the boy's face -as he scrambled under the counter. Abraham -Letchowiski opened a door which led into the -rear of the premises, drew aside the curtain and -peered for a moment back again through the -shop into the street, over the head of the small -boy, who with outstretched hands was making -the night hideous with cries of fervid invitation. -Then he dropped the curtain, descended -two stairs, passed through a small, ill-ventilated -sitting-room, the table of which was laid for a -homely meal, on through another door, and -along a dark passage. Through a further door -at the end came a chink of brilliant light. He -knocked twice softly and stepped inside. A -man with a tired, livid face, his clothing -covered by a long smock, heavy spectacles -disfiguring his features, was stooping over a -tiny lathe. The soft whir of a dynamo from -a corner purred insistently. A brilliant -droplight from the ceiling was lowered almost over -the bench. Something glittered in the white -hands of the workman as he turned around -with a little start. -</p> - -<p> -"Letchowiski!" he muttered. "Well?" -</p> - -<p> -"Finish for to-night," Letchowiski whispered -imploringly. "All the evening I have -been uneasy. Just now I stand in my doorway -and I shout my wares and my eyes search. -There is a man in the clothing shop opposite. -He pretends to deal with Hyam for a suit, but -I see him often with his eyes turned this way. -He is like the man of whom you have told -me—the man Brodie." -</p> - -<p> -The artificer did not hesitate for a moment. -He looked in the mirror opposite to him and -straightened a little more naturally the coal -black hair which only an artist could have -arranged. With his foot he stopped the -dynamo. From a cupboard opposite to him -he brought out a dozen cheap watches and -spread them around. One of these he proceeded -with neat fingers to take to pieces. -</p> - -<p> -"It is well to be careful, Abraham Letchowiski," -he agreed softly. "Go back to the -shop. Is supper ready?" -</p> - -<p> -"There is a little cold fish upon the table," -Letchowiski replied. "It is useless to wait -for Rosa. We will sit down, you and I, when -you wish." -</p> - -<p> -A faint flicker of disgust crossed the face of -the listener. He watched the disappearing -figure of the old man. Then he half closed his eyes. -</p> - -<p> -"It is the end," he reminded himself softly. -"All that remains is to get away." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Harvey Grimm took off his overalls and -looked at himself carefully in the glass. He -was wearing a well-worn blue serge suit, a -flannel shirt and collar, a faded wisp of blue -tie. His black hair was plastered down on to -his forehead, ending on one side in a little -curl, after the fashion of the neighbourhood. -The man was so consummate an actor that his -very cast of features seemed to have assumed -a Semitic aspect. He readjusted his spectacles, -busied himself at the bench for a few more -minutes, covered over the dynamo, and finally -made his way stealthily into the shop. He -paused for a moment with his hand upon the -counter, listening to the old man who stood -in the doorway. His fingers played with a -tray of atrocious-looking pieces of cut-glass, -set in common brass. Abraham Letchowiski, -in one of his pauses for breath, glanced around -and saw him. -</p> - -<p> -"You have finished?" he asked eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -"Finished," was the quiet reply. "Let us -eat together." -</p> - -<p> -The jeweller abandoned his place, which was -promptly taken by the small boy. -</p> - -<p> -"You go and have your supper, granfer," -he begged. "I do some good business." -</p> - -<p> -"Aren't you hungry?" the old man asked -affectionately. -</p> - -<p> -The small boy shook his head. -</p> - -<p> -"I rather stay here and do business," he -declared. "Young shentleman went by just -now wants diamond ring to give to the lady. -He promised to come back." -</p> - -<p> -They left him standing upon the threshold, -eager and expectant, and took their places in -the musty little room before the fragment of -cold fish, at which Harvey Grimm glanced for -a moment in disgust. They had barely settled -down before the door was thrown vigorously -open. A tall, dark young woman, dressed in -all the finery of the neighbourhood, swung -into the room. She held out her cheek to her -grandfather, but her bold black eyes rested -upon Harvey Grimm. -</p> - -<p> -"What a supper!" she exclaimed scornfully. -"And after I've been away for nearly ten -days, too! You don't expect me to eat this, -do you?" -</p> - -<p> -"Sit down, my dear, and take a little," the -old man begged nervously. "If I had been -sure that you had been coming—but we are -never sure of you, Rosa. We expected you -last Saturday, but you never came." -</p> - -<p> -"Pooh! that is your own look-out," the -girl declared. "You are rolling in money, -grandfather, and you live like a pauper. I -wonder your young men stay," she added, -showing a row of white teeth as she beamed -upon Harvey Grimm. "I'm sure I shouldn't, -unless you treated me better than this." -</p> - -<p> -"If you like, my dear," Abraham Letchowiski -suggested, "I will go out and buy some fruit." -</p> - -<p> -She pushed him back in his place. -</p> - -<p> -"Sit still," she ordered. "I will eat with -you what there is. Afterwards we will see." -</p> - -<p> -They proceeded with their very scanty meal. -The girl talked loudly about her situation in -the great tailoring establishment, dwelt on the -fact that she had just been made forewoman -over one of the departments, invited their -admiration of the cut of her skirt, standing -boldly up, with her arms akimbo, to display -the better the allurements of her luxurious -figure, her eyes flashing provocatively the -whole of the time. Harvey Grimm, who had -been at first silent and unresponsive, seemed -suddenly to fall a victim to her charms. He -met her more than half-way in the flirtation -which she so obviously desired. They were -seated arm in arm, whispering together, his -lips very close to her flushed cheek, when the -little door leading to the shop was suddenly -opened. Paul Brodie stood there, looking -down upon them, and behind him another -man, also in plain clothes. -</p> - -<p> -There was a brief and somewhat curious -silence. The two new-comers seemed content -with a close scrutiny of the dingy, odoriferous -apartment. It was Abraham Letchowiski who -first spoke. He rose to his feet and leaned -over the table. The hand which lowered his -spectacles on to his nose was shaking. -</p> - -<p> -"Vat you vant here?" he demanded. -</p> - -<p> -"Sorry to disturb you, sir," Brodie said -pleasantly, bowing towards Rosa. "We want -to search your premises. Don't be alarmed. -Unless you have something to conceal we shall -do you no harm, and we'll take care of all your -treasures." -</p> - -<p> -"But who are you, then?" the old man -persisted. "Vy should you search my -premises? I have done nothing wrong. I -have lived honest always." -</p> - -<p> -"That's all right," Brodie declared -soothingly. "We ain't going to hurt you any." -</p> - -<p> -"You know me, Mr. Letchowiski," the other -man observed. "My name's Bone—John -Bone. I am the detective attached to the -police-station around the corner. We won't -worry you any more than we're obliged to, -but on this gentleman's information we are -bound just to have a look round." -</p> - -<p> -"But my pizness—it' will be ruined!" -Abraham Letchowiski cried, wringing his hands. -"If my customers know, they will never -believe again that I am an honest man. I -shall be ruined! They will come no more near -my shop!" -</p> - -<p> -"Nothing of the sort," the detective assured -him. "I have only left one man outside and -he is in plain clothes. We can search this -room and the bedroom and your workshop, -without attracting anyone's attention. Come, -Mr. Letchowiski, you and I know one another." -</p> - -<p> -The old man was still vociferous in his -expressions of dismay. -</p> - -<p> -"I am seventy-three years old," he moaned. -"I have never been in trouble. I am honest, -just as honest as a man can be." -</p> - -<p> -"Then keep your hands exactly as they are -now," Brodie told him. "So!" -</p> - -<p> -With the ease of experience he ran his fingers -over the old man's clothing, searching him -from head to foot. -</p> - -<p> -"Well, I never!" Rosa exclaimed, her eyes -flashing angrily. "Fancy treating an old man -like that! Is anyone going to try to do it to -me, I should like to know? They'll feel my -fingernails, if they do." -</p> - -<p> -"It will not be necessary," John Bone -replied politely. "We watched you enter." -</p> - -<p> -"What you looking for?" she asked, her -curiosity getting the better of her anger. -</p> - -<p> -"Ah!" the detective murmured. "Is this -your assistant, Mr. Letchowiski?" he went on. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm rose slowly to his feet and -held out his hands. -</p> - -<p> -"I am not an assistant of anybody's," he -declared, and his voice seemed to have -undergone an extraordinary change. "My name is -Ed. Levy, and I am a skilled watchmaker." -</p> - -<p> -John Bone searched him briefly from head -to foot. All the while, Brodie was going round -the apartment. Cupboards were peered into, -ornaments turned upside down, the boards and -walls tapped, every possible hiding-place -ransacked. John Bone disappeared for a few -minutes up the stairs, and they heard his -heavy tramp in the bedroom above. As soon -as he had returned, the two men made their -way towards the inner door. -</p> - -<p> -"Come with us down to the workshop, -Abraham Letchowiski," the detective invited. -</p> - -<p> -"Vot you want me for?" the old man asked -querulously. -</p> - -<p> -"Never mind. Come along with us. We -may have questions to ask." -</p> - -<p> -They disappeared, the old jeweller groaning -in the rear. As they passed through the door, -Paul Brodie glanced for a moment back. The -young man, who had called himself Ed. Levy, -had passed his arm once more through Rosa's. -Their faces were close together. An amorous -grin had parted the young man's lips and he -was whispering in the girl's ear. Brodie smiled -at his half-conceived suspicion, as he turned -away. Rosa and her grandfather's assistant -were left alone. -</p> - -<p> -"What you think?" she asked him. "Has -grandfather been doing anything, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -"Not he," was the confident reply. "Abraham -Letchowiski is too old and too clever to -run such risks at his time of life. Besides, he -has plenty of money." -</p> - -<p> -Rosa assented. She was apparently convinced -of her grandfather's probity. -</p> - -<p> -"You're right," she declared. "He has got -plenty of money, and no one to leave it to -except David and me. A nice dowry for me, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -"Lucky girl!" Harvey Grimm sighed. -</p> - -<p> -"These young men—they know it," she -went on. "There's Mr. Hyam, from opposite, -and the two Solomons. But I don't like -them—they're too clumsy. I like you." -</p> - -<p> -He held her hand tighter. She presented for -his examination her fingers, exposing a very -large and brilliant ring and a massive gold -bracelet. -</p> - -<p> -"I love jewellery," she confided. "Isn't -that beautiful? Some day you give me a -ring, eh, and I wear it—which finger you like -me to wear it on?" -</p> - -<p> -"Some day," he promised, "when I am -earning a little more, I will give you a jewel -that will make all the girls in your workshop -mad with envy." -</p> - -<p> -"If you want to earn more money," she -asked, "why do you work for grandfather? -All the young men make jokes about him. -He never pays anyone half what they are -worth." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm nodded mysteriously. -</p> - -<p> -"You wait," he told her. "I never stay -long anywhere. I am a journeyman repairer. -I earn more money that way. I have about -finished here now." -</p> - -<p> -"To-night," the girl whispered, "you take -me to a cinema palace. There's a fine one at -the corner of the street. If you like," she added -with a sigh, "I pay for my own seat." -</p> - -<p> -He hesitated for a moment. Then he smiled. -</p> - -<p> -"We will start directly these men have -gone," he promised, "and I will pay for both." -</p> - -<p> -"That is better," she acquiesced, with an air -of relief. "It is always better for the -gentleman to pay. Tell me," she went on, a little -abruptly, "what do they look for, these men? -They are a long time in the workshop." -</p> - -<p> -"It is always the same," he told her. -"Wherever I go, I find it. There are always -robberies, day by day, up in the West End, and -they think there is nowhere else the stones can -be brought and sold but in this neighbourhood. -Every little jeweller's shop from here to the -far end of the Mile End Road is ransacked. -This is the second time they have visited us." -</p> - -<p> -"Then they are very foolish people," Rosa -declared. "Grandfather wouldn't buy anything -that was stolen. He is too nervous. He -has no courage. Yet," she went on thoughtfully, -"if he is really as rich as they say he is, -one wonders how he makes it all out of this -poky little shop." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm nodded his head many times -in wise fashion. -</p> - -<p> -"A very clever man, Abraham Letchowiski," -he declared. "Oh, I know many things! -Those brooches he sells hundreds of at a -shilling each—they cost one halfpenny. The -engagement rings with the rubies or -sapphires—you take your choice—nine shillings he -charges for those, tenpence halfpenny they -cost him. Money comes soon when one can -persuade people to buy. Then he lends money -everywhere, when it is safe. Many of these -tradespeople in the street owe him money. -Hush! They are coming back. After the -cinema, perhaps, we have a little supper -together, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -She hugged his arm affectionately, which -was precisely what he meant her to do. The -entrance of the three men found them engaged -in amorous whisperings. Brodie scarcely -glanced in their direction. He was frowning -sullenly. -</p> - -<p> -"Just a few minutes in the shop, Mr. Letchowiski," -the detective said, "and we'll -move on and leave you in peace." -</p> - -<p> -They passed up the two steps and through -the little door, which they closed behind them. -Harvey Grimm for a moment seemed to -forget his companion. He rose to his feet and -stealthily crept to the curtained window. He -stood there, peering through a chink into the -shop. It was becoming difficult now to retain -that wonderful composure. The hand which -had stolen into his trousers pocket was tightly -clenched upon a small, hard object. -</p> - -<p> -"Why do you watch there?" Rosa -demanded petulantly. "Come back to me. -Grandfather will be here directly." -</p> - -<p> -Her new admirer made no reply. His eyes -were riveted upon Paul Brodie, who held in -his hands the little tray, piled with abominable -gewgaws. Presently he set it down again upon -the counter. Harvey Grimm bit his lip until -the blood came. -</p> - -<p> -"Why do you bother about those stupid -men?" she protested. "Come back here, or -I shall come to you." -</p> - -<p> -He heard her rise with a great rustle. He -felt the odour of patchouli and cheap sachets -about him. She crept to his side just as the -shop door opened and the two men went out. -Then he turned and kissed her full on the red, -pouting lips. She giggled hysterically for her -grandfather had just pushed open the curtained -door and was standing looking down upon -them. He stamped his foot, shook his head -and raised his hands. -</p> - -<p> -"You kiss my granddaughter—you?" he cried. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm held out his finger. The old -man suddenly stopped. He crossed the room -towards his high-backed chair and sank back -with a little sigh of relief. -</p> - -<p> -"I am too old for excitement like this," he -mumbled. "I am getting very old." -</p> - -<p> -Rosa turned towards him. -</p> - -<p> -"Mr. Levy is going to take me to a picture -palace, grandfather," she announced. "Would -you like me to call and ask Mr. Hyam to come -across and sit with you?" -</p> - -<p> -The old man shook his head. -</p> - -<p> -"No, no!" he replied. "It would mean -coffee for two and I have no money. You go -to the cinema with Mr. Levy and enjoy yourself, -my dear. These men have terrified me. I am -old—too old. I shall go to Deucher's and get -some coffee by myself. Come and get your -supper," he cried through the open door to -the boy. "I will come into the shop for a -little time." -</p> - -<p> -The boy came reluctantly from behind the -counter and pushed past his cousin and her -escort into the sitting-room. Rosa turned -back to speak to him for a minute and Harvey -Grimm was alone in the shop. He stretched -out his hand towards the tray of gewgaws, -and a little shower of its contents slipped -into his overcoat pocket. Presently Rosa -reappeared, drawing on her gloves. -</p> - -<p> -"We go now," she declared. "Walk slowly -out of the shop. I like Mr. Hyam to see us, -from opposite. He is always bothering me to -go out with him. I like you best. There! -This way." -</p> - -<p> -They made a very deliberate progress along -the crowded street until they reached the -cinema palace. Harvey Grimm paid for -sixpenny seats, and sat arm in arm with Rosa in -an atmosphere which seemed to reek of fried -fish, rank tobacco smoke and cheap scent. -His left hand held her purposely ungloved -fingers inside her muff. His right hand toyed -with forty thousand pounds' worth of diamonds -thrust into common settings which sometimes -pricked his fingers. When the performance -was over they left, still arm in arm. -</p> - -<p> -"Rosa," he announced, "to-night I give -you a treat. I tell you a secret as well. I am -leaving your grandfather's. I have a much -better place. I have saved money, too." -</p> - -<p> -She clung to him in unrestrained affection. -</p> - -<p> -"How much?" she whispered. -</p> - -<p> -"Never mind," he replied. "Maybe three -hundred pounds, maybe more. To-night I -have the spending fit upon me. We take a -taxicab and we drive together up west. I give -you some supper at the Monico." -</p> - -<p> -She drew a little breath of delight. Suddenly -she was serious. -</p> - -<p> -"Let us go by the Tube," she suggested. -"We shall save three shillings towards the -supper. You can buy me a bottle of scent -with that." -</p> - -<p> -He laughed and handed her into the taxicab -which he had already hailed, directed the man -to drive to the Monico and stepped in by her -side. -</p> - -<p> -"I can buy you a bottle of scent all right," -he assured her, "and in here, don't you see, -we are quite alone, Rosa. In the restaurant -there will be people." -</p> - -<p> -"We might have had the taxicab home," -she sighed, her head upon his shoulder. -</p> - -<p> -"Listen," he explained, "after supper I -pay for your taxicab, if you will, but I must -leave you. I have to see a man on business -at half-past eleven. It is my new employer." -</p> - -<p> -For a moment she drew away and looked at -him doubtfully. -</p> - -<p> -"On business at half-past eleven?" she -repeated. "What is your business? Are you -an honest man, Ed. Levy, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -"I am as honest as your grandfather," he -answered, "and listen, I am clever. I can -make money—make it quickly." -</p> - -<p> -She sat a little closer to him and with her -own fingers drew his arm around her waist. -</p> - -<p> -"Shall we be married soon?" she whispered. -"Grandfather must die some day soon, and -there's no one knows how much money he's -got. David and I will have it all." -</p> - -<p> -"We'll talk about that," Harvey Grimm -promised. -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p> -At a few minutes after twelve on the following -morning, Harvey Grimm, very spruce and -very debonair, pushed open the swing-doors -of the small smoking-room of the Milan, and -crossed the room with the obvious intention -of proceeding towards the bar. A little -welcoming chorus assailed him from a circular -lounge in the right-hand corner of the room. -Seated there were four of his friends whom at -first he scarcely recognised. There was Aaron -Rodd with his arm in a sling, a piece of -sticking-plaster on his forehead and a thick stick by -his side; the poet, with a bandaged head and -a shade over his eye; Henriette, looking a -little fragile but very animated; and her -brother, still in uniform, leaning back in an -easy chair by her side. Harvey Grimm stared -at them all in blank and ever-increasing -astonishment. -</p> - -<p> -"Has there been an earthquake?" he asked, -as he shook hands and exchanged greetings -with everybody, "or have I, in my country -seclusion, missed a scrap?" -</p> - -<p> -"You have missed the scrap of your life," -Cresswell replied eagerly. "You have saved -your skin at the expense of untold glory." -</p> - -<p> -"Tell me about it," the new-comer begged, -as he took his place in the little circle. -</p> - -<p> -"Where can one find words?" the poet -began expansively. "It was an Homeric sight, -a battle royal! It took place in the darkness, -upon a slippery wooden wharf, with the black -waters of the river beneath, and murderous -parasites assailing us on every side. It was -an epic of biffing, the glorious triumph of the -unfit over the river-side apache. And let me -tell you this, my friend Harvey—for an -untrained fighter the world doesn't hold a man -who can hit so quickly and so hard as our -newly established hero, Mr. Aaron Rodd. I -have decided that he has earned immortality. -I am composing a poem which I shall dedicate -to him." -</p> - -<p> -"Could I hear what it was all about?" -Harvey Grimm asked meekly. -</p> - -<p> -"Me," Henrietta sighed. -</p> - -<p> -Then they told their story, all of them in -turn, except Brinnen, supplying details. -Towards the end, however, the poet took up the -running and finished alone. -</p> - -<p> -"His face," the latter declared, gripping -Aaron Rodd by the arm, "was like a pastel in -white chalk against the soft background of -velvety blackness. Heaven lit the burning -light in his eyes. The swing of his right arm -was like the pendulum of fate——" -</p> - -<p> -"Oh, keep this rot for the poem!" Aaron -Rodd interrupted forcibly. "If you want to -gas, what about your own swim to the river -police-station?" -</p> - -<p> -"A series of truly Homeric episodes," the -poet assented, with a gentle sigh. "My pen -shall give them immortality. I shall not forget -to allude to the part which I, too, played in -this drama of fog and river. The water was -very cold," he added, suddenly finishing his -cocktail. -</p> - -<p> -"And our friend from the country?" -Brinnen asked quietly. "How has he fared?" -</p> - -<p> -There was a breathless silence. Harvey -Grimm nodded slightly. He glanced around -the room, of which they were the only -occupants. Both doors were closed. -</p> - -<p> -"All is well," he announced softly. "I -returned last night. The business is finished." -</p> - -<p> -"How much?" Brinnen enquired eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -"There will be forty-five thousand pounds. -I could not draw it all last night, but it will be -paid within a week. I have nine thousand -with me. Six of that I will hand over at any -moment you please." -</p> - -<p> -"There is no one in the room," Brinnen -murmured suggestively. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm drew out a pocket-book, -ran some notes through his fingers, and passed -them over to Brinnen. Once more the latter -glanced around the room. Then with his left -hand he produced from the pocket of his coat -a necklace of brilliants, one of which, the -centre one, seemed to shine with a faint, rosy -light. -</p> - -<p> -"Better see what you can do with that," he -remarked, tossing it lightly across. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm held the necklace for a -moment in his fingers before he slipped it into -the concealment of his pocket. During that -moment he caught an impression of Henriette's -eyes, full of amazement, fixed upon it. She -turned towards her brother. -</p> - -<p> -"Leopold," she exclaimed wonderingly, "I -do not remember——" -</p> - -<p> -He brushed her words aside. -</p> - -<p> -"You have not seen all," he told her -significantly. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm rang the bell. -</p> - -<p> -"I warn you," he said, "that it will be a -few days before I can abandon civilisation -again, even for a task like this." -</p> - -<p> -Brinnen moved uneasily in his chair. -</p> - -<p> -"It is work, this," he pointed out, "which -carries with it a special urgency. Remember -that its results will last for a lifetime." -</p> - -<p> -"Quite true," was the somewhat grudging -admission. "It also means great risks. I -have been as near the end of things, within the -last twenty-four hours, as I care to be." -</p> - -<p> -The waiter appeared with a tray full of -cocktails. Harvey Grimm accepted his and -leaned back in his chair with a beatific aspect. -</p> - -<p> -"This," he murmured, "is one of the -decadent luxuries denied to me in my country -seclusion. Like many other things in life, it is -almost worth while to lose it for a time, for the -sake——" -</p> - -<p> -He broke off in his speech. They all leaned -a little forward in their chairs. From a side -door at the further end of the apartment, -leading to the private suites in the hotel, a -lift man suddenly appeared, with a valet -upon his heels. They crossed the room with -almost feverish haste. They were obviously -distressed. A small boy followed, a moment -or two later, with face as pale as death. -There was a confused murmur of voices just -outside the glass door leading to the main -portion of the hotel, and a moment afterwards -they reappeared with the manager between -them, all talking excitedly at the same time. -Then the door opened once more and a woman, -tall and dark, in a long dressing-gown of green -silk, rushed in. She threw out her hands -towards the manager. -</p> - -<p> -"Send for the police!" she cried. "My -husband—he is murdered! ... and my jewels—they -are all stolen! The police, do you hear?" -</p> - -<p> -They all vanished through the distant door, -the woman clinging to the manager's arm -and talking excitedly all the time. The little -party looked at one another. -</p> - -<p> -"That was Madame de Borria, the wife of -the South American millionaire," Harvey -Grimm said slowly. -</p> - -<p> -"The woman who wears the necklace with -the rose diamond!" Henriette exclaimed -breathlessly. -</p> - -<p> -Then there was a queer, tense silence. -Captain Brinnen lifted his glass to his lips and -finished his cocktail. -</p> - -<p> -"There is more than one rose diamond in -the world," he observed coolly. -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p><a id="chap06"></a></p> - -<h3> -<span class="chap1"><i>Chapter VI</i></span> <span class="chap2"><i>Paul Brodie Strikes</i></span> -</h3> - -<p> -Mr. Jacob Potts, blowing very hard, and with -his tongue protruding from the corner of his -mouth, finished an elaborate signature, patted -his waistcoat pocket, in which he had just -deposited a cheque, laid down the pen, and, -leaning back in his chair, crossed his legs. He -was once more occupying the distinguished -position of being Aaron Rodd's only client. -</p> - -<p> -"I never thought to do it," he declared. -"I never thought to part with 'The Sailor-boys' -while I was, so to speak, in the prime -of life. It's 'aving the lads turn agin me that's -done it. It shows, Mr. Rodd," he added -impressively, "what money will do in this -world." -</p> - -<p> -"Financially," Aaron Rodd reminded him, -"you are independent, absolutely independent -of work." -</p> - -<p> -"I know, but what's a man to do?" Mr. Potts -replied with a sigh. "There was plenty -down there always to keep me occupied, and -those lads—well, I could have sworn to their -running straight till that blarsted Dutchman -came along. I tell you, Mr. Rodd," he went on, -"I've done some deals in my life, and I've -been up against propositions where money -didn't seem much object. I've 'ad jobs brought -to me which I wouldn't allow my lads to tackle, -where they, in a manner of speaking, thrust a -blank cheque down under my nose, but I never -in my born days knowed money chucked about -like them as was at the back of that Dutchman -was willing to chuck, it about. Why, for an -ordinary job, if my boys got a tenner apiece -they thought themselves on velvet. From wot -Tim, my barman, told me, and he generally -noses out wot there is going abaht, there was -two 'undred quid for each of those boys if they -got the young woman on board. No wonder -they were kind of off their chumps!" -</p> - -<p> -"Where exactly did they mean to take -her?" Aaron Rodd asked. -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Jacob Potts grinned. -</p> - -<p> -"I bet she knows, sir, and I should 'ave -thought she'd told you before this," he -replied. "Give every man 'is due, I say, and -for an amateur that 'ad no more idea than a -babe unborn how to put up his dukes, I must -say you did fairly let into 'em, Mr. Rodd. I -never seed a man lose 'old of 'imself so, in a -manner of speaking, and as for that young -gent as writes poetry, why, I'd make a bruiser -of 'im in six months. 'E don't seem to feel -pain.... And bein' as we're on the subject -of that scrap, sir, are you above taking a word -of advice from an old man?" -</p> - -<p> -"I certainly am not," Aaron Rodd assured him. -</p> - -<p> -"If I was you, I should go a bit quiet with -the young lady and 'er friends," Jacob Potts -said seriously. "I've nowt straightforward to -tell agin 'em, and that's a fact, but a bit here -and a bit there is good enough for a man with -a level head. There's three or four of 'er kidney -in this country, and, if I'm not greatly mistook, -they're wrong 'uns." -</p> - -<p> -"I can't think that the young lady comes -altogether under that designation," Aaron -Rodd protested stiffly. "At the same time, -Mr. Potts, I must admit that her associations -are mysterious." -</p> - -<p> -"Steer clear of them, sir, and take an old -man's advice," the ex-publican begged. "I've -'ad things 'inted to me about them that I -shouldn't like altogether to put into words——" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd saw his client out and found an -old friend ascending the staircase. Harvey -Grimm was whistling softly to himself, his hat -was at its usual jaunty angle, his violets were -as fresh as ever, his clothes as carefully brushed. -Only his expression was different. He was -almost serious. He took Aaron by the arm. -</p> - -<p> -"Put on your hat, my friend," he said. "We -will walk for a little time." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron obeyed and they made their way down -to the Embankment Gardens. -</p> - -<p> -"Listen," Harvey Grimm began, looking -around to be sure that no passers-by were -within hearing distance, "there is such a thing -as tempting Fate a little too far. I think we -have come to the point when we had better -draw in." -</p> - -<p> -"Explain yourself, please," his companion -begged. -</p> - -<p> -"During the last few weeks," Harvey Grimm -proceeded, "I have broken up and cut into -different shapes nearly a hundred thousand -pounds' worth of diamonds. I have actually -handled nearly eighty thousand pounds in -money. You and I are fifteen thousand pounds -each to the good. Our friends want to go on. -Frankly, I've got the funks. I'd like to cry -off for a time." -</p> - -<p> -"That doesn't sound like you," Aaron remarked. -</p> - -<p> -"Perhaps not," his friend admitted. "All -the same, I've no fancy for thrusting my neck -into the noose. Brodie doesn't even know it -himself, but he was hot on the scent last time, -He found out, somehow or other, the very -house in which I was living. We were in the -same room. He even had me searched. Once -I saw him stare. I thought it was all up. Then -his suspicion passed. It was just the way one -of the Jewish girls down there had accepted -me which put him off, but I tell you, Aaron, -it was touch and go. Then the diamonds -themselves—there was a stroke of genius there -of which I am proud. I hadn't long to do it -either. Where do you think I hid them?" -</p> - -<p> -"No idea." -</p> - -<p> -"Of course you haven't! Listen. I had -set them roughly, in common brass fittings, -like a pile of common brooches that were being -sold, and I mixed them all up together, let -them lie there on the counter of the little -jeweller's shop where I have been doing my -work and where I was hiding. Brodie took up -some and let them fall through his fingers. I -tell you that was the closest shave of my life!" -</p> - -<p> -"I think we should be wise to drop it," -Aaron declared earnestly. "We are off the -rocks now, Harvey. I am content with what -I've got." -</p> - -<p> -"That's how I'm feeling," the other assented, -"and yet there's this last necklace. It seems -rather playing it low-down on Brinnen not to -get rid of that for him. You see, unless it's -broken up quickly, it's more dangerous stuff -to handle than the others." -</p> - -<p> -"Why?" Aaron demanded. -</p> - -<p> -"Don't be foolish," Harvey Grimm admonished, -a little impatiently. "There's the -hotel where it was stolen, right in front of you. -Here am I with the necklace, a hundred yards -away. There's Brinnen on the same floor. -There's Madame de Borria—why, it's a -dare-devil piece of work, anyway." -</p> - -<p> -"You don't mean that it's Madame de -Borria's necklace you've got?" Aaron Rodd -groaned. -</p> - -<p> -"Of course it is!" Harvey Grimm replied, -a little testily. "You saw it yesterday, didn't -you? There it is in my overcoat pocket, the -pocket nearest you, at the present moment." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd paused abruptly before a bench -and sat down. It was quite close to where he -had first seen Henriette. -</p> - -<p> -"Look here," he said, "for God's sake, -Harvey, jump into a taxi at Charing-Cross -there and take the thing off somewhere." -</p> - -<p> -"Take it off?" was the grim response. -"I'd give a cool hundred to be rid of it at this -minute. The trouble is that if I make a single -move in the direction of any of my haunts, the -whole thing will be blown upon." -</p> - -<p> -"You mean that you are being followed?" -</p> - -<p> -"Brodie hasn't been fifty yards away from -me since nine o'clock," Harvey Grimm -muttered. "Madame de Borria saw him -yesterday, just after the theft, and he -persuaded her to put the matter into his hands. -See that window—the end one but three on the -top storey but two?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron looked up to where the spotless white -front of the Milan gleamed through the budding -trees. -</p> - -<p> -"I see it," he admitted. -</p> - -<p> -"That is the window of Madame de Borria. -Now count five windows to the left and one -down—that is my room. Now up again, and -two on to the right, and you come to the -apartments of Captain Brinnen, known to -Paul Brodie as the redoubtable Jeremiah -Sands. When you add to these geographical -coincidences the fact that the necklace is at -the present moment in my pocket, and that -I can't move a yard without being followed, -you will understand that one needs all one's -wits this morning. We are getting just a little -near the bone." -</p> - -<p> -"Nearer than you imagine, perhaps," Aaron -Rodd whispered. "Here's Brodie." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm was, for a moment, curiously -still. His frame seemed to have stiffened into -a sort of rigid attention. One felt that his -brain was working with the same concentrated -force. He neither moved nor looked in the -direction which his companion had indicated. -Instead he leaned a little further back in the -corner of the seat and lit a cigarette. -</p> - -<p> -"One needs to remember," he murmured, -"that it is really quite a long time since I -have seen this unwelcome intruder upon our -privacy." -</p> - -<p> -Brodie came strolling along the asphalt walk, -puffing out his cheeks and gazing about him, -as though exercise and an interested -contemplation of the river were the sole reason -for his peregrinations. He appeared to -recognise the two men only in the act of passing -them. He at once stopped short and greeted -them in his usual hearty fashion. -</p> - -<p> -"Pleasant little spot, this, for an hour's -recreation," he declared. "I was thinking -about you, by the by, Grimm, as I walked -along." -</p> - -<p> -"I am flattered," was the calm reply. "I -should have thought that all your attention -would have been engrossed upon the little -affair over yonder. I understand that Madame -de Borria has placed the recovery of her -necklace in your hands. Quite a feather in your -cap, my friend, if you succeed." -</p> - -<p> -Brodie glanced casually at the block of -buildings in front. -</p> - -<p> -"Yes," he assented, "I have that on my -mind, of course. By the by, were you going -back to your rooms, by any chance?" -</p> - -<p> -"I was on my way there." -</p> - -<p> -"Come, that's fortunate. With your -permission, we will walk along together." -</p> - -<p> -The two men rose and they all strolled along -towards the hotel. -</p> - -<p> -"Curiously enough," Brodie went on, "I -was wondering whether I should be likely to -run up against you to-day, Grimm. We -wanted to ask your advice, Inspector Ditchwater -and I, about that little affair the night -before last. You heard the particulars, I -suppose?" -</p> - -<p> -"I was in the smoking-room," Harvey -Grimm admitted, "when Madame came -running down in her dressing-gown. Naturally, -we heard the story told a good many times." -</p> - -<p> -"Just so! Madame, it seems," the detective -continued, "heard nothing, knew nothing, -until late in the morning, when her maid told -her that the floor valet was unable to obtain -admittance to her husband's room. She at -once stepped through the communicating door -and found him still unconscious, with the -necklace missing." -</p> - -<p> -"Has he recovered yet?" Harvey Grimm -enquired. "Is he able to give any account of -what happened?" -</p> - -<p> -"I saw him for a few minutes last night," -Brodie replied. "He seemed still very dazed -and confused, but he talked quite coherently. -His story is simple enough and doesn't help us -much. He was fast asleep—he can't even say -at what hour—when he was awakened by the -thrusting of a gag into his mouth and a bandage -over his eyes. He thought at first it was a -nightmare and he tried to spring out of bed. -He was held down, however, quite firmly, and -something placed under his nose which made -him feel just as though, to use his own words, -he was sinking back to sleep again. He -remembers nothing more until the morning, -when he was found by his wife. The moment -they released the gag he was violently sick, -and the room certainly smells ethery." -</p> - -<p> -"What about the necklace?" -</p> - -<p> -"Well, the necklace, for some reason or -other, seems to have been kept in a tin -dispatch-box in his room. It was locked, of course, -but the keys were under his pillow, a fact -which the thief, whoever it was, seems to have -known. The box was simply opened and the -necklace taken." -</p> - -<p> -"It all sounds as though the thief must have -been some one staying in the hotel," Aaron -observed. -</p> - -<p> -The detective smiled pleasantly upon him. -They had left the Gardens now and were -approaching the back entrance to the Milan. -</p> - -<p> -"The legal mind, Mr. Rodd," he remarked—"the -legal mind. Yes, I may say that we -have come to that conclusion ourselves, -Ditchwater and I. Some one staying in the hotel, -we think." -</p> - -<p> -They passed through the mahogany doors -and Brodie rang the bell for the lift. -</p> - -<p> -"By the by, Grimm," he suggested, "have -you any objection—you have so often asked -me to have a look at your rooms here?" -</p> - -<p> -"Delighted, I'm sure," the other assented -cheerfully. "We had better get out on the -restaurant floor and take the lift on the other -side of the café. I am afraid you won't see -them at their best just now. I only returned -yesterday from a week's absence." -</p> - -<p> -"That so?" Brodie murmured. "Say, -these little trips away from town are very -pleasant! I don't seem to be able to get away -from my work often enough. Not that I've -been doing much good," he confessed dolefully, -"during the last few months. Things have -been going rather against me, Grimm. I've -put in a lot of work and it don't seem to have -panned out according to expectations." -</p> - -<p> -"Too bad!" Harvey Grimm sympathised. -"You're up against a genius, though, -Brodie—there's no question about that." -</p> - -<p> -Paul Brodie nodded solemnly. -</p> - -<p> -"I tell you, sir," he declared, "that -Jeremiah Sands is more than a genius. He has the -devil's own luck, too, and I have come to the -conclusion," he added, dropping his voice to a -confidential undertone, "that the young lady -is almost as clever as he is. I don't mind -admitting," he went on, as they passed through -the café and stood waiting for the other lift, -"that at one time, Grimm, I was inclined to -think that you'd put it over me—that little -affair of the faked diamond, you know, when -we tried to make a scoop in Mr. Rodd's office. -I have changed my mind, though. Jerry Sands -was too clever ever to walk into a trap like -that. I guess I did you an injustice there, -Grimm, and you, Mr. Rodd. Things have been -a bit better with you lately, though, haven't -they?" he wound up, a little abruptly. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd raised his eyebrows. He had -the air of one who considered the last remark -impertinent. -</p> - -<p> -"Have they?" he observed coolly. -</p> - -<p> -"No business of mine, of course," Brodie -went on. "Say, is this your floor, Grimm?" -</p> - -<p> -The lift had come to a standstill and they -stepped out. -</p> - -<p> -"My rooms are this way," the latter announced. -</p> - -<p> -The little party traversed a corridor, at the -further end of which Harvey Grimm threw -open a door, leading through a small entrance-hall -into an octagonal sitting-room, having a -pleasant outlook on the Thames. A man was -standing with his back towards them, gazing -out of the window. He turned around at their -entrance. -</p> - -<p> -"Ah, our friend Ditchwater!" Brodie -murmured. "You know Inspector Ditchwater, -don't you, Grimm?" -</p> - -<p> -"I know him, certainly," Harvey Grimm -replied, frowning, "but I can't imagine what -the mischief he is doing in my rooms?" -</p> - -<p> -"Perhaps I ought to have explained," the -detective said apologetically. "We have taken -the liberty, Grimm, of making a few slight -investigations in your apartments." -</p> - -<p> -"The devil you have!" their tenant -exclaimed, gazing through the half-open door -into the inner room. "Is that the reason why -my bedroom seems all upside down?" -</p> - -<p> -"Probably," the detective admitted—"quite -probably. You see," he continued, -"you are, in your way, my friend, an -exceedingly interesting person to the police in -this country, as you were at one time, I -believe, to the police of New York. When a -little affair such as we've been talking about -happens only, as it were, a few yards away -from your rooms, why, naturally, we've some -interest in your doings." -</p> - -<p> -"Have you anything against me?" Harvey -Grimm asked quietly. -</p> - -<p> -"A few questions," the other murmured. -"See here, Grimm," he went on, with a sudden -change of tone, "you've been absent from -town for exactly nine days, until yesterday -morning. Just where have you spent those -nine days?" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm moved to the sideboard and -helped himself to a cigarette from an open box. -</p> - -<p> -"Well," he observed, "I'm hanged if I can -see that that's anybody's business except my -own." -</p> - -<p> -"I will admit, sir," Brodie proceeded, "that -there is, at the present moment, not the -slightest necessity why you should answer that -question—it is, in fact, a matter slightly -removed from the immediate object of our -visit this morning—and yet it is a question -which I am going to press upon you, and -which, should you feel so disposed, Mr. Grimm, -you might possibly answer with great benefit -to yourself. The long and short of it is this. -Is it worth your while to put yourself right -with the authorities and with me, or isn't it? -I tell you, as man to man, I have a theory -of my own about you and your disappearances." -</p> - -<p> -"I should have thought," Harvey Grimm -remarked, after a brief pause, "that Inspector -Ditchwater, having made himself so free with -my apartments, would have been in a position -to have told you everything himself. However, -come this way." -</p> - -<p> -He led them into the bedroom. A portmanteau, -not wholly unpacked, was open upon -the stand. -</p> - -<p> -"My portmanteau," he pointed out, "which, -as you have doubtless already ascertained -from the hall-porter, came back with me the -night before last. There's the label." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Brodie turned it over and examined it. -</p> - -<p> -"Exford," he murmured. -</p> - -<p> -"Just so," Harvey Grimm assented. "Now -what about those two sets of fishing-rods -there?" -</p> - -<p> -The detective fingered the label and read the -address aloud. -</p> - -<p class="quote"> -"'<i>Mr. Harvey Grimm, The Crown -Hotel, Exford.</i>'" -</p> - -<p> -"That, of course," Harvey Grimm continued -drily, "is not evidence, as the label is in my -own handwriting, but you will find that the -golf clubs there bear a railway label, I think." -</p> - -<p> -The detective turned the bag around and -nodded. -</p> - -<p> -"Very interesting," he admitted, "but -Exford—at this time of the year!" -</p> - -<p> -"You're no sportsman, Brodie," Harvey -Grimm said reproachfully, "or you'd know all -about the March trout. Just a moment. -Come back into the sitting-room." -</p> - -<p> -He led the way, searched for a moment on -the sideboard and threw a Daily Mirror on -to the table. Brodie adjusted his eyeglasses. -In the left-hand corner of one of the inner pages -was a small picture of a man fishing, and -underneath:— -</p> - -<p class="quote"> -<i>Fine catch of Mr. Harvey Grimm, a -London sportsman, in the River Ex, -last Monday.</i> -</p> - -<p> -"Quite a good likeness, too," the detective -observed, as he laid down the newspaper. -"Say, this is very interesting, Grimm! It -disposes altogether of one of my theories. I -had no idea that you possessed such simple -tastes. I've done a little sea-fishing myself. -Well, well! Still—now, Ditchwater!—you got -back in time last night to help yourself to -Madame de Borria's necklace!" -</p> - -<p> -It was all an affair of seconds. Ditchwater -had suddenly caught Harvey Grimm's two -arms from behind whilst Brodie's hand had -dived into his coat pocket. The necklace -glittered upon the table. There was a moment's -intense silence. Brodie was breathing quickly. -There was a gleam of triumph in his eyes. -</p> - -<p> -"Dear me," Harvey Grimm exclaimed, -"fancy your finding that!" -</p> - -<p> -The detective bent over his prize. -</p> - -<p> -"The middle diamond is, without doubt," -he announced, "a rose diamond. Quite a -peculiar red light. Ditchwater, step round to -Madame de Borria's rooms. Ask her if she -will be so good as to come here at once." -</p> - -<p> -The inspector disappeared. Harvey Grimm -relit his cigarette, took off his overcoat in a -dazed way, threw it over the back of a chair, -and hung up his hat. -</p> - -<p> -"I shouldn't bother to do that, Grimm," the -detective advised him quietly. "I am afraid -we shall have to ask you to come and pay us -a little visit. You've got plenty of common -sense, I know. It isn't necessary, I suppose, -to tell you that there are a couple more men -in the corridor?" -</p> - -<p> -"I've no idea of making a fool of myself," -Harvey Grimm replied, "but do you mind if -I help myself to a whisky and soda? Your -methods are a little nerve-shaking." -</p> - -<p> -The detective stepped in front of the sideboard. -</p> - -<p> -"Say, I don't believe for a moment, Grimm," -he said, "that you're up against it badly -enough for that, but I don't think I'd worry -about a drink just now." -</p> - -<p> -"Mix it for me yourself, then," the other -suggested. -</p> - -<p> -The detective hesitated for a moment, and -then did as he was asked, keeping his back, -however, to the sideboard, and reaching first -for the whisky and then for the soda-water. -</p> - -<p> -"Say when?" he invited courteously, with -his hand on the siphon. -</p> - -<p> -"That'll do nicely. Thank you, Brodie. -Your very good health!" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm drained the tumbler and set -it down. Almost as he did so, there was a -knock at the door, the sound of voices and -Madame de Borria entered. The detective -had just time to throw a newspaper over the -necklace before she appeared. -</p> - -<p> -"You sent for me?" she exclaimed, turning -at once to Brodie. "Tell me, have you news -of my necklace?" -</p> - -<p> -"Do you mind just running over its points -once more?" Brodie asked. -</p> - -<p> -She made a little grimace. -</p> - -<p> -"I wrote it all out for Scotland Yard," she -reminded him patiently. "The stones are -very fine but without any special character. -There are sixty-three of them, almost equal in -size until you come to the front. It is the front -that is so wonderful. The middle stone is a -rose diamond, the only one in the world which -flashes a natural pink cross. There is nothing -else like it. The two on either side are slightly -pink, and there is one yellow one, two places -from the middle stone. But it is the middle -stone, Mr. Brodie, that is worth all the rest -put together. It is the most wonderful in the -world. Please do not keep me in suspense." -</p> - -<p> -The detective lifted the newspaper from the -table. It was seldom that he permitted -himself any emotion. There was a slight gesture -of triumph, however, as he turned towards -the woman. She literally sprang upon the -necklace, turned it over, gazed at it blankly -for a moment and flung it back upon the table. -</p> - -<p> -"You brought me here to look at this!" -she exclaimed contemptuously—"and after -you have heard my description, too! Why, -my necklace has twice as many stones, and my -rose diamond has the flash of the cross!" -</p> - -<p> -Both Brodie and the inspector stood for a -moment as though stupefied, incapable of -speech. Harvey Grimm threw his cigarette -into the hearth. -</p> - -<p> -"Madame de Borria," he said, "I should, -perhaps, add my apologies to those which our -good friend there is engaged in framing. The -necklace is mine, or rather it is entrusted to -me for sale. I am well aware that it does not -resemble yours, which I have often seen and -admired. Mr. Brodie, however, in his excessive -zeal, gave me no time for explanations. He -descended upon my rooms, seized the necklace -from my overcoat pocket—scarcely a likely -receptacle, I think, for stolen goods," he added, -with a little expostulatory grimace—"and -sent off for you." -</p> - -<p> -The lady turned almost savagely upon the -detective. -</p> - -<p> -"So this is the way," she said, "you conduct -your affairs, Mr. Paul Brodie! You insult a -harmless gentleman whom no one but an idiot -could mistake for a thief, you drag me from -my room to look at a necklace which does not -resemble mine in the slightest, and meanwhile -the thief gets further and further away," she -added, with biting sarcasm. "Oh, you are -very busy, are you not, catching him! You -are very near that two thousand pounds!" -</p> - -<p> -She stamped her foot and turned away. -Brodie opened the door for her. His attitude -was apologetic—almost cringing. -</p> - -<p> -"Madame de Borria," he said, "I'm sorry. -But two necklaces! Who could conceive such -a thing! Rest assured, however, that this is -not the end." -</p> - -<p> -She strode away without another word. -Brodie came back into the room. He fingered -the brim of his hat thoughtfully. -</p> - -<p> -"Say, are you in the habit of carrying -valuable necklaces about with you in your -overcoat pocket, Grimm?" he asked. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm took up his stand very -deliberately on the hearthrug. -</p> - -<p> -"I am," he announced. "I also occasionally -wear a coronet instead of a hat, and a suit of -armour instead of pyjamas. I do these things -because I choose, and because it's damned well -no one else's business except my own." -</p> - -<p> -"So you're going to take that tone, are -you?" Brodie observed thoughtfully. -</p> - -<p> -"Between ourselves, I think it's time I -did," was the prompt reply. "The sooner you -make up your mind that I am a harmless -individual, the better. I told you openly, -within twenty-four hours of making your -acquaintance upon the steamer, that I was an -expert in precious stones. That is how I make -my living, and it is perhaps as reputable a way -as yours. The necklace which you have had -the impertinence to accuse me of stealing, is -entrusted to me for sale, and if at any time -there was any real reason for me to disclose the -name of the owner, I would do so. At present, -however, I consider that I have humoured you -far enough. You will oblige me by leaving my -rooms at once and taking Inspector Ditchwater -with you." -</p> - -<p> -"So that's the line, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -"That is the line," Harvey Grimm assented, -"and what are you going to do about it?"' -</p> - -<p> -"Personally," Inspector Ditchwater decided, -turning towards the door, "I am going to -wish you good-morning and offer you my -apologies, Mr. Grimm. We seem to be always -in the wrong when we act upon Mr. Brodie's -information, and the report I'm going to make -to head-quarters will perhaps save you any -further trouble." -</p> - -<p> -Brodie's face was imperturbable. He -accepted the situation, however, and followed -Ditchwater from the room. The two men -left behind listened to their retreating -footsteps. Harvey Grimm threw himself into an -easy chair. -</p> - -<p> -"So that's that," he observed. "An -exciting quarter of an hour, eh, Aaron?" -</p> - -<p> -"I am bewildered," Aaron Rodd admitted. -"I don't understand, even now. Wasn't it -Madame de Borria's necklace, then?" -</p> - -<p> -"That one wasn't!" -</p> - -<p> -"You don't mean to say that you've got -two necklaces?" -</p> - -<p> -"Feel in the other pocket," Harvey Grimm -directed him. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron obeyed. From the right-hand pocket -of the overcoat which was hanging over the -chair, he drew out a second and more beautiful -necklace. As he held it before him, the cross -flashed out from the rose diamond in the -centre. -</p> - -<p> -"Good God!" he exclaimed. "You mean -to say that it was here all the time?" -</p> - -<p> -"Of course it was. I told you that I was -in a tight corner. He never gave me a chance -to hide it. I knew these rooms would be -searched. Fortunately, he chose the left-hand -pocket of my overcoat instead of the right." -</p> - -<p> -"What are you going to do with it?" -Aaron asked breathlessly. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm glanced at the clock. It was -a quarter to one. -</p> - -<p> -"You shall see," he replied. "Just open -the door, will you? I think I heard some one -ring. Put the necklace away first—in that -drawer will do." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron did as he was told. A short, dark -man, dressed with extreme care, pushed past -him into the room. It was the husband of -Madame de Borria. -</p> - -<p> -"I have come," he announced. "How is -the good Mr. Grimm, and what is the news -this morning?" -</p> - -<p> -"The news is," Harvey Grimm told him, -"that the detective your wife employed has -been up here, searching for the necklace." -</p> - -<p> -"Marvellous!" the little man declared, -rolling himself a cigarette nervously. "How -sagacious! What foresight! But as to results -eh...?" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm, with a little sigh of relief, -thrust his hand into the drawer, produced -the necklace and handed it to the South -American. -</p> - -<p> -Mr. de Borria's face glowed with satisfaction. -</p> - -<p> -"I have had a leetle trouble with Madame," -he announced, "but it is past. She agreed -at last eagerly to the advertisement. You -have seen it?" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm nodded. -</p> - -<p> -"Two thousand pounds reward and no -questions asked," he murmured. -</p> - -<p> -Mr. de Borria drew from his pocket a battered -and soiled cardboard box, into which he -proceeded to stow the necklace. -</p> - -<p> -"I make a package here, as you see," he -pointed out. "I have received an anonymous -note which makes a demand upon my honour -that, if I accede to its terms, I destroy it. It -is destroyed!" -</p> - -<p> -"The letter——?" Harvey Grimm began. -</p> - -<p> -Mr. de Borria tapped his forehead. -</p> - -<p> -"In the air—in my brain," he exclaimed. -"What does it matter? It is destroyed. I -go to the place named, I produce the two -thousand pounds—behold!—and the necklace -is mine." -</p> - -<p> -He laid a pocket-book upon the table and -drew out a sheaf of notes, which he carefully -counted into two heaps. One he pushed -towards Harvey Grimm, the other he replaced -in his pocket. Then he smiled. He had the -engaging smile of a child. -</p> - -<p> -"So!" he pronounced. "We are all happy -and contented. Madame my wife will wear -her necklace to-night and once more rejoice. -I shall have that thousand pounds in my -pocket which is so necessary for a man like -myself in this your great city of gallantry and -happiness. And you, my dear Mr. Harvey -Grimm, who played the burglar and assisted -me in my little scheme, you, too, have a -thousand pounds. So! Now that all is well, shall -we visit the little lady down in the American -Bar? Afterwards, I will take a taxi just to -nowhere, and I will come back in another taxi -from nowhere. I shall break into my wife's -rooms, and she will hold out her arms to me, -and she will have her necklace, and I have -got my thousand pounds. <i>Enfin</i>! Let us -descend." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm took up his hat and Aaron -Rodd followed suit. -</p> - -<p> -"It seems to me," Aaron remarked, as he -brought up the rear of the little procession, -"that the only man who gets nothing out of -this is Mr. Brodie!" -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p><a id="chap07"></a></p> - -<h3> -<span class="chap1"><i>Chapter VII</i></span> <span class="chap2"><i>The Infidelity of Jack Lovejoy</i></span> -</h3> - -<p> -Cresswell and Aaron Rodd were dining with -Captain Brinnen and his sister at a corner -table in the Milan Restaurant. Harvey Grimm -had once more left them for an unknown -destination, and they were all aware that the -period of his absence would be this time more -than ever one of strain. As though by general -consent, however, the conversation did not -touch once upon personal matters. They spoke -a good deal of the war. Brinnen himself was -roused by sundry reflections into a momentary -bitterness, an expression of that peculiar -irritation common to many of his country-people, -notwithstanding their underlying gratitude. -</p> - -<p> -"You people in England," he declared, -"you have no perceptions, no brains with -which to combat a perfectly-developed system -of espionage; nothing but an infinite -complacency, an infinite stupidity. The people -who hate you walk in your midst, unharmed. -Even if they are pointed out, your officials shrug -their shoulders and smile in a superior fashion. -'They can do us no harm,' they assure you. -'There are reasons why we prefer to leave them -alone.' And you are at war, you people! -Ah, if only you would realise it!" -</p> - -<p> -"You are quite right," Aaron Rodd admitted. -"We have grown too accustomed to -look upon espionage and secret service as the -<i>bonne bouche</i> of the novelist. I suppose they -do exist." -</p> - -<p> -"They not only exist," Brinnen continued, -"but they are becoming a very important -factor in the progress of the war. Look at this -room. Did you ever see a more cosmopolitan -gathering! There are Belgians, Russians, -Americans. The two young men who have -just come in are Roumanians, over here no one -knows why. This, however, I could tell you. -If England takes no heed of their presence, -Germany does. They will be watched by -Germany until they leave, and, for all your -army of censors, Germany will know, day by -day, just what they do. And, even nearer to -us, I could give your Secret Service a very -useful piece of advice concerning the young -man at the third table from here, with the lady -in white spangles." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd and the poet both glanced -cautiously in the direction indicated. A tall, -clean-shaven young man, dark, with big black -eyes, a mass of sleekly-brushed black hair and -rather puffy cheeks, good-looking in a stagy -sort of way, was entertaining an artistically -decorated young ornament of the musical -comedy stage. -</p> - -<p> -"You know him, perhaps?" Brinnen enquired. -</p> - -<p> -Both men shook their heads. -</p> - -<p> -"He is always about here," Cresswell -remarked, "generally in the bar." -</p> - -<p> -"He is an American actor," Brinnen -continued. "His name on the programmes is -Jack Lovejoy. His real name is Karl Festonheim, -and he was born in Cologne. His father -and his grandfather, his mother and his -grandmother, were Germans. He married a German -wife—a negligible affair, perhaps, as the -matrimonial arrangements of those sort of people -are inclined to be, but still it shows his -tendencies. The man, like many thousands -of others, calls himself an American because -he went there as a boy and has lived there ever -since. Yet every relative he has lives in -Germany, every spark of real feeling such a -person may happen to possess, is German, he -eats like a German, he lives like a German, he -even talks like one. Yet that young man has -no difficulty about passports. He can live in -London, listen to the secret voices of your -nation, and make his way unhindered and -unharmed over to Germany whenever he -chooses." -</p> - -<p> -"There are, of course, many technical -difficulties," Aaron Rodd pointed out, "in dealing -with naturalised Americans, whatever the -country of their birth." -</p> - -<p> -"You are very punctilious over here," -Captain Brinnen observed, with fine sarcasm. -"However, I give that young man as an -instance because I know that certain information -concerning the whereabouts of three of -your cruisers, earlier in the war, was conveyed -by him to the German Admiralty. I cannot -prove this, but I know it. I also know that -while, if you speak to him, he will tell you that -he is out of a job, that the war has played the -deuce with musical comedy, he has refused -three parts within the last month, on some -pretext or another, because he is better -occupied." -</p> - -<p> -Stephen Cresswell sat up in his place. An -expectant light shone in his eyes. -</p> - -<p> -"An adventure!" he murmured. -</p> - -<p> -"If you, sir," Brinnen remarked, "could -develop the sagacity of a French or German -Secret Service man, and fasten upon the life -of that young man, you would probably gain -the adventure which you seek." -</p> - -<p> -"I am the very man for the task," the poet -declared eagerly. "I have stuck like a leech -to my friend Aaron Rodd here, in the hopes of -travelling with him a little way into the land -where adventures are as plentiful as gooseberries. -The only one to which he has introduced -me has been highly satisfactory, in its -way," he declared, bowing to Henriette, "and -the remembrance of it will be a happiness -to me all my life, but one cannot live on one -adventure alone. I am eager for more. I -claim that young man, Rodd, do you hear? -I claim him." -</p> - -<p> -"He is yours," the other acquiesced grimly. -"Poor fellow! One is almost inclined to pity him." -</p> - -<p> -Cresswell smiled in superior fashion. -</p> - -<p> -"My dear fellow," he said, "you are, -without doubt, a man of energy and brains, -but what you lack is initiative. Initiative is the -gift vouchsafed to genius. I have genius, -therefore I have initiative. To you, the affair -connected with this young man appears at -present to be as impenetrable as a blank wall. -You would not know where to start. Wait. -You shall watch my methods." -</p> - -<p> -"In the meantime," Henriette whispered, -gazing intently towards the doorway, "behold, -Madame de Borria and her recovered necklace!" -</p> - -<p> -They all turned their heads. The South -American woman was on her way through the -room and around her neck flashed the light -from her wonderful necklace. Aaron Rodd -leaned a little forward in his chair. -</p> - -<p> -"She is soon wearing it again," he remarked. -</p> - -<p> -Brinnen shrugged his shoulders. -</p> - -<p> -"Why not? It was lost only for a few hours. -Madame had the good sense to follow her -husband's advice and to offer that greatest of -lures to the educated thief—a reward and no -questions asked. Madame deserves to have -recovered her necklace—and it becomes her -well.... Shall we take our coffee outside?" -</p> - -<p> -They all rose to their feet and left the -restaurant together. The poet thrust his arm -through Brinnen's and led him on one side, -talking earnestly. Aaron was left alone for a -few minutes with Henriette. They found a -corner as far as possible from the strains of -the over-persistent band. -</p> - -<p> -"It is three months to-day," he reminded -her, "since I saw you first in the gardens of -the Embankment." -</p> - -<p> -"What a memory!" she murmured. "And -I, like the very forward person you have since -discovered me to be, made tentative overtures -to you with the object of discovering whether -you were a lawyer not too squeamish about -your clients or their business." -</p> - -<p> -His face hardened a little. -</p> - -<p> -"Are we coming soon," he asked, "to the -end of your stock—or rather your brother's -stock of jewels?" -</p> - -<p> -"Why?" she whispered, looking up at him -with slightly contracted eyebrows. -</p> - -<p> -"Because I am tired of it," he declared -frankly, "tired of it in connection with you, -that is to say. I spend whole days, sometimes, -in a positive state of terror. Luxury is a small -thing compared with freedom and life. You -have had over forty thousand pounds now. -Why don't you take your grandfather -somewhere away into the country? Even if you -have to be content with half that sum, you -could live on it and be safe. Let your brother -go his own way. It isn't really worth while, -Henriette." -</p> - -<p> -She looked at the point of her slipper carefully -for a moment. She wore a perfectly plain -black velvet gown, and only a single pearl -hanging from a strip of black velvet around -her neck. Her fingers were ringless. Even her -hair was arranged in the simplest of coils, -yet there was no one else in the room quite -like her. -</p> - -<p> -"Henriette," he went on, leaning over her, -"if you don't speak I shall make a fool of -myself." -</p> - -<p> -She started, and looked timorously into his -eyes. Then as quickly she looked away again. -Her hands clasped the arms of her chair. -She seemed suddenly interested in the -orchestra. -</p> - -<p> -"Say—what you were going to say," she -begged. -</p> - -<p> -"You know," he obeyed, almost roughly. -"I am nearly forty years old. I have no -money except the ten or fifteen thousand -pounds I have made by helping to dispose of -your stolen jewels, and I'm sick of it all, sick -of it because I've found something in life -worth living differently for. You know what -that is. Leave your brother to live his own -life. Bring your grandfather and come away -somewhere, Henriette, and marry me. It -sounds absurd, doesn't it," he went on, a little -wistfully, "but in a way you've been so kind -to me. You must have known." -</p> - -<p> -She suddenly laid her hand upon his. It was -a delightful little gesture. -</p> - -<p> -"Please don't say any more just now," she -implored. "I shall remember every word -that you have said, and I don't think I have -ever felt so much like——" -</p> - -<p> -"Like what?" -</p> - -<p> -"Doing what you ask," she continued -quickly. "There! Just now—for a little -time—we must think of other things. You see, -here comes my brother and Mr. Cresswell. -Whatever is Mr. Cresswell going to do? Look!" -</p> - -<p> -The American actor and his companion -had taken seats almost opposite to them. -Suddenly Cresswell left his host's side and -crossed the room towards them. With a -slight bow he addressed Lovejoy. Brinnen, -who had strolled over to where his sister and -Aaron Rodd were seated, smiled a little -cynically. -</p> - -<p> -"What you call, in your expressive language, -rather the methods of a bull in a china shop," -he observed. "I fancy that we shall see our -friend return, a little chastened." -</p> - -<p> -"You don't know Stephen," his friend -murmured. "He has more confidence than -any other man on earth. Look!" -</p> - -<p> -A waiter had been summoned to bring a -chair. The poet was seated now next the -young lady, to whom he had just been introduced. -They were all three chatting amiably. -A waiter was receiving an order for coffee and -liqueurs. -</p> - -<p> -"That is what he calls initiative," Henriette -whispered. -</p> - -<p> -"The first steps are easy," Brinnen remarked, -"and, after all, one must remember that -Lovejoy is by no means a clever person. He -is conceited and bumptious. Well, at any rate -we must wish Mr. Cresswell luck." -</p> - -<p> -"I was just asking your sister," Aaron said -abruptly, "whether we were almost coming -to the end of your hidden stores." -</p> - -<p> -The young Belgian glanced around for a -moment quickly and flicked the ash from his -cigarette. -</p> - -<p> -"Why?" -</p> - -<p> -"Because I am beginning to fear the risk -more every day for your sister's sake," Aaron -continued steadily. "Our friend Mr. Brodie -has made a good many mistakes but he is -not an entire fool. Grimm admitted only the -other day that he had tracked him down to -the very place where he recuts the diamonds—had -been within a few feet of them." -</p> - -<p> -"Nothing came of it, though," Brinnen -observed, frowning. -</p> - -<p> -"It may not be so every time," Aaron Rodd -persisted. "I was trying to persuade your -sister to be content with small things. Your -grandfather is very old. Think what the shock -would be to him if anything were to happen to -either of you. Put what you have left in a -safe deposit, if you like, for a time, and start -again disposing of them when things have -blown over a little." -</p> - -<p> -The brother and sister exchanged glances -which to Aaron were inexplicable. -</p> - -<p> -"What does Mr. Harvey Grimm say about -it?" the former asked. -</p> - -<p> -"Oh! Grimm will go on till he drops," -Aaron Rodd declared. "Adventure, danger, -whatever the cost, is the spice of life to him. -But he is just a man alone. It's a different -thing when a girl like your sister is concerned. -It is for her sake that I want to see the thing -closed up." -</p> - -<p> -Brinnen dropped his eyeglass and rubbed it -for a moment with his handkerchief. -</p> - -<p> -"You seem to take a great interest in my -sister, Mr. Rodd," he said calmly. -</p> - -<p> -"I have just asked her to marry me," Aaron -Rodd replied bluntly. -</p> - -<p> -Brinnen turned slowly around. He was -suddenly like his grandfather. His eyebrows -were a little uplifted. His expression was the -expression of one who listens to some unthinkable thing. -</p> - -<p> -"Absurd!" he muttered. -</p> - -<p> -"It is nothing of the sort," Aaron Rodd -answered simply. "If your sister has been -guiltily concerned in your adventurous life, -I, too, have turned myself into a receiver of -stolen property. We are in the same boat, -only I want to get her out of it. I have -asked her to marry me and come over to -America. We could start life again on what -I have." -</p> - -<p> -She leaned over suddenly and spoke to her -brother in a low tone, and in a language which -was strange to Aaron Rodd. His expression -changed a little as he listened. Then the waiter -appeared with their coffee and liqueurs. When -they were served and he had left, Captain -Brinnen reopened the subject. -</p> - -<p> -"I gather that you yourself, Mr. Rodd," he -observed, "have hankerings towards the humdrum -life, the life of honesty and the virtues -and that sort of thing." -</p> - -<p> -"I have tried for many years to make an -honest living," Aaron replied shortly. "The -only time I ever crossed the line was long ago, -when Harvey Grimm and I were in America. -It wasn't anything very serious then. Our -present transactions have been my only other -essay. I come of an old-fashioned New -England family, and however one may laugh at -their principles and the narrowness of their -outlook, I have those principles in my blood, -and, frankly, I hate this life. If it's bad for me, -it's worse for your sister. I want to take her -away." -</p> - -<p> -"I will consider what you have said, -Mr. Rodd," Brinnen replied. "For the present -we will, if you please, abandon the conversation." -</p> - -<p> -A little glance of entreaty from Henriette -closed Aaron's lips. They spoke of general -things for a few moments. Then Captain -Brinnen rose to his feet. -</p> - -<p> -"I am afraid that I must take my sister -away now, Mr. Rodd," he announced. "She -has an engagement for this evening. But -before we leave," he added, holding out his -hand, "whatever I may feel concerning the -proposals you have made, I should like once -more to express my thanks for your great -courage the other night. My sister and I owe -you more than we can ever repay." -</p> - -<p> -"Your sister," Aaron said, with a boldness -which surprised him, "can repay me if she -will." -</p> - -<p> -She looked into his eyes, and they seemed -to him larger and softer than he had ever -seen them. There was a little quiver at her -lips, too, even though her words were light -ones. -</p> - -<p> -"You are growing into a courtier, Mr. Rodd," -she murmured. "Au revoir!" -</p> - -<p> -They passed up the stairs and Aaron sank -back in his chair. There was a certain -satisfaction mingled even with his disappointment. -At least he had spoken his mind. Then the -little group on the other side of the way arose, -and the poet, catching his eye, beckoned to -him in friendly fashion. -</p> - -<p> -"This," the poet declared, as Aaron -approached, "is my friend Aaron Rodd. Aaron, -allow me to present you to a lady whom you -have often worshipped from a distance, Miss -Pamela Keane." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron, who had no idea who Miss Pamela -Keane was, bent over her hand and cursed the -poet under his breath. The latter, who was -thoroughly enjoying himself, laid his hand -upon Lovejoy's shoulder. -</p> - -<p> -"And also to my friend Mr. Jack Lovejoy," -he continued. "Lovejoy is the one man in -London who makes me wish that I could write -for the musical comedy stage. One has one's -limitations, alas!" -</p> - -<p> -There followed a few minutes' desultory -conversation. Then Miss Pamela Keane picked -up a wonderful collection of golden trifles and -turned towards the exit. -</p> - -<p> -"We shall meet again, Mr. Cresswell," she -said, smiling upon him. "Do bring Mr. Rodd -with you, if he cares to come. Au revoir!" -</p> - -<p> -She turned away, followed by Lovejoy. -The poet linked his arm through Aaron's and -demanded another liqueur. -</p> - -<p> -"You didn't really know the fellow, did -you?" Aaron asked curiously. -</p> - -<p> -"Not I," he replied, "but, as I have told you -many times, I am a born adventurer. I am -equal to any situation. Have I ever mentioned -that I am also something of a snob?" -</p> - -<p> -"I don't seem to remember the confession." -</p> - -<p> -"Well, I am. I have an aunt who is the -wife of a baronet. I make use of her -occasionally. In the days of my more abject poverty -I used to go there for a free meal when I had -a black coat. She is by way of being a patroness -of the arts, entertains all sorts of jumbled up -parties. In all probability Mr. Lovejoy has -either been asked to one of them or wishes he -had. Hence my self-introduction. 'Mr. Lovejoy,' -I say in my best manner, 'I believe I had -the pleasure of meeting you at my aunt's, -Lady Sittingley's?' He hesitates, and I can -see that I have him fixed. He hasn't the least -intention of ever denying that he was there, -although he doesn't know me from Adam. -And there you are, you know. It's the natural -spirit of the adventurer." -</p> - -<p> -"What was that about going on there to-night?" -Aaron enquired. -</p> - -<p> -"We are both going, my boy," was the -cheerful reply. "Miss Pamela Keane is -entertaining a few friends to <i>chemin de fer</i> at her -flat in Buckingham Gate. I have explained -that I do not play, but we are going to look -in for a glass of wine and a chat. As a matter -of fact, I just want to cast my eye over -Lovejoy's friends, do you see?" -</p> - -<p> -"There's no need for me to come," Aaron -Rodd protested. -</p> - -<p> -"There is every need," the poet insisted, -watching the arrival of the liqueurs with -satisfaction. "I like companionship. I like some -one with whom to compare impressions after -such a visit as this. You may notice -something which has escaped me." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron frowned a little wearily. -</p> - -<p> -"Captain Brinnen was probably talking -quite at random," he remarked. "Lovejoy -doesn't seem to me to be the type of man who'd -take a serious interest in anything except his -own pleasures." -</p> - -<p> -"Quite right," the other agreed shrewdly, -"but he might reasonably take an interest in -the means of procuring those pleasures. And -as to our jewel-collecting friend talking at -random, I don't believe it. A man with a -face and a character like his doesn't chatter. -We'll just spruce up here a bit and follow -them right along...." -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p> -The two men spent the next two hours in -entirely different fashion. Stephen Cresswell -made a host of new friends with marvellous -facility, flirted with many pretty but unnamed -ladies, ate <i>pâté de foie gras</i> sandwiches and -drank champagne as though it were his first -meal of the day. Aaron, on the other hand, -found the customary stiffness of his manner -only intensified by the Bohemianism of his -fellow-guests. The women, with their laughing -eyes, their frankly flirtatious speeches, their -general air of good-fellowship and lack of -reserve, seemed to him simply intolerable. -Every time he thought of Henriette, he hated -his surroundings and longed for the solitude -which, notwithstanding his efforts, he was only -partially able to achieve. To escape the new -acquaintances whom the poet was continually -bringing up to him, he even played for an hour. -Afterwards, when the rooms became more -crowded, he escaped into a corner and sat -looking on. It was exactly the sort of gathering -he had expected—a good many young ladies -from the stage with their escorts, a strong -element of the betting fraternity, a theatrical -agent or two, and a sprinkling of those -nameless people, always well dressed, always -mysterious, who seem to pass through life so -easily without toiling or spinning. He was -just deciding that, so far as the object of their -visit was concerned, the evening had been -wasted, when Pamela Keane came suddenly -across the room and sat down by his side. -</p> - -<p> -"I want to talk to you, Mr. Rodd," she -said, throwing herself back in a chair and -displaying an amazing amount of white silk -stocking. -</p> - -<p> -"You are very kind," he murmured. -</p> - -<p> -"Mr. Cresswell tells me that you are a lawyer?" -</p> - -<p> -"That is so," Aaron admitted, a little -startled. -</p> - -<p> -"Where are your offices?" -</p> - -<p> -"Seventeen Manchester Street, Adelphi," -he replied, "third floor." -</p> - -<p> -"Can I come and see you at eleven o'clock -to-morrow morning?" -</p> - -<p> -"With pleasure!" -</p> - -<p> -"Good! I'll be there. Not a word to -Jack, mind. Come and have a glass of -champagne." -</p> - -<p> -He drank his glass of champagne and -watched his companion drink three. Then she -floated off to greet some new-comers and -Aaron made his escape. The poet called him -up in the hall. -</p> - -<p> -"The usual sort of crowd here," he remarked, -as they left the house. "Pretty hot lot, some -of those bookmakers and jockeys, but I -didn't see a soul whom I'd ever suspect of -getting off his own little run. What about you?" -</p> - -<p> -"Come and see me at twelve o'clock to-morrow -morning," was all the poet could get -out of his companion that night.... -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p> -Miss Pamela Keane was marvellously punctual. -In a blue serge costume straight from -Paris, a hat which was a marvel of simplicity, -a wonderful veil and a wave of perfume, she -swept into Aaron Rodd's room the next -morning as eleven o'clock was striking. He -handed her the clients' chair, into which she -sank, a little breathless. -</p> - -<p> -"Say, this is some climb," she remarked. -"Don't you have any elevators in your offices -on this side?" -</p> - -<p> -"Plenty," he assured her. "I have a very -small practice and these are out-of-the way -premises." -</p> - -<p> -She lifted her veil. Her face was thick with -powder and her eyes seemed to him artificially -brightened. There was some stuff which he -didn't understand upon her lashes, and in -contradistinction to these, to him, somewhat -ghastly allurements, her expression was hard, -her tone, as she spoke, almost rasping. -</p> - -<p> -"See here, Mr. Rodd," she began, "I have -come to talk to you about Jack Lovejoy. -Know anything about me?" -</p> - -<p> -"Nothing," he confessed. -</p> - -<p> -"I don't suppose you've ever seen me on the -stage, even?" -</p> - -<p> -"Never!" -</p> - -<p> -"So much the better. I didn't want to go -to one of these know-everybody-and-everything -theatrical lawyers, who call you 'my -dear' and promise you the earth. Well, I -married a millionaire over in the States, and I -fixed things so that he couldn't get rid of me -without it costing him something. I've got an -income of five thousand pounds a year, -Mr. Rodd, and though that ain't the earth, it's -useful." -</p> - -<p> -"Naturally," he assented. -</p> - -<p> -"I've done more than I should like to tell -you for Jack Lovejoy," she went on. "Of -course, we live together, and we're as much -married as the law allows. He'd got nothing -but what he was earning, and that wasn't -much, when I took him up. Now he's got his -motor-car and anything he wants. I'm not a -changeable woman. I'm older than he is, of -course, but I'm barely forty, and all I wanted -of Jack was that he should play the game. -He's not doing it, Mr. Rodd." -</p> - -<p> -The lawyer shrugged his shoulders ever so -slightly. The question of Lovejoy's infidelities -appeared to him profoundly uninteresting. -</p> - -<p> -"I'll tell you how I know," she went on. -"We had a little trouble a month ago and I've -waited for him to come to me for his cheque -since, instead of handing it over. He hasn't -been and he's had all the money he wanted. -He's getting it from somewhere. What I want -to know is where?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron was a little more interested. -</p> - -<p> -"Betting? Card playing?" he suggested. -</p> - -<p> -She waved her hand scornfully. -</p> - -<p> -"I know the firm with whom he does his -betting, and he owes them a tidy sum already. -And as to card playing, why, any of 'em would -clean him out in no time. He hasn't the brains -of a rabbit. It's a woman. He goes to see her -every day at six o'clock. I've found that out -for myself, and I've found out the direction -he goes in. For the rest I have come to you." -</p> - -<p> -"To me?" Aaron exclaimed, a little startled. -</p> - -<p> -"Yes! It's part of your job, ain't it? -Supposing it was a divorce I wanted, I should -have to go to a lawyer, shouldn't I? I'm -not imagining you hang about street corners -yourself, but you've got to employ some -one to have him watched, and you've got to -begin this afternoon. I can give you a start -all right from luncheon time. He'll bring me -anywhere I say—Milan Grill-room, to-day, at -two o'clock. We shall leave there, perhaps, at -half-past three, and he'll drive me home. -From that point he'll have to be watched. -He may come in for an hour or he may not, -but it's where he goes to afterwards that -I want to know. Will you take this job on, -Mr. Rodd?" -</p> - -<p> -"With pleasure," he agreed. "It's a little -out of my line but I think I can arrange it." -</p> - -<p> -"Then that's that," the lady remarked, -rising. "I've got to be at my dressmaker's at -half-past. Ring me up when you've anything -to report." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd bowed his client down the -stairs, went back to his office and threw the -windows wide open. Then he telephoned for -the poet. -</p> - -<p> -"I am going to do a disgraceful thing," he -told him, upon his arrival. "I'm going to -betray a client's confidence." -</p> - -<p> -"Would it well out easier with the help of a -matutinal?" the poet suggested, with a glance -at the clock. "My throat's as dry as a -lime-kiln this morning." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron shook his head and told the story. -</p> - -<p> -"Now get at it," he enjoined, as he bundled -him out. "It's your job, not mine, and I have -a letter to write...." -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p> -The poet, a few days later, paid an afternoon -call. He rang the bell of a flat in Northumberland -Court, enquired for Mrs. Abrahams, and -after a moment's hesitation was shown into a -small drawing-room in which half a dozen -people were seated. The lady who was -evidently a hostess, a large, Jewish-looking -woman, rose from her place on the couch -and regarded him with mingled distrust and -curiosity. The poet, however, who had seen -Jack Lovejoy in a corner of the room, was not -in the least abashed. -</p> - -<p> -"You haven't forgotten me, I hope, -Mrs. Abrahams?" he said, bending gallantly over -her hesitating hand. "I met you at my -aunt's, Lady Sittingley's, and you were kind -enough to say that I might come and see you -sometime. I ventured to bring you the small -offering I promised you—my poems, bound -now, I am thankful to say, with a little more -dignity than when we last met." -</p> - -<p> -Mrs. Abrahams' face cleared slightly but she -remained somewhat disturbed. -</p> - -<p> -"Of course! You are Mr. Cresswell, aren't -you, the poet? I remember the curious -stories there were about the beginning of your -popularity. You have really brought me that -book? How charming of you!" -</p> - -<p> -"I have promised myself this pleasure for a -long time," Cresswell assured her. -</p> - -<p> -"Let me see," she went on, making room for -him by her side, "when was it that I met you -at your aunt's?" -</p> - -<p> -"I have no memory, even for such inspiring -events," he confessed ingenuously, "but I -think it was about three months ago." -</p> - -<p> -She sighed gently. -</p> - -<p> -"This terrible war," she murmured, "makes -it difficult to remember anything. You will -have some tea, Mr. Cresswell? Let me -introduce you to Professor David." -</p> - -<p> -The poet bowed to his neighbour and glanced -around the little circle, winding up with a nod -to Lovejoy, who seemed hopelessly out of -place. They were, for the most part, a very -gloomy and serious little company. -</p> - -<p> -"I interrupted an interesting conversation, -I am sure," the poet declared genially. "May -it not continue?" -</p> - -<p> -There was a moment's rather awkward -silence and Mrs. Abrahams sighed. -</p> - -<p> -"Alas!" she said, "I am afraid there was -nothing original about our conversation this -afternoon. It was the war—always the war." -</p> - -<p> -Cresswell balanced his plate upon his knee, -sipped his tea and talked commonplace nonsense -for a quarter of an hour. Then he got up -to leave. -</p> - -<p> -"Coming my way, Lovejoy?" he enquired. -</p> - -<p> -The young actor hesitated for a moment -and then acquiesced. Mrs. Abrahams bade -them both farewell. She extended to neither -of them any invitation to return. -</p> - -<p> -"Rather a heavy sort of crowd for you, -isn't it?" Cresswell asked, as they descended -in the lift. -</p> - -<p> -"Mrs. Abrahams was kind to me when I -first came to London," Lovejoy remarked, a -little vaguely. "I promised I'd look in there -some day and I happened to be near this -afternoon." -</p> - -<p> -"Just so," the poet murmured, as they -paused at the corner of the street. "So -long!" -</p> - -<p> -Jack Lovejoy stepped into a taxi and was -driven away westwards. -</p> - -<p> -Cresswell crossed the road, turned into -Whitehall, made his way into a block of -public buildings, and after half an hour's delay -was shown into the presence of an important-looking -gentleman, who bade him take a seat -and peered at him doubtfully over the top of -his eyeglasses. -</p> - -<p> -"Sir Lionel," his visitor began, "I have -come to you because I have some information -which should be exceedingly valuable to the -home branch of the Secret Service." -</p> - -<p> -"Young man," the official replied, "you -are the fifteenth caller within the last few hours -who has brought me information guaranteed -to save the Empire." -</p> - -<p> -"Lucky number, the fifteenth," the poet -remarked cheerfully. "Do you happen to -know Mrs. Abrahams of Northumberland Court?" -</p> - -<p> -"I know her slightly," Sir Lionel admitted. -"She is a friend of several members of the -Cabinet." -</p> - -<p> -"Why isn't she interned?" Cresswell demanded. -"She is a German." -</p> - -<p> -"Her husband was born in England." -</p> - -<p> -"But she is a red-hot German, all the same," -the young man persisted. "I have been -making enquiries about her myself and I find -that for years before the war she was doing -nothing but run down the culture and customs -of this country as compared with Germany." -</p> - -<p> -The official shrugged his shoulders. -</p> - -<p> -"There is no information that I am aware of -against Mrs. Abrahams," he said, "and you -must remember that she is, as I told you, a -friend of several members of the Cabinet. They -would not be likely to listen to anything -against her." -</p> - -<p> -"What a country!" the poet sighed. -"What officialdom! What methods of making -war!" -</p> - -<p> -"Have you anything against Mrs. Abrahams?" -Sir Lionel enquired. -</p> - -<p> -"I have," was the prompt reply. "I have -no proof to offer because I am an unofficial -person and I cannot take those steps which -are necessary to procure proof, but I can -assure you that every afternoon, from four -till six, Mrs. Abraham's drawing-room in the -Northumberland Court is a bureau for the -meeting of various persons whose interests are -inimical to this country." -</p> - -<p> -"Dear me!" the other exclaimed blandly. -"What do they do there?" -</p> - -<p> -"I can't tell that," Cresswell admitted. -"My idea is that they each bring information -of various sorts, which Mrs. Abrahams -transmits to Germany." -</p> - -<p> -"Isn't that rather an assumption on your part?" -</p> - -<p> -"An assumption with a very definite background," -the poet persisted, unruffled. "For -instance, take this afternoon. Amongst -Mrs. Abraham's visitors were Professor David, who -has spent half his life in Germany, has stumped -this country lecturing on German ideals, and -since the war has maintained a sedulous and -enigmatic silence. There were also present -Mr. Halston, who married a German and has -had to resign his seat in Parliament owing to -his doubtful sympathies; Jack Lovejoy, the -German-American actor; two men, who, from -their conversation, are, I gathered, censors; -and the Minister of a country whom we all -know quite well to be inimical to us. These -men meet every afternoon. They aren't there -for fun, are they, and it isn't by chance that -they all have the same point of view." -</p> - -<p> -Sir Lionel stifled what seemed suspiciously -like a yawn. -</p> - -<p> -"You must forgive me if I seem a little -unmoved," he observed, "but we hear so -many of these vague stories. The matter -shall be looked into, Mr. Cresswell, but I may -as well warn you at once that Mrs. Abrahams -has several friends in the Cabinet, and they -are not likely to countenance any proceedings -unfavourable to her." -</p> - -<p> -The poet rose from his chair. -</p> - -<p> -"Thank you, Sir Lionel," he said humbly. -"I begin to realise——" -</p> - -<p> -"What?" -</p> - -<p> -"That a friend of a Cabinet Minister in this -Government can do no wrong," the young -man declared, picking up his hat. -</p> - -<p><br /></p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd and the poet lunched together -the next day at the Milan. Miss Pamela -Keane saw them from the other end of the -room, where she was talking to the <i>maître -d'hôtel</i> about a table, and at once came over -towards them. -</p> - -<p> -"Well?" she asked Aaron Rodd. -</p> - -<p> -"I have some information already," the -latter replied. "I am not in a position to -make a definite report, but if it interests you -to know it, I do not think that Mr. Lovejoy's -afternoon philanderings are of an amorous -nature." -</p> - -<p> -"Say, do you hear that!" she exclaimed, -her face suddenly lightening. "If it interests -me to know it! Isn't that exactly what I -came to you for? Well, can't you give me an -idea what he is up to, then?" -</p> - -<p> -"Not at present," Aaron Rodd regretted, -"but you might, if you would, help me with -another hint." -</p> - -<p> -"Get on with it, then," the lady urged. -"He may come in at any moment." -</p> - -<p> -"Can you tell me in which direction his -sympathies lie with regard to the war?" -</p> - -<p> -Miss Pamela Keane was for a moment -serious. Then she shrugged her shoulders. -</p> - -<p> -"Well, you know," she said, "there are a -good many of us Americans who think that -Great Britain's been asking for trouble for -some years back. A little too much of the -Lord Almighty, you know. I shouldn't say -that Jack was overmuch in sympathy with you -Britishers." -</p> - -<p> -"That helps," Aaron Rodd admitted. "In -two or three days at the most I think I can let -you have a report. So far as I can see at -present," he added, "I think that it will be -satisfactory to you." -</p> - -<p> -"Say, you're smarter than you look, Mr. Rodd," -she declared, as she turned away with -a little nod. "Come round and see me any -time." -</p> - -<p> -The two men finished their luncheon and -walked round to Scotland Yard. Inspector -Ditchwater, for whom they enquired, received -them with some surprise. -</p> - -<p> -"Gentlemen," he said, "this is a most -unexpected pleasure." -</p> - -<p> -"We have come," Aaron Rodd began, "to -lay certain information before you which has -come to me professionally, and to ask for your -aid. The facts are these. A certain -Mrs. Abrahams, who is a German woman by birth, -married to an anglicised German Jew, who was -naturalised fifteen years ago, is in the habit -of receiving a little circle of friends every -afternoon. These friends are every one of them -of more or less German sympathies, although -they some of them occupy public posts in this -country. One of them, I have reason to know, -is receiving money continually from -Mrs. Abrahams. I have no proof of anything, and -I am not in a position to proceed far enough -in the matter to secure it. The authority of -the law is needed. My friend here, Mr. Cresswell, -has been to the Home Office and has -interviewed Sir Lionel Rastall. He, however, -declines to intervene in the matter because -Mrs. Abrahams, who is a woman of a great deal of -superficial culture and many acquaintances, -is a friend of several Cabinet Ministers." -</p> - -<p> -"If Sir Lionel declines to interfere," the -inspector pointed out, "what can we do?" -</p> - -<p> -"Get on to the track and find some proof," -Aaron Rodd suggested. "There isn't any one -can stop you then from behaving in a -commonsense manner." -</p> - -<p> -"And lose our promotion and get snubbed -for our pains," the detective remarked. "I -don't care much about the job, Mr. Rodd, -thanking you all the same. I don't mind telling -you that Mrs. Abrahams was on the list of -suspected persons kept here, and has been -crossed off at the special instructions of a -highly-placed personage. It isn't my business -to interfere with her or her doings." -</p> - -<p> -The two visitors withdrew, a little perplexed. -The poet, however, was undaunted. -</p> - -<p> -"My friend," he said, "this was to be my -adventure and I tell you I've a trump card -left yet. Come along." -</p> - -<p> -They paid one more call at a large and -imposing establishment no great distance away. -After a wait of nearly an hour, an orderly -came in. -</p> - -<p> -"The Chief will see you and your friend, -Mr. Cresswell," he announced. "Be as quick as -you can, please." -</p> - -<p> -The poet, who loved words, showed that he -knew how to dispense with them. He shook -hands with the somewhat grizzled-looking, -handsome soldier who welcomed them. -</p> - -<p> -"This is my friend Mr. Rodd, a solicitor," -he said. "Sir Horace, I have put my hand by -accident upon a nest of conspiracy within a -quarter of a mile from here. The Home -Office or the police won't touch it because -the woman chiefly concerned is <i>persona grata</i> -with Cabinet Ministers. Will you take it on?" -</p> - -<p> -"I will," Sir Horace promised, "if there's -anything in it. Get on with your information." -</p> - -<p> -"The woman's name is Abrahams, and she -has a flat in the Northumberland Court," the -poet continued. "I followed a young man -there the other afternoon, who is born a -German but calls himself an American. -Mrs. Abrahams was entertaining a small party of -friends, every one of whom is of German -sympathies, although two are employed as -censors by His Majesty's Government. The -young man I followed is drawing money from -her nearly every week, and spends most of his -spare time motoring round London with one -of the new naval air defence commanders." -</p> - -<p> -"That all?" -</p> - -<p> -"Pretty well," the poet admitted, "but -there's espionage work going on there every -afternoon."' -</p> - -<p> -"Sounds probable," the other agreed. -"Now what do you want me to do? I can't -raid the place without more information." -</p> - -<p> -"Lend me two men and I'll take the risk -of something turning up," the poet begged. -</p> - -<p> -Sir Horace scribbled a few lines on a piece -of paper. -</p> - -<p> -"Get out with you," he said. "My regards -to your aunt. Show this to the orderly in -Room C and he'll give you a couple of -plainclothes policemen." -</p> - -<p> -The poet gripped Aaron Rodd's arm -triumphantly as they stepped outside. -</p> - -<p> -"A man!" he exclaimed. "A man at last!" ... -</p> - -<p> -It was two days before anything fresh -happened. Then, about half-past five in the -afternoon, Aaron Rodd and the poet, who had -wandered round by the front of the Northumberland -Court to see that their watchers were -in position, almost ran into the arms of a -huge, roughly dressed man, with close-cropped -brown beard, a man who looked ill-at-ease -in his clothes and walked with a rolling -gait. -</p> - -<p> -"My God!" the poet muttered. "It's the -Dutchman! Come on, Aaron." -</p> - -<p> -They turned round and followed him at a -short distance. He entered the Northumberland -Court. They followed him, a few minutes -later, and Cresswell addressed the hall-porter, -whom he knew slightly. -</p> - -<p> -"My name's Cresswell," he said. "I'm on -a Government job. Tell me what flat that -man asked for who has just gone in?" -</p> - -<p> -"Number sixty-seven, sir," the man -replied—"Mrs. Abrahams'." -</p> - -<p> -"Seen him here before?" -</p> - -<p> -"He comes about once a week, sir, generally -on a Sunday." -</p> - -<p> -"I shan't move from here," Cresswell declared, -turning to his companion. "I shall -hold on to that chap myself if he comes out -before we can get the men together. Will you -hurry, Aaron? There's one at the corner of -Parliament Street." -</p> - -<p> -"And the other's here," a quiet voice said -behind. "It's all right, Mr. Cresswell. I've -sent for Jimmy. I saw that man go in. Know -who he is?" -</p> - -<p> -"I do that," the poet assented. -</p> - -<p> -"His ship's been searched twice," the -inspector went on. "We had a Secret Service -man on board the last time they crossed. -Nothing was discovered, but he's under -suspicion. When I saw him turn in here, I thought -things might be coming our way." -</p> - -<p> -"Inspector," Cresswell asked eagerly, "your -powers will allow you to hold him, won't -they?" -</p> - -<p> -"I think I'll have to stretch them a bit, -sir," the man replied. "We'll wait till he -comes out. You'd better let the hall-porter -get an extra constable. This Dutchman is a -pretty difficult customer to tackle." -</p> - -<p> -The hall-porter, who had been divided -between curiosity and nervousness, departed -with alacrity. The men spread themselves -out a little. The poet and Aaron Rodd -affected great interest in the lighting of -cigarettes. A small boy in buttons eyed them with -immense inquisitiveness. There was -something up! He whispered the news to the -lift-boy, who had strolled out for a breath of -fresh air. A ripple of electrical interest -thrilled the group. The hall-porter returned, -an unwilling constable in the rear. -</p> - -<p> -"What's this?" he enquired of the elder -of the two plain-clothes men. "I can't leave -my beat unless there's a charge." -</p> - -<p> -The man showed him a badge. The -constable saluted. -</p> - -<p> -"Wait just outside," the former whispered. -The hall-porter suddenly thrust his head -through the swing doors. -</p> - -<p> -"Party you're enquiring for, sir, has just -come out of number two," he announced. -"He's stepping into a taxi." -</p> - -<p> -There was a rush for the door, which the -poet led. The taxicab was disappearing round -the corner as they reached the entrance of the -next block of flats. The hall-porter, still -dangling his whistle, watched their approach -with amazement. -</p> - -<p> -"What address—that taxi?" the inspector -asked quickly. -</p> - -<p> -"Monico's, Shaftesbury Avenue." -</p> - -<p> -"Another taxi, quick!" -</p> - -<p> -The man blew his whistle. A taxicab from -the rank obeyed the summons. -</p> - -<p> -"The fellow can't suspect anything if he's -really gone to the Monico," the inspector -observed. -</p> - -<p> -They all crowded into the vehicle. In a few -minutes they were at the café. The poet gave -a little sigh of relief as he peered eagerly -around. Somehow or other, he felt that this -was his own special adventure and that the -onus of its success rested upon him. At a -table a little way in the room the Dutchman -was seated, with a huge tumbler of what -seemed to be brandy and water in front of him. -He was in the act of striking a match to light -a cigar which was already in the corner of his -mouth. Suddenly his eyes fell upon the poet. -A vague sense of recognition, coupled with a -premonition of danger, seemed to oppress him. -His frame seemed to grow tenser. Even -underneath his clothes one could fancy that his -muscles were stiffening. He watched the four -men approach, and those few of the -neighbouring loungers who chanced to be looking -that way, held their breaths. The atmosphere -around seemed to have become electric. The -inspector stood by the Dutchman's table. -Although he was not in uniform, his official -bearing was unmistakable. -</p> - -<p> -"I want you, my man," he said. "You -must come with me to the police-station." -</p> - -<p> -"Why?" -</p> - -<p> -"I am acting under special orders," the -inspector told him. "I can satisfy you as to -my authority. The thing is, are you coming -quietly?" -</p> - -<p> -Apparently the Dutchman was not, for -pandemonium ensued. The inspector was no -light-weight and he was on guard, but his -adversary's rush was irresistible. He went -crashing over against an opposite table and -the Dutchman's left fist sent the second man -prostrate. The inspector, however, was not -yet done for, and Aaron Rodd and Cresswell -suddenly sprang simultaneously into the fray. -Men and women leapt from their tables. There -were shrieks, a crash of breaking glass. The -policeman, who had been knocked down, -staggered to his knees and blew his whistle -furiously. The Dutchman, kicking, shaking, -even trying to bite the poet's fingers, which -had somehow seized his throat, dragged his -assailants yard by yard towards the door. -The whole place was in an uproar. Suddenly -the swing-doors were pushed open. Two -uniformed constables hurried in. Even then -the Dutchman did not abandon the struggle. -He wrenched himself almost free from the -three men who had momentarily relaxed their -hold, dealt the leading constable a terrific -blow, which only just missed the side of his -head, and knocked his helmet into pulp. -That, however, was the end. The other -constable was a powerful fellow and within thirty -seconds the Dutchman was handcuffed. There -was a crowd now upon the pavement. The -Dutchman, his face covered with blood and -his eyes glaring like the eyes of a wild animal, -was bustled into a taxi. Aaron and the poet -were left behind. They were neither of them -much the worse for the struggle, but Aaron's -collar was torn to pieces and the poet's coat -had been ripped down one side. A waiter -was hovering around them admiringly. -</p> - -<p> -"Bring you something to drink, gentlemen?" -he suggested. -</p> - -<p> -They drank a brandy and soda each. Then -the poet rose. He was conscious of various -bruises but he was very happy. -</p> - -<p> -"Home and seclusion, I think, for a time, -my friend," he said. "What a heavenly -scrap!" -</p> - -<p class="thought"> -***** -<br /> -</p> - -<p> -Late that evening, a very immaculately -dressed young man of most superior appearance -discovered the poet in an easy chair in his -club, awaiting the midnight rush of journalists -and actors. The young man presented a -card. -</p> - -<p> -"You will find my name there, sir," he said, -"and also the Service on behalf of which I -pay you this visit." -</p> - -<p> -Cresswell scrutinised the card and sat up -in his chair. -</p> - -<p> -"Have a drink?" he suggested. -</p> - -<p> -His visitor begged to be excused. -</p> - -<p> -"The Chief asked me to find you at the -earliest possible moment," he announced, -"to first of all express his thanks and the -thanks of his department for your valuable -services." -</p> - -<p> -"Had the Dutchman got the goods on -him?" the poet asked eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -"He had indeed! He was carrying documents -of high importance which were obviously -destined for our enemies," the young man -said. "Their contents are to a certain extent -a secret, and I am to ask you to add to your -services by allowing the matter to slip from -your memory." -</p> - -<p> -"What's going to become of Mrs. Abrahams?" -Cresswell enquired. -</p> - -<p> -"We received an indirect suggestion to-night -from the Home Office," the young man replied, -"that the lady in question should be cautioned. -If it is any relief to you, let me assure you that -my chief is not the sort of man to listen to -such tosh. The lady will be interned, whatever -her friends may attempt on her behalf. Two -of the other people implicated, both in the -censor's office, I regret to say, will be shot. -You appear to have discovered a bureau which -existed for the purpose of collecting and -dispatching abroad, every week, various items -of information likely to be of service to our -enemies." -</p> - -<p> -"What'll the Dutchman get?" -</p> - -<p> -The young man hesitated. -</p> - -<p> -"I have already somewhat exceeded my -latitude," he said gravely. "May I ask you -to consider what I have said in confidence, to -forget this little adventure, and never again -in this life to worry about the Dutchman?" -</p> - -<p> -"I won't," the poet promised, with a -chuckle. "By the by, what about Jack -Lovejoy?" -</p> - -<p> -"There is a reference only to some -promised information from a person whom we -concluded to be that young man," was the -reply. "He has been asked to leave the -country within twenty-four hours." -</p> - -<p> -The young man took his leave and a few -moments later Aaron Rodd appeared. He -was wearing a pearl pin of wonderful quality, -which the poet eyed curiously. -</p> - -<p> -"A little farewell present," the former -explained, as he settled down, "from Miss -Pamela Keane." -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p><a id="chap08"></a></p> - -<h3> -<span class="chap1"><i>Chapter VIII</i></span> <span class="chap2"><i>The Yellow Eye</i></span> -</h3> - -<p> -At a few minutes before the popular dining -hour, Aaron Rodd, having selected a table, -ordered, in consultation with the chief <i>maître -d'hôtel</i>, a small dinner, and possessed himself -of a theatre guide, sat in the reception lounge -of the Carlton Grill-room, awaiting the arrival -of Henriette. There was a mirror exactly -opposite to him, and as he sipped his cocktail -he caught a glimpse of his own face. He set -down his glass, momentarily startled. Somehow, -it seemed to him like being brought face -to face with the ghost of his youth. He rose -to his feet and lounged over towards the mirror -on the pretext of examining some illustrated -papers. In the intervals of glancing at them, -he looked furtively at his own reflection, trying -to account for the change he saw there. At -the poet's earnest solicitation he had visited -a first-class tailor, had bought the right -shape of collar, had learnt to tie his evening -bow with the proper twist. A personally -conducted visit to a fashionable hairdresser -had followed, and his fine black hair, no longer -ragged and unkempt, was brushed back from a -face which seemed, even to its owner, to have -changed in some marvellous way during the -last few months. He was, without a doubt, -younger. There was a new expression about -his lips, from which the hardness seemed to -have gone, and, curiously enough, he was -conscious that notwithstanding all his anxieties, -never more poignant than at this particular -moment, life had taken a sudden and -sympathetic turn with him. Since the coming of -Harvey Grimm, he had at last been lifted up -from that weary rut of depression and ill-being; -but since the coming of Henriette, he had been -transported bodily into the world where human -beings live, where the flowers have a different -perfume, and the sun shines always, even if -sometimes from behind the clouds. -</p> - -<p> -"But you, then, also are vain!" a rather -surprised, very amused voice exclaimed almost -in his ears. "Why, you remind me of -Mr. Cresswell, standing there preening yourself -before the mirror!" -</p> - -<p> -For a moment he felt almost embarrassed. -Then he smiled as he bent over Henriette's -fingers. -</p> - -<p> -"I was wondering," he confessed, "what -could have brought so great a change into my -life—and then you came." -</p> - -<p> -Her eyes softened as she looked at him. -Her lips parted. She studied him for a moment -apprisingly. -</p> - -<p> -"You are changed, you know," she decided. -"You look younger. You seem, somehow, to -have moved from one world into another. -You were looking very melancholy that first -day when we met in the Gardens. I do not -think that adventures have disagreed with you." -</p> - -<p> -"If one could only stop them now!" he -exclaimed eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -She laid her finger upon her lip. The <i>maître -d'hôtel</i> stood bowing before them. -</p> - -<p> -"Madame will come this way?" -</p> - -<p> -Henriette approved of the table, approved of -the dinner, approved of her companion. As -for Aaron Rodd, the shadows which sometimes -terrified him seemed to have passed far away -into the background. He was deaf and dumb -to the voices and glances of their neighbours, -attracted by his companion's unanalysable -elegance, her aristocratic little face with its -flawless complexion, her little air—foreign, -perhaps, but all the more attractive—of quaint, -individual distinction. She wore no ornaments -except the pearls which hung from her neck. -Her hair, to his untutored eyes, might have -been arranged with her own fingers. Her gown, -as always, was black, this time of chiffon, and -it was not for him to know that its simplicity -represented the last word in fashion. He -simply found her adorable, and dinner was -almost concluded before she uttered a little cry. -</p> - -<p> -"Why, we have not yet decided what theatre -to go to!" -</p> - -<p> -He sent for a messenger. -</p> - -<p> -"Do try," she begged, "and get some seats -for the <i>Casino</i>. I want so much to see the -revue." -</p> - -<p> -The boy brought them a plan of the theatre, -and Aaron secured a small box. Very reluctantly -they left their table a short time later. -</p> - -<p> -"I have loved my dinner so," she declared, -as they sat together in the taxi. "I think that -I am getting greedy, everything tasted so -good." -</p> - -<p> -"And I think that I, too, am greedy," her -companion whispered, leaning towards her, -"because I want so much—even the greatest -thing in the world could have to offer." -</p> - -<p> -She suddenly clutched his arm with her -white fingers, drew it tightly to her. -</p> - -<p> -"Hold my fingers, please," she begged. -"Sit just like this. Don't let us spoil anything. -Will you be content, please?" -</p> - -<p> -He leaned a little towards her. Her eyes -were half pleading with his, half doubtful. -</p> - -<p> -"I will be content," he promised, "if..." -</p> - -<p> -She drew away from him a moment later. -</p> - -<p> -"I did not mean to let you kiss me," she -declared naively. -</p> - -<p> -"I meant to if I could," he confessed. -</p> - -<p> -She laughed a little hysterically, but not -unhappily. -</p> - -<p> -"Let us pretend that we have behaved like -a couple of bad children," she said, "because -we must not just now talk of these things. That -was just a slip." -</p> - -<p> -"A slip," he repeated. -</p> - -<p> -"A very wonderful, delightful slip," she -murmured. "And here we are." -</p> - -<p> -They found themselves soon in a little box, -small even for two people. Henriette settled -down, almost from the first, to enjoy the -performance. She laughed at the whimsical -Frenchman, applauded the versatile leading -lady, entered with wonderful facility into the -spirit of the place. And then, some half-hour -after their entrance, Aaron Rodd felt the fingers -which he was holding under cover of a programme -suddenly twitch. He glanced up. -To his amazement, all the joy and -light-heartedness had passed from her face. Her -features seemed as though they might have -been carved out of a piece of ivory. Her lips -were a little parted, her eyes filled with fear. -She was gazing with strange intensity upon the -figure of a girl who, heralded by much applause, -had suddenly bounded on to the stage. He -leaned towards her. -</p> - -<p> -"Is anything wrong, Henriette?" he asked -softly. -</p> - -<p> -She roused herself a little. -</p> - -<p> -"Yes!" she whispered. "That girl—do -you see what she is wearing—around her -neck?" -</p> - -<p> -He glanced down on to the stage in puzzled -fashion. The girl in question, French and a -new-comer, who was singing a little song of -the boulevards with a good deal of appropriate -action, wore no jewellery except a single rather -curious yellow stone, suspended from her neck -by a platinum chain. -</p> - -<p> -"You mean that yellow thing?" -</p> - -<p> -She looked at him in surprise. -</p> - -<p> -"But of course you do not know!" she -exclaimed. "That is the great yellow diamond. -It belongs to——" -</p> - -<p> -"To whom?" he interrupted eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -"To Leopold's—to my brother's collection," -she explained hesitatingly. -</p> - -<p> -He was puzzled for a moment. Then the -sense of her words, and their import, began to -dawn upon him. -</p> - -<p> -"You mean that the stone is amongst those -that your brother has acquired?" he continued -diffidently—"one of those he has not yet tried -to have recut?" -</p> - -<p> -"Yes!" she murmured. -</p> - -<p> -There was a moment's embarrassed silence. -Henriette was obviously distraught. She -watched the rather fascinating figure upon the -stage with strained eyes. -</p> - -<p> -"It isn't," she went on, turning abruptly -to her companion, "that I mind if Leopold -chooses to amuse himself. He has probably -lent the girl the diamond for her first appearance. -I see that it is her debut to-night. It -is not that. But he is so rash, so daring. That -stone is known throughout the world—its -history, its description have been published -everywhere. Why, if there is anyone in the -house who knows anything of the history of -gems, they will recognise it. It will be -traced—so easily traced to Leopold. Oh, what folly! -I must go and see her. I must go at once!" -</p> - -<p> -She rose to her feet. They drew a little into -the background of the box. -</p> - -<p> -"I am afraid it will be rather difficult," -Aaron Rodd warned her. -</p> - -<p> -"It must be arranged," she insisted. "We -will go together and find some one at the box -office who will take a message round." -</p> - -<p> -They spent a more or less uncomfortable -ten minutes at the box office, where they were -assured that, owing to the smallness of -the theatre, visits to the artistes were not -permitted. The manager at last appeared -and began an explanation on similar lines. -Henriette interrupted him. -</p> - -<p> -"Monsieur," she begged, "it is a great -exception. There is something which -Mademoiselle should know, something which it is -very important for her to know, and I am the -only person who can tell her. You will make -an exception, please, this once?" -</p> - -<p> -The manager was quite human and a person -of discrimination. He made no further -difficulty. -</p> - -<p> -"If you will both please follow me," he -invited. "Mademoiselle Larilly has just gone -off." -</p> - -<p> -He led them by a tortuous way to the back -of the stage and knocked at the door of a room. -</p> - -<p> -"<i>Entrez!</i>" was the shrill response. -</p> - -<p> -Their guide ushered Henriette and Aaron -Rodd into a tiny little apartment, prettily -furnished notwithstanding the bare floors. -Mademoiselle Larilly was standing before a -pier-glass, admiring herself. She swept round -at their entrance. -</p> - -<p> -"Madame?" she murmured in surprise. -</p> - -<p> -The manager spoke a hasty word or two of -explanation, in French, and disappeared. -Henriette waited until the door was closed. -Then she turned to the girl. -</p> - -<p> -"Mademoiselle," she said, "I owe you, -perhaps, an apology for this unusual visit. I -come for your sake as well as my own and -another's. Will you tell me, please, who lent -you the diamond which you wear?" -</p> - -<p> -The girl held it tightly to her bosom: -</p> - -<p> -"It has not been lent to me," she declared. -"It is given." -</p> - -<p> -"But that is not possible," Henriette -protested. "Do you know that the jewel you are -wearing is worth nearly a million francs?" -</p> - -<p> -The girl started but she simply shrugged her -shoulders. -</p> - -<p> -"Oh, la, la!" she exclaimed. "What do -I care? It was given me by a gentleman, -not an Englishman, and no one has any right -to ask me questions about it. I do not receive -here, mademoiselle. I have but a few minutes -to rest. If you would please go." -</p> - -<p> -Henriette made efforts to modify the haughtiness -of her tone, the air of aloofness with -which she seemed shrouded. -</p> - -<p> -"Mademoiselle Larilly," she said, "I will -not believe that you wish evil things to the -gentleman who lent or gave you that jewel, -yet, believe me, you will bring harm upon him -if you wear it in public. You will bring a -great—the greatest of all misfortunes." -</p> - -<p> -The girl opened her hands a little and gazed -at the gem. She shook her head. -</p> - -<p> -"That I cannot help," she decided. "It -is his affair. He must know better than you. -I promised him to wear it. He may even be -here to-night. I shall keep my word." -</p> - -<p> -"Mademoiselle——" Henriette began. -</p> - -<p> -Then the words died away on her lips. The -door of the dressing-room had opened and -closed without any knock. Mr. Paul Brodie -stood there, suave and with a little smile upon -his lips. He bowed politely—a gesture which -seemed to include every one. Mademoiselle -Larilly glanced at him contemptuously. -</p> - -<p> -"But who allowed you to enter?" she -demanded. "I do not receive here. I will send -for the manager. It is an impertinence when -people come to my room without permission." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Brodie held out his hand deprecatingly. -</p> - -<p> -"Miss Larilly," he begged, "pray do not -disturb yourself. I am one of those who must -go anywhere they choose, at any time." -</p> - -<p> -"Indeed!" she exclaimed indignantly. -"You are not the owner of the theatre or the -author of the revue, and I do not know you. -I beg you to leave at once." -</p> - -<p> -"Young lady," Mr. Brodie continued, his -eyes fastened upon the gem which hung from -her neck, "I have not the good fortune to be -either of the gentlemen you mention, but I -represent a force which has to be reckoned -with by law-abiding people. I am of the -police." -</p> - -<p> -She stood quite still. Once more her hands -clutched at the jewel which rested on her -bosom. -</p> - -<p> -"The police?" she repeated. "But I do -not understand! What do you——what do -the police want with me in my room?" -</p> - -<p> -"Now come, Miss Larilly," Mr. Brodie went -on soothingly, "it's nothing you need worry -about. I just want your permission to examine -the jewel which you are wearing." -</p> - -<p> -"No!" she refused sharply. "No one shall -do that. The jewel has been lent to me, lent -to me on one condition—that I permit no one -to touch it." -</p> - -<p> -"Look here, young lady," Brodie protested, -quietly but forcibly, "I don't want to make -any disturbance, and I'd sooner deal with this -matter in a friendly fashion. All the same, if -you're out for trouble, I can soon bring you -plenty of it. Come, it won't take you long to -slip that off your neck." -</p> - -<p> -She began to look a little frightened. She -glanced towards Henriette as though for -guidance. Henriette, however, seemed almost -on the point of breaking down herself. She -had sunk into the chair which Aaron had -fetched. -</p> - -<p> -"Courage," Aaron whispered in her ear. -"That brute is watching you." -</p> - -<p> -Brodie had drawn closer to Mademoiselle -Larilly. She held her hands tightly against -her bosom. -</p> - -<p> -"If you come a step further," she cried, "I -will shriek! I will call the artistes to defend -me—the manager! You must come to me -when I am not playing, if you would ask -questions." -</p> - -<p> -"Young lady," the detective said with a -new sternness, "you can call the manager, if -you will, and I shall repeat to him what I say -to you. If you do not suffer me to examine -that jewel, I shall stop the performance and -have you taken to the police-station." -</p> - -<p> -She was obviously terrified now. The rouge -upon her cheeks seemed like a great daub of -red. She set her teeth, her hands flew apart. -</p> - -<p> -"It is a miserable country!" she exclaimed -passionately. "In France this could not -happen. Look, then, at the stone, and go, -but remember—I will give it up to no one. -If you take it, you must drag it from my neck -and I will follow you, shrieking, even on to the -stage. I will not be robbed! How do I know -that you are of the police? You may be a -thief yourself! The stone—I tell you that it is -worth a fortune." -</p> - -<p> -"I can well believe it," Brodie assented -calmly. "One moment, if you please." -</p> - -<p> -He held the stone in the palm of his hand -and fitted a magnifying glass into his eye. -There was a moment's silence. Henriette -suddenly gripped her companion's hand. -Mademoiselle Larilly stood there, panting, her -bosom rising and falling quickly. There was -murder in her eyes. Presently Brodie let the -stone fall, replaced the magnifying glass in his -pocket. He stood, for a moment, as though -thinking. Then he turned towards the door. -</p> - -<p> -"Miss Larilly," he said, looking back at her, -"my apologies. The bauble which you are -wearing is a worthless piece of yellow crystal, -worth, perhaps, twenty pounds. I was -deceived—as was, perhaps, the young lady over -yonder," he added with a little ironical -bow—"by a wonderful resemblance." -</p> - -<p> -He closed the door quietly behind him. -There was a queer silence in the room. -Henriette was deathly pale. Relief and bewilderment -were struggling in her face. The French -girl's expression had become electrically -transformed. With a sudden little gesture she -leaned towards the closed door. Her hand -flashed in front of her face. Her gesture was -significant if vulgar. -</p> - -<p> -"It is worth twenty pounds, my bauble, is -it?" she mocked. "And he thinks, that big, -ugly man, that I would come on to the stage -with a bauble round my neck worth twenty -pounds! Eh, but he is not a gentleman of -France, that——!" -</p> - -<p> -An inner door suddenly opened. Leopold -Brinnen appeared, and behind him the tall, -slender figure of Monsieur Larkson, the leading -French actor in the revue. -</p> - -<p> -"With your permission," Brinnen began, -bowing to Mademoiselle Larilly.... "Henriette!" -</p> - -<p> -He stopped short in amazement. Henriette -rose to her feet and came towards him. -</p> - -<p> -"Leopold," she exclaimed, talking to him -rapidly in French, "what have you done? -How dare you, for all our sakes, run these -awful risks! If the man Brodie had not been -a fool, if he had known anything of jewels, if he -had not been blind, where should we have been -at this moment? Do you think they would -have let mademoiselle go until she had told -from whence came the Yellow Eye? Oh, but -you are so reckless! Take it away from her -quickly! Hide it!" -</p> - -<p> -Leopold listened to her words a little -gravely. -</p> - -<p> -"Will you tell me, my sister," he enquired, -"what you are doing here?" -</p> - -<p> -"I have dined and am spending the evening -with Mr. Aaron Rodd," she explained. "We -sit in the box here and I recognise the Yellow -Eye. I hurry here. Mademoiselle receives me. -I beg her to take it off, not to wear it. I warn -her that there is danger. She scoffs at me. -And then Brodie comes. But that man—he -must be mad! He held the stone in his hand." -</p> - -<p> -The young man smiled quietly. Then he -listened at the door which led into the passage -and softly turned the key. He glanced towards -mademoiselle. -</p> - -<p> -"Ah, but if you all will," she exclaimed, -"behold!" -</p> - -<p> -Her hand disappeared for a moment down -her back. She threw the platinum chain and -stone which she was wearing, on to the -dressing-table. In a moment another flashed upon her -bosom. -</p> - -<p> -"You see," she went on, "how simple! I -obeyed. On the stage I wore that great beautiful -stone, and even before I had reached my -room, in the passage, the other hung in its -place." -</p> - -<p> -Leopold Brinnen smiled amiably. Nevertheless, -he was a little apologetic as he turned -towards his sister. -</p> - -<p> -"It is that man Brodie," he sighed. "He -is so persistent and yet he has not the wits for -success. He wearies me with his blunders. -This is just a little lesson." -</p> - -<p> -"A little lesson," Henriette repeated -reproachfully, with a sob in her throat, "which -might have cost us——" -</p> - -<p> -He waved his hand. -</p> - -<p> -"Ah, no, little sister!" he protested. "You -take too gloomy a view. Even Paul Brodie," -he continued, lowering his voice so that it was -inaudible at the other end of the room, "has -not yet succeeded in forging the missing link -between Jeremiah Sands and Captain Brinnen -of the Belgian Artillery. You permit now, -madame," he went on, turning back to the -others, "that I present to you my sister -and Monsieur Aaron Rodd. Mademoiselle -Larilly," he explained, "is the wife of -Monsieur Larkson here, whom I take the liberty -also to present. What do you say? Which -stone shall mademoiselle wear when she sings -her next song?" -</p> - -<p> -"One may play with fire a little too long," -Aaron Rodd observed. -</p> - -<p> -"Leopold!" his sister implored, clasping -her hands. -</p> - -<p> -The young man bowed. -</p> - -<p> -"It shall be as you will," he promised, -holding out his hand and accepting the stone -which Mademoiselle Larilly was eagerly -pressing upon him. "Into my pocket with this -one, then. Madame shall dance for the first -time in her life with a worthless bauble around -her throat, but there shall be a recompense. -I insist. We will all sup together at Giro's. -You agree? And you, Rodd? My sister," he -added, "will, I am sure, be delighted to see -more of you, madame, and your husband." -</p> - -<p> -"It will give me the greatest pleasure," -Henriette assented. -</p> - -<p> -A call boy came shouting down the passage. -</p> - -<p> -"Giro's at eleven-thirty," Brinnen reminded -them all. -</p> - -<p> -"It shall be au revoir, then, madame!" -Henriette said, as she passed through the door -which Aaron was holding open for her. -</p> - -<p class="thought"> -***** -<br /> -</p> - -<p> -There was a great relief in Henriette's face -as she leaned back in the darkest corner of the -box and closed her eyes. The atmosphere of -the evening, however, had departed. She was -no longer full of that quivering, electrical -gaiety. She watched the rest of the performance -with interest and talked now and then -to Aaron, but their homeward drive afterwards -was performed almost in silence. She rested -her fingers in his and leaned back. -</p> - -<p> -"Forgive me if I rest," she murmured. "I -am terrified. I shake now when I think of that -moment." -</p> - -<p> -"It is all over now," he reminded her. -"Try and be quiet for a little time." -</p> - -<p> -Presently she sat up. -</p> - -<p> -"Listen," she said, "it will be half an hour -at least before they can arrive at Giro's. -Madame must change her toilette." -</p> - -<p> -As Madame's last toilette had been one of -pink silk, in which there was very much more -stocking than skirt, the suggestion seemed -probable. -</p> - -<p> -"What would you like to do?" Aaron asked. -</p> - -<p> -"I would like to call back at the Milan," -she begged. "I nearly always see my -grandfather for a moment before he goes to sleep; -and I can rest and bathe my eyes. You will -not mind waiting?" -</p> - -<p> -"Of course not!" -</p> - -<p> -He redirected the driver and they drew up, -a few minutes later, at the Milan. She -descended at the Court entrance and crossed over -at once to the lift. -</p> - -<p> -"I will not ask you up," she said. "I shall -find you here, perhaps, in—say, ten minutes?" -</p> - -<p> -He assented and bought an evening paper. -In less than the time she had stated, the lift -stopped and she reappeared. To his surprise -she had taken off her hat. She came towards -him with a strange look in her face. He could -see the tears quivering in her eyes. -</p> - -<p> -"Dear friend," she whispered, "be kind to -me. I have had a great blow. My grandfather -died this evening while we were away—only -an hour ago." -</p> - -<p> -He murmured an eager word or two of -sympathy. She laid her hand upon his arm. -</p> - -<p> -"Will you go, please, at once to Giro's," -she begged him, "and tell Leopold? Try and -prevent him, if you can, entering the -supper-room. There are so many things that will -happen now," she went on. "Please go -quickly. See!" -</p> - -<p> -She raised her fingers to his lips. He caught -them and kissed them. Then she turned away -and he hurried outside, jumped into a taxi -and drove to Giro's. Leopold Brinnen and a -little party of guests were standing in the hall. -The former frowned as he entered alone. -</p> - -<p> -"Where is my sister?" he demanded. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron took him by the arm. -</p> - -<p> -"Captain Brinnen," he said, "I am sorry, -but I am the bearer of bad news. Your -grandfather died this evening." -</p> - -<p> -The young man stood perfectly still for a -moment. -</p> - -<p> -"Dead!" he muttered. "Poor fellow! ... dead!" -</p> - -<p> -Inside the room the music was crashing, -and the hum of conversation was already -swelling to a tumult. A couple of early dancers -were whirling round the room. Brinnen turned -to his guests. -</p> - -<p> -"I am so sorry," he explained, "Mr. Rodd -here has brought me bad news. A near relative -of mine has died suddenly. You must excuse -my joining you. Luigi will serve the supper." -</p> - -<p> -There was a little murmur of sympathy. His -Bohemian friends crowded silently around him. -One by one they shook his hand—a queer little -function. Then he turned away and stood -for a moment on the pavement outside, Aaron -Rodd by his side. -</p> - -<p> -"Mr. Rodd," he said, "my grandfather's -death may make a difference in many ways." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd straightened himself. He was -never sure of the demeanour of this young -adventurer, who seemed for the most part to -treat life as a jest. -</p> - -<p> -"In what way?" he asked. -</p> - -<p> -Brinnen replied with a question. -</p> - -<p> -"Can you communicate with Mr. Harvey Grimm?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron shook his head. -</p> - -<p> -"I do not even know where he does his work. -Forgive me for reminding you," he added, -"that your sister is in great distress." -</p> - -<p> -The young man stepped into a taxi. -</p> - -<p> -"It is necessary that I see Harvey Grimm as -soon as possible," he insisted. -</p> - -<p> -"Harvey Grimm won't be hurried over his -work," Aaron declared. "For your own sake -he is better out of sight until it is concluded. -Shall I tell the man to go to the Milan?" -</p> - -<p> -Brinnen nodded. He leaned out of the -window for a moment, however, before the -cab started. -</p> - -<p> -"Mr. Aaron Rodd," he said, "do you mind -if I speak to you for a moment with perfect -frankness?" -</p> - -<p> -"Not in the least," Aaron assured him -promptly. -</p> - -<p> -"In some respects," Brinnen continued -confidentially, "I am inclined to like you, but on -the whole I have come to the conclusion that -you are a very simple fellow. That is all!" -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p><a id="chap09"></a></p> - -<h3> -<span class="chap1"><i>Chapter IX</i></span> <span class="chap2"><i>The Vengeance of Rosa Letchowiski</i></span> -</h3> - -<p> -The small boy assumed an air of vast -importance. He leaned over the counter and with -mysterious gestures arrested the progress of -his cousin through the shop. -</p> - -<p> -"Rosa, I've got something to thay to you, -motht important," he announced. "Come -right over here." -</p> - -<p> -She paused and swung around a little -unwillingly. Her scarlet underlip was thrust -outwards. She walked with her hand upon her -hip, not averse to impressing even this young -cousin of hers with all the allurements of her -slipshod finery. -</p> - -<p> -"I thay, Rosa, you look fine," the boy -declared admiringly. "Lithen now. You told -me to keep my eyes open, if ever I should see -any more of Mr. Levy, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -The girl's face was suddenly alight. She -moved close to the counter. -</p> - -<p> -"You've heard of him?" she exclaimed -eagerly. "You know where he is?" -</p> - -<p> -The boy nodded many times. He placed a -finger upon his lips, in his eyes was the glint -of avarice. -</p> - -<p> -"You promithed me a shilling," he reminded -her. "I worked hard. I know now just where -he ith. You can see him for yourthelf. It's -worth a shilling, Rosa, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -The girl's hand dived into the recesses of her -half-fastened skirt. She produced a cheap -purse of imitation Russia leather and solemnly -counted out a sixpence and six coppers. -</p> - -<p> -"You tell me the truth," she adjured him, -parting with the coins reluctantly. -</p> - -<p> -"Honest and sure," the boy promised, -sweeping them into his pocket. "He came -back again Tuesday night. He's at work now -in the repairing room." -</p> - -<p> -"You little shark!" his cousin cried -indignantly. "Why, I should have found out -myself if I'd gone straight in to grandfather." -</p> - -<p> -"Maybe and maybe not," he answered, with -his finger upon his nose and his hand guarding -the pocket where the shilling reposed. -</p> - -<p> -The girl was breathing quickly with excitement. -The loss of the shilling, after all, was -a slight thing to a girl earning man's wages. -</p> - -<p> -"Listen," she enjoined, "don't you say I've -been. I'm off back to tidy up. I shall be here -in half an hour. He won't be gone by then." -</p> - -<p> -"Sure not," was the confident assent. "He -brought his valise. He'th come to stop." -</p> - -<p> -Rosa almost tiptoed her way out of the shop, -dived into the stream of people and disappeared. -It was rather more than half an hour -before her small cousin, with palms outstretched -upon the counter, struggling to sell -a one-and-sixpenny brooch to a girl who had -a shilling to spend, glanced up and recognised -her. His look of admiration was a genuine -tribute. For a moment the glamour of the -transaction upon which he was engaged, faded. -</p> - -<p> -"My, Rosa, you do look fine!" he -exclaimed. "Them clothes must have cost -something!" -</p> - -<p> -She nodded haughtily—a vision of cheap -furs, with a black hat from which flared one -great scarlet flower. She carried a bag of -some jingling metal in her hand. Her patent -shoes squeaked loudly. She displayed at least -twelve inches of silk-clad limbs, and she -diffused little waves of a perfume carefully -selected on account of its far-reaching qualities. -The customer, who knew her by sight, gazed -after her admiringly. -</p> - -<p> -"That's your cousin Rosa, isn't it?" she asked. -</p> - -<p> -The small boy nodded, withdrawing his eyes -from the disappearing figure with reluctance. -</p> - -<p> -"It must be wonderful to earn enough money -to dress like that," he observed enviously. -"My, did you see those furs! ... The firtht -ornament Rosa ever bought from me wath one -of these brooches," he went on, reverting to -the subject in hand. "Two shillings she paid, -my dear, and eighteenpence I'm asking you, -jutht because I like to do business when the -old man ain't here. Maybe you could pay the -extra sixpence next Saturday...." -</p> - -<p> -Rosa swept through the door and descended -the two steps into the dingy sitting-room. In -a high-backed chair drawn up to the scanty -fire, his head a little on one side, sat her -grandfather, asleep. She passed on tiptoe -through the room, down the narrow passage, -and softly turned the handle of the workshop -door. The air was vibrating slightly with the -monotonous hum of a concealed dynamo. -Bending low over the board, with huge magnifying -glasses in his eyes, Mr. Levy, with a small, -bright instrument in his hand, was absorbed -in some delicate process of refashioning a -little glittering mass, carefully held between -the thumb and forefinger of his left hand. -Some instinct told the girl to keep silence. -She watched him breathlessly until the -consciousness of her presence reached him through -his finer senses. He raised his knife from its -task and turned swiftly around, touched a -knob with his foot and the dynamo gradually -slackened speed and died away. -</p> - -<p> -"You!" he exclaimed, removing the glasses -from his eyes. -</p> - -<p> -She saw the stone upon which he had been -working transferred swiftly to his pocket. -She was immensely curious. Nevertheless, the -personal element came first. -</p> - -<p> -"You're a nice man, aren't you, eh?" -she demanded, coming slowly towards him. -"What about that little dinner we were going -to have, eh, and a theatre? You just leave -your place without a word of warning. I -wonder grandfather took you back again." -</p> - -<p> -"My dear young lady," he began. -</p> - -<p> -"Rosa!" she pouted. -</p> - -<p> -"Rosa, then," he went on, "pleasure is a -great thing, but business is a greater. I have -been away on business, the business I spoke -to you of. Now, you see, I am back again. -The other place didn't suit me." -</p> - -<p> -"And grandfather took you on without a word?" -</p> - -<p> -"As you see." -</p> - -<p> -"What is it you are working at?" she -asked curiously. "I never knew you had a -dynamo here, or that you needed one for -watch repairing." -</p> - -<p> -"It is an idea of my own," he told her. -"You see, it isn't only watches but every -article of jewellery we repair. It saves another -assistant." -</p> - -<p> -"What were you working at when I came -in?" she persisted. -</p> - -<p> -"A piece of glass, cutting it up into a few -of those beautiful diamond brooches you see -in the window," he explained. "But don't let's -talk about the work. How well you look!" -</p> - -<p> -She tossed her head. -</p> - -<p> -"A lot you care about how well I look," -she retorted, "going away like that with never -a word!" -</p> - -<p> -"By the by," he enquired suddenly, "how -did you come in? Where was your grandfather?" -</p> - -<p> -"Grandfather was asleep in the easy chair," -she told him. "I came through on tiptoe. -Like to keep yourself private down here, don't -you?" -</p> - -<p> -"Part of my training," he replied. "I -can't work unless I am absolutely alone and -undisturbed." -</p> - -<p> -She leaned against his bench and raised her -foot as though to look at the patent tip of her -shoe. He was privileged to behold a goodly -number of inches of silk-clad limb. -</p> - -<p> -"What are you doing to-night," she asked, -"after work?" -</p> - -<p> -He shook his head disconsolately. -</p> - -<p> -"Your grandfather is a hard taskmaster," -he grumbled. "I generally stick on here -until I'm tired out." -</p> - -<p> -"We'll see about that," she promised. -"Would you like ... Oh, bother!" she broke -off. "I promised to go to the pictures with -Stolly Wykes." -</p> - -<p> -Her companion's faint sigh of regret was -very cleverly assumed. -</p> - -<p> -"Perhaps another evening, then," he suggested. -</p> - -<p> -"You're such a slippery customer," she -went on, "here to-day and gone to-morrow -sort of chap. I suppose I could put Stolly -off," she went on meditatively, raising her -eyes and looking at him. -</p> - -<p> -"I wouldn't do that," he protested. "I -can't help thinking how disappointed I should -be in his place." -</p> - -<p> -"Plenty of feeling for others you have, -haven't you?" she observed sarcastically. -"I don't know as I care about going out with -Stolly. He's always worrying me to get -engaged." -</p> - -<p> -"I've wondered more than once," he told -her confidentially, "why you haven't been -engaged long ago. How old are you? -Twenty?" -</p> - -<p> -"I am twenty-two," she confessed, "and -if I'm not engaged, it's because I haven't been -over-anxious. I don't think much of these -young fellows round here. I feel, somehow, -as though I wanted something different." -</p> - -<p> -He sighed sympathetically, and then, as -though with an effort, turned back to his bench. -</p> - -<p> -"If the old man wakes up and finds I'm not -working," he remarked, "he'll be annoyed." -</p> - -<p> -"You can get on with your work, then," -she replied. "I'm going to talk to him for a -minute or two. Be good." -</p> - -<p> -She gave him a little backward nod, -enigmatically encouraging, and left him, closing -the door softly behind her. She made her way -into the stuffy little parlour and shook her -grandfather by the shoulder. -</p> - -<p> -"Wake up, old man," she exhorted. "Nice -thing going to sleep over the fire in the middle -of the afternoon!" -</p> - -<p> -"Eh, what—what, my dear?" he exclaimed, -sitting up. "It's Rosa, is it? Ah! -How beautiful you look, Rosa! But those -furs—were they very expensive, my dear?" -</p> - -<p> -"They were rather," the girl admitted -complacently, "but I'm earning good money and -I want to get married." -</p> - -<p> -"To get married, my dear," the old man -repeated, a little vaguely. "Well, well, you -find some young man with good prospects, and -money—money in his hand, mind——" -</p> - -<p> -"I've found the young man I'd like to -marry," Rosa interrupted. "He's your -assistant down there." -</p> - -<p> -Abraham Letchowiski stretched out his -hands in protest. He shook his head vigorously. -</p> - -<p> -"No, no, my tear!" he cried. "You -cannot marry him. He is just a journeyman -repairer. He has no money saved. He spends -too much on his clothes." -</p> - -<p> -"He's a clever workman, isn't he?" -</p> - -<p> -"Oh, he is clever," the old man admitted, -"very clever indeed, but there are many -clever people in the world who have not much -money." -</p> - -<p> -"Look here," the girl expostulated, "you're -going to leave David and me your money, -aren't you? You've no one else?" -</p> - -<p> -"But I have not much," the old man whined, -"and I may live quite some time yet." -</p> - -<p> -"You're getting too old to work," the girl -declared. "Why not take him into partnership?" -</p> - -<p> -"Bartnership?" the old man shrieked. -"Ah, my tear, you do not understand!" -</p> - -<p> -"I understand the way to deal with you, -anyhow," Rosa retorted. "You wait!" -</p> - -<p> -She walked to the end of the passage and -raised her voice. -</p> - -<p> -"Mr. Levy, please to come here." -</p> - -<p> -There was a smothered reply, and after a -few moments he appeared. -</p> - -<p> -Abraham Letchowiski, now thoroughly -awake, sat in the chair, wringing his hands. -</p> - -<p> -"Rosa," he exclaimed, "I implore you! -Rosa! Listen to me!" -</p> - -<p> -She cut him short. She seemed, somehow, -to dominate the little room—strong, forceful -and determined. -</p> - -<p> -"Mr. Levy," she announced, "grandfather -has something to say to you. He makes such -a muddle of things that, although it is rather -embarrassing, I shall say it myself. David and -I are his heirs. He has saved a great deal of -money." -</p> - -<p> -"No, no, my tear—no!" the old man -interrupted tearfully. -</p> - -<p> -"He has saved a great deal of money," she -went on placidly. "He has no other relatives. -He is always bothering me to get married. I -tell him to-day that I have made up my mind. -If you are willing, Mr. Levy, he will take you -into partnership. We will see that little David -is done fairly with. Later on, when you grow -older, he shall be your partner. Now, grandfather, -sit up and hear what Mr. Levy has to say." -</p> - -<p> -For once in his life, Harvey Grimm was taken -at a disadvantage. He stood speechless and -hopelessly astounded. Rosa held out her -hands to him. Before he knew exactly where -he was, he was holding one of them. -</p> - -<p> -"So that's all settled," the girl pronounced, -drawing him closer to her. "Now, -grandfather, Mr. Levy—Edward we must call him -now—is going to leave off work at once. We -are going out to supper and a cinema." -</p> - -<p> -The old man suddenly struck the table with -his clenched fist. There was a curious solemnity -in his voice. -</p> - -<p> -"I will not have it!" he cried, his eyes -flashing. "All that you have spoken is -foolish, Rosa. I will not have this young man -for my partner, nor shall you have him for -your husband, even if he were willing." -</p> - -<p> -"Why not?" she demanded. -</p> - -<p> -"Because he is not of our faith," Abraham -Letchowiski declared solemnly, "because his -name is not Levy. He is not one of us." -</p> - -<p> -Rosa was taken aback. She looked at her -prospective suitor incredulously. -</p> - -<p> -"Is that true?" she asked him. "I don't -care twopence whether you're a Jew or not, -but isn't your name Levy?" -</p> - -<p> -"It is not," he confessed. -</p> - -<p> -"Why don't you go about under your own name?" -</p> - -<p> -There was a moment's silence. A sudden -understanding leapt into the girl's face. -</p> - -<p> -"Wait," she cried—"the dynamo downstairs, -and those men who came here to -search! What is it you do in that back -room, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -There was still silence. She passed her arms -suddenly through his. -</p> - -<p> -"Be sensible," she urged. "I am not a fool. -I know that grandfather loves money and -loves making it. So do I. If he lets you work -secretly in his back room, it must be because -you make money there. Well, why not? -You need have no fear of me. Tell me the -truth? I shall be faithful. I do not mind -that you are not a Jew. I will marry you all -the same. I like you better than any of the -Jews I know." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm wiped the perspiration from -his forehead. It was a situation, this, for -which no foresight could have provided. -</p> - -<p> -"And I," Abraham Letchowiski thundered, -"swear before the God of my fathers that you -shall marry none but a Jew!" -</p> - -<p> -The girl made a face at him and dragged -him back into his easy chair. -</p> - -<p> -"Don't you be a silly old man," she enjoined. -"Times have changed since you were young. -A girl has to have a husband, doesn't she? -You wouldn't have me marry any of those -skimpers that come around here?" -</p> - -<p> -A fit of coughing seized the old man and he -was momentarily speechless. -</p> - -<p> -She turned away from him. -</p> - -<p> -"That's all right," she declared confidently. -"He'll be reasonable by morning. You go -and wash and get ready." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm sighed mournfully. His wits -were serving him at last, presenting a tardy -possibility of escape. -</p> - -<p> -"Miss Rosa," he said, "I haven't had the -chance to say anything. You took me by -surprise this afternoon. Perhaps I ought to -have told you when we first met, but I didn't. -I am married." -</p> - -<p> -She stood looking at him for a moment, her -voluptuous red lips parted, her eyebrows -contracting. -</p> - -<p> -"Married?" she exclaimed, a little hysterically. -"You beast!" -</p> - -<p> -"I can't help it," he apologised humbly. -"I ought to have told you but I never thought. -That is why I kept away before." -</p> - -<p> -"I see," she murmured, with the air of one -whose thoughts are far away. -</p> - -<p> -Abraham Letchowiski sat up in his chair. -He mopped his eyes with a yellow handkerchief. -</p> - -<p> -"You see, my tear," he pointed out feverishly, -"the young man is honest—he tells the -truth. That is the end." -</p> - -<p> -"Is it!" the girl muttered. "Perhaps! -Anyway, he is going to take me out this -evening. Your wife ain't here with you, is she?" -</p> - -<p> -"No," he replied, "she is in America." -</p> - -<p> -"Go and get yourself ready, then." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm meekly acquiesced, and -devoted himself for the rest of the evening -towards the entertainment of his companion. -The girl's manner was a little queer. At the -restaurant to which he took her—the best -in the neighbourhood—she appeared to -thoroughly enjoy the lavish meal which he -provided. She even held his hand under the -table and smiled many times into his eyes. -She took his arm as they walked through the -streets, but in the theatre, which she chose in -preference to a cinema, she sat most of the -time silent and absorbed. On the way home -she clung to his arm. When they reached the -little jeweller's shop, she paused. -</p> - -<p> -"Let me take you across to your rooms -first," he suggested. -</p> - -<p> -She shook her head. -</p> - -<p> -"I want to find my handkerchief," she told -him. "I must have left it in the parlour. -Open the door, please." -</p> - -<p> -He obeyed her, and they stumbled through -the darkened shop, down the steps, into the -close, stuffy little apartment. The remains -of the fire were smouldering upon the hearth, -but the room was unlit. Abraham Letchowiski -and the boy had long since gone to -bed. Suddenly she threw her arms around him. -</p> - -<p> -"Kiss me!" she cried, in a choked tone. -</p> - -<p> -He yielded, struggling, however, against -her vehement embrace. His hands gripped -her shoulders. He wrenched himself free. -He stood on the other side of the table, for a -moment, panting. Her eyes, luminous, shone -through the darkness at him. Then suddenly -she swung round, climbed the two steps, -passed through the shop and closed the door -softly. Almost immediately she reopened it. -In the dim street light outside he could see the -outline of her figure. -</p> - -<p> -"Thank you very much, Mr. Married Man," -she said, "for my evening." -</p> - -<p> -He made no reply. There was a second's -hesitation, a last opportunity, of which he -declined to avail himself—then the door was -closed. A few minutes later he locked it, went -back to his workshop, and from a cupboard -drew out a whisky bottle and some soda. -</p> - -<p> -"Here's a cursed mess!" he muttered -dolefully, as he mixed himself a drink. -</p> - -<p class="thought"> -***** -<br /> -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Paul Brodie laid down his cigar and -newspaper and swung round in his chair to -receive a visitor, already, in his mind, a -prospective new client. A small boy had -opened the door. -</p> - -<p> -"The lady, sir," he announced. -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Brodie recognised his visitor with a -thrill of expectancy. -</p> - -<p> -"Say, this is Miss Letchowiski, isn't it?" -he exclaimed, holding out his hand. "Glad -to see you, young lady. Please take a seat." -</p> - -<p> -Rosa ignored the invitation. She came up to -his desk and leaned over it. -</p> - -<p> -"Look here," she said, "you're the man, -aren't you, who came messing round my -grandfather's jewellery shop a few weeks ago? -You were after the assistant—Edward Levy." -</p> - -<p> -"Well?" Brodie ejaculated eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -"You bungled things, or else he was too -clever for you," Rosa continued. "I've come -to tell you that he's back again there now, -carrying on the same game, got an electrical -dynamo in the workshop, and no end of tools. -His name ain't Levy at all, and he isn't a Jew." -</p> - -<p> -"What do you suppose he is doing there?" -Brodie enquired. -</p> - -<p> -"Look here," the girl went on, "if I tell you, -will you swear that you won't get my -grandfather into this?" -</p> - -<p> -"I think I can promise that," was the -cautious reply. -</p> - -<p> -"Breaking up diamonds, then—that's what -he's doing," the girl confided. "He's at it -now." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Brodie showed no signs of excitement, -but he was already struggling into his overcoat. -</p> - -<p> -"There will probably be a reward for this," -he said to Rosa. "I shall not forget." -</p> - -<p> -"I don't want your reward," the girl -replied. "I've done it just because—well, -never mind. You go and nab him...." -</p> - -<p> -Brodie did not suffer the grass to grow -beneath his feet. He drove straight to -Scotland Yard, and chafed very much at the delay -which kept him five minutes from Inspector -Ditchwater's presence. -</p> - -<p> -"Inspector," he announced, as soon as he -was ushered into the latter's room, "I want -you to give me a man and a warrant at once. -This time I think I've got a clue that will lead -us straight to Jerry Sands." -</p> - -<p> -"Is that so?" the inspector remarked dryly. -"We've been there before, you know." -</p> - -<p> -"See here, Ditchwater," Brodie continued, -"you've kind of lost faith in me, and I can't -say that I'm altogether surprised. But just -listen. The girl from Abraham Letchowiski's -shop has been up to me to-day. She says -that that fellow I went after is back again there. -He's got a dynamo in the back place and a -whole set of tools, and is breaking up diamonds. -Just what I suspected before, only I couldn't -lay my hands on him. This time we shall do it." -</p> - -<p> -The inspector scribbled a few lines on a -piece of paper. -</p> - -<p> -"You can take your man," he said, "but -don't get me into any trouble over this. We -can't be raiding people's premises for ever, on -suspicion." -</p> - -<p> -"There'll be no trouble this time," -Mr. Brodie promised triumphantly. "A jealous -woman's the real thing in our job." -</p> - -<p> -"Well, I wish you luck," the inspector -replied. "If you're really on to Jerry Sands, -you're on to a big thing." -</p> - -<p> -Mr. Brodie, with a plain-clothes constable, -took a taxicab to the Mile End Road. The -two men entered the shop together. David -was alone behind the counter. -</p> - -<p> -"What can I show the shentlemen?" he -enquired urbanely. -</p> - -<p> -"We want to speak to your grandfather," -Brodie announced. "You needn't leave the -shop. I know the way." -</p> - -<p> -They passed down the little steps into the -stuffy parlour. Abraham Letchowiski was -sitting in his chair, gazing into the fire and -mumbling to himself. He looked at the -visitors uneasily. -</p> - -<p> -"What do you want here?" he asked. -"I am not well to-day. I am not speaking of -business." -</p> - -<p> -"That's all right, Mr. Letchowiski," Brodie -answered. "It's just a word with your -assistant we're after." -</p> - -<p> -The uneasiness in the old man's face changed -into terror. -</p> - -<p> -"What do you want with him?" he -exclaimed. "He is a respectable young man, -a very clever watchmaker. He comes from -Switzerland. He has done nothing wrong." -</p> - -<p> -Brodie turned to the constable. -</p> - -<p> -"Don't let him move," he directed. "I -hear the dynamo stopping." -</p> - -<p> -He ran down the passage and threw open -door. The man who had been working at -bench turned to face him. The whir of -the dynamo was slackening, but Harvey Grimm -had had no time to collect his tools. There -were several curiously shaped knives and fine -files and chisels lying about. Brodie saw them, -and his eyes sparkled. -</p> - -<p> -"Edward Levy," he said, "I arrest you on -the charge of breaking up stolen diamonds. -I have a constable in the room outside. You'll -have to come up to the police-station with us -and be questioned." -</p> - -<p> -The young man laughed scornfully. He -pointed to something bright held in the teeth -of a small brass vice. With a touch of his -finger he released it. -</p> - -<p> -"Diamonds!" he scoffed. "Why, I am an -expert on sham jewellery!" -</p> - -<p> -Brodie pressed incautiously forward, and -Harvey Grimm's left hand swung round with -a lightning-like stroke. The detective went -over like a log, groaned for a moment and -staggered to his feet. Harvey Grimm pressed -him back, forced his knotted handkerchief into -his mouth, and closed and locked the door -through which he had entered. Then he threw -off his overall and caught up his coat and -overcoat. -</p> - -<p> -"You're a clever fellow, Paul Brodie," he -said to the writhing figure upon the floor. -"Sorry I can't stop to discuss this matter with -you." -</p> - -<p> -He threw a little higher open the window -which led into the yard, vaulted through and -walked swiftly down the entry. He strolled -into the broad thoroughfare, wiping the -moisture from his forehead and looking everywhere -for a taxi. -</p> - -<p> -"My God!" he muttered to himself. "We're -coming near the end of things!" -</p> - -<p> -Listening all the while for footsteps behind -which never came, he at last hailed a taxicab -and was driven to Aldgate. At the Mansion -House he alighted, and in another taxicab -made his way to one of the streets on the north -side of the Strand. Here he entered a passageway, -climbed the stairs past a second-hand -clothes shop, and on the second flight opened -the door of a room with a latchkey which hung -from his chain. He gave a little murmur of -relief as he discovered a young man in a -dressing-gown, seated in an arm-chair with his -feet up on the mantelpiece, reading a paper-backed -novel. The young man bore a remarkable -resemblance to Mr. Harvey Grimm. -</p> - -<p> -"Thank heaven you are in!" the new-comer -exclaimed, commencing like lightning to -throw off his clothes. "Turn on the bath, -Jim—quick as you can—and take these clothes -down to the shop. Shove 'em away anywhere." -</p> - -<p> -The young man was already busying himself -about the place. -</p> - -<p> -"Anything wrong, sir?" he asked. -</p> - -<p> -"I've just had the devil of a squeak," -Harvey Grimm declared. "It'll be touch and -go this time. How did I spend the morning?" -</p> - -<p> -"We made a point of calling at your tailor, -sir," the young man replied, "also your hosier. -We looked in at Bendlebury's in Cork Street, -and we had a cocktail—two, I think—at -Fitz's bar." -</p> - -<p> -"Capital!" Harvey Grimm muttered. -"What did I do last night?" -</p> - -<p> -"Last night we wore dinner clothes, sir," -the young man went on. "We dined at -Romano's——" -</p> - -<p> -"Alone, I trust?" Harvey Grimm snapped. -</p> - -<p> -"Quite alone, sir," the young man assented. -"We conversed for a time with two ladies at -an adjoining table. Luigi spoke to us twice." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm bolted through the door, and -a few moments afterwards there was a sound -of splashing. When he reappeared, a short -time later, his complexion seemed to have -undergone a marvellous change, and the most -wonderful wig in the world had disappeared. -The young man helped him into a blue serge -suit. In five minutes he was dressed. -</p> - -<p> -"My George, this is quick work!" Harvey -Grimm murmured, his eyes sparkling. "There's -ten pounds on the table, Jim. Put it in your -pocket. I'll drop in to-morrow or the next -day. Clean gloves and my malacca cane. -Don't wait two moments after I've gone. Get -rid of all the clothes I have been wearing, in -the darkest corner of the store. There goes -the wig," he added, throwing it on the fire. -"There won't be any more Mile End for a -little time. Get to work like blazes, Jim, and -good-bye!" -</p> - -<p> -The young man handed him a sheet of paper. -</p> - -<p> -"There are our movements, sir, since you -left last Wednesday. You will find about a -dozen recognitions a day." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm thrust the paper into his -pocket, stole swiftly down the stairs, paused -for a moment on the threshold—it was his one -moment of danger—and then strolled jauntily -out. The street was almost empty. A few -seconds and he was in the Strand. He plunged -into a tobacconist's shop, bought half-a-dozen -cigarettes, one of which he lit, and a few -minutes later he climbed the stairs leading to -Aaron Rodd's office. There was no immediate -answer to his knock, so he opened the door -and stepped inside. A tall figure in khaki was -standing in front of the looking-glass, going -through sundry mysterious evolutions. Harvey -Grimm stared at him in blank amazement. -</p> - -<p> -"Good heavens!" he gasped. "It's Cresswell!" -</p> - -<p> -The poet turned round and saluted Harvey -Grimm in jaunty fashion. -</p> - -<p> -"Cheero, Harvey!" he exclaimed. "You -see, I've taken the plunge." -</p> - -<p> -"Fine fellow," Harvey Grimm murmured. -"Tell us about it?" -</p> - -<p> -"I came in to tell Aaron," the poet went on, -"but he is, for some unaccountable reason, -absent. The fact is, at first I didn't feel the -call of this sort of thing at all. In my soul I -hate war to-day, that is in its external and -material aspects—the ugliness, the bloodshed, -the mangled bodies and all the rest of it. But -a few days ago old Harris asked me to write -them a patriotic poem. I tell you I no sooner -got into the swim of it than I felt the fever -burning in my own veins. I will read you the -poem shortly. It will create a great sensation. -The first person whom it brought into khaki -was myself." -</p> - -<p> -"You seem to have done the job pretty -quickly," Harvey Grimm observed. -</p> - -<p> -"I joined an Officers' Training Corps only a -few days ago," Cresswell explained. "I went -to my tailor's for a uniform and found that he -had one made for a man exactly my height, -who was down with pneumonia. So I just -stepped into it and here I am. I came round -to tell Aaron, to take a fond farewell and all -that sort of thing. I'm afraid my adventures -will be of a different sort for a time. We've -had some fun, though," he added, with a -reminiscent gleam in his eyes. -</p> - -<p> -"We shall miss you," Harvey Grimm sighed, -"but I am beginning to fancy that our own -number's about up. I've had the narrowest -shave of my life this morning, and I don't feel -that I am out of the wood yet. Where is -Aaron, I wonder?" -</p> - -<p> -"He was out when I arrived," the poet -replied. "I've been waiting here for an hour." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm consulted his watch. -</p> - -<p> -"It is time," he decided, "for number one. -It is several days since I tasted a cocktail. -After that we might lunch together." -</p> - -<p> -The poet assented with alacrity. They left -a note for Aaron and made their way round to -the Milan. The bar was rather more crowded -than usual and they took their cocktails to a -settee in a corner of the room. Harvey Grimm -sent for a page and wrote the name of Captain -Brinnen on a piece of paper. -</p> - -<p> -"Will you see whether you can find this -gentleman in the hotel?" he directed. "He -is staying, I believe, in the Court." -</p> - -<p> -The boy departed. Harvey Grimm, who as -a rule was a temperate man, drank up his -cocktail quickly and sent for another. -</p> - -<p> -"Do you believe in forebodings, Stephen?" -he asked. -</p> - -<p> -"I was brought up on them," the poet -replied. "There is Irish blood in my veins. -I am most superstitious." -</p> - -<p> -"I have had an exciting adventure this -morning," Harvey Grimm went on. "So far -as any human being can see, I am out of it as I -have been before. I have made the most -careful arrangements, too—but there, it's well -for you not to know too much. There's just -this about it. I wish to God I could see that -Belgian and get rid of a few baubles." -</p> - -<p> -"Let me have them," his companion begged. -"No one would suspect me." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm shook his head. -</p> - -<p> -"They're not your trouble, my boy," he said. -"Besides, you're too damned careless." -</p> - -<p> -The page returned a few moments later. -</p> - -<p> -"The gentleman left the hotel yesterday, -sir," he announced. "The hall porter——" -</p> - -<p> -"Well?" Harvey Grimm interrupted. -</p> - -<p> -"The hall porter," the boy continued, a -little confused, "said something about the -gentleman having changed his name." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm's face grew sterner, and the -look of trouble about his eyes more pronounced. -He put a shilling in the boy's hand and sent -him away. -</p> - -<p> -"There's something up here," he muttered. -"First of all Aaron disappears, and now -Brinnen has changed his name. My God, if -they only knew what his other name really was!" -</p> - -<p> -The poet chuckled. -</p> - -<p> -"And to think," he murmured, "that I -have been in it! What a man!" -</p> - -<p> -"The devil of it is for me," Harvey Grimm -declared, "that I've fifty thousand pounds' -worth of his stolen jewls around my body at -the present moment. I fought my way out of -a trap this morning. I tell you, Stephen, as a -rule this sort of thing stimulates me. I hold -my head, a little higher, I whistle gayer tunes, -I am looking out for the bright things in life -every second of the time, and my feet scarcely -touch the earth. But to-day it's all different. -I can't walk without turning round. I can't -hear that door open without starting. -Hell! ... Bring me another cocktail, waiter." -</p> - -<p> -"Steady, old chap! Your nerves are dicky, -that's what's the matter with you." -</p> - -<p> -"It's the first time in my life," Harvey -Grimm muttered, "but I've got them now. -I feel that I'm cornered. I did Brodie in this -morning. I left him at eleven o'clock, gagged -and tied in the workshop he tracked me to. -I was Edward Levy there, and there isn't one -of them except the old man who knew -otherwise. Brodie himself never recognised me. -The only fear is if the old man peaches. He's -had a couple of thousand of the best, and he -hoards gold and loves it as though it were his -own lifeblood. Thank God, here are the -cocktails!" -</p> - -<p> -"I shall write an epic about you this -afternoon," the poet declared. "You're tense, -Harvey, that's what you are. You're strung -up. There's a different sense in the words -you speak, a sort of quivering significance in -everything you say. You're feeling life, man." -</p> - -<p> -"I'm feeling afraid, if that's anything," -Harvey Grimm confessed, raising his glass. -"There was a woman in it, of course—and -God knows I was careful!—a fierce, strong -young Jewess. If she gets her grandfather by -the throat, she'll wring the truth out of him." -</p> - -<p> -Cresswell rose to his feet. -</p> - -<p> -"It will do you good to eat, my friend," he -suggested. "I find you exciting, vibrating, -stimulating, but you are wearing yourself out." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm sat with tightly clenched fists. -</p> - -<p> -"I'm afraid to go in the restaurant," he said. -"Do you notice how that man at the bar is -staring, Cresswell? Who's he?" -</p> - -<p> -"Don't be a silly ass!" his companion -exclaimed. "That's Greaves, the London -correspondent of the <i>New York Trombone</i>. He'd -be all over our story if he knew it. Come -along. Pull yourself together, man ... upright!" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm did his best. He walked -into the restaurant with almost his usual airy -<i>bonhomme</i>. An acquaintance stopped the two men. -</p> - -<p> -"Wouldn't look at me in Fitz's, Grimm," he -complained. "Getting proud, old chap?" -</p> - -<p> -"Sorry," Harvey Grimm replied. "I saw -your back afterwards. I was looking at a -man over your shoulder." -</p> - -<p> -They seated themselves at their usual table. -Another chance acquaintance paused to speak -to them. -</p> - -<p> -"Thought you'd given up this place, Grimm. -Saw you at the Piccadilly on Thursday." -</p> - -<p> -"I like a change sometimes," the latter -observed. "How's the new play going?" -</p> - -<p> -"Capitally, thanks!" -</p> - -<p> -The actor passed on. Harvey Grimm glanced -at a sheet of paper which he brought out from -his pocket. -</p> - -<p> -"Yes," he murmured, "I was at the -Piccadilly on Thursday. Nothing like being -thorough in these things, Stephen. My alibi -was pretty successful, eh?" -</p> - -<p> -"Mean to say you get a chap to go about -when you're in hiding, and establish alibis -for you?" the poet asked wonderingly. -</p> - -<p> -"That's exactly the idea," Harvey Grimm -agreed, "and to tell you the truth, if I hadn't -a fit of nerves on me I should say that my -alibis would take a little upsetting." -</p> - -<p> -They ordered luncheon and a bottle of wine, -but for some reason or other the old spirit was -lacking. They missed Aaron Rodd and speculated -as to the cause of his absence. Cresswell, -too, seemed to have inherited a new seriousness -with his unaccustomed attire. It was their -mutual recognition of the drawing to an end -of one little cycle of their life, and try though -he might, Harvey Grimm could never escape -from the queer sense of foreboding which had -haunted him for the last few hours. And then, -towards the end of the meal, a page-boy came -into the room, gazed around for a moment and -approached their table. -</p> - -<p> -"Two gentlemen would like to speak to -you, Mr. Grimm," he announced. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm laid down his knife and fork. -He nodded to the boy, but there was a queer, -hunted look in his eyes as he turned towards -his companion. -</p> - -<p> -"Stephen, old fellow," he muttered, "it's come." -</p> - -<p> -The poet laid his hand upon his friend's -shoulder. -</p> - -<p> -"Look here, Harvey," he asked, "do you -want to make a scrap of it? I'm your man, if -you do. Or I say, have you anything you'd -like to hand over to me? I can stand the -racket." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm shook his head firmly. -</p> - -<p> -"No," he decided, "if it's the end, well, I'll -face it. If only Jerry hadn't cleared out I -might have got rid of the stones. Good-bye, -Stephen, and good luck to you! Better follow -me out, perhaps, if I don't return." -</p> - -<p> -He made his way without undue haste from -the room, exchanging one or two greetings, -pausing, even, in the swing doors to say a few -words with a friend. Then, when he stood in -the little lobby, he knew that there was truth -at the back of all his forebodings. It was a -well-known Scotland Yard inspector and a -subordinate, both in plain clothes, who were -standing there with their hats in their hands. -The inspector greeted him cheerily, but dropped -his voice. -</p> - -<p> -"Mr. Grimm," he said, "I'll have to trouble -you to come along to head-quarters. Just a -few questions, you understand—as quietly as -you like. You see, we've come here in mufti. -Go back and say good-bye to your friend, if -you want to." -</p> - -<p> -"That's very considerate of you, Inspector," -was the grateful reply. "I'll just tap the -window, if you'll allow me." -</p> - -<p> -The poet obeyed the summons promptly. -Harvey Grimm met him by the door and took -his arm. -</p> - -<p> -"They're after me, Stephen," he confided. -"They're doing it jolly civilly, though. There's -a time for going on to the bitter end and there's -a time for dropping it. I'm dropping it. Once -more, good luck to you!" -</p> - -<p> -The two men gripped hands. The page-boy -came up again and touched Harvey Grimm on -the shoulder. -</p> - -<p> -"Wanted on the telephone, sir," he announced. -</p> - -<p> -The former turned towards the inspector. -</p> - -<p> -"Pray, don't hurry, Mr. Grimm," the latter -remarked courteously. "Our time is entirely -yours." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm stepped into the telephone -box and took up the receiver. The voice that -answered his enquiry was hoarse, as though -with some unnatural emotion. -</p> - -<p> -"Is that Harvey Grimm?" -</p> - -<p> -"Yes!" -</p> - -<p> -"This is Aaron—Aaron Rodd. Where are -you? Can you come and help? I'm in -trouble." -</p> - -<p> -"So am I," Harvey Grimm replied, a little -bitterly. "What's yours?" -</p> - -<p> -"I came down to Tilbury this morning with -Henriette, to see her brother off. We couldn't -find him. Henriette got on the wrong steamer -and they've taken her off. It was a trap, -Harvey, do you hear? They've got her!" -</p> - -<p> -"Where are you?" -</p> - -<p> -"I'm at Tilbury, telephoning from the -docks," was the hoarse reply. "The whole -thing was a sell. The munition boat by which -Brinnen was supposed to leave has never been -heard of. Can you come down?" -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm closed the door tightly -behind him and almost whispered down the -telephone. -</p> - -<p> -"Can you hear, Aaron?" -</p> - -<p> -"Yes!" -</p> - -<p> -"Jerry Sands has got away all right. He -wasn't on any munition boat! I was arrested -five minutes ago. I'm being taken to Scotland -Yard, and I've fifty thousand pounds' worth -of his diamonds on me! I shouldn't worry -about the girl if I were you, Aaron. I think -Jerry Sands' sister can take care of herself!" -</p> - -<p> -"Where's Cresswell?" -</p> - -<p> -"Here with me." -</p> - -<p> -"Could he come?" -</p> - -<p> -"He's joined an O.T.C. I don't suppose -he could get leave. Besides, can't you -understand, Aaron? She is Jerry Sands' sister and -they're off together somewhere, for certain.... -What's that? ... What? ..." -</p> - -<p> -There was a confused babel of sounds—nothing -more distinct. The connection had -been cut. Harvey Grimm spent five minutes -in vain, trying to re-establish it. Then he -left the booth. -</p> - -<p> -"Nice cropper for us, Stephen," he announced -to the poet, who was waiting outside. -"That was Aaron. The girl's given him the -slip down at Tilbury. He's like a madman, of -course." -</p> - -<p> -The inspector, who had lit his second -cigarette, strolled up. -</p> - -<p> -"I am afraid," he said, "that people are -beginning to recognise us. Don't you -think——?" -</p> - -<p> -"You are quite right, sir," Harvey Grimm -assented. "You have been very considerate. -I am entirely at your service now. Good luck -to you, Cresswell. Go back and finish your -luncheon. You can sign the bill for me." -</p> - -<p> -The poet played the game and departed, -after a hearty handshake. Harvey Grimm -took his seat in a taxicab, the inspector by -his side, the constable opposite. They drove -off. -</p> - -<p> -"Enquiries, eh?" Harvey Grimm -ruminated. "I wonder what you want to enquire -about?" -</p> - -<p> -"I fancy," the inspector said confidentially, -"that the Chief will start by having you -searched." -</p> - -<p> -"What do you expect to find, if it's a fair -question?" -</p> - -<p> -The inspector smiled. He had thrust his -arm in friendly fashion through his companion's. -</p> - -<p> -"We've an idea," he replied, "that this -time we shall find a few of Jerry Sands' diamonds." -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p><a id="chap10"></a></p> - -<h3> -<span class="chap1"><i>Chapter X</i></span> <span class="chap2"><i>The End of Jeremiah Sands</i></span> -</h3> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd clasped his arms a little further -around the barrel against which he was leaning, -trod water with his feet and thought about -death. The curtain of a slight mist had fallen -around him. There was nothing visible but -the cold, grey sea, sometimes high above his -head, sometimes like a water-slide tumbling -away many feet below him. All around him -he could hear the hooting of the steamers, -sounding their weird notes of warning from -some unseen, unimaginable world. A few feet -away, also clinging to a barrel, was a bronzed -and hairy man in nautical attire, who was -using the most awful language. -</p> - -<p> -"No good wasting your breath," Aaron -gasped. "Try another shout." -</p> - -<p> -The man did as he was advised, without -eliciting any reply from the other side of the -grey walls, whereupon he proceeded once -more, in lurid language, to express his opinion -of murdering foreigners, and mysterious gents -who tempted honest tug-masters into doubtful -enterprises. Suddenly he broke off. -</p> - -<p> -"Crikey! 'Ere's something on the top of -us!" he exclaimed. "Shout, guv'nor, quick!" -</p> - -<p> -Once more Aaron Rodd drew a long breath -and shouted. His voice sounded like a child's -falsetto, lost in the stentorian roar of his -companion's demand for immediate help and -rescue. Then the grey fog was suddenly -pierced. A huge, dark mass seemed to be -gliding almost on the top of them. From -somewhere up in the clouds came an answering -shout. Aaron Rodd's companion was moved -to one supreme and successful effort. A clear, -loud voice shouted directions to them. -</p> - -<p> -"We're lowering ropes. Catch hold, if you -can, before the wash. We'll lower boats in a -minute." -</p> - -<p> -Half a dozen ropes came down like curving -snakes. One of them hit the water scarcely a -foot from Aaron. He gripped it tightly. -</p> - -<p> -"Twist it round your body, mate," his -companion spluttered. "Twist it two or three -times round and hold on for dear life." -</p> - -<p> -The next few minutes were barely realisable. -Aaron felt himself tossed like a cork on to the -top of a seething mass of churned-up sea, -flung down again with the roar of it in his ears, -left for a moment in peace and then dragged -through the water at such a pace that he found -himself wondering whether his arms were -going to be torn from his body. Then he was -shot forward with a new impetus. His body -and arms ached with the strain. He was only -half conscious. -</p> - -<p> -"That's done it, matey," he heard his -companion shout. "Hold on, there's the boat -coming." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd never wholly lost consciousness. -He heard the measured beat of the oars, the -sharp, clear voice of the officer standing up in -the stern. He saw the boat emerge from the -gloom, heard the quick orders, felt himself -lifted up by the shoulders, felt the luxury of -something solid beneath his feet. The officer -in charge of the boat looked at the two men -curiously. -</p> - -<p> -"What's this?" he asked. "Collision?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd's companion took a long breath -and tried to explain what it was. The officer -listened to him, spellbound. The men almost -forgot to row. -</p> - -<p> -"Some one seems to have been playing a -dirty trick on you, eh?" the former remarked, -when at last the mariner ceased through sheer -exhaustion. "Well, you can tell the -Commander when we get on board." -</p> - -<p> -Gradually a fuller consciousness returned to -Aaron Rodd. He was able to walk along the -deck of the ship they boarded, to grope his -way, unaided, down the narrow stairs into -the small cabin below, where a man was -seated at a table with a chart before him. He -pushed it away as the two men were ushered in. -</p> - -<p> -"Hullo, what's this?" he exclaimed. -</p> - -<p> -The officer who had brought them made a -brief report. The Commander nodded. -</p> - -<p> -"Fetch them some hot whisky, quick," he -directed. "Now tell us your story." -</p> - -<p> -The tug-master got in first, but after a few -sentences the Commander stopped him. -</p> - -<p> -"I think I'll get at the truth quicker from -you," he decided, nodding to Aaron. "Quick, -please." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron pulled himself together and took a -long gulp of the hot whisky which was at that -moment brought in. -</p> - -<p> -"May I enquire if this is an English man-of-war?" -he asked, as he set the glass down. -</p> - -<p> -"His Majesty's destroyer, <i>Flying Fox</i>," was -the brief reply. "Now tell me what you two -men are doing on barrels in the North Sea?" -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd found a few terse and explicit -words. -</p> - -<p> -"Early this morning," he said, "I escorted -a young lady to Tilbury. We went there on -the strength of a bogus telegram, which -informed us that her brother, who is a Belgian -officer, was leaving there at midday on a -munition ship bound for Havre. We found a -ship's boat waiting for us at the dock mentioned -in the telegram, but they refused to take me on -board with her. I thought this reasonable, as -it was supposed to be a Government vessel, -and I stayed behind to wait for her. She was -no sooner safely on board than the steamer -hoisted the Norwegian flag and steamed off." -</p> - -<p> -The Commander stared for a moment. Then -he looked away. -</p> - -<p> -"Sounds a queer story," he observed. -</p> - -<p> -"It's a true one," Aaron assured him. "Of -course, there's a reason for this abduction. -The young lady some months ago——" -</p> - -<p> -"I don't want the whole story," the -Commander interrupted. "I want to know how -you got into the North Sea?" -</p> - -<p> -"I was coming to that," Aaron Rodd -proceeded. "My companion can bear me out as -to the rest. I hired his tug, meaning to follow -the steamer into whatever port it might go -if they refused to take me on board. We -caught her up and signalled her to stop. She -manoeuvred a little, disclosed a gun, and blew -us to pieces. The captain here and I are the -only two who ever came up again." -</p> - -<p> -The Commander glanced at the lieutenant, -who had remained in the room. Not a word -passed between them. -</p> - -<p> -"Who are you?" he enquired. -</p> - -<p> -"My name is Aaron Rodd," was the prompt -reply. "I am an American, but I have -practised law in England for a good many -years. I know my story sounds fanciful, but -there's no getting away from the sequel. The -tug-master here can confirm every word of it." -</p> - -<p> -The tug-master proceeded to do so, and the -two officers listened for a time as though -fascinated. The Commander interrupted him -at last. -</p> - -<p> -"What's the name of this boat?" he asked. -</p> - -<p> -"She had ss. <i>Christiania</i> painted across her -stern," the tug-master said, "and she was -flying the Norwegian flag, but the ship's name's -new painted. I passed close alongside yesterday, -and a queer-looking lot they were on board." -</p> - -<p> -The two officers exchanged quick glances. -</p> - -<p> -"The <i>Christiania</i>," the Commander murmured softly. -</p> - -<p> -He paused for a moment and bent over the -chart. Then he looked up. -</p> - -<p> -"Take Mr. Rodd and the tug-master to the -ward-room," he directed. "Rig them both -out in some dry clothes and see that they have -everything they want." -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd had forgotten the discomfort -of his condition. He had only one idea in his -brain. -</p> - -<p> -"Sir," he told the Commander, "that ship, -the <i>Christiania</i>, is in the pay of the Germans." -</p> - -<p> -"You may be right, Mr. Rodd," the latter -assented. "When you have changed your -clothes, come down and have another chat, if -I am not on the bridge." -</p> - -<p> -Even then Aaron lingered. -</p> - -<p> -"Sir," he went on, "I know that there's -nothing I can say will keep you for one moment -from what you think to be your duty. I have -just had a fortune left me in America. I'll give -a destroyer to the British Navy if you'll -overhaul the <i>Christiania</i>, search her, and take that -young lady off." -</p> - -<p> -The Commander smiled. -</p> - -<p> -"The British Navy doesn't need bribing, -sir," he said. "I've had a hint about the -<i>Christiania</i> myself. I'll see what can be -done. Now off you go and get into those dry -clothes." -</p> - -<p> -The two unexpected guests were hospitably -entertained in the wardroom, and Aaron Rodd -made a very creditable appearance, an hour -later, in some oddments of naval uniform. -They found their way on deck, but were only -allowed at the top of the companion-way. -The fog had lifted. There were half a dozen -steamers in sight, and the destroyer seemed to -be completing a rather violent curve. Suddenly -there were loud orders. The roar of the -machinery was lessened. She glided through -the water, slackening speed at every instant. -Looking down the deck they could see a sight -which thrilled them both. The tug-master -understood it better than Aaron. -</p> - -<p> -"She's cleared for action, guv'nor!" he -exclaimed. "The gunners are all at their -posts. See the signal. My God, that's the -<i>Christiania</i>!" -</p> - -<p> -He pointed to the steamer round which they -had circled. -</p> - -<p> -"They've signalled her to stop," he continued. -"If I get my hands on the captain! ... Hullo, -another signal! Watch it, guv'nor. -That's the last call—'Heave to at once or'——" -</p> - -<p> -"Or what?" Aaron Rodd asked. -</p> - -<p> -The tug-master smacked his lips. -</p> - -<p> -"Those little six-inch boys will talk," he -replied, with gusto. "We could send the -<i>Christiania</i> to the bottom in something less -than thirty seconds. You watch the angle of -those guns. Look at the man's face who's -just had an order! He's trained on her. -My God!" -</p> - -<p> -The <i>Christiania</i> had pursued her course. -Suddenly there was a deafening roar, a -vibration which shook the ship. Fifty yards in -front of the <i>Christiania</i> the sea was all churned -into foam. -</p> - -<p> -"It's just an 'int!" the tug-master -exclaimed in delight. "It's a blankety 'int! -Look at 'em running about on board." -</p> - -<p> -There were signs of an immense commotion -on board the <i>Christiania</i>. Another signal -slowly fluttered to the masthead. The -tug-master, who was watching the steamer's -progress, grinned. -</p> - -<p> -"They're giving in," he declared. "They've -stopped the engines. Oh, if they'd only let me -go on board her!" -</p> - -<p> -The lieutenant came running lightly down -the bridge and approached Aaron. -</p> - -<p> -"We are sending a crew on board the -<i>Christiania</i>," he announced. "You'd better -go and see if you can identify the young lady. -There's a boat being lowered from the other -deck." -</p> - -<p> -"May I go along, sir?" the tug-master -asked eagerly. -</p> - -<p> -The officer shook his head. -</p> - -<p> -"You stay where you are, my man," he -directed. "You'll get compensation for your -tug, if your story turns out to be true." -</p> - -<p> -The man sighed. -</p> - -<p> -"There's two sorts of compensation," he -muttered, as he spat upon his hands. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron Rodd sat by the side of the lieutenant, -and though he had never done such a thing in -his life before, he stepped confidently up the -rope ladder after him and boarded the -<i>Christiania</i>. The captain was waiting to receive -them. He was a small, very fair man, who -spoke English with a harsh and guttural accent. -His manner was exceedingly perturbed. -</p> - -<p> -"By what right, will you tell me, this -piracy?" he demanded, barely accepting the -lieutenant's salute. "My papers were cleared -in London. My cargo——" -</p> - -<p> -"A few words with you below, if you please, -Captain," the lieutenant interrupted. "You -had better stay on deck, Mr. Rodd," he added, -looking around. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron walked up and down and endeavoured -unsuccessfully to converse with various -members of the crew. The ship bore all the usual -evidences of being a small cargo steamer, but -there was, to his fancy, something sinister in -the appearance of the sailors and the sound -of their conversation as they pointed to the -destroyer—long, grey and evil-looking, rising -and falling upon the waves, a short distance -away. Suddenly a man who might have been -a steward appeared from below and touched -him on the shoulder. -</p> - -<p> -"Come this way, please," he invited. -</p> - -<p> -He led Aaron downstairs into a dark, -odoriferous saloon. The captain and the English -lieutenant were seated at the top of one of the -long tables. The latter motioned Aaron Rodd -to approach. -</p> - -<p> -"The captain denies having any passenger on -board, Mr. Rodd," he observed. -</p> - -<p> -"I saw a young lady taken on board at -Tilbury," Aaron pronounced firmly. "She -was brought here under a false pretext, and -she is here now." -</p> - -<p> -"It is not true," the captain declared -furiously. "There is no young lady on board." -</p> - -<p> -"What do you say to that, Mr. Rodd?" the -lieutenant enquired. -</p> - -<p> -Aaron leaned a little forward. He stretched -out his hand, and the captain for a moment -shrank back. -</p> - -<p> -"The man is lying," he said calmly. "The -young lady was brought here under the pretext -of seeing her brother. If this vessel is allowed -to proceed on its way to Norway she will be -intercepted somewhere by a German boat, and -the young lady will be made a prisoner. That -is a certainty." -</p> - -<p> -"The gentleman has made a mistake," the -captain insisted. "There were many vessels -lying in the Thames yesterday morning. We -do not carry passengers." -</p> - -<p> -The boatswain of the destroyer, who had -accompanied them on board, entered the -saloon and, coming up to the lieutenant, -saluted. -</p> - -<p> -"Could I have a word with you, sir?" he -asked. -</p> - -<p> -The lieutenant rose to his feet and retired -for a few moments to the further end of the -saloon. When he returned, his manner had -undergone a change. -</p> - -<p> -"Captain Hooge," he said, "in confirmation -of this gentleman's story I find that you -have two concealed guns on board, and there -are other suspicious circumstances which my -boatswain has pointed out, which confirm my -own impressions about you. I am signalling -for a prize crew and shall take you to Harwich." -</p> - -<p> -The captain sprang to his feet. His eyes -were red with fury. -</p> - -<p> -"You damned, meddlesome Englishmen!" -he cried. "If you keep me here another hour, -you will hear of it! My Government will -protest. It is contrary to the accepted -principles of maritime law." -</p> - -<p> -"It is very much against the principles of -maritime law, as I read it," the lieutenant -answered coolly, "for you to blow to pieces, -with a concealed gun, a tug which simply came -up to ask you questions. Now be a sensible -man, Captain Hooge. I shall have your ship -searched from top to bottom. If the young -lady is found, you will have to stand your -trial in an English court on an extremely -serious charge." -</p> - -<p> -"If there is any young lady on board," the -captain declared sullenly, "it is without my -knowledge. I will go and see the purser." -</p> - -<p> -"We will come, too," the lieutenant said -dryly. -</p> - -<p> -They passed down a little companion-way. -The captain opened the door of a small -stateroom and talked for some time in Norwegian -to a bearded and spectacled man. The latter, -after some time, turned towards the two men -and spoke in English. -</p> - -<p> -"There is a young lady here. She must have -boarded us by accident. We were on the point -of starting, and we could not land her. Come -this way." -</p> - -<p> -They followed the man down a long gloomy -passage. He knocked at the door of a stateroom -at the end of it. A faint voice answered. -The door was thrown open. Henriette, white -and eager, stood shrinking back against the -wall. There was a rush of cold air into the -place. -</p> - -<p> -"Aaron!" she exclaimed in blank astonishment. -"Aaron Rodd!" -</p> - -<p> -Words failed her altogether. It seemed too -wonderful. She peered into his face, shook -him by the shoulders, and finally, almost -collapsed in his arms. -</p> - -<p> -"It's all right, Henriette," he cried, his own -voice shaking. "You're quite safe." -</p> - -<p> -"But where did you come from? How did -you get here?" she gasped. -</p> - -<p> -"I followed in a tug," he told her. "These -pleasant people blew us up." -</p> - -<p> -"I heard the gun!" she cried. "I saw the -tug. I saw it go down! I saw the men -swimming in the water. It was horrible." -</p> - -<p> -"I was one of them," Aaron continued. -"The master and I were picked up by an -English destroyer. This is one of the officers. -I managed to make them believe my story and -we overhauled and boarded your steamer. -We are going to take it into Harwich. You are -safe, Henriette." -</p> - -<p> -She began to sob. The tears stood in -Aaron's own eyes as he saw thrust through -the open porthole the umbrella on which she -had tied various fragments of clothing. -</p> - -<p> -"I have been waving this out of the porthole," -she explained hysterically. "I thought -they might see. I was locked in until a moment -ago." -</p> - -<p> -"Better bring the young lady up on deck," -the officer suggested. "We've no accommodation -for you on board the <i>Flying Fox</i>, but I am -going to signal the Commander for a prize crew, -and place the captain and officers of this ship -under arrest, so you'll both feel quite safe here. -You'll be in Harwich in five hours and we shall -be standing by all the time." -</p> - -<p> -"You won't leave me, Aaron? she begged. -</p> - -<p> -"Not I!" he answered heartily. -</p> - -<p> -"I expect I shall take the steamer in," the -officer remarked. "You are quite safe now, -young lady," he added reassuringly. "I -should come on deck and get a little fresh air, -if I were you." -</p> - -<p> -She clung to Aaron as they passed out. They -met the captain and the purser talking -together in the companion-way. The former -saluted a little awkwardly. -</p> - -<p> -"Sorry to hear that there was a mistake, -miss," he said. "We were expecting a young -lady on board, the daughter of the owner, who -had been giving her people some trouble." -</p> - -<p> -Henriette simply looked at the man. He -turned away. -</p> - -<p> -"I want to go on deck," she whispered to -Aaron. "I want to get away from this -atmosphere. Come quickly, please.... Oh, -look, look!" -</p> - -<p> -Half a dozen English sailors came down the -companion-way. They were in war trim and -they looked like ruddy goliaths by the side of -the pale, anæmic-looking crew of the <i>Christiania</i>. -Henriette gave a little sob. -</p> - -<p> -"I feel safe," she cried, "safe, after all.... -Aaron!" -</p> - -<p> -"Yes, dear?" -</p> - -<p> -Her little face, so white and pitiful, was -strained up to his. The ghost of one of her -old provocative smiles quivered at her lips. -</p> - -<p> -"Even Leopold," she murmured, "will not -be able to say 'no' any longer. Do you know -that you are a wonderful person? You are -like one of those heroes in romances. There -never was such a rescue." -</p> - -<p> -He pressed her arm. -</p> - -<p> -"Our last adventure," he whispered, "is -going to be the greatest of all." -</p> - -<p class="thought"> -***** -<br /> -</p> - -<p> -The magistrate's court was crowded almost -to suffocation when for the third time Harvey -Grimm was charged with having aided and -abetted in the theft of various jewels found in -his possession. The solicitor for the Treasury -rose at once when called upon, urbane, even -apologetic, yet firm. -</p> - -<p> -"I trust that this time, Mr. Dyson," the -magistrate remarked, "you are in a position -to offer sufficient evidence to enable me either -to discharge or to send the prisoner for trial?" -</p> - -<p> -The solicitor for the Treasury proceeded to -explain. He reminded their Worships that the -prisoner had been discovered last week, owing -to the assiduous efforts of Mr. Brodie, actually -engaged in secretly cutting up and disguising -valuable diamonds. There was no question -at all but that these diamonds were stolen. -The trouble which the prosecution had to -contend with was the fact that they were -stolen in America, and that some of the stones -had been mutilated in such a fashion as to -render them almost unrecognisable. A -commission from the police force of New York had -already sailed, not only to identify the jewels, -but with a strong hope of identifying the -prisoner as a confederate of one of the most -notorious jewel thieves of this generation. -He was exceedingly sorry to have to ask for a -fourth remand, but in this case there was no -alternative. -</p> - -<p> -He sat down. A mild-mannered man arose -from his side and addressed the magistrate. -</p> - -<p> -"Your Worship," he said, "I am defending -the prisoner. In the event of the prosecution -having no further evidence to offer to-day, -which I understand to be the case, may I be -allowed to call a witness?" -</p> - -<p> -The magistrate coughed. -</p> - -<p> -"You would be within your rights, -Mr. Ransome," he admitted, leaning forward and -looking over his eyeglasses, "but I need -scarcely remind you that, to a certain extent, -by calling witnesses for the defence at this -stage of the proceedings you might possibly -prejudice your client's case." -</p> - -<p> -The solicitor bowed. -</p> - -<p> -"My client being a wholly innocent man, -your Worship," he said, "is only anxious to -have the truth known as soon as possible." -</p> - -<p> -"You can do as you choose, Mr. Ransome," -the magistrate consented. -</p> - -<p> -There was a moment's whispering. A name -only partially heard was called outside, and a -ripple of interest passed through the court -when Captain Brinnen, still in his Belgian -uniform, entered the witness-box. The solicitor -for the prosecution looked a little staggered. -The solicitor for the defence stood up. -</p> - -<p> -"Will you tell the magistrate your name?" -he asked. -</p> - -<p> -The witness bowed. -</p> - -<p> -"Leopold Francis Henri Brinnen de Floge." -</p> - -<p> -"And your titles?" -</p> - -<p> -"Comte de Malaison, Baron d'Asche, -Chevalier di Scolo, Vicomte de Floge." -</p> - -<p> -There was a distinct sensation in court, a -sense of impending events which left every one -pleasantly excited. Harvey Grimm leaned -forward, gripping at the rail in front of him. -</p> - -<p> -"You are, I believe," the solicitor continued, -"a godson of the late King of the Belgians?" -</p> - -<p> -"That is so," the witness admitted. -</p> - -<p> -"Do you know anything of the prisoner?" -</p> - -<p> -The witness glanced at Harvey Grimm and, -meeting his astounded stare, greeted him in -friendly fashion. -</p> - -<p> -"Certainly," he replied. "Mr. Harvey -Grimm is a valued acquaintance. I engaged -him recently to recut and, if possible, to -present to me in an altered form a variety of -precious stones." -</p> - -<p> -"May I ask your reason for this?" the -solicitor enquired. -</p> - -<p> -"It is a matter of almost political history," -the witness explained, turning towards the -magistrate. "The De Floge collection of -diamonds is famous, I believe I may say, -throughout the world. They were the subject, -at the time of the outbreak of the war, of a -lawsuit between the German branch of the -De Floge family and my own. During the -hearing of the case, the jewels were deposited -by common consent at the Antwerp Museum, -where anybody who is an expert in these -matters will tell you that they have been -inspected by connoisseurs from all over the -world. With the invasion of our country, my -grandfather and I determined to do our best -to prevent these jewels, which were worth an -immense sum, from falling into the hands of -the enemy. The curators of the Antwerp -Museum, although they were under a bond, -consented, under the circumstances, to hand -them over to our branch of the family, and -they were transported to my grandfather's -chateau, which is very near the French frontier, -just before the sack of Antwerp. Subsequently -my grandfather and my sister, the Comtesse -de Floge, after a series of remarkable -adventures, in which the latter especially was -concerned, managed to escape to England -with the bulk of the jewels. My cousin, -however, who represents the German side of -our family, has seized our lands and home and -has made desperate attempts in various -directions to secure also the jewels, which the -authorities would now award him as a matter -of course. I deemed it wise, bearing all these -things in mind, to yield to my grandfather's -almost passionate insistence and dispose -secretly of as many as possible." -</p> - -<p> -There was a great sensation in court. -Mr. Harvey Grimm asked for a chair and sat -down. -</p> - -<p> -"Did you," the solicitor for the defence -asked, "impose entire secrecy upon -Mr. Harvey Grimm?" -</p> - -<p> -"Under the peculiar circumstances of the -case, I did," was the prompt reply. -</p> - -<p> -The solicitor turned to the magistrate. -</p> - -<p> -"There is nothing left, your Worship," he -said, "but for me to ask you to sanction the -immediate release of my client." -</p> - -<p> -He resumed his seat. The solicitor for the -prosecution promptly arose. -</p> - -<p> -"I may be allowed, your Worship," he -asked, "to cross-examine the witness?" -</p> - -<p> -"Certainly," the magistrate assented. -</p> - -<p> -"May I ask you, sir, whether you have any -evidence in support of these extraordinary -statements of yours?" -</p> - -<p> -The young man bowed. -</p> - -<p> -"Certainly," he replied. "The Belgian -Minister, who was my father's greatest friend -and relative, and the Princess Augusta, my -godmother, are both, I believe, present." -</p> - -<p> -The solicitor for the prosecution turned to -the magistrate. -</p> - -<p> -"If these witnesses may be called and are -found to support the story, your Worship," -he said, "the case for the prosecution is -withdrawn." -</p> - -<p> -Leopold de Floge left the witness-box, -strolled along the back of the benches, and -held out his hand to Harvey Grimm. -</p> - -<p> -"My profound regrets and apologies," he -murmured. "I wait here and we will lunch -together." -</p> - -<p> -The court rocked itself with excitement. -The Belgian Minister was called and promptly -took his place in the witness-box. Asked if he -knew the last witness, his reply was comprehensive. -</p> - -<p> -"The Vicomte de Floge," he said, "is the -first nobleman in Belgium. He is a godson of -the late king, is himself connected with the -royal family, and is a young man whose -gallantry in the field has won special -commendation from the King." -</p> - -<p> -"Do you know anything about the De Floge -diamonds?" -</p> - -<p> -"Certainly," the witness replied. "They -are of historical and priceless value, and -special efforts were made to seize them at -Antwerp Museum. My friend, the Vicomte -de Floge, was able to rescue them just in time. -I may say that he consulted me, and under -the difficult circumstances I advised him to -dispose of as many as possible secretly. Very -powerful influences have been brought to bear -through a neutral country, to effect their -restoration." -</p> - -<p> -The magistrate bowed and the witness stood -down. There was a moment's whispered -consultation between the two solicitors. Then -one of them stood up. -</p> - -<p> -"The case for the prosecution is withdrawn, -your Worship," he announced. -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm and Leopold de Floge, by -the courtesy of the magistrate, left the court -by the back entrance, arm in arm. The former -was looking a little haggard from his six days' -detention, and was scarcely his usual -spick-and-span self. He was a little dazed, too. He -leaned back in a luxurious motor-car and tried -to realise what had happened. His first -question was not an unnatural one. -</p> - -<p> -"Will you tell me," he asked earnestly, -"why your grandfather, and you, and your -sister, all practically confessed that you were -Jeremiah Sands, the international jewel thief?" -</p> - -<p> -"I must admit that the idea was my own," -De Floge explained. "You see, we were -extremely anxious that no one should know -whose jewels these really were. The one way -to ensure absolute secrecy was to dispose of -them as stolen property. That is what we did, -and I must say that under the circumstances, -Mr. Grimm, your silence was more than -admirable. To a great extent, I must admit, we -were humouring my grandfather, who was -oppressed the whole of the time with a nervous -fear of being ordered by the British -Government to restore them. His death makes all -the difference—in fact, I have this morning -entrusted the whole of the rest of my collection -to Christie's, and they will offer them for sale -as soon as the South American buyers can be -duly advised. It is, perhaps, just as well that -we have passed the crisis, for I see by this -morning's papers that Jeremiah Sands was -arrested at Chicago yesterday." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm cleared his throat. -</p> - -<p> -"You haven't such a thing as a cigarette, I -suppose?" -</p> - -<p> -De Floge produced his case at once. -</p> - -<p> -"My profound apologies," he said. "I -should have known the one thing you needed -most after this regrettable detention." -</p> - -<p> -"To think," Harvey Grimm muttered to -himself, "that I stole way down to Letchowiski's -and lived in terror of my life, with that -rat of a Brodie dogging my footsteps, and all -the time I might have fitted up a laboratory -and have done my work at home!" -</p> - -<p> -"That would never have done," De Floge -objected. "By the decision of the Belgian -courts—German inspired, of course, but still -according to the law of the land—the whole -of the jewels are, in a way, stolen property. -Still—it is not the sort of theft that counts." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm looked out of the windows. -There was a queer sort of plaintive happiness -dawning in his face. -</p> - -<p> -"It's London all right," he murmured, "the -Strand, too.... I never thought to see them -again—not till I was an old man, at any rate. -Where are we going?" -</p> - -<p> -"The Milan for luncheon," De Floge replied, -"where you will meet some friends. I have -more wonders to tell you. Will you hear -them first or wait till you have had a cocktail?" -</p> - -<p> -"More wonders," Harvey Grimm murmured, -"and this is the city which lacks the spirit of -adventure! I think," he went on, as they -stepped out of the car and walked towards -the smoke-room, "you must leave this to me. -There is just one concoction—I can't call it by -a name. I must speak to Coley. What a -cigarette!" he went on. "For six days——" -</p> - -<p> -"I know," De Floge interrupted. "I am -sorry. We will try and make up for it." -</p> - -<p> -They drank a cocktail together, and the -sense of unreality began to fall away. Once -more the earth was firm beneath Harvey -Grimm's feet. -</p> - -<p> -"The money I have wasted!" he groaned. -"Why, I had a young actor establishing alibis -for me all the time I was away! ... Where's -Aaron?" -</p> - -<p> -"Just back from the North Sea with my -sister," De Floge replied. "He will tell you -a story that will make your hair stand on end." -</p> - -<p> -"And the poet?" -</p> - -<p> -"Down with an Officers' Training Corps. -He is coming up to lunch, if he can get off." -</p> - -<p> -Harvey Grimm glanced at the clock. His -companion interpreted his thoughts. -</p> - -<p> -"You have an hour," he said. -</p> - -<p> -"A shave and a bath," the other murmured -ecstatically. -</p> - -<p> -"And the corner table as you come in, in -the grill-room," De Floge added. "We will -all meet there at one-thirty...." -</p> - -<p> -Some time before the hour had elapsed -Harvey Grimm was entirely his usual self. -Shaved and bathed, clad in one of his favourite -blue serge suits, patent shoes and spotless -gaiters, a bunch of violets in his buttonhole, a -sense of stupefied but immeasurable satisfaction -radiating from him, he took his place at -the round luncheon table, between Aaron -Rodd and Henriette, and raised the glass of -amber liquid which he found waiting there, to -his lips. De Floge, however, checked him. -</p> - -<p> -"My friends," he said, "but wait. Here is -Mr. Cresswell." -</p> - -<p> -The poet came to them with outstretched -hands. -</p> - -<p> -"My heartiest congratulations!" he -exclaimed, pausing before Harvey Grimm. -"You will be able to write a ballad of the -Bow Street cells. Perhaps I will collaborate. -It will mean immortality for you. Where do -I sit?" -</p> - -<p> -A place was found for him. He, too, raised -the wine-glass which he found in front of him, -to his lips, but was checked by De Floge. -</p> - -<p> -"We will, with your permission," the latter -proposed, "drink to the happiness of my dear -sister, Henriette, and your friend—and mine, -too, that is to be," he added, with a -bow—"Mr. Aaron Rodd. They are to be married this -month, and if you would care for a wonderful -entertainment during the service of our -luncheon, they shall recount their adventures -of the last six days. I promise you, -Mr. Harvey Grimm, that yours will seem to you -monotonous." -</p> - -<p> -They listened to the story, told by one and -supplemented by the other. It was all -amazing. The poet was frankly envious. -</p> - -<p> -"After all," he grumbled, "it seems to me -that I am the one who treads the dreary path -of commonplace life." -</p> - -<p> -De Floge leaned across towards him. -</p> - -<p> -"Sir," he said, "that is not wholly true, for -both you and I, along different paths, are -pledged to the greatest and most wonderful -adventure the world can offer. We have -drunk to the happiness of my sister and -Mr. Aaron Rodd. I drank to you a short while ago, -Mr. Harvey Grimm, full of respect for that -sporting spirit which kept you silent in -captivity. We will drink now, all of us, to the -common cause, to the great adventure of life -and death, to the end which is written in letters -of blood across the scarred face of Europe—to -Vengeance and Victory!" -</p> - -<p><br /><br /></p> - -<p class="t3"> -THE END -</p> - -<p><br /><br /></p> - -<p class="t4"> -Printed in Great Britain at<br /> -<i>The Mayflower Press, Plymouth</i>.<br /> -William Brendon & Son, Ltd.<br /> -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p class="thought"> -******** -<br /> -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /></p> - -<p class="t3b"> -<i>WORKS BY THE SAME AUTHOR</i> -</p> - -<p class="noindent"> -THE STRANGE CASE OF MR. JOCELYN THEW<br /> -AMBROSE LAVENDALE, DIPLOMAT<br /> -THE HON. ALGERNON KNOX, DETECTIVE<br /> -THE DOUBLE TRAITOR<br /> -THE WICKED MARQUIS<br /> -MR. LESSINGHAM GOES HOME<br /> -THE PAWNS COUNT<br /> -HAVOC<br /> -THE OTHER ROMILLY<br /> -THE LIGHTED WAY<br /> -THE TEMPTATION OF TAVERNAKE<br /> -THE MISCHIEF MAKER<br /> -THE FALLING STAR<br /> -THE PLUNDERERS<br /> -THE ADVENTURES OF PETER RUFF<br /> -THE BLACK WATCHER<br /> -THE BLACK BOX<br /> -THE KINGDOM OF THE BLIND<br /> -</p> - -<p class="t3"> -<i>LONDON : HODDER & STOUGHTON, LTD.</i> -</p> - -<p><br /><br /><br /><br /></p> - - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's Aaron Rodd, Diviner, by E. 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