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diff --git a/old/63223-8.txt b/old/63223-8.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2a4bc82..0000000 --- a/old/63223-8.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,7968 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Man Inside, by Natalie Sumner Lincoln - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with -almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or -re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included -with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license - - -Title: The Man Inside - -Author: Natalie Sumner Lincoln - -Release Date: September 17, 2020 [EBook #63223] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE MAN INSIDE *** - - - - -Produced by D A Alexander and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images generously made available by The -Internet Archive) - - - - - - - - - - THE - MAN INSIDE - - BY - NATALIE SUMNER LINCOLN - - AUTHOR OF "THE TREVOR CASE" AND - "THE LOST DESPATCH." - - ILLUSTRATED - - - D. APPLETON AND COMPANY - NEW YORK AND LONDON - 1914 - - - - - COPYRIGHT, 1914, BY - D. APPLETON AND COMPANY - - Copyright, 1914, by SMITH PUBLISHING HOUSE - - Printed in the United States of America - - - - - [Illustration: "'My dream! See, the panels are in the shape of a - cross!'"] [Page 198] - - - - - TO THE LATE - - MAJOR-GENERAL GEORGE LEWIS GILLESPIE - U. S. ARMY - - WHOSE KINDLY FRIENDSHIP, GENEROUS - ENCOURAGEMENT AND DISCRIMINATING CRITICISM - MADE THIS BOOK POSSIBLE - IT IS MOST AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED - - - - -CONTENTS - - - CHAPTER PAGE - - I. "WHERE THE BEST IS LIKE THE WORST" 1 - II. AFTER THE BALL 14 - III. A MYSTERIOUS TRAGEDY 19 - IV. THE BROKEN APPOINTMENT 24 - V. MUTE TESTIMONY 36 - VI. CIRCUMSTANTIAL EVIDENCE 52 - VII. A PIECE OF ORIENTAL SILK 59 - VIII. KISMET 71 - IX. AT THE STATE DEPARTMENT 87 - X. THE THEFT 96 - XI. OVER THE TEA CUPS 107 - XII. A COUNCIL OF WAR 118 - XIII. AT THE WHITE HOUSE 131 - XIV. THE MOTH AND THE FLAME 152 - XV. "THORNTON'S NEST" 171 - XVI. A CRY IN THE NIGHT 188 - XVII. THE MYSTERY DEEPENS 204 - XVIII. IN THE NAME OF THE LAW 221 - XIX. THE ACCUSATION 231 - XX. WEAVING THE WEB 245 - XXI. AN INTERNATIONAL INTRIGUE 260 - XXII. THE PURSUIT 269 - XXIII. THE END OF THE QUEST 273 - XXIV. THE FINAL EXPLANATION 293 - - - - -LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS - - - FACING - PAGE - - "'My dream! See, the panels are in the shape of a - cross!'" _Frontispiece_ - - "But Cynthia remained where she was and peeped over - the butler's shoulder" 18 - - "He made out a shadowy form just ahead of him and - darted forward" 68 - - "With an exclamation he rose, and walked across the - room" 234 - - - - -THE MAN INSIDE - - - - -CHAPTER I - -"WHERE THE BEST IS LIKE THE WORST" - - -The long hot tropic day was drawing to its close. The shadows were -gradually rising and filling the narrow street, and every now and then -from the side of the open drain which ran through the middle of the -street a large black carrion bird flew up. There was no sidewalk, the -cobblestones running right up to the low white house walls. The windows -which opened on the street were for the most part few in number, small -and heavily barred. It was not by any means the best quarter in Colon. -One building, more pretentious than the rest, was distinguished from -its neighbors by large French windows, also protected by the iron -screen or _reja_. - -It was impossible to tell the nationality of the one man lounging -along the street. He seemed profoundly buried in his own thoughts. Dark -as his skin was, and black as was his beard, there was something about -him which negatived the idea that he was a Spaniard. His rolling walk -suggested the sailor's life. - -As he passed the building with the long French windows, the tinkle of a -guitar roused his attention, and he stepped inside the front door and -glanced furtively at the few men who lounged about the tables which -dotted the long room. Passing by several empty tables and chairs, the -stranger seated himself in the corner of the room on the side further -from the street, near a window which opened on a neglected garden. A -tropical vine thrust its branches against what had once been a wood -and glass partition which formed the end of the room, the branches and -leaves twining in and out among the broken panes of the window. - -Some of the occupants of the room had glanced indifferently at the -stranger on his entrance, but his haggard, unshaven face and worn -clothing did not arouse their curiosity, and they again turned their -attention to their wine. - -The stranger, after contemplating the view from the window for some -moments, leaned back in his chair, thrust his hands in his pockets, -and stretched his long legs under the table; then indolently studied -his surroundings. The room reeked with tobacco smoke and the odor -of spirits. The scene reminded him of Port Said. Not quite as many -nationalities were represented in Colon as haunt the entrance to the -Suez Canal, but the low chatter of tongues which greeted his ears was -polyglot. The men in the room were types of the born ne'er-do-well. -Lazy, shiftless, they had drifted to Colon, thinking to pick up -whatever spoils came their way during the construction of the Panama -Canal. Drinking and gambling, gambling and drinking--the sum total of -their lives. The stranger's lips curved in a sardonic smile, and he -crooned softly: - - Ship me somewheres east of Suez, where the best is like - the worst, - Where there aren't no Ten Commandments an' a man can - raise a thirst. - -His smile deepened as he caught the scowl of a Spaniard sitting near -him. His glance traveled on, and, as he studied the flushed, sodden -faces, a sudden horror of himself and his surroundings shook him. -He passed a nervous hand over his damp forehead. Why had his memory -played him so scurvy a trick? The past few years were not pleasant -to contemplate, and the future even less so. He half started from his -chair, then sank back and summoned the _mozo_. Quickly he gave his -order in fluent Spanish, and waited impatiently for the man's return. -He had been fortunate at the gaming table the night before, and could -purchase a moment's respite from the torments of an elusive memory. -Memory, in whose wondrous train follow the joys of childhood, parents -and home! The stranger's strong hand trembled as he stroked his beard. -Why was he an outcast? For him alone there were no childhood and no -home; his thinking life began as a full-grown man. Was there to be no -awakening? - -In a few moments the _mozo_ returned, and placed a glass and bottle -of liquor before him. The stranger hastily filled and drank. As the -stimulant crept through his veins, a feeling of physical contentment -replaced all other sensations, and, lighting a cigar, he was slowly -sinking once more into reverie when from behind the partition he heard -a voice: - -"No names, please." - -The words, spoken clearly in English, startled him from his -abstraction, and he glanced through the vine and, himself unseen, saw -two men sitting at a table. They had apparently entered the patio from -another part of the house. - -"Quite right, I approve your caution." The words were also in English, -but with a strong foreign accent, and the speaker, a man of middle age -and fine physique, laid some papers on the table before them. "Where is -the Senator this evening?" - -"He accompanied several members of the Congressional party to inspect -the plant of the Quartermaster and Subsistence Departments, and on his -return will dine with Major Reynolds and several other officers at the -hotel." - -"I see." The foreigner drummed impatiently on the table. "You were late -in keeping your appointment." - -"I had the devil's own time in finding this dive," returned the -younger man, and, as he moved his chair half around, the inquisitive -stranger, peeping through the leaves of the vine, obtained a view of -the speaker's boyish face. The weak mouth was partly hidden by a short -black mustache; the features were well cut, and by some would have been -called handsome. - -The older man gave vent to a half-smothered chuckle. "Goethals and -Gorgas have reformed the Canal Zone, and the local government is trying -to do the same with Panama, but, _por Dios_, drinking and gambling -continue _unnoticed_ in Colon," he said, dryly. "I find a room in this -house most convenient during my short visits here. No '_gringo_'," he -sneered, "dare show his face in this room." - -The stranger settled down in his chair, which was wedged into the -corner formed by the wall of the room and the wood and glass partition, -until his head was screened from the two speakers by the thick foliage -of the vine. The Spaniard and the Jamaican, who had occupied the table -nearest him, had gone, and the few men who still lingered over their -wine at the farther end of the room paid no attention to him. He could -listen without being observed. - -"So you believe the people of Panama are already dissatisfied with -their president?" inquired the younger man, whom the listener judged to -be an American. - -"I do," came the firm reply. "And but for the presence of _los tiranos -del norte_ here there would have been already a _pronunciamiento_." - -"Then you think the time is ripe for carrying out your scheme?" - -His companion nodded without speaking, and tugged at his gray imperial. -"If it is done at all it must be soon," he said, finally. "American -rule is not too popular here, and now is the time to act. And I pray -God I shall be spared to see the fruits of the _labor de los cochinos -sucios_ reaped by another nation," he spoke with intense bitterness. - -"And that nation?" questioned the other. - -"Is better left unmentioned." - -"You do not love my countrymen," exclaimed the American, as he drew out -his cigarette case and passed it to his companion, who waved it away -impatiently. - -"Say rather--hate," was the terse reply. "But I do not look on you -as one of that nationality. Your mother was my dearly loved cousin, -and Colombia boasts no prouder name than the one she bore before she -married your father. By the love you bear her memory I entreat you to -assist me in this undertaking." - -"I have promised," said the American gruffly. "I hear that Colombia -intends accepting the ten million dollars offered by the United States -for certain islands near Panama." - -"Never!" The Colombian spoke with emphasis. "Our hatred lies too deep -for that; it cannot be placated by an offer of 'conscience money,' no -matter how great the sum." - -"The more fools you," muttered the American, _sotto voce_. - -"The revolt of Panama was followed by an insurrection in Colombia," -continued the other, "and the Government was overthrown. The American -newspapers gave us a few paragraphs at the time--they did not mention -that nearly one hundred thousand people were killed; that the horrors -of civil war were augmented by pillage and murder. I was at the front -with the troops, and, in my absence from home, my wife and child were -murdered by some _insurrectos_. I tell you," he struck the table a -resounding blow with his clenched fist, "there is no Colombian living -who would not gladly see the United States humiliated." - -"It is easy to see that the people in Panama are jealous of the success -of the Americans," commented the young man. - -"Naturally; the United States has always advanced at the price of -Latin-America." - -"How so?" - -"Study your history. When the Thirteen Original States branched out, -first came the 'Louisiana Purchase,' land originally settled by the -French; then Florida, first settled by the Spanish, was bought by the -United States. Later still, Texas seceded from Mexico, settled also -by the Spanish; then came the Mexican War, and Latin-America lost the -territory now known as New Mexico, Arizona, and California." - -"Seems to me it would have been better if Colombia had accepted the -original offer of the United States for the Panama Canal Zone." - -"Why so? The United States only offered a beggarly ten million. By -waiting a year the French concession would have expired, and the -Colombian Government would have received the sixty million which the -United States eventually paid the French Company." - -"Instead of which you got nothing," remarked the American dryly, "and -lost Panama into the bargain." - -"Through underhand methods," began the other hotly, then checked -himself. "Enough of the past. Have you a message for me?" - -For reply the young man drew out an envelope from an inside pocket and -handed it to his companion, who opened it and read the communication in -silence. - -"Good," he said finally, tearing the note into infinitesimal pieces -and carefully putting them in his leather wallet, from which he first -took several letters. "Give this to the Ambassador immediately on your -return, and this--" he hesitated for a second--"give at once to our -mutual friend." - -The American took the papers and placed them securely in an inside -pocket. "Is that all?" he inquired. - -"No." The Colombian drew out a small chamois bag whose contents emitted -a slight jingling noise as he handed it to his companion. "You may -find this useful. No thanks are necessary, dear boy," laying his hand -on the American's shoulder as the latter commenced speaking. "The -death of my wife and child has deprived me of near relatives except -you, and I propose to make you my heir." Then, to change the subject, -he added quickly, "Is there no way to induce the Senator to use his -influence with Congress and the Administration for disarmament, and the -curtailing of building more battleships?" - -The American laughed disagreeably. "I think it may be done--in time." - -The Colombian's face brightened. "Splendid! If we can stop his fervid -speeches in behalf of a larger standing army and navy, we will have -accomplished much. But how do you expect to alter his attitude?" - -"Through a woman," the American's lips parted in an amused smile. -"There's no fool like an old fool, and the Senator is no exception to -the rule." - -"Indeed?" The Colombian raised his eyebrows. "And what has the woman to -say in the matter?" - -"Nothing. She emulates a clam." - -The eavesdropper on the other side of the partition, who had caught -most of the conversation, moved ever so slightly to stretch his cramped -limbs, and then pulled out his handkerchief and mopped his heated face. -As he did so a small slip of paper dropped, unseen by him, from his -pocket to the floor. A large black cat came softly over to him and he -lifted the animal up and placed her on the table before him. He stroked -the purring feline and listened intently to catch the conversation -which drifted to him through the vine-covered broken window panes. -Apparently the two men were preparing to leave. - -"Does the Senator really think to marry?" asked the Colombian, as he -picked up his hat. - -"I judge so. He is obviously very much infatuated with the girl's -unusual type of beauty. And, believe me, she thoroughly understands the -art of managing men." - -"Indeed? Who is the girl?" - -"The young daughter of the famous Irish actress, Nora Fitzgerald. -Senator Carew...." - -Crash--the bottle and glass smashed in pieces. The eavesdropper never -stopped to see the damage he had done, but with incredible swiftness -and stealth was out of the room and down the street before the irate -proprietor had reached the deserted table. - -"_Que hay?_" inquired the Colombian of the proprietor. He and the -American had rushed into the room and over to the window by which the -eavesdropper had been sitting. - -"A drunken Spaniard knocked the bottle and glass from the table, and -cleared out without paying the damage," explained the proprietor in -Spanish, as he signed to the _mozo_ to sweep up the mess. - -"What's that in your hand?" - -"A card, Señor, which I have just picked up from the floor." - -"Let me have it." - -"_Si, Señor, con mucho gusto._" He quickly handed the paper to the -Colombian. - -The American looked over his companion's shoulder as the latter -adjusted his eyeglasses and held up the visiting card so that both -could see its contents. With staring eyes and faces gone white they -read the engraved inscription: - - MR. JAMES CAREW - MARYLAND. - - - - -CHAPTER II - - -AFTER THE BALL - -"Fifty-four!" bellowed the footman through his megaphone for the sixth -time, and he slanted his umbrella to protect his face from the driving -rain which half-blinded him. A waiting automobile, whose chauffeur -had mistaken the number called, moved slowly off and gave place to a -carriage and pair. - -"Fifty-four," mumbled the coachman, checking his restive horses with -difficulty. - -The footman turned, touched his hat, and beckoned to Cynthia Carew, -who stood waiting in the vestibule. With a rueful glance at the wet -sidewalk, she gathered her skirts up above her ankles and, propelled by -the sturdy arm of her escort, Captain Lane, was landed breathless at -the carriage door. - -"In with you," laughed Lane, as his umbrella was almost dragged -from his hand by the high wind. "Your wrap is too pretty to be -ruined...." Cynthia was half lifted, half pushed inside the landau.... -"Good night, my dearest." - -The door slammed shut; the horses, weary of long standing, started -forward at the sound and raced around the corner into Massachusetts -Avenue before the sleepy coachman could collect his wits. - -Cynthia, on the point of seating herself, was flung toward the farther -corner of the carriage by the sudden jerk. Instinctively she threw out -her hand to steady herself, and her open palm encountered what was -unmistakably a broad shoulder. - -"Good gracious!" recoiling and collapsing sideways on the seat. -"Philip! How you frightened me." - -Then she settled herself more comfortably and, with an effort, chatted -on. - -"The dance really was great fun, just our set you know, some of the -Diplomatic Corps, and a number of the officers from the Barracks. I -hated to leave so early," regretfully, "but I promised Uncle James. -Mrs. Owen asked particularly for you, and was greatly put out because -you did not appear. Honestly, Philip, I am very tired of trying to -explain your sudden aversion to society. Why do you shun your friends?" - -Not getting an immediate answer she repeated her question more -emphatically. Still no reply. The silence caught her attention. Turning -her head she scanned the quiet figure by her side. - -The pelting rain, which beat drearily upon the carriage roof and -windows, almost drowned the sound of rapid hoof-beats. The high wind -had apparently extinguished the carriage lamps and the dim street -lights failed to illuminate the interior of the rapidly moving -carriage. In the semi-darkness Cynthia could not distinguish her -companion's face. - -"It is _you_, Philip?" she questioned sharply, and waited an -appreciable moment; then a thought occurred to her. "Uncle James, are -you trying to play a practical joke?" Her voice rose to a higher key. - -Her question was ignored. - -Cynthia caught her breath sharply. Suppose the man was a stranger? She -shrank farther back into her corner. If so, how came he there? Intently -she studied the vague outlines of his figure. - -The landau was an old-fashioned vehicle built after a commodious -pattern by a past generation, and frequently used by Senator Carew on -stormy nights, as the two broad seats would accommodate five or six -persons by tight squeezing. - -Cynthia clutched her wrap with nervous fingers. If the man had -inadvertently entered the wrong carriage, the least he could do was -to explain the situation and apologize. But suppose he was drunk? The -thought was not reassuring. - -"Tell me at once who you are," she demanded imperiously, "or I will -stop the carriage." - -At that instant the driver swung his horses abruptly to the left to -avoid an excavation in the street made by the sewer department, and, as -the wheels skidded on the slippery asphalt, the man swayed sideways, -and fell upon Cynthia. A slight scream escaped her, and she pushed him -away, only to have the limp figure again slide back upon her. - -He was undoubtedly drunk! Thoroughly alarmed she pushed him upright, -and struggled vainly to open the carriage door with her disengaged hand. - -With a tremendous jolt, which again deposited the helpless figure -on her shoulder, the carriage wheels struck the curb as the horses -turned into the driveway leading to the _porte-cochère_ of the Carew -residence. As the horses came to a standstill the front door was thrown -open, and the negro butler hastened down the short flight of steps. - -Cynthia, with one desperate effort, flung the man back into his corner -and, as the butler turned the stiff handle and opened the door, half -jumped, half fell out of the landau. - -"A man's in the carriage, Joshua," she cried. "See who it is." - -The servant looked at her in surprise, then obediently poked his head -inside the open door. Unable to see clearly he drew back and fumbled in -his pocket for a matchbox. - -"Keep dem hosses still, Hamilton," he directed, as the coachman leaned -down from his seat, and then he pulled out a match. "Miss Cynthia, -yo' bettah go inter der house," glancing at the young girl's pale -countenance, "I'll 'ten to dis hyar pusson." - -But Cynthia remained where she was and peeped over the butler's -shoulder. He struck a match and held it in the hollow of his hand until -the tiny flame grew brighter, then leaned forward and gazed into the -carriage. - -The intruder was huddled in the corner, his head thrown back, and the -light fell on a livid face and was reflected back from glazing eyes. -Cynthia's knees gave way, and she sank speechless to the ground. - -"'Fore Gawd!" gasped Joshua, "it's Marse James--an' he's daid!" - - - - -[Illustration: "But Cynthia remained where she was and peeped over the -butler's shoulder"] - - - - -CHAPTER III - -A MYSTERIOUS TRAGEDY - - -The portières were pulled aside. - -"Excellency, breakfast is served," and the servant bowed deferentially -toward a figure standing in the bow window. As the announcement reached -his ears in the musical language of his native tongue, the Japanese -Ambassador turned from the window and hastened into the dining room. - -A small pile of letters lay beside his plate, and he opened and read -them as he leisurely ate his breakfast. Tossing aside the last note, he -picked up the morning _Herald_, and his eyes glanced casually over the -page then stopped, arrested by a three-column heading: - - SENATOR CAREW DEAD - A MYSTERIOUS TRAGEDY - Murder or Suicide? - -The Ambassador pushed aside his plate and read the smaller type with -growing interest. - -"During the cloudburst of last night, when the heavens themselves -seemed to threaten Washington, a most mysterious crime was committed -in the fashionable Northwest. United States Senator James Carew, -of Maryland, one of the most distinguished and influential men in -political and official circles, was found dead in his carriage early -this morning. - -"Much mystery surrounds the case. The tragedy was not discovered until -the arrival of the carriage at the Carew residence. Miss Carew, whom -her uncle was escorting home from a dance, was completely prostrated -from shock, and had to be carried to her room. - -"Owing to the lateness of the hour, with the paper already in -press, only a few meager details could be learned by the special -representative of the _Herald_. - -"Senator Carew was found by his butler, Joshua Daingerfield, huddled in -a corner of the back seat of the carriage. Dr. Penfield, the coroner, -was hastily summoned, as well as detectives from headquarters. While -awaiting their arrival, the policeman on the beat had the horses -unharnessed and taken to the stable, and left the carriage under the -porte-cochère. - -"On the arrival of the coroner and the detectives the body was removed -from the carriage to the Senator's room in the Carew mansion. Dr. -Penfield discovered that death was apparently due to a stab from a -small, upright, desk bill file which had been thrust into the body -with such force that the heavy, leaded round base was pressed tightly -against the clothes. The sharp point had penetrated to the heart, and -death must have been instantaneous. The weapon in the wound prevented -any outward hemorrhage, and Senator Carew bled internally. - -"These startling details but add interest to what promises to prove a -mystery unique in the annals of crime. - -"Senator Carew and his family have resided here for many years, and -have been prominently identified with official and residential society. -The old Carew mansion on Massachusetts Avenue east of Fourteenth Street -has been noted for its lavish hospitality. It was erected by Senator -Carew's father, General Van Ness Carew, shortly before the commencement -of the Civil War, and the foundations and walls were of such unwonted -thickness that General Carew was pestered with inquiries as to whether -he was not building a fortress! - -"The inmates of the Senator's household are his widowed sister, Mrs. -George Winthrop, her stepson, Philip Winthrop; and her niece, Miss -Cynthia Carew, daughter of the late Philip Carew, a younger brother of -Senator Carew. - -"Mrs. Winthrop is well-known in Washington, having kept house for her -brother since the death of his wife in 1881. Miss Cynthia Carew made -her début last December at a memorable ball which her aunt and uncle -gave for her. Since then Miss Carew has received much attention, and is -regarded as one of the most popular of the winter's débutantes. - -"Philip Winthrop has spent most of his life in Washington, and, since -his graduation from Princeton, has been acting as private secretary for -Senator Carew. He is a member of the Alibi, the Chevy Chase, and the -Riding and Hunt Clubs, and is popular with his associates. - -"A fearless leader, an upright American, Senator Carew has served his -country well, first as representative, then as senator. Possessing -the confidence and friendship of the President as he did, it was -frequently prophesied that he would be the power behind the throne in -deciding many of the important issues now confronting the country. -His inexplicable death is therefore a severe blow to many besides his -immediate family. - -"The known facts at present point to murder or suicide. The negro -driver, Sam Hamilton, has been arrested pending a closer examination." - -The Ambassador regarded the printed lines long and thoughtfully. Then -his foot pressed the electric button concealed in the carpet under -the table. The bell had hardly ceased to buzz before the well-trained -servant was by his side. - -"Send for my motor," came the brief order. - -"It is already at the door, Excellency." - -The Ambassador tossed his napkin on the table, pushed back his chair, -and rose. "My hat and coat," he directed, walking into the hall. - -In a few minutes he stepped out into the vestibule and filled his lungs -with the delicious breeze that fanned his cheeks. No trace of the heavy -storm of the night before was in the air. The sky was blue, and the -May sunshine lit up the budding trees and shrubs. The touch of spring -and new-born life was everywhere. The Ambassador snapped off a spray -of honeysuckle which grew along the fence protecting his parking from -his neighbor's, and tucked the spray in his buttonhole as he entered -the waiting motor. "Drive to the club," he directed briefly, as the car -moved off. - - - - -CHAPTER IV - -THE BROKEN APPOINTMENT - - -Eleanor Thornton turned in bed and stretched herself luxuriously. It -was good to be young and to be sleepy. For a few seconds she dozed -off again; then gradually awoke, and, too comfortable to move, let -her thoughts wander where they would. In her mind's eye she reviewed -the events of the past months, and, despite herself, her lips parted -in a happy smile. She had come to Washington in November to visit her -friend, Cynthia Carew, and, delighted with the reception accorded her, -had invited her cousin, Mrs. Gilbert Truxton, to chaperon her, and, -on her acceptance, had rented a small furnished residence near Dupont -Circle for the winter. - -Mrs. Winthrop and Cynthia Carew, whom she had known at boarding school, -took her everywhere with them, and her cousin, Mrs. Truxton, belonging -as she did to an old aristocratic family of the District, procured -her entrée to the exclusive homes of the "cave-dwellers," as the -residential circle was sometimes called. - -Born also with the gifts of charm and tact, Eleanor's wild rose beauty -had made an instant impression, and she was invited everywhere. The -butler's tray was filled with visiting cards, which many newcomers, -anxious for social honors, longed to have left at their doors. - -Eleanor was one of the older girls at Dobbs Ferry during Cynthia's -first year at that boarding school. They had taken an immense liking to -each other, which later blossomed into an intimate friendship. After -her graduation she and Cynthia had kept up their correspondence without -a break, and, true to her promise, given years before, she had left -Berlin and journeyed to Washington to be present at Cynthia's début. - -After the death of her mother, Eleanor had been adopted by an indulgent -uncle, Mr. William Fitzgerald, of New York, and on his death had -inherited a comfortable fortune. - -In many ways the winter had brought numerous triumphs in its train, -enough to spoil most natures. But Eleanor was too well poised to -lose her head over adulation. She had sounded the depths of social -pleasantries, and found them shallow. In every country she had visited -all men had been only too ready to be at her beck and call--except -one. The dreamy eyes hardened at the thought, and the soft lips -closed firmly. She had made the advances, and he had not responded. A -situation so unique in her experience had made an indelible impression. -Angry with herself for even recalling so unpleasant an episode, she -touched the bell beside the bed; then, placing her pillow in a more -comfortable position, she leaned back and contemplated her surroundings -with speculative eyes. - -Her individuality had stamped itself upon the whole room. A picture or -two, far above the average, a few choice books, whose dainty binding -indicated a taste and refinement quite unusual; one or two Chinese -vases, old when the Revolutionary War began; an ivory carving of the -Renaissance; a mirror in whose lustrous depths Venetian beauties had -seen their own reflections hundreds of years ago. All these things gave -sure indication of study and travel, and a maturity of thought and -taste which, oddly enough, seemed rather to enhance Eleanor's natural -charm. - -A discreet knock sounded on her door. "_Bon jour, Mademoiselle_," -exclaimed the maid, entering with the breakfast tray. - -"_Bon jour_, Annette," responded Eleanor, rousing herself, then lapsing -into English, which her maid spoke with but a slight accent. "Put the -tray here beside me. Must I eat that egg?" she made a slight grimace. - -"But yes, Mademoiselle." The Frenchwoman stepped to the window and -raised the shade. "Madame Truxton gave orders to Fugi to tell the -cook that he must send you a more substantial breakfast. She does not -approve of rolls and coffee. I think she wishes you to eat as she does." - -Eleanor shuddered slightly. "Did--did she have beefsteak and fried -onions this morning?" she inquired. - -"But yes, Mademoiselle," Annette's pretty features dimpled into a -smile, "and she ate most heartily." - -"Not another word, Annette, you take away my appetite. Is Mrs. Truxton -waiting to see me?" - -"No, Mademoiselle; she was up at six o'clock and had her breakfast at -half-past seven." Annette paused in the act of laying out a supply of -fresh _lingerie_. "What have the Americans on their conscience that -they cannot sleep in the morning?" - -"You cannot complain of my early rising," laughed Eleanor, glancing at -the clock, whose hands pointed to a quarter to twelve. - -"Ah, Mademoiselle, you have lived so long away from America that you -have acquired our habits." - -"You may take the tray, Annette; I have even less appetite than usual -to-day." Eleanor waited until it had been removed, then sprang out of -bed. "Come back in fifteen minutes," she called. - -It did not take her long to complete her _toilette_, and when the maid -returned she was seated before her dressing table. - -"What news to-day, Annette?" she asked, as the Frenchwoman, with -skilful fingers, arranged her wavy hair, which fell far below her waist. - -"Madame and Fugi----" began the maid. - -"I don't want household details," broke in Eleanor impatiently. "Tell -me of some outside news, if there is any." - -"Oh, indeed, yes; news the most startling. Senator Carew----" she -paused to contemplate her handiwork. - -"Well, what about him?" inquired Eleanor listlessly. - -"He is dead." - -"Dead!" The handglass slipped from Eleanor's grasp and fell crashing -to the hearth. Annette pounced upon it. - -"Oh, Mademoiselle, the glass is broken. _Quelle horreur!_" - -"Bother the glass." Eleanor's foot came down with an unmistakable -stamp. "Tell me at once of Senator Carew's death. I cannot believe it!" - -"It is only too true," Annette was a privileged character and deeply -resented being hurried, also her volatile French nature enjoyed -creating a sensation. She had eagerly read the morning paper, and -had refrained from telling Eleanor the news until she could get -her undivided attention. "Senator Carew was found dead in his -carriage early this morning on his return from the dance at Mrs. -Owen's"--Annette had no reason to complain, Eleanor was giving her full -attention to the story--"he had been stabbed." - -The maid's hand accidentally touched Eleanor's bare neck, and she felt -the taut muscles quiver. Covertly she glanced into the mirror and -studied the lovely face. But Eleanor's expression told her nothing. Her -cheeks were colorless and her eyes downcast. - -After a barely perceptible pause Annette continued her story. "The -coachman has been arrested----" a knock interrupted her and she -hastened to open the door, returning in an instant with a note. - -"Fugi says the messenger boy is waiting for an answer, Mademoiselle." - -Eleanor tore it open and read the hastily scrawled lines. - - DEAR ELEANOR: - - I suppose you have been told of last night's terrible tragedy. Cynthia - is prostrated. She begs pitifully to see you. Can you come to us for a - few days? Your presence will help us both. - Affectionately, - CHARLOTTE WINTHROP. - -Eleanor read the note several times, then walked thoughtfully over to -her desk. - - DEAREST MRS. WINTHROP: [she wrote] It is awful. I will come as soon as - possible. - Devotedly, - ELEANOR. - -"Give this to Fugi, Annette, then come back and pack my small steamer -trunk," as the maid hastened out of the room; she picked up a silk -waist preparatory to putting it on, but her _toilette_ was doomed to -another interruption. - -"Well, my dear, may I come in?" asked a pleasant voice from the doorway. - -"Indeed you may, Cousin Kate," Eleanor stepped across the room and -kissed the older woman affectionately. Mrs. Truxton's ruddy face -lighted with an affectionate smile as she returned her greeting. She -did not altogether approve of her young cousin, many of her "foreign -ways" as she termed it, offended her, but Eleanor's lovable disposition -had won a warm place in her regard. - -Mrs. Truxton seated herself in one of the comfortable lounging chairs -and contemplated the disheveled room and Eleanor's oriental silk -dressing gown with disapproval. - -"Do you know the time?" she inquired pointedly. - -"Nearly one," answered Eleanor, as she discarded her dressing gown -for a silk waist. "Lunch will soon be ready. I hope you have a good -appetite." - -"Yes, thank you; _I've_ been out all the morning," reproachfully. "Mrs. -Douglas has asked me to dine with her this evening, and, I think, -Eleanor, if it will not interfere with your arrangements, that I will -accept the invitation." - -"Do so by all means," exclaimed Eleanor heartily. "I hope she won't -talk you deaf, dumb, and blind." - -"She is rather long-winded," admitted Mrs. Truxton, tranquilly. "On the -telephone this morning she took up twenty minutes telling me of the -arrival here of her nephew, Douglas Hunter--good gracious, child----" -as Eleanor's silver powder box rolled on the floor with a loud -bang--"how you startle one." - -"I beg your pardon," Eleanor was some seconds picking it up, for -her fingers fumbled clumsily. "What were you saying, Cousin Kate?" -replacing the silver on the dressing table. - -"Mercy, child, how inattentive you are! I was only remarking that -Douglas Hunter is no stranger to Washington. He was raised here, as he -belongs to one of the first families of Georgetown." - -"I never heard of a 'second' family in Georgetown," smiled Eleanor; -then, seeing her cousin's offended expression, she hastily changed the -subject. "Have you heard the shocking news of Senator Carew's--" she -hesitated for a moment--"tragic death?" - -"Indeed I have. Washington is talking of nothing else. Why are you -packing, Annette?" as the servant entered. - -"Mrs. Winthrop has just written and asked me to spend a few days with -them," explained Eleanor hurriedly, "so suppose you invite Miss Crane -to stay with you in my absence." - -"Of course you cannot very well decline to go," said Mrs. Truxton -thoughtfully. "Still, I hate to have you mixed up in such an affair, -Eleanor." - -"Nonsense, Cousin Kate, you must not look at it in that light," Eleanor -patted the fat shoulder nearest her affectionately. "Cynthia told -me yesterday that Senator Carew had said he was going to discharge -the coachman, Hamilton (a surly brute, I always thought him), for -drunkenness. I have no doubt he committed the murder from revenge, and -while under the influence of liquor." - -"I sincerely trust that is the correct solution of the mystery," Mrs. -Truxton looked dubious, "but there has been one fearful scandal in that -family already, Eleanor, and I very much doubt if Senator Carew was -killed by a servant." - -"Why, what do you mean?" Eleanor wheeled around in her chair and faced -her abruptly. - -"Time will show." Mrs. Truxton shook her head mysteriously. - -"Oh, nonsense!" exclaimed Eleanor impatiently. - -As Mrs. Truxton opened her lips to reply, Annette reëntered the room. - -"Pardon, madame, you are wanted at the telephone," and as Mrs. Truxton -lifted herself carefully out of her chair and walked out of the -room, she handed a package to Eleanor. "This has just come for you, -Mademoiselle; the boy who left it said there was no answer." - -"Annette! Annette!" came Mrs. Truxton's shrill voice from the lower -hall. - -"Coming, Madame, coming," and the maid hastened out of the room -shutting the door behind her. - -Left alone, Eleanor turned the sealed package over curiously. The -address was written in an unknown hand. Quickly breaking the red -sealing wax and tearing off the paper, she removed the pasteboard cover -and a layer of cotton. A startled exclamation escaped her as she drew -out the contents of the box--a necklace of large rubies and smaller -diamonds in an antique setting. - -Eleanor, who knew the value of jewels, realized from their color and -size that the rubies were almost priceless, and in the pure joy of -beholding their beauty laid the necklace in the palm of her left hand -and along her bare arm. After contemplating the effect for a moment, a -thought occurred to her, and she pulled out the remaining cotton in the -box and found at the bottom a small card. She picked it out and read -the message written on the card. - - "_The appointment was not kept. Well done._" - -The card fluttered to the floor unheeded. The pigeon blood rubies -made a crimson stain on Eleanor's white arm, strong wrist, and supple -fingers. - - - - -CHAPTER V - -MUTE TESTIMONY - - -Douglas Hunter sighed involuntarily as he left busy Fourteenth Street, -and walked down Massachusetts Avenue. Twelve years' absence makes a -great difference in the ever-shifting population of Washington. He felt -like another Rip Van Winkle as he gazed at each passer-by in his search -for a familiar face. Even the streets had changed, and he was almost -appalled by the grandeur of some of the huge white palaces erected -by multimillionaires on Massachusetts and New Hampshire Avenues, -and the Avenue of the Presidents. He had spent part of the morning -motoring about the city with one of his cousins, and the outward and -visible signs of wealth had staggered him. What had become of the -unpretentious, generous-hearted hospitality, and the old world manners -and courtly greeting of the former host and hostess who had ruled so -long at the National Capital? Had Mammon spoiled the old simplicity, -and had Washington become but a suburb of New York and Chicago? It -truly seemed as if plutocracy had displaced aristocracy. - -As Douglas approached the Carew residence he glanced keenly at the -handsome old mansion and at the numerous idlers loafing in the vicinity -drawn there by idle curiosity. A policeman stood on guard in the -driveway, and a number of photographers loitered near by, cameras in -hand, waiting patiently to snapshot any member of the Carew family who -might incautiously venture out of doors. - -The house itself, a handsome square red brick and stone trimmed -four-storied building, stood some distance back from the sidewalk -with beautifully kept lawns divided by the carriage drive. The blinds -were drawn and the ominous black streamer over the bell presented -a mournful spectacle. It was the finest residence in that once -fashionable locality, and Douglas decided that he preferred its solid, -home-like architecture to the more ornate and pretentious dwellings in -other parts of the city. As the years went by Senator Carew had added -improvements until the residence was one of the most delightful in -Washington. - -As Douglas turned into the walk, a large touring car wheeled into -the driveway, and as it purred softly by him, he stepped back -respectfully and raised his hat to the tired-faced man sitting alone -in the _tonneau_. He did not need to glance at the small coat-of-arms -of the United States emblazoned on the polished door, or at the two -Secret Service men following on their motor cycles, to recognize the -distinguished occupant of the car. - -As the motor stopped under the _porte-cochère_, the colored butler ran -down the steps, and the President leaned forward and placed a note in -the bowing and scraping negro's hand; then the big car continued on -down the driveway and out into the street. - -Douglas waited where he was for a few minutes before mounting the -short flight of steps. The hall door was opened several inches on his -approach, and Joshua solemnly extended his card tray, which Douglas -waved aside. - -"I called to see Mr. Brett; is he here?" he asked. - -"Yessir," Joshua opened the door still further, and inspected him -carefully. - -"Take my card to him and ask if he can spare me a few minutes," and he -dropped his visiting card on the tray. - -"Walk in, suh," exclaimed Joshua, impressed by Douglas' well-groomed -appearance; then he hesitated, embarrassed by a sudden idea. - -"I'll wait here," volunteered Douglas, stepping inside the square hall. - -"All right, suh," Joshua closed the front door, "just a moment, suh," -and he stepped softly across the hall and into a room. Douglas glanced -about him curiously and caught a glimpse of spacious rooms and lofty -ceilings. It was a double house, and to the right of the entrance was -the drawing-room, and back of that another large room, which Douglas -took to be the dining room, judging from the glittering silver pieces -on a high sideboard of which he had a glimpse through the door leading -into the square hall. Across from the drawing-room was the room into -which Joshua had disappeared, and back of that a broad circular -staircase which ran up to the top floor. - -Douglas was idly gazing out of the glass panel of the front door when -Joshua returned, followed by a middle-aged man with a keen, clever face. - -"Is it really you, Mr. Hunter?" he asked, as they shook hands warmly. -"I could hardly believe my eyes when I saw your card. Come this way," -and he conducted Douglas into the room he had just left, and closed the -door softly behind them. - -"When did you arrive in Washington?" he inquired, motioning Douglas to -take a chair near the window and dropping into one opposite him. - -"Yesterday." Douglas leaned back and studied his surroundings. His eyes -traveled over the handsome carved rosewood bookcases which lined the -walls, at the large desk table, and the comfortable leather-covered -revolving desk chair. The desk silver, drop lights, and large -upholstered davenport pushed invitingly before the huge fireplace with -its shining brass fire-dogs and fender, each told a tale of wealth and -artistic taste--two assets not often found together. His eyes returned -to Brett, and he smiled involuntarily as he caught the other intently -regarding him. - -Brett smiled in return. "I was wondering why you looked me up so -soon," he admitted candidly. "Don't think I'm not glad to see -you"--hastily--"but I remember of old that you seldom do things without -a motive." - -"On the contrary, I am here this afternoon to _find_ a motive--for -Senator Carew's tragic death." The smile vanished from Douglas' -clear-cut features. "One moment," as Brett opened his mouth to speak. -"After reading the account of the Senator's death in the morning -papers, I went down to headquarters to get what additional facts I -could, and they told me that you had been put on the case. So I -decided to look you up in person, and here I am." - -"May I ask why you take such an interest in this case?" - -"Certainly, Brett; I was coming to that. Senator Carew used his -influence to get me in the Diplomatic Service, and during the past -twelve years he has shown me many kindnesses, such as seeing that I was -detailed to desirable posts, and helped me to secure promotion." - -"He wouldn't have done that, Mr. Hunter, if you hadn't made good," -broke in Brett quickly. - -"I saw him last at Delmonico's in New York on my way to Japan a little -over a year ago," continued Douglas. "He asked me to lunch with him, -and evinced great interest in the mystery of the Jewel Custom Fraud -which he, in some way, knew I had had a hand in exposing." - -"Sure he did. I told the department about your assistance when I was -in Paris. If it hadn't been for you, I'd never have landed those -swindlers. They led me a pretty dance over the Atlantic." - -"We worked together then," said Douglas thoughtfully, "and, on the -strength of our past success, I'm going to ask you to take me on as a -sort of advisory partner in this Carew case." - -"Suppose you first tell me the reason for making such a request." - -"In the first place I owe a debt of gratitude to Senator Carew. For the -sake of his friendship with my father years ago, he has taken a great -interest in me. Secondly, I am in Washington at his request." - -Brett looked his interest, and Douglas went on rapidly: "Some time ago -I received a note from him asking me to apply for leave of absence from -Tokio and to come direct to Washington, saying that he wished to see me -on important business." - -"Did he state the nature of that business?" inquired Brett eagerly. - -"No. I at once followed his suggestion and applied to the State -Department for leave. It was granted, and I hastened home as fast as -steamer and train could bring me." - -"Did you see Senator Carew?" - -"Unfortunately, no. I only reached Washington late last night. I -expected to see the Senator this morning, instead of which I read of -his mysterious death in the morning papers." - -Brett mused for a few minutes, then roused himself. "I am only too glad -to have your assistance, Mr. Hunter." - -"Good!" ejaculated Douglas, well pleased. "Suppose you tell me all the -facts in the case so far discovered." - -Brett leaned back in his chair and crossed his legs. "On the face of -things it looks as if the negro driver, Hamilton, was guilty." - -"Tell me what leads you to think that?" inquired Douglas quickly. - -"He is the worst type of negro, a vicious brute with a taste for -liquor. I have inquired about him and examined him thoroughly and am -really puzzled, Hunter, to find out why Senator Carew ever employed -him." - -"Is he an old family servant?" - -"No. He has only been in Carew's employ about a year I am told. He -knows how to handle horses, and took excellent care of the Senator's -valuable stable." - -"That probably explains why he was kept on," said Douglas. "I've been -told that Carew was hipped about his horses." - -"Yes. I gathered from Mrs. Winthrop that Hamilton has been drinking -steadily, and his conduct to the other servants grew intolerable. -Senator Carew had to discharge him." - -"When did that happen?" - -"Yesterday afternoon." - -"Then, how was it that he was driving the carriage last night?" - -"Oh, Carew gave him a week's notice, said he couldn't fill his place at -once, and told him to stay on. Joshua tells me that Hamilton uttered -some ugly threats in the kitchen that evening, but that the servants -paid no attention to his black humor, as they saw he had been drinking." - -"I see in the papers that Hamilton vehemently declares his innocence." - -"He does," agreed Brett, checking his remarks off on his fingers; "he -declares he did not see Senator Carew after being discharged by him; -that no one was in the carriage when he drove away from the stable at -midnight; that he went directly to Mrs. Owen's residence; and that he -does not know when or how Senator Carew's body was secreted in the -carriage." - -"The plot thickens," muttered Douglas. "Do you believe his statements?" - -"I do, and I don't. The servants all declare that he was half drunk; -therefore, I doubt if he was in a condition to pay much attention to -anything, or that his statements can be relied on. He was sobered -by the shock of finding Carew's body in his carriage, and, when I -arrested him, collapsed from fright." - -"Well, judging from the facts you have just told me, I don't much -believe he killed Carew." - -"Why not?" argued Brett. "Hamilton was apparently half out of his mind -from rage and drink, and his brute nature made him seek revenge. It's -quite possible Carew entered the carriage thinking it would not be safe -for his niece to drive home alone from the dance, and Hamilton took -that opportunity to kill him." - -"I read in the evening paper that Hamilton was told to stop at the -house for one of the maids, but, instead, drove directly from the -stable to the dance," said Douglas. "Therefore Carew did not enter the -carriage at this door." - -"Hamilton may have been too befogged with drink to have remembered the -order," suggested the detective. - -"I grant you, Brett," said Douglas thoughtfully, "that the negro may -have the nature, the desire, and the opportunity to commit murder--but -why select such a weapon?" - -"Probably picked up the first thing at hand," grunted Brett. - -"But a desk file is not the 'first thing at hand' in a stable," -remarked Douglas calmly. "In fact, it's the last thing you would expect -to find there." - -"I don't know about that; perhaps it was thrown away in a wastepaper -basket, and Hamilton may have picked it out of the ash pile," suggested -Brett. - -"What did the file look like?" - -"It is of medium size, the slender steel being very sharp, the round -solid base being silver. I've shown it to several jewelers, and they -all say it's like hundreds of others, rather expensive, but popular -with their well-to-do customers, and that they have no means of tracing -it back to any particular owner. It was something like that one," -pointing to an upright file on Senator Carew's desk. - -Douglas leaned over and took it up. "An ideal weapon," he said softly, -balancing it in his hand as his fingers closed over the round heavy -base. He removed the cork which was used to guard the sharp point and -felt it with his thumb. "It must have taken a shrewd blow to drive -the file through overcoat and clothing so that it would cause instant -death." - -"The Senator wore no overcoat." Douglas looked his surprise. After a -moment's silence Brett edged his chair closer to his companion and -lowered his voice. "You recollect how it rained last night?" - -"In torrents. I have seldom seen such a cloudburst," admitted Douglas. - -"It commenced to rain about ten-thirty," continued Brett, "and it -did not stop until after three o'clock. Hamilton drove twice in that -drenching rain to Mrs. Owen's and back again, first taking Miss -Carew to the dance and returning with her. Senator Carew's body was -discovered on the last trip home. Miss Carew told her aunt that no one -was in the carriage with her when she made the first trip to the dance. -Senator Carew's body was not removed until after my arrival here this -morning, and I then made a thorough examination of the carriage and, -with the coroner's assistance, of the body as well"--he paused and -cleared his throat--"I found Senator Carew's clothes were absolutely -dry--as I said before, he wore no overcoat--now, how did Carew get into -that carriage in that soaking downpour without getting wet?" asked -Brett, settling back in his chair. - -"Perhaps he was first murdered and then carried out and put into the -carriage." - -"Perhaps so, but I doubt it." - -"He may have entered the carriage at the stable when Hamilton was not -around." - -"I thought of that," returned Brett, "and as soon as it was daylight -examined the yard and the alley. The concrete walk from the house to -the stable is being laid now and cannot be used, so that one has to -tread on the ground, which is extremely soft and muddy. The alley is -a long one, and Carew's stable is about in the center of it, and the -rain, settling in the holes of the uneven cobbles, made walking very -unpleasant. I am telling you all these details because of another -discovery I made," went on Brett slowly; "the Senator's shoes had been -recently polished and the blacking was not even stained." - -Douglas leaned back and bit his thumb nail, a childish habit of which -he had never been able to break himself. - -"Where did Carew spend the evening?" he asked finally. - -"That is what I have not been able to find out," growled Brett. "Mrs. -Winthrop told me she had not seen her brother since breakfast. That he -went to the Capitol as usual in the morning. She was told on entering -the house just before dinner that he would not return for that meal, -but they did not state where he was going." - -"Upon my word it's a very pretty problem," commented Douglas softly. - -"It is," agreed Brett, rising and slowly pacing the room. He glanced -piercingly at Douglas, who was thoughtfully contemplating a life-size -portrait of one of Carew's ancestors which hung above the mantel over -the fireplace. Douglas Hunter's clear-cut features, broad forehead, and -square jaw indicated cleverness and determination. When Douglas smiled -the severe lines relaxed and his smooth-shaven face was almost boyish. -He had a keen sense of the ridiculous, which prevented him from taking -himself too seriously. In the past Brett had conceived a high regard -for the other's quick wit and indomitable courage. - -"This is Senator Carew's study or library," he said, stopping before -the desk, "and I was giving the room my special attention when you came -in." - -"Have you met with any success?" inquired Douglas quickly. - -"So far only one thing--it may be a clew or it may not; under this -writing pad I found this blotter," holding up a square white sheet; -"it has been used only once, first on one side then on the other, so -that by holding it in front of this mirror you can read quite clearly, -see----" - -Douglas rose, stepped behind Brett, and peeped over his shoulder into -the silver-mounted mirror, which the latter had removed from its place -on the mantel. - -The large, bold writing was fairly legible. "What do you make out of -it?" asked Brett impatiently. - -Obediently Douglas read the words aloud: - -"'Am writing in case I don't see you before you'--" the writing ceased. - -"He must have been interrupted," explained Brett, "and clapped down -the blotter on top of the sheet so that whoever entered couldn't see -the written words. Now look at the other side," and he turned over the -blotter on which were traced only a few words: - -"'I have discovered----'" read Douglas. - -"What do you think of it?" asked Brett, putting the blotter in an inner -pocket of his coat. - -"It depends on when it was written"--Douglas' eyes strayed to the door. -Surely Brett had closed it when they entered, now it stood partly open -into the hall. He pointed silently to it, and by common impulse both -men stepped out into the hall. - -Listening intently they heard a faint rap on one of the doors in the -upper hall; then a high-pitched, quivering voice reached them: - -"Eleanor, Eleanor, I'm so glad you've come. I'm nearly sick with -misery. They quarreled, Eleanor, they quarreled----" her voice caught -in a sob--the door slammed shut. - -The two men glanced at each other, their eyes asked the same question. -Who quarreled? - - - - -CHAPTER VI - -CIRCUMSTANTIAL EVIDENCE - - -A slight sound behind him caused Douglas to wheel swiftly around. A -pretty woman, with astonishment written largely in her round eyes, -stood regarding the two men. She was carrying a handbag. - -"Whom do you wish to see?" asked Brett sharply. - -"No one, Monsieur," replied Annette, her accent denoting her -nationality. "I am Miss Thornton's maid." - -Douglas started. "Eleanor--Miss Thornton!" Was it possible that she -could mean _the_ Eleanor Thornton he used to know? - -"I am taking her bag to her room as she is spending the night here," -added the servant. - -"Indeed." Brett inspected her keenly. "When did Miss Thornton enter the -house?" - -"A few minutes ago, Monsieur," vaguely. "Joshua showed Mademoiselle in -while I stopped a moment to speak with the chauffeur, and he left the -front door open so that I could enter." - -At that moment the butler appeared from the dining room carrying a tray -on which were glasses and a pitcher of ice water. - -"Joshua, is this Miss Thornton's maid?" asked Brett. - -"Yessir," Joshua ducked his head respectfully as he answered the -detective. "Annette, Miss Eleanor done hab her same room next do' ter -Miss Cynthia's. Yo' kin take her things right upstairs, and tell Miss -Eleanor I done got der ice water fo' her." - -With a half curtsey Annette stepped past the two men, and ran quickly -up the staircase. - -"Stop a moment, Joshua," ordered Brett, as the butler started to follow -the maid. "Who opened the door into the library a few moments ago?" - -"'Deed I dunno, suh; I been so busy takin' in cyards I ain't noticed -particular." - -"Who has been in the hall besides yourself?" persisted Brett. - -"Ain't no one," began Joshua, then paused. "Now I do recollect dat -Marse Philip cum in right smart time ergo, suh. He axed fo' yo', and I -tole him yo' was in de lib'ary. I 'specks he mighter been alookin' fo' -yo'." - -"Ah, indeed; where is Mr. Winthrop now?" - -"Ah dunno, suh." - -"Well, find him, Joshua, and tell him I wish to see him--at once." -Brett's pleasant voice had deepened, and Joshua blinked nervously. - -"Yessir, I'll tell him, suh, 'deed ah will," he mumbled, as he started -upstairs. - -As Douglas and Brett walked across the hall to enter the library a man -stepped out of the drawing-room. - -"Are you looking for me, Mr. Brett?" - -The question was asked courteously enough, and Douglas was the more -astonished to encounter a hostile stare as the newcomer glanced at him. - -"I hope you can give me a few minutes of your time," said Brett; "will -you be so good as to step into the library?" and he stood aside to -allow Philip Winthrop to enter first. Douglas followed them into the -room and locked the door. As the key clicked slightly Winthrop frowned, -and his pale face flushed. - -"That is only a precaution against eavesdroppers," explained Douglas -quickly. - -"Mr. Winthrop, this is Mr. Douglas Hunter, who is assisting me in my -efforts to unravel the mystery surrounding Senator Carew's death, and -with your permission will be present at this interview." - -"Why, certainly," exclaimed Winthrop, with well simulated heartiness; -"won't you both sit down?" and he dropped into the revolving desk -chair. Douglas picked out his old seat in the window and turned his -back to the light the better to face Winthrop and Brett, who also sat -near the desk. - -"When will they hold the inquest, Mr. Brett?" questioned Winthrop. - -"The coroner, Dr. Penfield, told me to-morrow." - -"Has Hamilton a lawyer to look out for his interests?" - -"That's not absolutely necessary at the inquest, Mr. Winthrop. At -present the negro is simply held on suspicion. If the inquest so -decides, he will be charged with the murder and held for the grand -jury." - -Douglas had been busy scanning Winthrop's face intently. He noted the -heavy lines in the handsome face, and the unnatural brilliancy of his -eyes. It was apparent to both men, by Winthrop's thick speech and -unsteady hands, which kept fingering the desk ornaments nervously, that -he had been drinking heavily. - -"Where did you last see Senator Carew?" - -"In this room yesterday afternoon." - -"Did you see him alone, or were others present?" - -"He was alone." - -"Did he show you a letter which he was then writing?" inquired Douglas -at a venture, and was startled at the effect of his question on -Winthrop. The latter whitened perceptibly, and pulled his short black -mustache to hide his twitching lips. - -"I know nothing about any letter," he stammered. - -Brett did not press the point, but asked instead: "Where did you spend -last night?" - -"I dined here with my mother and cousin." - -"And afterwards?" put in Douglas. - -"I went to the Alibi Club soon after dinner." - -"How late did you stay there?" - -"Most of the night," was the evasive reply. - -"Please mention the exact hour you left the club," persisted Brett. - -"I really cannot recollect the exact time; I did not reach this -house until after two this morning. We had a pretty gay time at the -club, and I was in no condition to remember the hour," and he smiled -deprecatingly. - -Again Brett did not press the question. He turned over the pages of his -small memorandum book in which he had been making entries. - -"Have you any idea where Senator Carew dined and spent the evening?" - -"No," came the emphatic answer. "He asked me to tell my mother not to -expect him at dinner, that was all." - -"Ah, indeed. Have you any idea when the Senator left the house?" - -"No, I left him here, and went up to my room, where I stayed until -dinner was announced." - -"Where is your room?" - -"Third floor, back." - -"Who has rooms on the next floor?" - -"Senator Carew's bedroom, bath, and sitting-room are over this part -of the house; Miss Cynthia Carew occupies the suite of rooms across -the hall from his rooms. My mother and I have the third floor to -ourselves." Winthrop plucked nervously at the desk pad. "Talking is dry -work; won't you and Mr. Hunter join me, I'll ring for Joshua." - -"One moment," Brett's tone was peremptory and, with an unmistakable -scowl, Winthrop sank down in his chair and leaned heavily on the desk. -"What members of the family were in the house yesterday afternoon?" - -Winthrop thought for a moment before replying. "No one but my uncle and -myself," he said reluctantly. "My mother and Miss Carew went out early -to some bridge party, and did not return until just before dinner." - -"I see." Brett leaned back in his chair and contemplated Winthrop -thoughtfully. - -"Mr. Winthrop," asked Douglas, breaking the short silence, "were you -and your uncle always on good terms?" - -"Why, yes." Winthrop's twitching fingers closed unconsciously on the -slender desk file, and as he spoke his shifting eyes dropped from -Douglas' clear gaze, and fell on the sharp steel desk ornament in his -hand. With a convulsive shudder he dropped it and sprang to his feet. -"What's all this questioning about?" he demanded loudly. "I've had -enough of this, you----" his hands clinched, and the blood flamed his -pale face, a gurgle choked his utterance, and before Brett could reach -him he fell prone across the desk. - - - - -CHAPTER VII - -A PIECE OF ORIENTAL SILK - - -"I'm glad you could come back, Mr. Hunter," said Brett, as Joshua -opened the library door of the Carew residence and admitted Douglas. -"Can you stay here all night?" - -"If necessary," replied Douglas, glancing at him in surprise. - -"I think it would be best. Mrs. Winthrop is completely unstrung; her -niece, Miss Carew, prostrated from shock, and Mr. Philip Winthrop -in bed with a bad attack of delirium tremens. In such a household -your presence to-night might be invaluable if anything else were to -happen--not that I am anticipating any further trouble or tragedies." - -"Very well, I will stay," agreed Douglas. - -"'Deed I'se mighty glad ter hyar dat," volunteered Joshua, who hovered -just inside the door on the pretext of arranging some furniture. "But I -dunno whar I'll put yo', suh. Miss Eleanor, she's in de gues' chambah, -an' Annette's in de room back ob her's, and de nusses fo' Marse Philip -has der spar rooms in der third flo'." - -"Never mind, Joshua, I can camp out in this room. That sofa looks very -comfortable," and Douglas pointed to the large upholstered davenport -which faced the empty fireplace. - -"Just a moment, Joshua," exclaimed Brett, as the old butler moved -toward the door. "Did you see Senator Carew leave the house yesterday -afternoon?" - -"No, suh." - -"Did he take luncheon here?" - -"No, suh; he cum in 'bout three o'clock; leastways dat was when he rung -fo' me, an' I reckon he'd only jes' arrived, 'cause he had his hat an' -coat on his arm." - -"What did he want with you?" - -"He axed me why Hamilton hadn't called fo' him at de Capitol as -ordered, an' when I tole him dat Hamilton was a-sittin' in de stable -doin' nuffin, he said I was ter go right out an' send him to de -library--which I done." - -"Did you see Senator Carew after that?" - -"Yessir. After 'bout fifteen minutes Hamilton cum out lookin' mighty -black an' mutterin' under his breff. Den Marse James rung fo' me -ag'in, an' sent me to tell Marse Philip dat he wanted ter see him to -onst." - -"Was there anything unusual in Senator Carew's manner?" inquired -Douglas, who had been listening attentively to the old darky's -statements. - -"He seemed considerable put out, dat was all," responded Joshua, after -due reflection. - -"Was Senator Carew irritable and quick-tempered?" - -"Mostly he was real easy-going, but sometimes he had flare-ups, an' den -it was bes' ter keep outer his way." - -"Did you find Mr. Winthrop?" - -"Yessir. I gib him de message, an' he went right down to de lib'ary." - -"Do you know how long Senator Carew and young Winthrop remained in this -room?" - -"No, suh. I went ter de fron' doo', an' while in de hall I heard a -regular ruction goin' on inside dis room." - -"Could you hear what was said?" demanded Brett eagerly. - -Joshua shook his head. "I couldn't make out a word, but Marse James' -voice was powerful riz an' Marse Philip's, too." - -"Was that the first time that Senator Carew and Mr. Winthrop have -quarreled?" - -"Deys had words now and den," muttered Joshua, evasively. - -"About what?" broke in Douglas, sharply. - -"Oh, nuffin in particular. Marse James uster get mad with Marse Philip -'cause he wore so lazy, an' den he's been adrinkin' right smart, which -Marse James didn't like nuther." - -"Is Mr. Winthrop a heavy drinker?" - -"No, suh, but he's been adrinkin' pretty steady fo' de pas' three -months." - -"Have you any idea, Joshua, what caused the quarrel yesterday -afternoon?" - -"Well, it mighter started over Hamilton. Marse Philip persuaded Marse -James to keep him las' fall when he was 'bout to discharge him fo' -bein' impertinent." - -"Did Senator Carew give you a letter to mail yesterday afternoon, or a -note to deliver for him?" inquired Douglas thoughtfully. - -"No, suh, he did not," Joshua declared with firmness. - -"How long have you been with Senator Carew, Joshua?" - -"Most thirty years, suh. I worked fust fo' his father, der ole -Gineral. Ef yo' doan want me fo' nuffin' mo', gen'man, I reckon I'll go -an' close up de house fo' de night." - -"All right, Joshua," and the butler beat a hasty retreat. - -Douglas took out his cigarette case and handed it to Brett. "Formed -any new theory?" he asked, striking a match and applying it to the -cigarette between his lips. - -Brett did not answer at once. "The inquest will make Winthrop and -Joshua talk. I am convinced neither of them has told all he knows of -this affair," he said finally. - -Douglas nodded in agreement. "But the inquest will have to be postponed -now. Winthrop is in no shape to appear before it." - -"And Miss Carew, who is an equally important witness, is still confined -to her bed," volunteered Brett. "Miss Thornton tells me that she cries -whenever the subject of the murder is mentioned, and that she is -completely unstrung by the tragedy." - -"By the way, who is this Miss Thornton?" asked Douglas. "And what does -she look like?" - -"She is a cousin of Mrs. Truxton, of Georgetown"--Douglas whistled in -surprise; Brett glanced at him sharply, then continued: "I am told she -is Miss Carew's most intimate friend, although about five years older. -Miss Thornton must be about twenty-three. She is tall and dark, and has -the most magnificent blue eyes I have ever seen in a woman's head." - -Douglas drew in his breath sharply. "It must be the same girl whom -I knew in Paris, but I had no idea then that she was related to old -family friends of mine in Georgetown." He changed the conversation -abruptly. "Come, Brett, what theory have you formed?" he asked again -with more emphasis. - -"I think both Winthrop and Hamilton have a guilty knowledge of Senator -Carew's death, but how deeply Winthrop is implicated we have yet to -learn." - -"But the motive?" argued Douglas. "It is highly improbable that -Winthrop killed the Senator because he discharged a worthless servant." - -"If we could find that letter which I am convinced the Senator was -writing when Winthrop entered the room yesterday afternoon, we would -know the motive fast enough," retorted Brett. - -"Have you searched Carew's belongings?" - -"Yes, all of them, and all the furniture in his bedroom, sitting-room, -and bath, as well as the rooms on this floor; but I couldn't find -a trace of it. I have also thoroughly searched his office at the -Capitol." - -"Did you think to examine the landau? The Senator might possibly have -tucked it under the carriage seat." - -"I thought of that, and examined the interior of the carriage, but -there is no possible place where a letter could be concealed. The -carriage has recently been reupholstered in leather and there's no -crack or tear where an envelope could slip through." - -"Have you inquired at the different messenger services in town?" - -"Yes, but there is no record at any of their offices that Senator Carew -sent for a messenger to deliver a note yesterday afternoon or night. I -also sent word to the post-office officials asking to have an outlook -kept, and a search made for a letter franked by Senator Carew and -postmarked yesterday." - -"It's exceedingly doubtful if you get any results from that quarter, -when you don't know when or where such a letter was posted or to what -city it was addressed." - -"The frank may help," Brett glanced at the clock. "Eleven-thirty--I -must be going." He rose. "Did you meet with any success, Mr. Hunter, in -the inquiries you said you would make this afternoon?" - -"In a way, yes. Winthrop was at the Alibi Club, taking supper with -Captain Stanton. But Julian Wallace, who was one of the party, told me -that Winthrop left the club about twelve-thirty." - -Brett whistled. "And he did not reach this house until three hours -later! I am afraid friend Winthrop will have much to explain when he -recovers his senses." - -"Hold on; the Carew carriage returned here a few minutes before one -o'clock--when the Senator was found dead inside it. That only left -Winthrop less than half an hour to get from the club to Mrs. Owen's -residence, a considerable distance, and commit the murder." - -"It's not impossible for a man in a motor," declared Brett sharply. - -"I thought Senator Carew only kept horses," exclaimed Douglas. - -"And so he did, but Winthrop owns an Oldsmobile roadster. I was here -at the house when he arrived this morning. The machine has a cover and -wind-shield, so he was fairly well protected from the rain. As I said -before, Winthrop will have much to explain. I hope you will have an -undisturbed night, Mr. Hunter; I told Joshua and the nurses to call you -if anything is needed." - -"Don't worry about me," laughed Douglas, as the two men stepped into -the hall. "I've camped out in much worse places than this room." - -"Well, good night. I'll be here the first thing in the morning," and -Brett pulled open the door and ran down the steps. - -As Douglas replaced the night latch on the front door, Joshua joined -him. - -"I brunged yo' dis 'comfort'," raising a soft eiderdown quilt, which he -carried tucked on his left arm. "I thought yo' might like it over yo' -on der sofa." - -"Thanks very much," exclaimed Douglas, taking it from him. - -Joshua followed him to the library door. "I ain't goin' ter bed," he -explained. "I couldn't sleep no-how," the soft, drawling voice held a -touch of pathos, "Marse James was mighty kind ter me--and thirty years -is a mighty long time ter be 'sociated in de fam'bly. So I jes' reckon -I'll sit on der window-seat in der hall. Ef yo' want anythin' jest let -me know, Marse Hunter." - -"All right, Joshua. I'll leave this door open, so you can call me if I -am needed. Good night." - -Douglas placed the door ajar, and walked over to the well-filled -bookcases, and, after some deliberation, selected a book and sat down -in the revolving chair. The book held his attention and he read on and -on. He finished the last chapter and tossed the volume on the table, -then glanced at the clock, the dial of which registered two-thirty. -The upholstered davenport, which stood with its back resting against -the length of the desk table, looked inviting, and Douglas rose, -extinguished the light, and walked over and lay down. - -After placing several sofa cushions under his head he pulled the -eiderdown quilt over him, as he felt chilly. The added warmth and the -softness of the couch were most grateful to his tired body. He was -drowsily conscious of the clock striking; then his last thought was of -Eleanor Thornton--beautiful Eleanor Thornton--strange that they should -meet again; why, he had actually run away from her in Paris--a few -minutes more and he was sound asleep. - -[Illustration: "He made out a shadowy form just ahead of him and darted -forward"] - -Some time later Douglas opened his sleepy eyes, then closed them again -drowsily. The room was in total darkness. As he lay listening to the -tick-tock of the clock he became conscious that he was not alone in the -room. Instantly he was wide awake. He pulled out his matchbox, only to -find it empty. As he lay a moment debating what he should do, a soft, -small hand was laid on his forehead. He felt the sudden shock which -his presence gave the intruder, for the fingers tightened convulsively -on his forehead, then were hastily removed. He threw out his hands to -catch the intruder, but they closed on empty space. - -Swiftly and noiselessly Douglas rose to his feet and stepped softly -around the end of the davenport, hands outstretched, groping for what -he could not see. Suddenly, his eyes grown accustomed to the darkness, -he made out a shadowy form just ahead of him and darted forward. His -foot caught in the long wire of the desk telephone and, dragging the -instrument clattering with him, he fell forward, striking his face and -forehead against the edge of the open door. - -"Fo' de lub ob Hebben!" gasped Joshua, awakened out of a sound sleep, -and scared almost out of his wits. "Marse Hunter! Marse Hunter! Whar -yo' at?" - -"Here," answered Douglas. "Turn on the hall light; then come to me." - -Obediently Joshua groped his way to the button and switched on the -light, after which he hastened into the library and did the same there. -Douglas, who sat on the floor nursing a bleeding nose, blinked as the -strong light met his dazed eyes. - -"Did you see anyone leave this room, Joshua?" he demanded. - -"No, suh." The butler's eyes were rolling about to an alarming extent, -showing the whites against his black face, which had grown gray with -fright. "'Twarn't no one ter see--it must ter been a harnt." - -"Nonsense," exclaimed Douglas heatedly. The telephone bell was keeping -up a dull clicking as the sleepy central tried to find out what was -wanted, and he leaned over and replaced the receiver on the hook as he -picked up the instrument. "No ghost put out your hall light, and no -ghost wears clothes. I caught the intruder's gown, and if it hadn't -ripped away I'd have caught her." As he spoke he opened his right hand -and disclosed a torn piece of oriental silk. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII - -KISMET - - -"Good morning, Uncle Dana." - -The tall, distinguished looking, gray-haired man standing in front of -the mantel wheeled around with a visible start of surprise. - -"Good Lord! Eleanor, I didn't hear you enter the room. How silently you -move, dear." - -Eleanor's pretty mouth dimpled into a smile as she kissed her uncle -warmly. "I'll send you an ear-trumpet," she declared, saucily. "Come -and sit by me on this sofa. Did you get my note this morning?" - -"How like a woman!" He dropped down on the comfortable rosewood sofa -with a sigh of content. "Of course I received it--why otherwise should -I be here?" - -"Then you will take the case?" she asked eagerly. - -"I am not a criminal lawyer." - -Eleanor's face fell. "Oh, don't refuse," she begged earnestly. "Dear -Mrs. Winthrop needs some one to watch her interests, and if, later on, -occasion requires a criminal lawyer, which pray Heaven may not be, -you can then engage one for her. She was so relieved when I suggested -sending for you." - -"In what way does Mrs. Winthrop need my services?" - -"Why, to take charge of everything"--vaguely. "A man in authority is -required here at once." - -"Where is Philip?" - -"Philip!" Eleanor's tone spoke her contempt. "He is sick in bed--a -trained nurse in attendance"--then added quickly, answering her uncle's -unspoken question--"too much dissipation has again caused his downfall." - -"Um! I don't envy Mrs. Winthrop her precious stepson." Colonel -Thornton's pleasant face hardened, and Eleanor, seeing her advantage, -pressed the point. - -"Mrs. Winthrop is almost overwhelmed with anxiety and sorrow, which she -has practically to face alone. Do, Uncle Dana, if it is possible, take -some of this dreadful responsibility off her shoulders." - -"I will do what I can," announced the Colonel, after a moment's -deliberation. - -Eleanor clapped her hands. "Dear Uncle Dana! I knew you would, when you -thought it over. Just a moment--I'll send word to Mrs. Winthrop that -you are here; she wants to see you." - -Joshua was in the hall, and to him Eleanor confided her message for -Mrs. Winthrop, then returned to the drawing-room and seated herself on -the sofa by her uncle. - -"Did you ever know anyone in Georgetown named Douglas Hunter?" she -inquired. - -"Douglas Hunter--Douglas--why, surely, he must be the young son of John -Hunter who used to be a neighbor of mine in Georgetown. Cousin Kate -Truxton can tell you all about the Hunters. She was an intimate friend -of John's wife. The Hunters belong to the F. F. V.'s. Why do you ask -about Douglas?" - -"Joshua told me that he spent last night here, and that he is taking a -deep interest in the mystery surrounding Senator Carew's tragic death." - -"You must be mistaken," exclaimed Thornton, glancing at her in -surprise. "To the best of my recollection Douglas Hunter entered the -consular service very soon after he left college; then Carew evinced -an interest in his career and had him transferred into the Diplomatic -Service. He's not a detective, child." - -"Well, he's acting as if he were one--prying around"--Eleanor checked -her hasty speech and rose as the portières parted, and Mrs. Winthrop -advanced into the room. She was a well-known figure in Washington -society. Although small of stature, her erect carriage and graceful -movements made her seem taller than she really was. She was said -to have the longest calling list in Washington, and, although an -aristocrat to her fingertips, she had friends and acquaintances in -every walk in life, for she possessed the true spirit of democracy -which springs from a kind heart and does not ape humility. She had been -of inestimable assistance to her brother, Senator Carew, during his -political career. - -As Colonel Thornton bowed low over her small, blue-veined hand, he -noticed the heavy lines and dark shadows which fatigue and sorrow had -traced under her eyes, and his hand closed over hers in silent sympathy. - -"It is good of you to come, Colonel," she began, seating herself in a -large armchair next the sofa, "and still kinder to offer to advise me, -I feel stunned"--she put her hand to her head with a gesture pathetic -in its helplessness, and her sad eyes filled with unbidden tears. -Eleanor put out her hand, and it was instantly clasped by the older -woman. "Forgive me, Colonel." She blinked the tears away, and by a -visible effort regained her lost composure. "My brother was very dear -to me, and----" - -"I know no man who had more friends," replied Thornton gravely, as she -paused and bit her trembling lips. - -"Exactly, therefore his violent death seems monstrous!" declared Mrs. -Winthrop. "Who would commit such a deed? My brother's greatest fault -was his kind heart--he accomplished so much good unobtrusively. Now, -Colonel, the first thing I wish to consult you about is offering a -reward for the discovery of his murderer. Can you arrange it for me?" - -"Certainly. I think it a wise suggestion. How much shall it be?" -Thornton drew out his notebook. - -"Five thousand dollars;" then, noting Thornton's expression, asked: -"You think it too much?" - -"It would perhaps be better to commence with a smaller sum--say one -thousand dollars--then you can increase it, if that amount brings no -results." - -"That is a capital plan. Well, James, what is it?" to the footman who -had entered a second before and approached her chair. - -"Mr. Brett wants to know, ma'am, if you will see him an' Mister Hunter -fo' a few minutes. They want to ax yo' a few questions." - -Mrs. Winthrop glanced interrogatively at Thornton. "What shall I do?" - -"Perhaps it would be just as well to see them," he replied. - -"Very well. James, show the gentlemen in here," and, as the servant -hastened out of the room, she turned to her two guests. "You must be -present at this interview, and I depend on you, Colonel Thornton, to -check any undue inquisitiveness on the part of the detective." - -"I will, madam," and Thornton's grim tone conveyed more than the mere -words. He ranked as one of the leaders of the District bar, and few -opposing lawyers dared take liberties with him when trying a case. - -Eleanor made a motion to rise, but Mrs. Winthrop checked her with a -low-toned "Wait, dear," as Brett, followed by Douglas Hunter, strode -into the room. - -Mrs. Winthrop acknowledged Brett's bow with a courteous inclination -of her head, but, as he murmured Douglas' name in introducing him, she -rose and shook hands with him. - -"I have frequently heard my brother speak of you, Mr. Hunter," she -said, "and have regretted not meeting you before," and, as Douglas -voiced his thanks, she added, "Eleanor, Mr. Hunter"--and Douglas gazed -deep into the beautiful eyes which had haunted his memory since their -last meeting in Paris. For one second his glance held hers, while a -soft blush mantled her cheeks; then Colonel Thornton stepped forward -briskly and extended his hand. - -"No need of an introduction here, Douglas," he said heartily. "I should -have known you anywhere from your likeness to your father, though I -haven't seen you since you wore knickerbockers." - -"I haven't forgotten 'Thornton's Nest,' nor you either, Colonel," -exclaimed Douglas, clasping his hand warmly. "I about lived on your -grounds before I went to boarding school." - -"Pray be seated, gentlemen," and, in obedience to Mrs. Winthrop's -gesture, Douglas pulled up a chair near hers, while Brett and Colonel -Thornton did likewise. "Now, Mr. Brett, what do you wish to ask me?" - -"Have you any idea where Senator Carew dined the night of his death?" - -"Not the slightest," was the positive reply. - -"Was it your brother's custom not to inform you where he was dining?" -asked Brett. - -"Stop a moment," Thornton held up a protesting hand. "Mrs. Winthrop, -you cannot be compelled to answer questions put to you by Mr. Brett; he -has no legal right to examine you now." - -"I am quite aware of that, Colonel Thornton," put in Brett composedly; -"I am asking these questions that I may gain a little more light on -this mystery. I only saw Mrs. Winthrop for a short time yesterday, and, -while I do not wish to intrude, I feel that I can accomplish better -results by a longer talk. This tragedy must be investigated thoroughly." - -"Very true; but you forget, Mr. Brett, that the inquest is the proper -place for bringing out testimony. Mrs. Winthrop will have to appear -before it, and, until that is held, she must not be pestered with -questions or harrowed by intrusions." - -"I am willing to answer all questions within reason," said Mrs. -Winthrop, before the detective could reply. "If you mean, Mr. Brett, -that Senator Carew was secretive about his movements, you are mistaken. -On the contrary, he was most open and above board in his dealings with -me. Occasionally, when hurried, he did not tell me his plans for the -day, but, as a general thing, I knew all his social engagements." - -"Ah, his social engagements," echoed Brett, "how about his official -engagements, Mrs. Winthrop?" - -"With those I had nothing to do. I never meddled in my brother's -political or official career; that was out of my province," was the -calm reply. - -"Then you think it likely that he dined with some of his official -colleagues?" - -"I am unable to express an opinion on the subject." - -"You had better ask his private secretary what engagements he made for -Monday, and with whom he was last seen," broke in Thornton. - -"Mr. Philip Winthrop is in no condition to answer questions now. He -will be examined before the coroner's inquest when able to leave his -room." - -"Then I do not see the object of this interview," objected Thornton. -"Young Mr. Winthrop is better able to tell you of Senator Carew's -movements that day than Mrs. Winthrop." - -"I cannot wait so long." Brett shook his head decidedly. "What clews -there are will grow cold, and I cannot afford to risk that. I am -deeply interested in clearing up this terrible affair." - -"And do you think I am less so?" demanded Mrs. Winthrop indignantly. -"On the contrary, Mr. Brett, I will move Heaven and earth to find the -perpetrator of that dastardly deed. I have just told Colonel Thornton -that I will offer a reward of one thousand dollars for information -leading to the criminal's arrest." - -"Ah, then you do _not_ think the negro coachman, Hamilton, guilty?" put -in Brett quickly. - -"I have not said so," but Mrs. Winthrop looked disconcerted for a -second, then regained her usual serenity. "My idea in offering the -reward was to assist your investigation, and Colonel Thornton agreed -with me that it was an excellent plan." - -"Mrs. Winthrop," the detective spoke with greater distinctness, "was -Senator Carew on good terms with all the members of his family?" - -"He was, sir, with members of this household." Mrs. Winthrop hesitated -briefly, then continued, "I think that I had better tell you that, -since his return from Panama a short time ago, my brother received a -number of threatening letters." - -"Indeed," Brett's tone betrayed his satisfaction. "Can I see the -letters?" - -"Unfortunately my brother destroyed the one he showed me." - -"What was its contents?" inquired Brett. - -"To the best of my recollection the message, which was written in an -obviously disguised writing, read somewhat like this: - -"'Your movements are watched. If you act, you die'." - -"Did you see the envelope?" asked Brett, as he jotted down the words in -his memorandum book. - -"No. At the time my brother showed it to me he told me that he had -received several others; that he had no idea to what they referred; and -that he never paid attention to anonymous communications." - -"I see." Brett thoughtfully replaced his notebook in his pocket. "Can I -talk to your niece, Miss Cynthia Carew?" - -Mrs. Winthrop shook her head. "She is still too prostrated to be -interviewed." - -"Poor little soul! It was a ghastly experience for her," ejaculated -Colonel Thornton. - -"It was indeed," agreed Mrs. Winthrop. "She was devoted to her uncle, -and he to her. Consequently the shock has driven her half out of her -mind." - -"Miss Thornton--" Brett turned and faced Eleanor--"do you know to -whom Miss Carew referred when she exclaimed on greeting you yesterday -afternoon: 'They quarreled, Eleanor, they quarreled!'" - -Mrs. Winthrop caught her breath sharply. - -"Why, her words referred to Hamilton, the coachman," replied Eleanor -quietly, and her eyes did not waver before Brett's stern glance. - -The detective broke the short silence which followed. "I won't detain -you longer, Mrs. Winthrop. I am exceedingly obliged to you for the -information you have furnished. Mr. Hunter, are you coming down town?" - -Douglas nodded an affirmative as he rose. Mrs. Winthrop and Colonel -Thornton detained Brett with a question as he was leaving the room. -Douglas seized his opportunity, and crossed over to Eleanor's side. - -"How have you been since I saw you last, Miss Thornton?" he inquired. - -"Very well, thanks. And you?"--Eleanor inspected him with good-natured -raillery: "You look--as serious as ever." - -Douglas reddened. "It has been my lot in life to have to take things -seriously. I'm not such a Puritan as you evidently think me." - -"Come and see me, and perhaps on better acquaintance"--she paused. - -"What?" - -"You will improve." Her charming, roguish smile robbed the words of -their sting. - -"You think then that I am an acquired taste?" - -"I have not seen enough of you to know." - -"When may I call on you?" - -She parried the question with another. - -"Why did you leave Paris without saying good-bye to me?" - -The simple question sobered Douglas. It brought back an unpleasant -recollection best forgotten. Eleanor's bewitching personality had -always exerted an extraordinary influence over him. He found himself -watching her every movement, instinct with grace, and eagerly waiting -to catch her smile. In Paris he had often cursed himself for a fool, -even when attending a reception just to catch a glimpse of her. She was -a born coquette, and could no more help enjoying an innocent flirtation -than a kitten could help frolicking. It was her intense femininity -which had first attracted him. Frightened at the influence she -unconsciously exerted over him, he had deliberately avoided her--and -Fate had thrown them together again. It was Kismet! Therefore, why not -enjoy the goods the gods provided and be thankful? - -"'Time and tide wait for no man,'" he quoted. "I had to catch a steamer -at a moment's notice, hence the 'P. P. C.' card. Please show your -forgiveness, and let me call." - -"And if I don't?" - -"Why, I'll come anyway." - -Eleanor's eyes twinkled. "Bravo. I like the spirit of young Lochinvar." - -"He came out of the West, whereas I come out of the East." - -"Oh, well, extremes meet." - -"Then don't be surprised if I carry you off." The words were spoken in -jest, but the look in Douglas' eyes caused Eleanor to blush hotly. - -"Marse Brett am awaitin' fo' yo', suh," said Joshua from the doorway, -breaking in on the _tête-à-tête_. - -"Oh,--ah,--yes." Douglas was suddenly conscious of the absence of the -others. "Miss Thornton, I had no idea I was detaining you. Please say -good-by to Mrs. Winthrop and your uncle. I never realized in Paris that -you belonged to _the_ Thorntons in Georgetown." - -"You never took the trouble to make inquiries about me?" She surprised -a look in Douglas' face--why did he appear as if caught? The expression -was fleeting, but Eleanor's eyes hardened. "Good-bye," she turned -abruptly away, without seeing his half-extended hand. - -Douglas looked anything but pleasant when he joined Brett, who stood -waiting for him in the vestibule. They strolled down Massachusetts -Avenue for over a block in absolute silence. - -Brett was the first to speak. "When you were eating breakfast I saw -Annette, Miss Thornton's French maid, and questioned her in regard to -the dressing gowns worn by the Carew household." - -"What luck did you meet with?" inquired Douglas, rousing from a deep -study. - -"She says Mrs. Winthrop, Miss Carew, and Miss Thornton all wear -dressing gowns made of oriental silk." - -"Upon my word!" ejaculated Douglas, much astonished. "Still, they can't -be the same pattern." - -"It won't be so easy to identify your midnight caller by means of that -silk," taking out the slip which Douglas had torn from the dressing -gown the night before. "Annette says the gowns were given to Mrs. -Winthrop and Miss Carew by Miss Thornton, who purchased them, with -hers, at a Japanese store in H Street. The French girl isn't above -accepting a bribe, so when I suggested her showing me the gowns, she -got them and brought them into the library, while Mrs. Winthrop and -Miss Thornton were breakfasting in Miss Carew's boudoir." - -"Did you see all three of them?" - -"Yes, and they are as alike as two peas in a pod. And, Mr. Hunter," his -voice deepened impressively, "I examined them with the greatest care, -and not one kimono was torn--nor had any one of them ever been mended." - - - - -CHAPTER IX - -AT THE STATE DEPARTMENT - - -"This gentleman has called to see you, sir," and the messenger handed a -visiting card to the Secretary of State, who laid his pen down on his -desk and carefully inspected the card. - -"Show Mr. Hunter in," he directed, then looked across at his -stenographer. "You need not wait, Jones." - -As the stenographer gathered up his papers and hastened out of the -room, Douglas was ushered in, and after a few words of greeting the -Secretary motioned him to take the large leather chair placed beside -his desk. - -"I was sorry not to find you when I called yesterday, Mr. Secretary," -began Douglas. - -"I was detained in the West and did not get here until this morning. -What do you wish to see me about, Mr. Hunter?" - -"First, to thank you for granting me a leave of absence." - -"That is all right. Senator Carew came here and asked as a particular -favor to him that you be allowed to return to Washington. By the way, -his death was terrible, terrible. His loss will be felt by the whole -country." - -"It will, indeed," agreed Douglas. - -"Did you see Senator Carew before his death?" - -"No, Mr. Secretary; I only reached Washington on Monday, the night of -his murder." - -"It seems an outrage in these days of our boasted civilization that a -man of such brilliant attainments, a man whose life is of benefit to -his country, should be killed wantonly by a worthless, drunken negro," -exclaimed the Secretary, with much feeling. - -"You believe, then, that Senator Carew was murdered by his servant?" - -"I gathered that impression from the newspapers, and they all insist -that the negro is guilty. Do you think otherwise?" - -"I do." - -"And your reasons?" - -"The use of the letter file, an extraordinary weapon for a negro -coachman to use." - -"Is that your only reason for believing the negro innocent?" The -Secretary's piercing eyes studied Douglas' face intently. - -"No, sir." - -"Is there anything which strikes you as being of vital importance in -the case which has not yet been brought out?" - -"Senator Carew was chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee." - -The Secretary stared at Douglas for a full minute without speaking. - -"I don't quite catch your meaning, Mr. Hunter," he said finally. - -"Let me explain, Mr. Secretary," began Douglas earnestly. "Some time -ago I received a letter from Senator Carew _suggesting_ that I apply -for leave of absence." - -"Why?" snapped out the Secretary. - -"He did not specify directly," returned Douglas calmly; "he said he -wished to consult me about my future. One moment"--as the Secretary -opened his lips to speak. "At the end of the letter the Senator added -that he hoped I was making the most of my opportunities; that it was -only the part of wisdom to inform myself of all that was going on in -Japan, and that he expected that I would be able to give him some -interesting data about the 'Yankees of the East,' as he had always -been curious as regards their customs, past history, and future plans." - -The Secretary settled back in his chair and fumbled with his watch -chain. He was the first to break the silence. "Did you follow Senator -Carew's advice?" - -"I did, sir." - -"With what results?" - -"Among other things I discovered that there was an unusual activity -commencing in the shipyards; army maneuvers were being conducted -unostentatiously, and finally, the day I sailed, I heard a report that -three transports were being fitted out at Wakayama, a closed port, and -were to sail shortly under sealed orders." - -"Excellent! Have you any idea of the transports' destination?" - -"No, sir." - -"Why did you not send me this information before?" the Secretary spoke -with unwonted sternness. - -"I did cable a cipher despatch to Senator Carew. I thought you had -requested him to get certain information, and did not care to have it -sent through the Department directly." - -"The Senator did not take me into his confidence in the matter," -declared the Secretary, studying his companion's face intently. - -"That's very strange," muttered Douglas. "Very strange. Detective -Brett, who is investigating the Carew case, declares, from writing -found on a blotter, that the Senator wrote a letter to some unknown -person. On one side of the blotter were clearly traced the words: 'Am -writing in case I don't see you before ...'--and on the other: 'I have -discovered....' Brett thinks Senator Carew was interrupted on two -occasions while writing the letter, and laid the blotter on the fresh -ink to prevent the person who entered from seeing what he had written." - -The Secretary followed Douglas' story with the greatest attention. -"A likely hypothesis," he acknowledged, slowly settling back in his -revolving chair, for he had been leaning forward on his desk the better -to catch every word spoken by Douglas in his quiet monotone. "To whom -do you think that letter was written?" - -"To you, undoubtedly, Mr. Secretary. Possibly my information may have -given him the clew he needed to verify certain suspicions. You were in -the West, he wanted to get the news to you without further delay, and -the only thing he could do was to write or wire." - -"Or telephone," supplemented the Secretary; then, as Douglas' face -brightened, he added, "Unfortunately for your theory Senator Carew did -none of those things." - -"You mean----?" - -"That I have never received a letter, a telegram, or a telephone from -him while I was away," announced the Secretary solemnly. - -"He may still have written a message and have been killed before he -could get it off to you." - -"Has such a letter been found by Brett?" - -"No, sir; nor any trace of it. So far, he has been unable to find out -whether such a letter was seen or posted by any member of the Senator's -household. All he has to go on is the blotter." - -"Why did you not go at once to see Senator Carew when you arrived in -Washington?" - -"Because my cousin, Captain Taylor, who met me at the Union Station, -gave me a note from Senator Carew asking me to call on him at nine -o'clock Tuesday morning at his residence." - -"How did the Senator know where a note would reach you?" - -"He enclosed it in a note to my cousin asking him to see that it was -delivered to me at once on my arrival." - -"Has it occurred to you that Senator Carew's missing letter, which -Brett is so anxious to find, may have been addressed to you?" - -"I never thought of that!" exclaimed Douglas, "I was so thoroughly -convinced that he had tried to communicate with you." - -"I would inquire about your mail if I were you, Mr. Hunter." - -"I will do so at once," Douglas half rose. - -"No, no, sit down." The Secretary waited until Douglas had resumed his -seat. "Where are you stopping?" - -"At the Albany." - -"You have brought me very serious news, Mr. Hunter. So serious that I -must insist on some verification of your statements about Japan before -you leave me." - -Douglas took from a cleverly concealed pocket in the lining of his coat -a number of sheets of rice paper and handed them to the Secretary, -who studied the closely written papers long and intently. Suddenly he -pulled open a desk drawer and took out his strong box. - -"I will keep these papers, Mr. Hunter, for future reference," he -announced, unlocking the box and placing the rice papers in it. Then, -with equal care, he replaced the box in the drawer, which he locked -securely. "We must go slowly in this matter. A slip on our part, and -two great nations may become involved in a needless and bloody war." - -"I realize the gravity of the situation, Mr. Secretary, and have come -to you for advice in the matter." - -"Good. I depend on you not to mention our conversation to anyone, nor -do I think it wise to acquaint Brett at this time with your suspicions -in regard to the motive for Senator Carew's murder. With all good -intentions Brett might blunder and cause international complications." - -Douglas stroked his clean-shaven chin reflectively for a moment. "Don't -you think, Mr. Secretary, that there is danger of being too secretive, -and that the guilty party may slip through our fingers?" - -"It is a risk which we will have to take. Frankly, I think you and -Brett are equal to the situation." The Secretary glanced at his watch. -"Have you any engagement just now, Mr. Hunter?" - -"No, sir. My time is at your disposal." - -The Secretary reached up and touched the electric buzzer hanging above -his desk, and in a few seconds his stenographer appeared from another -room. - -"Jones, call up Secretary Wyndham and ask if he can see me," and, as -the clerk disappeared to execute his order, he turned back to Douglas. -"There are certain charts of the Pacific which I wish you to see; they -have been made recently. Well, Jones?" as the clerk reëntered his -office. - -"Secretary Wyndham is expecting you, sir." - -"Thanks. Now, Mr. Hunter, get your hat, and we will go to the Navy -Department." - - - - -CHAPTER X - -THE THEFT - - -The Secretary of State and Douglas hastened through the wide corridors -of the immense State, War, and Navy Building. As they passed an -elevator shaft in the navy wing, Douglas caught a fleeting glimpse of -Eleanor Thornton in one of the lifts as it shot downward toward the -ground floor. On their arrival they were ushered at once into Secretary -Wyndham's private office. - -"Glad to see you," exclaimed Wyndham, "your call is most opportune"--he -stopped on seeing Douglas standing behind the Secretary of State, and -his eyebrows went up questioningly. - -"This is Mr. Douglas Hunter, attaché of the American Embassy at Tokio, -Wyndham," explained the Secretary of State. - -"How are you, sir." The Secretary of the Navy shook hands brusquely. -"Will you both be seated?" - -"I brought Mr. Hunter with me that he might tell you of certain -information which he gathered in Japan about some prospective -movements of their navy." He glanced significantly at Douglas, who -nodded understandingly, and without more words gave a clear, concise -statement of naval affairs in Japan, omitting all mention of other -matters. - -Secretary Wyndham listened to his remarks with the closest attention. -When he ceased speaking Wyndham sprang from his chair and, walking over -to the adjoining room, spoke to his confidential clerk, then closed the -door and returned. - -"I have told him to admit no one," he explained briefly, as he seated -himself in his swivel chair. - -"May we see the new charts of the Pacific?" inquired the Secretary of -State, moving his chair closer to the other's desk. - -"Certainly; but first I must tell you of a remarkable occurrence which -took place here earlier this morning." A violent fit of coughing -interrupted Wyndham, and it was some minutes before he could speak -clearly. "Ah!" he gasped, tilting back in his chair and mopping his -flushed face, "a spring cold is almost impossible to cure." - -"I don't think yours will be improved if you continue to sit in a -direct draft," remonstrated the Secretary of State, pointing to the -open windows. - -"I had to have air. By George! man, if you had been through what I -have this morning--" he did not complete his sentence. - -"What happened?" asked the Secretary of State, with growing interest. - -"The plans of the two new dreadnaughts have been stolen." - -"Impossible!" The Secretary of State half started from his chair. - -"Impossible? Well, I'd have said the same five hours ago," dryly. - -"Were they stolen from this office?" asked Douglas. - -"Yes, and not only from this office, but under my very eyes." - -"How?" - -"To give you both a clear idea I must go into details," Wyndham drew -his chair up closer and lowered his voice. "About twelve o'clock -my private secretary brought me word that a man wished to see me -personally. Of course, I have daily callers who all wish to see -me personally, and usually my secretary takes care of them. This -particular caller refused to give his name and said he would explain -his business to me alone. I thought he was simply a harmless crank, -and told my secretary to get rid of him as soon as possible." Wyndham -sighed. "In a few minutes my secretary was back in the office, saying -that the stranger had a message for me from Senator Carew." - -"A written message?" asked the Secretary of State. - -"No, a verbal one. With everyone else in Washington, I have taken great -interest in the terrible murder of my old friend. The man's statement -aroused my interest, and, having a few minutes of leisure, I told my -secretary to show him in." - -"What did he look like?" inquired the Secretary of State, deeply -interested. - -"A tall, dark chap; his hair and beard were black, and he had the -bluest eyes I've ever seen in human head." - -"Was he well dressed?" - -"No, his clothes were shabby but fairly neat. He looked as if he had -spruced up for the occasion. I can't say I was prepossessed in his -favor by his appearance." - -"Did he give you his name?" - -"No." - -"Do you think he was an American?" put in Douglas. - -"It's hard to say. At first I sized him up as being a Spaniard." - -"Didn't you ask his name?" again inquired the Secretary of State -impatiently. - -"I did, and his errand. He ignored my first question, and in answer to -the second said that he had come to examine some records. I informed -him that he had come to the wrong office, and that my clerk would -direct him to the proper room. He then made the astounding statement -that he had an appointment to meet Senator Carew here in this office -at twelve o'clock. I was taken completely by surprise by the man's -statement and asked: 'What day did you expect to meet Senator Carew -here?' - -"'This morning, at twelve o'clock,' he answered, and then added, 'He is -late.' - -"Thinking the man a little daft or drunk, though I could detect no sign -of liquor, I said abruptly, 'A likely tale; Senator Carew is dead.' - -"'Dead!' he shouted, springing out of his chair. - -"'Yes, dead--murdered last Monday night.' I hadn't anticipated giving -him such a shock, or I would have broken the news more gently. The -effect on my visitor was appalling. He collapsed on the floor in a fit. -The electric bells in this office are out of order, and, although I -shouted for help, no one heard me. I sprang out of my chair, undid the -man's necktie and collar, threw the contents of my ice pitcher in his -face, and then bolted into the other room to get assistance. Most of -the clerks had gone out to their lunch. I called two men who happened -to be eating their lunch in an adjoining room, and we hastened back -here only to find my strange visitor gone!" - -"Gone!" ejaculated the Secretary of State. - -"Vanished. The only sign of his presence was the spilled ice water on -the floor, and that chair overturned," pointing to the one Douglas was -occupying. - -"Did no one see him slip out of the door into the hall?" asked Douglas. - -"No. Unfortunately the messenger, who sits near my door, had gone into -the room across the corridor. The man made a quick getaway, and luck -broke with him, for no one noticed him leaving the building." - -"How do you know he isn't hiding somewhere?" inquired Douglas. - -"If he is, he will be captured, for Chief Connor and a number of Secret -Service men are searching the building." - -"When did you discover the plans of the battleships were missing?" - -Wyndham swore softly. "That's the devilish part of it," he said -bitterly. "As soon as I realized the man had really run away I glanced -over my papers. Everything seemed to be all right. I pulled open this -drawer," opening it as he spoke, "and saw these blue prints lying -exactly as I had placed them under this folded newspaper. I slammed the -drawer shut, thinking my strange visitor was simply a harmless lunatic, -who had probably read about Carew's death until he became obsessed with -the subject, and dismissed the matter from my mind." - -"Was this drawer locked when your strange visitor was admitted?" - -"No." - -"Then anyone might have stolen the papers," exclaimed the Secretary of -State in surprise. - -Wyndham reddened. "No, they could not. The only time I've been out -of this room was when I ran out looking for aid for that miserable -scoundrel. That is the only chance there has been to steal the papers." - -"You think, then," began Douglas, checking his remarks off on his -fingers, "first, that the whole thing was a plot; that the man used -Senator Carew's name to arouse your interest or curiosity; that he -faked a fit, and in your absence removed the plans and substituted -false blueprints, taking a chance that you would simply look to see -that everything was safe in your drawer and not examine further, and -then made his escape." - -"You've hit it exactly," acknowledged Wyndham. "Those were the -conclusions reached by Chief Connor also." - -"It was no irresponsible person who committed that theft," declared -the Secretary of State thoughtfully. "It was a well-laid plot, neatly -carried out. How long have the papers been in your possession, Wyndham?" - -"They were sent here yesterday for my inspection. There has been a -leak here somewhere, damn it!" Wyndham set his bulldog jaw. "I'll -trace it to the bottom, and when I find out----" he clenched his fists -menacingly. - -"What callers did you see besides the Spaniard?" asked Douglas. - -"Let me see--the usual run, several office seekers, a number of naval -officers--oh, yes, my wife came in with Colonel Thornton and his niece, -Miss Eleanor Thornton." - -"Before or after the Spaniard had been here?" questioned Douglas -swiftly. - -"Shortly afterward. They came in about a quarter of one and did not -stay long." - -"After you had discovered the loss of the plans?" - -"No, before. I only discovered their loss three-quarters of an hour -ago." - -"How long were your wife and her friends in this office?" inquired -Douglas persistently. - -"About fifteen minutes." - -"Then how does it happen that I saw Miss Eleanor Thornton descending in -one of the elevators when the Secretary and I were on our way to this -office to see you?" - -"Oh, Miss Eleanor told me that she was going to the library to look -up the records of some of her ancestors, as she wishes to join the -Colonial Dames. I think she has been up there ever since. My wife and -Colonel Thornton left together without waiting for her." - -"You are absolutely certain, Wyndham, that you haven't been out of this -office except on that one occasion?" asked the Secretary of State for -the second time. - -"I will take my Bible oath on it," exclaimed Wyndham solemnly. - -The three men gazed at each other in silence, each busy with his own -thoughts. The Secretary of State was the first to recover himself. - -"Have you had your lunch, Wyndham?" he inquired. - -The latter shook his head. "I've lost my appetite," he growled. - -The Secretary of State rose and placed his hand on the broad shoulder -of the younger man. "Don't take it so much to heart, Wyndham," he said -kindly. "We'll get at the bottom of this tangle before long. We'll -all stand by and help you, and, remember, Chief Connor is a host in -himself." - -"Thanks," Wyndham straightened his bent shoulders; his face was set and -his eyes snapped as the spirit of the born fighter returned. "I'll move -Heaven and earth until I catch that Spaniard. Must you both be going?" - -"Yes." The Secretary of State answered for Douglas as well as for -himself. "We have detained you quite long enough. Let me know -immediately of any new developments." - -"I will. Mr. Hunter, it's been a pleasure to meet you, although I am -afraid the information you have given me, considered with the loss of -the plans of the new battleships, complicates the situation. Good-bye, -come and see me again," and the big door swung shut. - -Halfway down the corridor the Secretary of State paused and regarded -Douglas seriously. "Talk of complicated situations----" he passed his -hand wearily over his forehead, then started with sudden resolution. -"Come on, Hunter, I'm going over to the White House; a talk with the -President may clear my brain. Wyndham may have lost his appetite, but -he's given us food for thought." - - - - -CHAPTER XI - -OVER THE TEA CUPS - - -Cynthia turned a flushed and tear-stained face toward Eleanor, as the -latter entered the boudoir and approached her couch. - -"Is it all over?" she asked, choking back a sob. - -"Yes." Eleanor lifted her black crêpe veil, and, pulling out the -hatpins, removed her hat and handed it to Annette, who had followed -her into the room. "Take my coat, too, Annette," she directed, "then -you need not wait." As the servant left the room she pulled a low -rocking-chair up to the couch on which Cynthia was lying, and placed -her hand gently on the weeping girl's shoulder. "Are you feeling -better, dear?" - -"A little better." Cynthia wiped her eyes with a dry handkerchief which -Annette had placed on her couch some moments before. "Oh, Eleanor, I am -so bitterly ashamed of the scene I made downstairs." - -"You need not be." Eleanor stroked the curly, fair hair back from -Cynthia's hot forehead with loving fingers. "It was a very painful -scene, and Dr. Wallace's tribute to Senator Carew, while beautiful, was -harrowing. I am not surprised you fainted, dear." - -"Aunt Charlotte didn't, and she was so devoted to Uncle James." - -"Mrs. Winthrop had not been through your terrible experiences of Monday -night. Consequently, she had the strength to bear to-day's ordeal with -outward composure." - -"Was it very dreadful at the cemetery?" - -"No, dear. The services at the grave were very simple, and, as the -funeral was private, it attracted no morbid spectators." - -"Did anyone accompany you?" - -"Just the handful of people who were here for the house services." - -"Where is Aunt Charlotte?" - -"She went to her room to lie down." - -Cynthia raised herself on her elbow and glanced searchingly about the -pretty sitting-room filled with its bird's-eye maple furniture. The -yellow wallpaper, with its wide border of pink roses, chintz curtains -and hangings, cast a soft yellow glow, which was exceedingly becoming, -as well as restful to the eye. The afternoon sunshine came through the -long French windows which overlooked a broad alley. - -"Eleanor, would you mind closing the door of my bedroom," she asked, -"and please first see that--that Blanche isn't sitting there sewing." - -Eleanor glanced curiously at Cynthia as she rose, crossed to the -adjoining bedroom, and softly closed the door. "There is no one in your -room," she reported, on her return to her rocking-chair. - -Cynthia settled back among her pillows with an air of satisfaction. "At -last I have you to myself. First the trained nurse, whom I didn't need, -and then Aunt Charlotte, have always been hanging around, and I haven't -had a chance to ask you any questions." - -"What is it you wish to know?" - -"Was there--was there--an autopsy?" Noting Eleanor's expression, she -exclaimed hastily: "Now, Eleanor dear, _don't_ say I must not talk of -Uncle James' death. The nurse wouldn't answer me when I spoke on the -subject; said I must not think of the tragedy, that it was bad for me. -Such nonsense! I would have asked Aunt Charlotte, but she's been so -queer lately, not in the least like her own dear self." - -"Mrs. Winthrop is living under such great strain these days, Cynthia, -it's not surprising. Her brother dead--Philip very ill----" - -"They told me he was better," hastily jerked out Cynthia, with a -startled look in her big, brown eyes. - -"He is, now," Eleanor hesitated. "The doctor at first thought he might -develop brain fever, but I am told all danger of that is past." - -"What is the matter with him?" persisted Cynthia. "I asked the nurse -what the trouble was, but she never told me. Was his attack also caused -by the shock of Uncle James' death?" - -"Yes, from shock," answered Eleanor, mechanically. "You must not blame -your aunt if her manner is distrait; she is a very reserved woman and -dreads, above all things, letting herself go and breaking down." - -"Oh, I hope she will keep well, she has been so unhappy. I can't bear -to think of her suffering more, but," she laid her hand pleadingly on -Eleanor's arm, "you haven't answered my question about the autopsy." - -"Yes, they held one." - -"And what was discovered?" eagerly. - -"That Senator Carew was perfectly well physically, and that his death -was caused by a stab from the sharp-pointed letter file." - -Cynthia suddenly covered her eyes with her hand, and lay for some -minutes without speaking. "Is Hamilton still in jail?" she questioned -finally. - -"Yes, he is being held for the inquest." - -"Inquest?" Cynthia glanced up, startled. "I thought the inquest was -over." - -"No, it hasn't been held yet." - -"But Uncle James was buried to-day." - -"The funeral could not be postponed, Cynthia. The doctors who performed -the autopsy will testify at the inquest." - -"But I thought it was always necessary to hold the inquest after a -violent death." - -"It is usually, but in this case the inquest was postponed because you -and Philip, two of the most important witnesses, were too ill to attend -it." - -Cynthia closed and unclosed her tapering fingers over her handkerchief -spasmodically. "Are the detectives still hanging around the house?" she -inquired. - -"Yes." - -"It's shameful!" announced Cynthia, sitting upright, "to allow those -men to intrude on our grief and privacy. They have arrested Hamilton -for the crime, and should leave us alone." - -"They do not think Hamilton guilty." - -"Whom--whom--do they suspect?" The question seemed forced from her. - -"Mr. Brett hasn't confided in me." - -"Mr. Brett?" - -"He's the detective in charge of the case." - -"Oh, is he the tall, fine-looking man I saw talking to Joshua in the -hall yesterday morning?" - -"No, that was probably Douglas Hunter." - -"Douglas Hunter? Not the Douglas Hunter of the Diplomatic Corps, whom -Uncle James was forever talking about?" - -"The same. Do you know him?" - -"No, he has always been absent from Washington when I've been in the -city. What is he doing here now?" - -"Trying to help Mr. Brett solve the mystery of Senator Carew's death." - -"Good Heavens! What earthly business is it of his?" - -"Don't ask me," Eleanor's usually tranquil voice was a trifle sharp. "I -suppose he is hoping to win the reward offered by Mrs. Winthrop." - -"Reward?" Cynthia's voice rose, and drowned the sound of a faint knock -at the hall door. - -"Yes. Your aunt announced that she would give five thousand dollars -to anyone who could solve the mystery." Cynthia was listening with -absorbed attention to Eleanor, and neither noticed that the hall door -was pushed open a few inches, then softly closed. "Uncle Dana told her -that was too much to offer, and she reduced the sum to one thousand -dollars, with the proviso that it should be increased if the first -offer brought no result." - -Cynthia sighed deeply. "Why, why did she do it?" she cried -passionately. "She must be mad!" - -Eleanor glanced at her companion in astonishment. "Cynthia, you must -not excite yourself," she remonstrated firmly. "Otherwise, I shall -leave you." - -Cynthia reached out and clutched her arm. "Don't go," she entreated. "I -must----" her words were interrupted by a sharp rap on the hall door. -"Come in." - -In response Annette opened the door. "Pardon, Mademoiselle, but it is -five o'clock, and I thought you might like your tea up here instead of -downstairs." - -"Capital, Annette," exclaimed Eleanor, as the maid entered carrying -a tray. "Wait a moment, and I will get that small table." Deftly she -removed the books and magazines, and then carried the table over to -the couch. Annette put a tray laden with tempting sandwiches, small -cakes, the teapot and its accessories, on the table, then bent over and -arranged Cynthia's pillows at her back with practiced hand. - -"Mademoiselle is more comfortable, _n'est-ce pas?_" she asked briskly. - -"Yes, indeed, Annette," Cynthia nodded gratefully at the Frenchwoman. - -"Have you everything you wish, Mademoiselle Eleanor?" - -"Yes, Annette, thank you. If I want anything more I will ring." - -"Be sure and close the door, Annette," directed Cynthia, "I am afraid -of a draft"; and she looked around until she saw her order obeyed. - -"Have a sandwich?" asked Eleanor, handing the dish and a plate to -Cynthia. - -"I'd rather eat good sandwiches than solid food," announced Cynthia, -after a pause, helping herself to another portion. - -"Solid?" echoed Eleanor. "I call _pâté de foie gras_ and deviled ham -pretty solid eating, Cynthia; especially when taken in bulk," glancing -quizzically at the rapidly diminishing pile. - -"Don't begrudge me these crumbs." Cynthia's smile was followed by a -sigh. "I've lived on slops for three days. Why are you giving me such -weak tea, Eleanor? I loathe it made that way." - -"I am afraid to make it stronger, Cynthia, it will keep you awake." - -"I don't want to sleep; I'd give anything _not_ to sleep!" - -"Why, Cynthia!" - -"If I could really sleep--drop into oblivion--I would like it, but -instead I dream, and, oh, God! I fear my dream." - -Eleanor laid a restraining hand on her shoulder. "Lie down," she -commanded, "and compose yourself." - -Cynthia lay back on her pillows, panting a little from her exertion, -the color coming and going in her winsome face. - -"I would give anything, Eleanor, if I had your tranquil disposition," -she said, more quietly. "I cannot help my temperament. My mother was -Scotch to the fingertips, and, I have been told, had the gift of -second-sight--although I sometimes doubt if such a thing is a gift." - -"Perhaps I can understand better than you think," said Eleanor gently. -"My mother was Irish, and the Irish, you know, are just as great -believers in the supernatural as the Scotch." - -"You always understand," Cynthia bent forward and kissed her friend -warmly. "That's why you are such a comfort. Let me tell you why I am -so nervous and unstrung. Since a little child I have been obsessed by -one dream, it is always the same, and always precedes disaster." She -sighed, drearily. "I had it just before my grandmother's death; then -before my uncle, Mr. Winthrop, killed himself; and on Sunday night I -had it again." She shuddered as she spoke. - -"What is your dream?" - -"It is this way: I may be sleeping soundly, when suddenly I see a -door--a door which stands out vividly in a shadowy space, which might -be a room, or hallway--the door is white and the panels are in the -shape of a cross, so"--illustrating her meaning with her arms--"I hear -a cry--the cry of a soul in torment--I rush to the rescue, always to -find the door locked, and wake myself beating on the empty air"--she -shuddered as she spoke, and drew her kimono closer about her. "I awake -cold and trembling from head to foot." - -"You poor darling," Eleanor took the limp form in her arms with a -gesture of infinite understanding and compassion. - -"I had the dream Sunday night," sobbed Cynthia, "then Monday, when I -thought we could announce our engagement----" - -"Whose engagement?" asked a quiet voice behind the pair. Startled, -Eleanor wheeled around to find Mrs. Winthrop standing behind her, as -Cynthia slipped from her arms and buried her head in the friendly -cushions, her slender form shaking with convulsive sobs. - - - - -CHAPTER XII - -A COUNCIL OF WAR - - -Philip Winthrop moved restlessly in bed, then lay still, for a feeling -of deadly nausea almost overcame him. Half an hour passed, and, feeling -better, he raised his hand and felt his throbbing temples. Wearily he -tried to collect his ideas, but all appeared confused. - -What was it that he had promised? Slowly his torpid conscience awoke. -"For value received"--the phrase held a double meaning which penetrated -even his dulled senses. He could not afford to lie there like a bump on -a log any longer. He opened his eyes; apparently it was late, for the -room was in total darkness, save for a streak of light which came from -the half-open hall door. - -With an effort Philip raised himself on his elbow and glanced about -him, but even that slight exertion was too much in his weakened state, -and, with a groan, he slid back on the pillows. For some seconds he lay -without moving, but the yellow patch of light troubled him, and he -rolled over on his side facing the wall. He struggled apathetically to -piece together the occurrences of the past few days. Suddenly he caught -the sound of a light step and the swish of skirts approaching his bed. - -The next instant a glass was thrust under his nose and placed gently -against his mouth. He raised his hand and pushed the glass away from -him. "G'way," he stammered faintly; "leave me 'lone." - -Apparently no attention was paid to his request, for the glass was -again placed at his lips. Again he tried to thrust it from him, but -his feeble efforts made no impression against the strong wrist. His -resistance only lasted a few minutes, then his weaker will surrendered -to the stronger, and he sipped the medicine obediently, after which the -glass was withdrawn. - - * * * * * - -Downstairs in the library three men sat smoking around the large desk -table. - -"I am glad you could join us to-night, Colonel Thornton," said Brett, -as he placed one of the ashtrays conveniently near the lawyer. "Three -heads are better than one, and it is time we got together and discussed -certain features of this case." - -"Quite right, it will help us to a clearer understanding," agreed the -Colonel. - -"Then suppose, Mr. Hunter, that you first tell us any theories which -you may have formed." - -Douglas dropped the paper-cutter he was balancing in his hand, and, -leaning on the table, looked seriously at his companions. "I think," -he said deliberately, "that Philip Winthrop has a guilty knowledge of -Senator Carew's death, if he is not the actual murderer." - -"Your reasons," demanded Colonel Thornton. - -"There was bad blood between them, that has been proved," Douglas -picked his words with care. "Possibly the quarrel was brought about -because Senator Carew had found out something discreditable in Philip -Winthrop's past. He had a responsible position as the Senator's private -secretary, and there is a chance he betrayed his trust." - -"In what way?" asked Brett eagerly. - -"It may be that he is in the pay of some lobby anxious to influence -important legislation." Douglas, mindful of the Secretary of State's -caution, was feeling his way with care. - -"Senator Carew was the last man to be influenced by such a character as -Philip Winthrop," said Thornton contemptuously. - -"He may not have tried to do so, but simply have betrayed valuable -information of committee plans and caucus." - -"That may be," acknowledged Thornton, "particularly as I am told that -Philip has been spending a great deal of money lately; far more than -his salary would warrant." - -"'Value received.'" Douglas shrugged his shoulders expressively. "I -have also found out that Hamilton, the coachman, is a Jamaican negro, -his real name being Samuel Hamilton Quesada, and that he was brought -here nearly two years ago by young Winthrop when he returned from a -visit to Jamaica. The Senator took him into his employ at the former's -request and recommendation." - -"And your theory is?" questioned Brett sharply, laying down his cigar. - -"That Winthrop either bribed Hamilton to kill Senator Carew, or to help -him after he, Winthrop, had committed the murder. You must remember," -he added hastily, as Brett started to speak, "the Jamaican negro has -a revengeful disposition when roused, and I have no doubt Senator -Carew gave him merry hell when he discharged him Monday afternoon, and -Hamilton was ready to risk everything to get even." - -Brett shook his head. "How did Senator Carew get into that carriage?" -he asked doubtfully. - -"Hamilton probably lied when he said he did not first stop at this -house on his way to the ball to bring Miss Carew home. Or perhaps -Winthrop came into this room, found Senator Carew busy writing, stole -up behind him, seized the letter file and stabbed him with it." - -Again Brett shook his head. "If that had been the case, the Senator -would have been stabbed in the back; whereas he was stabbed directly -over the heart, and whoever committed the crime was facing him." - -"Well, that is not impossible," argued Douglas. "Winthrop may have -stood near the Senator's chair and talked to him for a few minutes -without the latter suspecting danger, may have even picked up the -letter file, a harmless thing to do under ordinary circumstances, and, -without warning, thrust it into the Senator's chest." - -"And afterward?" questioned Brett. - -"Afterward--Winthrop may have stepped into the hall, found no one -there, tiptoed into the room again, telephoned"--pointing to the desk -instrument--"out to the stable and told Hamilton to drive at once to -the front door. The sound of the horses' hoofs was probably drowned by -the heavy rain, so no one in the house would have heard the carriage -enter the _porte-cochère_, but"--impressively--"Winthrop, from this -window, could see its arrival. He probably stepped into the hall again, -found the coast clear, opened the front door, dashed back, picked up -Senator Carew, who was much smaller than he, carried him out and placed -him inside the carriage. Hamilton had been drinking, and was perhaps -too befogged to notice anything unusual, and, when Winthrop slammed the -carriage door, he probably drove off none the wiser." - -"As much as I dislike Philip Winthrop I do not think him capable -of committing murder," said Colonel Thornton, slowly. "Secondly, I -believe, no matter how secretly you think the murder was planned, that, -if Philip were guilty, Mrs. Winthrop would have some inkling of it, -and if their quarrel was so serious she would have known it, and would -naturally try to hush matters up. Instead of which, she is the first to -offer a reward, a large reward, mind you. It is not within reason that -she would have done such a thing had she the faintest idea that Philip -was the murderer." - -"I beg your pardon, Philip is not her son. There may be no love lost -between them." - -"Good God! what a suggestion. You don't mean to insinuate that she -offered that reward knowing her stepson might be guilty." Thornton -looked at Douglas with sudden horror. - -For reply Douglas nodded quietly. - -"No, no, Douglas, you are shinning up the wrong tree. I have known -Mrs. Winthrop for over fifteen years; she wouldn't injure a fly, let -alone try to trap one whom she loves as her own flesh and blood. She -was devoted to her husband, and for his sake legally adopted Philip and -brought him up as her own son; in fact, she was entirely too indulgent -and generous, which has proved his downfall. He hates work like a -nigger." - -"Mr. Hunter has drawn a strong case against Philip Winthrop, except for -one serious flaw," broke in Brett, who had been a silent listener to -their argument. "And that is that Philip Winthrop was at the Alibi Club -on Monday evening. A number of reputable men are willing to swear to -that. It is certain that he could not have been in two places at once. -Secondly, Mrs. Winthrop swears that her brother spent Monday evening -away from this house." Brett leaned forward and spoke impressively, -"Senator Carew was killed by another hand than Philip Winthrop's." - -"By whose hand?" asked Thornton and Douglas simultaneously. - -"Captain Frederick Lane." - -"Fred Lane, of the Engineer Corps?" ejaculated Thornton, much -astonished, while Douglas looked as blank as he felt. - -"Yes, sir." - -"Bah! you're mad." - -"Just a moment," Brett held up a protesting hand. "Don't condemn my -theory unheard. I seemed up against a blank wall in this house, so -to-day I started an investigation at the other end; that is, at the -residence of Mr. and Mrs. James Owen, where Miss Cynthia Carew attended -a dance on Monday night." - -"Go on," urged Douglas, as Brett stopped and glanced behind him to see -that the hall door was closed. - -"I called on Mrs. Owen. She was not inclined to be communicative, but -her daughter, Miss Alice Owen, who came in during our interview, let -the cat out of the bag, and Mrs. Owen had to tell then what she knew, -which was this: that Captain Lane and Miss Carew were engaged----" -a muttered word escaped Colonel Thornton, and Brett turned to him -instantly, "I beg pardon, did you speak?" - -"No," growled the Colonel. - -"Apparently they had planned to announce the engagement at the dance," -resumed Brett. "Anyway, Miss Owen, who already knew of it, was told by -Miss Carew that her uncle, the Senator, refused to give his consent, -and had threatened to turn her out of doors if she did not instantly -break the engagement." - -"Poor Cynthia, poor little girl," murmured Thornton, "I am very fond -of her, and her father was my most intimate friend. It was beastly of -Carew to issue such an ultimatum. She is entirely dependent upon him." - -"So Miss Owen thought. Miss Carew confided her troubles to her on her -arrival. Miss Owen said that while they were sitting in the library -Captain Lane came in looking very dejected, and she immediately got up -to leave the lovers together. Before leaving the room, however, she -overheard Lane tell Miss Carew that he had just seen her uncle, hoping -to persuade him to reconsider his refusal, but that he flatly refused -to do so in the most insulting terms." - -"Upon my word, for a mild-tempered man, Carew managed to have plenty of -quarrels on his hands on Monday," exclaimed Thornton. - -"And the last one undoubtedly brought about his death"; Brett spoke so -positively that Douglas hitched his chair nearer in his excitement. -"After I had finished my interview with Mrs. Owen I asked permission -to question her servants. The footman told me that Miss Carew left the -dance earlier than the other guests, and that she had to wait a long -time for her carriage. He said he called her carriage check number -repeatedly, and with no result. That Captain Lane, becoming impatient, -put on his overcoat and hat and walked down the street searching for -Miss Carew's carriage." - -"And you think?" broke in Douglas. - -"That Captain Lane not only found the carriage but the Senator sitting -in it, and seized the opportunity to punish him for his deviltry to the -girl he loved." - -A long pause followed as Colonel Thornton and Douglas sat thinking over -Brett's startling news. - -"Where did he get the weapon?" inquired Douglas finally. - -"Out of Mrs. Owen's library, of course. He may have picked it up in a -fit of absent-mindedness and carried it with him." - -"Did the footman or butler notice anything in his hand when he left the -house?" questioned Thornton. - -"I asked them, and they declared that he carried an umbrella in his -left hand, and that they had not noticed whether he was holding -anything in his right hand or not. The footman declared that it was -raining so hard that it was impossible to see anything clearly. They -both said Captain Lane was some fifteen minutes returning to the house." - -"Did he find the carriage?" - -"He told the footman that he hadn't, and ordered him to keep calling -the number, which he did, and soon after the carriage drove up." - -"Of all the cold-blooded propositions!" ejaculated Douglas. "Do you -honestly mean that you think Lane deliberately put the girl he loved -into the carriage to sit beside the man he had just murdered?" - -"I do," firmly, "and I stake my reputation as a detective that Captain -Lane is guilty. You were with me, Mr. Hunter, when I overheard Miss -Carew exclaim, as Miss Thornton entered her bedroom on Tuesday--'They -quarreled, Eleanor, they quarreled.'" - -"She may not have been alluding to Captain Lane," declared Douglas -stoutly; "she may have referred to Philip Winthrop. He also quarreled -with Senator Carew." - -"Philip is very much in love with Cynthia and wishes to marry her," -volunteered Thornton quietly. - -"Is that why Senator Carew objected to her engagement to Captain -Lane?" asked Brett. "Did he wish her to marry Philip Winthrop?" - -"I never heard that he did"; Thornton paused and reflected a moment. -"I might as well tell you, for you will probably hear it from some one -else eventually, that there has been a feud of long standing between -the Lanes and Carews." - -Douglas whistled. "A Montague and Capulet affair?" he inquired. - -"Exactly. Carew and old Governor Lane were political rivals. Lord! -how they hated each other! They almost tore Maryland asunder when -running for the governorship, which Lane won by a few votes. Carew -charged fraud, which, however, was never proved. They cherished their -animosity to the day of Governor Lane's death, and I can imagine it was -a terrible shock to Carew to find that his dearly loved niece wanted to -marry the Governor's son." - -"What sort of a fellow is Lane?" asked Douglas. - -"A fine specimen of the American gentleman," exclaimed Thornton -enthusiastically, "a soldier, every inch of him, brave to a fault; he -has twice been mentioned in orders for gallant conduct--just the sort -of a fellow a romantic young girl like Cynthia would fall head over -heels in love with." - -"In naming his virtues you have overlooked his greatest fault," said -Brett calmly. "He has a fiendish temper, and, when provoked, falls into -the most insane rages, so his brother officers tell me." - -"You are making out a black case against him," agreed Douglas, "but -there is one point you seem to have overlooked, and that is, did the -letter file used to kill Senator Carew belong to Mrs. Owen?" - -"That is the one flaw in my case," acknowledged Brett regretfully. "She -declines to answer the question." - - - - -CHAPTER XIII - -AT THE WHITE HOUSE - - -"There's a note done cum fo' yo', suh," announced the elevator boy -lounging in the doorway of the Albany as Douglas stepped inside the -entrance of the apartment hotel. "I'll get it," and visions of a tip -caused the mulatto to hasten his leisurely footsteps to the small -office to the left of the entrance. In a few seconds he was back at the -elevator shaft, where Douglas stood waiting, and handed him a square -envelope stamped with the words "State Department" in the left-hand -corner. "Wanter go to yer room, suh," slipping the expected coin in his -trousers' pocket. - -"Yes." The door slammed shut, and the elevator shot upward. "Anyone -been to see me or telephoned, Jonas?" - -"No, suh." The mulatto brought the cage to a standstill at the third -floor, and Douglas stepped out and hastened to his tiny apartment. -Throwing his hat and cane on the bed, he drew a chair to the open -window, having first made sure, with a caution which had grown upon -him, that the hall door was securely locked, and that the chambermaid -was not loitering in the vicinity. As he opened the note an enclosure -fell into his lap, and, without looking at it, he perused the few -written lines. It was from the Secretary of State. - - Dear Mr. Hunter: [he read] So far, no further developments. When - people are at play they are usually "off guard." I enclose an - invitation to the garden party at the White House this afternoon, for - which I asked. The Diplomatic Corps will attend in a body. I hope to - see you there. - - Very truly yours---- - -Douglas picked up the enclosed envelope with the words "The White -House" stamped in small gold letters in the upper left-hand corner, -and pulled out the engraved card. The gold eagle crest at the top of -the invitation was almost stared out of countenance, so long and so -steadily did he regard it, as he slowly weighed in his mind the events -of the past three days. - -If the desk file used to kill the Senator did belong to Mrs. Owen, then -Brett had woven strong circumstantial evidence around Captain Lane. Was -it possible that the young officer, incensed at Senator Carew's threat -to turn his niece, Cynthia, out of doors, and goaded past endurance -by a possible tongue lashing at their last interview, had seized the -opportunity offered by chance and killed Carew, an hereditary enemy? -From time immemorial family feuds had, alas, often led to murder. - -If so, what, then, became of his own theory of an international -intrigue? Were Senator Carew's interest in things Japanese, his desire -to see Douglas, the information gleaned by the latter in Japan, the -untimely death of the Senator, and last--the theft of the plans of the -new battleships--were these simply coincidences? - -Douglas roused himself and glanced at the hour mentioned in the -invitation--five o'clock. Jerking out his watch he found he had but -half an hour in which to change his clothes before he was due at the -White House. - - * * * * * - -Shortly afterward Douglas walked through Lafayette Square on his way to -the eastern entrance of the White House. A long queue of smart turnouts -and motors stretched along Pennsylvania Avenue from Seventeenth -Street to Executive Avenue, as the short street between the Treasury -Department and the White House is called. - -The policeman on special duty scrutinized his card of admission -carefully before allowing him to pass down the corridor and out into -the garden. - -The President and his wife were receiving on the lawn under a huge -blossoming chestnut tree near the south portico. As Douglas waited -in line to approach the President, he glanced about him with great -interest. He had been to many brilliant functions in other countries, -but he decided in his own mind that he had seldom seen a more beautiful -setting for an entertainment than that afforded by the stately mansion -and its surrounding gardens. The lovely rolling grounds, with their -natural beauty, and the towering white shaft of the Washington Monument -in the background, made a picture not easily forgotten. - -The full dress uniforms of the military and naval aides on duty added -to the brilliancy of the scene. The Marine Band, their scarlet coats -making a vivid touch of color against the huge fountain with its myriad -sprays of water, were stationed on a raised platform far down the lawn. -The southern breeze carried the stirring airs they were playing to -Douglas' ears and sent the hot blood dancing in his veins. Or was it -the sight of Eleanor Thornton, looking radiantly beautiful, which set -his heart throbbing in a most unusual manner? Some telepathy seemed to -tell her of his presence, for she looked around, caught his eye, and -bowed. - -He had kept moving as the guests ahead of him advanced, and the next -moment he was being presented to the President by the military aide -stationed in attendance at the latter's elbow. He had but time to -receive a hearty handshake and a cordial word of welcome from the -President and the "first lady of the land," for the other guests were -waiting impatiently to greet them, and he could not loiter. - -"Douglas Hunter! as I'm a sinner!" A hearty slap on the shoulder -emphasized the words, and Douglas wheeled around and found Captain -Chisholm, of the British Royal Artillery, addressing him. "The idea -of your being here and not letting me know, old chap," he added -reproachfully, as they shook hands. - -"I didn't know you were in town," declared Douglas. "Thought you were -still in Paris." - -"I was transferred to the embassy in Washington three months ago. Upon -my word, Douglas, I took you for a ghost when I first saw you. I was -under the impression that you were stationed at Tokio." - -"So I am; I am only here on leave of absence." The Englishman's -eyebrows went up. "I had to attend to some Washington property, which -has been recently left me. This is my native heath, you know." - -"I wasn't aware of it," dryly; "but then, Douglas, you are perpetually -springing surprises, like your nation, on us benighted foreigners." - -"Anything to drink around here?" inquired Douglas. "I am as thirsty as -a herring." - -"There is some excellent champagne punch, come along," and the tall -Englishman led the way to a long table placed under the trees near the -tennis courts, where refreshments were being served. They corraled a -colored waiter, and soon were sipping iced punch as they stood at some -distance from the crowd about the table and watched the animated scene. - -"I didn't want to come to Washington," acknowledged Chisholm, after -a moment's silence, "but now, I'd hate to leave it. The people are -delightful, and I have never met with such genuine hospitality." - -"You are right; Washington people never forget you. Go away for ten -years, and on your return you will be greeted just as warmly as to-day." - -"Don't talk of going away, I've only just come," laughed Chisholm. -"'Pon my word, Douglas, this seems like old times. I can almost -imagine myself back in Paris, the chestnut trees in blossom, which -remind me of the Parc Monceau, help the illusion. And there's another -illusion"--nodding his head toward Eleanor Thornton, who stood at -some distance talking to two staff officers--"or, I should say, a -_delusion_." He smiled gayly, but there was no answering smile on -Douglas' face. Not noticing his companion's silence, the Englishman -added, "Is she still hunting around looking up old files and records?" - -Douglas started as if stung. "I don't know," shortly. - -"A dangerous habit," commented Chisholm calmly. "If Miss Thornton -had not left Paris and gone to Berlin when she did, her interest in -government affairs might have led to serious trouble--for her." - -"Now, what the devil do you mean?" demanded Douglas hotly. - -Chisholm turned and regarded him steadily for a second, then his -monocle slipped down and dangled from its silken cord. "There, there," -he exclaimed soothingly. "Don't get your rag up, I was only spoofing." - -"You have very rudimentary ideas of humor," growled Douglas, still -incensed. In his heart he knew the Englishman was right; Eleanor -Thornton was an enigma. Dare he penetrate the mystery, or was he afraid -to face the issue? - -Chisholm laughed good-naturedly. "Miss Thornton is looking at you, -Douglas; don't let me detain you. I'll see you again before I leave -here." - -Douglas hesitated. "I'll be back soon, Chisholm," he said and walked -across the lawn to join Eleanor. - -The Englishman looked after him with speculative eyes. "Still touched -in that quarter," he muttered, twirling his blond mustache in his -fingers. "Too bad, Douglas is such a bully good chap, and she----" he -was not allowed to indulge in more reflections, as he was seized upon -by a bevy of pretty girls and forced to dance attendance upon them for -the remainder of the afternoon. - -Recollections of his last interview with Eleanor troubled Douglas. -How would she greet him? His doubts were soon put at rest, for at his -approach Eleanor put out her hand and greeted him warmly. The two staff -officers, who were introduced to Douglas, saw they were _de trop_, and, -after a few minutes, made their excuses and departed. - -"Will you have an ice or sandwich?" inquired Douglas. - -"Neither, thanks; I have already been helped." - -"Then suppose we stroll down to the fountain. We can't hear the Marine -Band with all this chatter," and he glanced disgustedly at the joyous -crowd about them. - -Eleanor laughed. "Don't be hard on your fellow creatures, if you are -out of sorts." - -"What makes you think that?" - -"You looked so cross when talking to Captain Chisholm. I am sorry you -found your topic of conversation so boring." - -"What do you mean?" - -"You both glanced so frequently at me that I naturally concluded I was -under discussion." - -"On the contrary, we were discussing--masked batteries." She scanned -him covertly, but could get no inkling of his thoughts from his blank -expression. "Captain Chisholm has a fatal habit of talking shop -whenever he gets a chance. Isn't that Colonel Thornton beckoning to us -over there?" - -"Why, so it is. Shall we walk over and join him?" She paused to -exchange a few words of greeting with several friends, then turned back -to Douglas smilingly: "Come," and he suited his steps to hers as they -started across the lawn. "How long will you remain in Washington, Mr. -Hunter?" - -"Until the sale of some property of mine is completed," briefly. "I -asked for you this morning, Miss Thornton, thinking you might care to -go for a motor ride, but they told me that you were lying down and -could not be disturbed." - -"They? Who?" swiftly. "This is the first I have heard of your call." - -"Indeed? Why, I spoke to Annette when I reached the Carew residence -this morning." - -"Annette!" in growing astonishment, "_Annette_ told you I was -indisposed and could not be disturbed?" - -"Yes. My cousin had loaned me his car for the morning, and I thought it -just possible that a run in the fresh air might set you up after the -funeral yesterday." - -"It was good of you to think of me, Mr. Hunter." She raised her eyes -in time to see the Secretary of State regarding her intently as they -strolled past him. He lifted his hat courteously and returned their -words of greeting, but his face was grave as he paused and watched them -moving through the throng. "I am sorry about this morning," continued -Eleanor, "Annette and I will have a reckoning when we reach home." - -"Would you have gone with me?" eagerly. - -"Yes." Douglas bent to catch the monosyllable. Her foot turned on the -uneven ground and he put his hand on her arm to steady her. As his -fingers closed over her soft, rounded arm, he instinctively drew her -closer. The warmth of her skin through her glove thrilled him. - -"I hope you will ask me again," she said. - -"To-morrow--will you go with me to-morrow?" insistently. - -"Yes." She met his eyes for a second, then glanced away, while a hot -blush mantled her cheeks. "Provided, of course, that Cynthia Carew does -not need me." Then in a louder tone, "Well, Uncle Dana, how are you?" - -"Feeling splendidly. No need to ask about you and Douglas"--he smiled -quizzically. "I am glad that you could come here to-day, Eleanor." - -"I did not wish to, but Cousin Kate Truxton insisted that I had to -bring her here. She declared that she would not come otherwise, and -made such a point of it that I could not refuse, particularly as Mrs. -Winthrop and Cynthia would not hear of my remaining with them." - -"I have just come from there," responded Colonel Thornton; "Cynthia -came into the library while I was talking to Mrs. Winthrop, and I was -shocked by her appearance. The child has wasted away." - -"Is it not pitiful?" exclaimed Eleanor. "It nearly breaks my heart to -see her suffering. She neither eats nor sleeps." - -"Can't you give her an opiate?" asked Douglas. - -"She declines to take one." - -"Can't you administer it surreptitiously?" - -"I have a better plan than that," broke in Colonel Thornton. "The child -needs a change of ideas. The atmosphere of the house is enough to get -on anyone's nerves, particularly with that dipsomaniac, Philip, raising -Cain at unexpected moments." - -"What's your plan, Uncle Dana?" - -"That you bring Cynthia over to my house to-morrow to spend Sunday. -You come, too, Douglas. Cynthia hasn't met you, and she won't connect -you with any of the tragic occurrences of the past week." Then, as he -saw the look of doubt on Eleanor's face, he added, "Human nature can -stand just so much of nervous strain and no more. Cynthia must have -relaxation and diversion." - -"But I don't think Mrs. Winthrop will approve of her going out so soon -after the funeral," objected Eleanor doubtfully. - -"Bah! That nonsense belongs to the dark ages. What good will Cynthia's -staying in that gloomy house do poor Carew? I'll drop in to-morrow -morning and see Mrs. Winthrop; leave the matter to me, Eleanor. There -is no earthly reason why she should object. I'll ask Cousin Kate -Truxton also." - -"Cousin Kate!" echoed Eleanor, her conscience smiting her. "Where has -she gone?" - -"I left her talking with Senator Jenkins some time ago." The Colonel -glanced behind him. "Speaking of angels, here she comes now." - -Mrs. Truxton was walking leisurely in their direction. Seeing that they -had observed her, she waved her parasol and hastened her footsteps. - -"Cousin Kate, I think you already know Mr. Hunter," said Eleanor, as -the older woman reached her side. - -"Indeed I do," Mrs. Truxton extended both her hands, her face beaming -with smiles. "Why haven't you been to see me, Douglas?" she added -reproachfully. - -"I have been extremely busy since my arrival, Mrs. Truxton," apologized -Douglas. "I was looking forward to calling upon you this Sunday." - -"Have you had a pleasant time this afternoon, Kate?" asked Thornton. - -"Yes. It has been a delightful entertainment, just the right people and -the right number." - -"It would be pretty hard to crowd these grounds," laughed Eleanor. - -"There isn't any elbow room about the refreshment table," put in -Thornton; "I almost had to fight to get a plate of ice cream a few -minutes ago." - -"A much needed improvement would be small chairs scattered about the -lawn," grumbled Mrs. Truxton, leaning heavily on her parasol. "It is -exceedingly tiresome having to stand so long." - -"It would be prettier, too, and less formal," agreed Eleanor. "The -guests would then saunter over the lawns and not stand crowded together -near the President." - -"It would also be much more brilliant if the members of the Diplomatic -Corps wore their Court dress," announced Mrs. Truxton with decision, -"instead of those hideous frock coats and gray trousers." - -"What, in this weather, Kate?" exclaimed the astonished Colonel. "Do -you wish to kill off the Corps bodily? They wear their Court dress only -at the state receptions and the diplomatic dinners held at the White -House every winter, or when Royalty is present." - -"I know that," pettishly. "But it would improve the brilliancy of this -affair." - -"Even with the objectionable frock coat," laughed the Colonel, "this -is a scene characteristic of the national capital alone. Nowhere else -in this country can such a gathering of distinguished men and women be -brought together." - -"You are quite right in that," acknowledged Mrs. Truxton. "I've seen -ten presidents come and go, and I have lived to see Washington develop -in a way which would have surprised the founders. Mercy on us, look at -'Fuss and Feathers.'" She nodded toward an overdressed, pretty little -woman who was advancing in their direction. - -"Mrs. Blake has certainly outdone herself," agreed Colonel Thornton, as -he and Douglas raised their hats in greeting to the pretty woman who -strolled past them. "I wonder she doesn't make you wish to break the -eighth commandment, Eleanor." - -"Why?" exclaimed his niece. - -"On account of her collection of magnificent rubies"--Eleanor changed -color--"I thought that stone was one of your 'fads.'" - -"I like _all_ jewelry." The slight emphasis was lost on her companions. -Eleanor fingered her parasol nervously and glanced uneasily over her -shoulder to where Douglas stood beyond earshot, talking to an old -friend. "But I shall spend my time in wishing--I can never hope to -rival Mrs. Blake's collection." - -"Marry a rich man and persuade him to give you rings and necklaces," -advised Thornton. Eleanor moved restlessly. - -"Mrs. Blake looks like a jeweler's window," broke in Mrs. Truxton, -in her uncompromising bass. "Such a display at a garden party is -unpardonable. It is extremely bad taste for any woman to wear to the -White House more jewelry than adorns the President's wife." - -Thornton laughed outright. "Few women will agree with you, Kate. By the -way, why didn't you come to the telephone last night? I wanted to speak -to you particularly. It wasn't late when I called." - -"I gave Soto, Eleanor's cook, his English lesson last night, and when -we got to a present participle used in a future sense to indicate a -present intention of a future action I was so tired I had to go to -bed," explained Mrs. Truxton, as Douglas rejoined them. - -"After that I am only surprised that you ever got up again," ejaculated -the Colonel. - -"Cousin Kate nearly worries herself sick teaching Soto," laughed -Eleanor. "I only wish you had heard her describing the Kingdom of -Heaven to him. She introduced some new features into that Kingdom which -would probably surprise the Presbyterian synod. I suppose she didn't -want to disappoint his great expectations." - -"Is Soto a Jap?" asked Douglas, curiously. - -"Yes. I prefer Japanese servants, and both Soto and Fugi have been with -me for some time," said Eleanor. "Do you know, Uncle Dana, I have just -discovered that Fugi has studied five years at the American school in -Japan, two years at the Spencerian Business College, and is a graduate -of Columbia University." - -"Bless my soul!" exclaimed Mrs. Truxton. "After this I shan't dare to -ask him to pass me the bread. What did you want to say to me on the -telephone, Dana?" - -"I wanted some facts about the late Governor Lane of Maryland, and, -knowing you were a walking encyclopedia, I thought you might help me -out." - -"Of course I can. Do you----" - -"Hush!" exclaimed Eleanor anxiously. "Here comes Captain Lane." - -Douglas scanned the tall young officer approaching them with keen -interest. His uniform set off his fine figure to advantage, and his -face was one to inspire confidence. - -"How are you, Mrs. Truxton," he said. "Miss Eleanor, I've been -searching the place for you. Won't you come and see the rose garden -with me? Oh, I beg pardon, Colonel, I didn't see you at first." - -"That's all right, Lane. Have you met Mr. Hunter?" - -"No. How do you do, sir." Lane wrung Douglas' hand. "Glad to know you." - -"It is time for us all to go," declared Mrs. Truxton. "We must say -good-bye. Come with me, Douglas, I want to ask you some questions about -your family." - -As the small group strolled toward the White House, Colonel Thornton -was buttonholed by an old friend. Mrs. Truxton, with Douglas in tow, -crossed the ground to where the President was standing talking to -several late arrivals. - -"Now's our time," whispered Lane in Eleanor's ear. "The rose garden is -to our right." He said no more until they had passed the south portico -and walked down the path leading to the wonderful box hedges which -surround the rose garden. They had the place to themselves, and Eleanor -exclaimed with pleasure at the beautiful flowers which were blossoming -in profusion. - -"How is Cynthia?" demanded Lane, stopping in the middle of the garden -path and regarding his companion intently. - -"Almost a nervous wreck." - -"My poor darling!" The soldier's strong face betrayed deep feeling. -"I wish I could comfort her." His voice changed. "Miss Eleanor, why -does she refuse to see me?" Eleanor hesitated perceptibly. "Wait, let -me finish. I have called repeatedly at the Carews', only to be told -that Cynthia is confined to her room; I have written notes which I -have given personally to Joshua to deliver, and have never received an -answer to one of them. - -"I love Cynthia with all my heart and soul," Lane's voice shook with -feeling, "and I would have sworn, before her uncle's death, that my -affection was returned. I cannot understand her avoidance of me, -and her silence cuts deep"--Lane stopped a moment and cleared his -throat--"Miss Eleanor, you are Cynthia's most intimate friend, and you -are with her constantly. You must have heard of some reason for her -treatment of me." - -Eleanor nodded without speaking. She heartily wished the interview was -over. - -"Then I implore you to tell me the reason of Cynthia's silence." - -"Cannot you imagine that for yourself?" began Eleanor; then, as Lane -shook his head, she added: "Cynthia is overwrought, every action on -Monday night seems distorted----" She again hesitated and bit her -lip--"You went to look for her carriage; you were gone a long time, and -when she entered the carriage her uncle was sitting there--dead." - -Slowly her meaning dawned on Lane. "Good God! You don't mean----?" he -staggered back, his face gone white. - -"Yes." - -"And she thinks _that_! Cynthia, Cynthia, had you so little faith?" -Lane's agony was pitiful. - -"You must not be unjust to her," cried Eleanor, her loyalty up in arms. -"Remember, you had just told her of your fearful quarrel with her -uncle; she had also seen you playing with a letter file when you were -with her in the library----" - -"But, great Heavens! I didn't take that out in the street with me," -exclaimed Lane passionately. "I tell you what it is, Miss Eleanor, I -must see Cynthia and explain this terrible tangle. Can you help me meet -her?" - -Eleanor considered for a moment. "I have already urged Cynthia to see -you, but she has been so unnerved, so unstrung, that I could not make -her see matters in a reasonable light. I think the best thing for you -to do is to meet her when she least expects it." - -"Capital! Can you arrange such a meeting?" - -"My uncle, Colonel Thornton, has asked Cynthia and me to go to his -house in Georgetown to-morrow and spend Sunday. I think Mrs. Winthrop -will permit Cynthia to go, and, if that is the case, you can call there -to-morrow night." - -"Good." Lane paced the walk restlessly for a minute, then returned to -Eleanor's side. "It's pretty hard to wait so long before seeing her," -he said, wistfully. - -Eleanor held out her hand. "Don't be discouraged; Cynthia loves you -devotedly." - -"God bless you for those words!" Lane caught her hand and raised her -slender fingers to his lips. - -"Miss Thornton," said a cold voice back of them, "Mrs. Truxton is -waiting for you," and Eleanor flushed scarlet as she met Douglas' eyes. - - - - -CHAPTER XIV - -THE MOTH AND THE FLAME - - -Douglas brought the powerful roadster to a standstill under the -_porte-cochère_ of the Carew mansion, and disentangling himself from -among the levers and wheel, ran up the few steps. Before he could ring -the bell the door was opened by Colonel Thornton. - -"Come in," he exclaimed heartily. "I saw you from the drawing-room -window, and, as Joshua has gone to ask Mrs. Winthrop if she can see me, -I thought I would let you in and not keep you standing outside." - -"Thanks, Colonel." Douglas followed the older man into the -drawing-room. "Have you seen Miss Eleanor?" - -"No. Here, don't sit on that gilt-edged insecurity," as Douglas pulled -forward a parlor chair. "This sofa is big enough to hold us both. Tell -me, are there any new developments in the Carew case?" - -"Only that Brett is convinced Captain Lane is guilty, and, from what -he said this morning, I should not be at all surprised to hear of the -latter's arrest." - -"Good Lord! you don't say so. Poor, poor Cynthia. I greatly fear -another shock will prove most dangerous in her present nervous -condition." - -"Has Mrs. Winthrop consented to Miss Carew's spending to-morrow at your -house?" - -"I don't know yet----" Colonel Thornton stopped abruptly as the -portières parted and a woman stepped into the room. Thinking it was -Mrs. Winthrop, he started to rise, but it proved to be Annette, and he -sank back in his seat. - -"_Bon jour, Messieurs_," Annette readjusted the portières with care, -then walked with catlike quickness over to where the men were sitting. -"Mistaire Hunter, you are investigating ze death of Senator Carew, -_n'est-ce pas_, and you, Monsieur," turning to Colonel Thornton, "are -Madame Winthrop's man of affairs?" - -"Well, what then?" asked Douglas quickly. - -"Only that I may be of help." - -"Indeed?" - -"Oui, Messieurs," calmly. "I know--_much_." - -"Good," Thornton's tone betrayed his satisfaction. "Go ahead and tell -us." - -"Ah, _non, non, Monsieur_," Annette shook her head violently. "First, -I must have some monie." - -"What, a bribe?" Douglas spoke with rising indignation. - -"_Non, Monsieur_; a reward." - -"You must first tell us what you know," explained Thornton patiently. -"Then, if your information leads to the arrest and _conviction_ of the -murderer, you will be paid the one thousand dollars offered by Mrs. -Winthrop." - -"One thousand dollars, did you say, _Monsieur_? _Non_, I will not sell -my news for that." - -"It is the amount offered by Mrs. Winthrop." - -"But Madame Winthrop is willing to give five thousand." Annette glanced -eagerly at the two men. "My news is worth that." - -Thornton shook his head. "Mrs. Winthrop has reconsidered, and will not -give more than one thousand," he declared with finality. - -An obstinate frown marred Annette's pretty face. "I will not take less -than five thousand," she announced with emphasis. - -"You go too fast," broke in Douglas quietly. "First, the reward will -not be paid until after the murderer is convicted; secondly, your -information may be of no value whatever." - -"Zo?" Annette's smile was not pleasant. "Zen I keep my news to -myself," and she started for the door. - -"Wait," commanded Thornton. "Come back here." Then, as she obeyed, he -added in a more kindly tone: "If your information is really valuable, -Annette, I am willing to advance you some money. But first you must -tell us what you know and suspect." - -"How much?" - -"Say fifty dollars," drawing out his leather wallet and extracting -several yellow backs which he held temptingly in his hand. - -"Not enough, Monsieur." - -Thornton lost all patience. "I shan't offer you another damn cent," and -he thrust the money back into the wallet. - -Annette's eyes flashed. "Very well, Monsieur le Colonel; I go. But -when I come back you will have to pay me more--but yes--more than that -beggarly five thousand!" and with a stamp of her foot, she turned and -hastened out of the room. - -"A nice she-devil!" remarked Thornton, gazing blankly at Douglas. - -"I think----" Douglas stopped speaking as the portières were again -thrust aside and Eleanor walked in. - -"Uncle Dana, Mrs. Winthrop is waiting to see you in the library. Oh, -Mr. Hunter, good morning"--her slender hand was almost lost in his firm -clasp--"I did not know you were here." - -"I called hoping that you might care to take a motor ride," said -Douglas quickly. - -"Why, yes, with pleasure." She sank down on the sofa and motioned -Douglas to draw up a chair. - -"Eleanor," broke in Thornton, returning from the hall door, "did you -tell that precious maid of yours that Mrs. Winthrop would give five -thousand dollars reward for information leading to the conviction of -the murderer of Senator Carew?" - -"Annette!" in profound astonishment. "No, certainly not; I've never -spoken to her on the subject. Where did you get such an idea?" Her -voice rose to a higher key. - -"She has just been here and insists that we pay her five thousand for -some information which she declares will solve the puzzle of poor -Carew's death." - -Eleanor smiled incredulously. "Nonsense, I don't believe she knows a -thing about it." Her bright color had faded and she gazed anywhere but -at the two men. - -"It may be," suggested Douglas thoughtfully, "that while in this house -she has found a certain paper for which Brett is searching." - -"That's possible," agreed Thornton. "It was announced in yesterday's -papers that a reward of one thousand dollars had been offered. But -what gets me is how Annette knew Mrs. Winthrop might raise the amount -to five thousand--the very sum, in fact, which she first thought of -offering." - -"I'm sure I don't know." Eleanor frowned in perplexity. - -"Is she a good servant?" inquired Douglas. - -"I have always found her honest and reliable. She brought me excellent -recommendations when she came to me in Paris, where I engaged her," -replied Eleanor. - -"It may be that the mystery has gone to her head," suggested Thornton, -"and she is inspired to play detective." - -"Personally, I think she is taking advantage of the present situation -to extort money," objected Douglas. - -"I believe you've hit it," exclaimed the older man. "Tell Brett, -Douglas, he may be able to induce Annette to tell what she knows. I -must go now and see Mrs. Winthrop." - -"Let me know what she decides about Sunday," called Eleanor, as -Thornton, for the second time, hurried out of the room. - -"You are looking tired, Miss Thornton," said Douglas, glancing at her -attentively. - -"I didn't get much sleep last night. Cynthia was miserable, and I sat -up with her until five o'clock this morning." - -"No wonder you are worn out." Douglas looked his concern. "I really -think a motor ride would do you lots of good. Do keep your promise and -come for a spin." - -Eleanor glanced doubtfully down at her pretty house gown. "If you don't -mind waiting while I change----" - -"Why, certainly." - -"I won't be long"--and Eleanor disappeared. - -Douglas did not resume his seat; but instead paced the room with -long, nervous strides. Eleanor was not the only one who had passed a -sleepless night. He had sat up and wracked his brain trying to find the -key to the solution of the mystery surrounding the Senator's death. -Annette must be made to tell what she knew. Perhaps Brett's authority -as an officer of the law might intimidate her. It was worth trying. -Walking down to the folding doors, which led from the drawing-room to -the dining room, he opened them and found Joshua busy polishing the -mahogany table. - -"Is there a branch telephone in the house?" he asked, "besides the one -in the library? Mrs. Winthrop is in there and I don't want to disturb -her." - -"Suttenly, suh; dar's one right in de pantry, suh," and Joshua, -dropping his work, piloted him to the instrument. - -It took him but a few minutes to get police headquarters on the wire, -only to find that Brett was out. Whistling softly, he hung up the -receiver and went back into the drawing-room. Eleanor had not appeared, -and he sat down at the inlaid desk, which was supplied with pen, ink, -and paper, and wrote a short note while he waited for her return. - -"Where's Eleanor?" asked Thornton, coming into the room and picking up -his hat, which he had left on one of the chairs. - -"Here," and his niece, who had entered just behind him, joined them. -"I am sorry to have kept you so long, Mr. Hunter, but I found Annette -had gone out on an errand for Cynthia, and I had to do without her -assistance." - -"You were very successful." Thornton made her a courtly bow, as he -gazed at his beautiful niece. Her fashionable light-gray suit and smart -hat were extremely becoming. Eleanor colored faintly as she read the -admiration in Douglas' eyes. - -"What luck did you have with Mrs. Winthrop, Uncle Dana?" she asked. - -"The best. She said she thought it an excellent plan. So I shall expect -you both this afternoon, Eleanor, and you had better stop and pick up -your Cousin Kate Truxton on your way out." - -"Very well, I will; but, Uncle Dana, we won't get over to you until -just before dinner." - -"That will do." The two men followed Eleanor out into the square hall. -"Don't forget, Douglas, that I expect you, too." - -"That's very good of you, sir," Douglas hesitated, "but don't you think -I might be in the way in a family party?" - -"A family party is exactly what I wish to avoid," exclaimed Thornton. -"Cynthia needs to be taken out of herself. And, therefore, I want you -to spend Sunday with us, as if it were a regular house party." - -"Then I'll come with pleasure." Douglas helped Eleanor into the low -seat of the motor, and clambered in behind the wheel. "I'm awfully -sorry there isn't a third seat, Colonel, and that I can't take you -where you wish to go." - -"I left my car down by the curb; thanks all the same, Douglas," and -Thornton waved a friendly good-bye to Eleanor as the motor started -slowly down the driveway. - -"If you have no objection, I will stop at the Municipal Building for a -moment, Miss Thornton," said Douglas, turning the car into Thirteenth -Street. - -"I don't mind in the least. What a magnificent motor!" - -"Isn't it?" with enthusiasm, as he steered safely between another -machine and a delivery wagon. "My chief in Tokio has one just like -this, and I learned to run his car." - -As they crossed K Street he put on the emergency brakes hard and the -motor stopped just in time, as a touring car shot in front of them and -disappeared down the street. When the car was again under way, Douglas -turned to the silent girl by his side. - -"That was the Japanese Ambassador, was it not?" - -"Yes." - -"He seemed to be in the devil of a hurry; it was a near smash." - -"A little too near for comfort." Eleanor drew a long breath. "I noticed -some luggage in his car--oh, take care!" as the motor skidded toward -the gutter. - -"I beg your pardon, I didn't mean to frighten you," said Douglas, as -he applied the brake going down Thirteenth Street hill to Pennsylvania -Avenue. "That chap got on my nerves; I don't care if he is an -ambassador, and exempt from arrest, he has no business to be breaking -our rules and regulations." - -"Come, now, didn't you break some rules when in Japan?" asked Eleanor, -her lovely face dimpling into a smile. Douglas started slightly, but -she apparently did not notice his discomfiture. "Judging from the -luggage in the car, and the rate at which they were going, I imagine -the Ambassador was trying to catch a train." - -"It does look that way." Douglas brought the car to a standstill before -one of the entrances to the Municipal Building. "I won't be a minute, -Miss Thornton." - -"Don't hurry on my account," called Eleanor after him. - -Brett was still out, so Douglas gave the note he had written when -waiting for Eleanor at the Carews' to the attendant, first adding a -postscript and enclosing it in a large envelope, with instructions that -it was to be delivered to the detective immediately on his return. -Then, with a lighter heart, he hastened out of the building and -rejoined Eleanor. - -"Where do you wish to go, Miss Thornton?" he asked, as they started -slowly up Pennsylvania Avenue. - -Eleanor considered a moment before answering. "Suppose we go out the -Conduit Road," she said finally. - -Douglas swung the machine across the broad avenue and through the short -street behind the Treasury Department into the drive which circles -around the White House grounds. "It's some years since I've been out in -this direction, Miss Thornton, so, if I go astray, please put me back -on the straight and narrow path." - -"Straight out Pennsylvania Avenue and through Georgetown," directed -Eleanor, as the big car swung back again into that avenue. "The narrow -path only comes after you reach the Conduit." - -"Then it should be spelled 'Conduct.' You have been going out a great -deal this winter, have you not?" - -"Yes; Washington has been extremely gay, and I have enjoyed it so much." - -Douglas smiled down at her. "And I bet a thousand to one that -Washington enjoyed you. I asked about your going out, because I am -wondering if, among all the men you've met this winter, you have come -across a middle-aged man with black hair and beard and very blue eyes?" - -Not receiving a reply, Douglas turned and scanned his companion. She -sat silent, gazing straight before her. The car sped on for several -squares before she roused herself. - -"That is a very vague description, Mr. Hunter. Do you remember the -man's name?" - -Douglas shook his head. "I have never heard it. I only asked because I -was under the impression that I saw him with you at the Navy Department -on Thursday morning." - -"_With me--at the Navy Department_," gasped Eleanor, sitting bolt -upright. She was white to the lips. - -"Yes, I thought I saw him talking to you in an elevator. I just caught -a glimpse of you as the cage descended past the floor on which I was." - -"You are entirely mistaken, Mr. Hunter." Eleanor's eyes did not waver -before his questioning look. "I was alone, though I do recollect there -was another passenger in the elevator who got out on the first floor, -while I continued on down to the basement." - -"Then I was mistaken." Douglas slowed the car down to the limit -prescribed by law as he crossed the M Street bridge over Rock Creek, -then increased the speed as they progressed through Georgetown. - -"You have aroused my curiosity." Eleanor settled herself more -comfortably in the low seat. "Why do you take an interest in a man with -blue eyes and black hair?" - -"Because I thought he was with you." - -"Upon my word!" Eleanor's laugh held a shade of annoyance. "That's a -very silly reason." - -"I don't think it is," replied Douglas, steadily. "I _am interested_ in -everything that concerns you." - -Eleanor surveyed him keenly. She studied the fine profile, the broad -shoulders, and the powerful hands holding the steering wheel. The quiet -figure seemed instinct with the vital personality of the man, a living -part of the pulsing machine which he was guiding through the narrow, -congested street with such skill. They crossed Thirty-seventh Street, -and in a few minutes the car leaped ahead up the hill leading to the -Conduit. - -Eleanor said nothing, and Douglas was equally silent. They had the -narrow road to themselves, and he increased the speed. The wheels -raced like velvet on the finished macadam. On they sped. Soon Eleanor -caught a glimpse of the Potomac below them, and the bright sunlight -sparkled on the water and on the green foliage of the wooded banks of -the Maryland and Virginia shores. They passed the Three Sisters, then -the reservoirs, and Douglas saw a straight stretch of road ahead and -no vehicle in sight. The next moment the powerful machine, gathering -speed, shot down the road, which seemed a narrowing white strip as the -revolving wheels devoured the distance. - -Douglas turned his eyes a moment from the flying landscape to Eleanor, -who sat, tense, fearless, her pulses leaping as the rushing wind stung -her cheeks. She caught his look. "Faster, faster," she called. And -obediently Douglas threw wide open the throttle. On, on they flew. A -wild exhilaration engulfed Eleanor; her spirit seemed to soar, detached -from things earthly. She cast a glance of resentment at Douglas who, -seeing the road curved in the distance, slackened speed. By the time -the big car reached the turning, he had brought it to a standstill near -the side of the road. - -Eleanor drew a long breath. "Oh, why did you stop?" Her eyes shone like -stars. "It was glorious." - -"I stopped"--Douglas turned squarely in his seat, and faced -Eleanor--"because I want to ask you to confide in me." - -"To do _what_?" Eleanor's deep blue eyes opened to their widest extent. - -"To tell me"--Douglas hesitated over his choice of words--"your mission -in life." - -Eye to eye they gazed at each other. Eleanor was the first to speak. - -"I am at a loss to understand your singular request," she said, -freezingly. - -"Miss Thornton, do me the justice to think that I am not asking from -idle curiosity--it is because I have your welfare so deeply at heart." - -"If I did not know you to be a sane person, I would think you had -suddenly lost your mind. As you take the matter so seriously, I must -repeat that I am _concerned in nothing_." - -Douglas held her gaze, as if in the limpid depths of her blue eyes he -would fathom the secret of her soul. Eleanor's breath came and went, -she colored painfully, but her eyes never dropped before his. Nearer he -bent and nearer. The virile strength of the man drew her, and his arms -closed about her slender waist. - -"Eleanor, I love you." The very repression of his tone added to its -intensity. - -Fearlessly she raised her lips to his--in surrender. - -Some time later Douglas backed the car a yard or two, then turned it -toward Washington, but their return trip was made with due attention to -the speed law. - -"Will you please tell me--Douglas"--she hesitated adorably over his -name--"Indeed, you must not kiss me again"--drawing back as far as the -seat would permit. "Why did you avoid me in Paris?" - -A shadow passed over Douglas' radiant face, and was gone before Eleanor -observed it. - -"I suppose you would call it false pride," he said. "I had no -money--you had much--and so I worshiped from a distance. Now that my -inheritance has made me well-to-do, I felt that I had a right to ask -you to marry me. In Paris I thought you would take me for a fortune -hunter." - -"Which only goes to show what fools men are," exclaimed Eleanor -roguishly. "Bend down nearer me"--she placed her mouth close to his -ear. "You could have had me for the asking then, dear heart"--his left -arm stole about her--"for I know a man when I see one." - - * * * * * - -"Not a word, remember." - -"Madame has my promise." Annette tucked the small roll of bills inside -the bosom of her gown, as Mrs. Winthrop replaced her pocketbook in her -leather handbag. - -"Where is Miss Eleanor?" - -"Joshua tells me that in my absence Mademoiselle left ze house to motor -wiz Monsieur Hunter." - -"If she asks for me on her return tell her that I will be back in time -to lunch with her and Miss Cynthia." - -"_Oui, madame._" Annette assisted Mrs. Winthrop into her coat, then -left the bedroom. From a safe distance down the hall she watched Mrs. -Winthrop descend the staircase, and waited until she heard Joshua close -the front door after her and retreat into his own domain. She then -slipped noiselessly down the hall and into Mrs. Winthrop's bedroom. -Half an hour passed before she again appeared, wearing a satisfied -smile. The hall was empty. "I have seen what I have seen," she muttered -under her breath exultingly, as she proceeded downstairs. "And I think -I will haf more monie by to-morrow. _Mon Dieu!_" - -The peal of the front bell had startled her from her reverie. As Joshua -did not appear to answer it, she crossed the square hall and opened the -door. A tall man, wearing nondescript clothes, confronted her in the -vestibule. - -"Miss Thornton, is she in?" he questioned. The contrast of his deep -blue eyes against his tanned skin and black beard held her attention. -Receiving no reply, he repeated his question with emphasis. - -"_Non_, Mademoiselle is out in ze motor," she answered, none too -civilly. - -Without a word he turned on his heel and hastened down the steps. -Annette stared up the street after him; then closed the door softly, -her pretty forehead puckered in a frown. Where had she seen those eyes -before? - - - - -CHAPTER XV - -"THORNTON'S NEST" - - -Douglas, suitcase in hand, ran across Seventeenth Street in time to -catch a Georgetown car. As he paid the conductor he heard his name -called and, glancing down the half empty car, saw Captain Chisholm -seated at the farther end and beckoning to him. He made his way down -the center aisle and joined the Englishman. - -"Can you dine with me, Douglas?" asked Chisholm, making room for him on -the narrow seat. - -"Ask me some other time, old man, I am dining with Colonel Thornton -to-night." - -"Then suppose we make it Monday night at the Metropolitan Club?" - -"Thanks, I will. At what hour?" - -"Eight o'clock. I was sorry to miss you when you called this afternoon, -Douglas." - -"How did you know I had been to see you, Chisholm?" in surprise. "The -telephone girl told me you were out." - -"I stopped for a moment at the Rochambeau and found your card in my -letter box. I am on my way to the embassy now. Washington seems to -agree with you, Douglas," eying his companion with interest. "I never -saw you looking better." - -"Happiness is a great health restorer," laughed Douglas. - -"Happiness?" Chisholm tugged at his fair mustache. "Hum!" he looked -carefully around. They had that end of the car to themselves. "Heard -the news?" - -"What news?" - -"About the Japanese Ambassador?" - -"No." - -"He has been recalled." - -"For what reason?" - -"Not given out," shortly. "He called at the White House and State -Department, presented his papers and left this morning." Chisholm -looked Douglas squarely in the face. "Can't give a poor blasted -Englishman a point on the situation, I suppose?" - -Douglas smiled with his lips, but his eyes were grave. "I would if I -could--but I can't. The Ambassador's sudden departure is as great a -surprise to me as to you." - -Chisholm leaned forward and touched the electric button as the car -approached N Street. "I'll look you up to-morrow, Douglas. Ta-ta, old -chap," and he hurried out of the car. - -Douglas settled back on his seat and pondered over the information -Chisholm had given him. What did the Ambassador's abrupt departure -portend? Was it but another of those puzzling coincidences which -seemed to follow in the wake of Senator Carew's murder, or was it the -culmination of an intrigue which would end in war? - -The spring day was drawing to a close as Douglas left the car in -Georgetown and walked toward "Thornton's Nest." The old place had -not altered since he had seen it last, twelve years before, even -the beautiful old garden appeared as usual, the same box hedge, the -envy of the neighboring landowners, separated the sidewalk from the -well-kept private grounds. The large, old-fashioned mansion stood back -some distance in its own grounds. The bricks had been brought from -Philadelphia by sloop, and the fanlight over the front door had been -imported from England in the days prior to the Revolutionary War. The -huge columns supporting the arched roof shone white in the gathering -darkness. Douglas turned in at the gate and ran lightly up the few -stone steps leading to the portico and rang the bell. He had hardly -removed his hand from the button when the hall door was opened and an -old darky confronted him on the threshold. - -"Cum right in, Marse Douglas, I'se mighty glad ter see yo' ag'in, suh." - -"Nicodemus, is that you?" shaking the old man's hand. "I haven't seen -you since you chased me off the grounds for stealing apples. How's -Sophy?" - -"Only tol'able, thank ye, suh; she's got a misery in her back. Want ter -go to yo' room, suh?" - -"No; I'll just leave my hat and overcoat here." - -"Yessir; let me take yo' bag, suh; I'll tote it upstairs. My!" as -Douglas stepped forward so that the hall light fell full on him, "how -yo' do favor yo' pa, the ole Cunnel." - -Douglas laughed. "Thanks. Have the ladies come yet?" - -"Yessir. Dey's upstairs makin' demselves comfo'able. Cunnel Thornton -will be down direckly. Yo' jes' walk inter de pawlar." - -Douglas strolled over to the large hall mirror and inspected his tie -with care; he had been in a hurry when getting into his evening clothes -at the Albany, and the tie had proved troublesome. He readjusted it -with care, felt in his vest pocket for a small box, then turned and -surveyed his surroundings. A coach and four might have driven through -the broad hall which ran the length of the house. At the end of the -hall two broad circular staircases led to a wide landing, from which -branched the two flights of steps leading to the first bedroom floor. -Doors leading to the drawing-room, library, billiard, and dining rooms -opened on the right and left of the hall. - -Remembering that the drawing-room was to the left of the entrance, -Douglas entered the open hall door and walked over to the mantelpiece -to see the time by the tall marble clock. - -"Aren't you going to speak to _me_?" asked a voice behind him, and -Douglas sprang around with an exclamation of delight. Eleanor was -seated on a chair by one of the windows, and its high back, which was -partly turned to the hall door, had concealed her from view. - -"My darling!" Douglas kissed the winsome face rapturously. "Nicodemus -told me you had arrived, but that you were upstairs, otherwise I should -have come in at once; I begrudge the time I wasted in the hall." - -"I hurried and came down ahead of the others, hoping that you would get -here early; I particularly wanted to see you, Douglas." - -"Did you?" in mock surprise. "I've been wanting to see you ever since I -left you this morning. The time has dragged since then." - -She slipped her hand in his. "It's just this, Douglas," her softly -modulated voice had a trace of nervousness: "I want to ask you to keep -our engagement a secret"--his face fell--"just a few days," hastily. "I -want to get accustomed to it before telling the family"--she blushed -divinely. "It's such a precious secret." - -Douglas took her face between his hands and pressed a passionate -kiss on her lips. "Your wish is my law," he said gravely. "I was -disappointed for the moment, because I am anxious to have the whole -world know my happiness. I brought you this"--pulling a small square -box from his vest pocket and laying it in her outstretched hand. - -With a low cry of pleasure she pulled off the wrapping paper and opened -the box. The light from the lamp on the table near her chair was -reflected back from a superb ruby in a diamond setting. The box slipped -from her nervous fingers and rolled on the floor. - -"Oh, get it quick, Douglas, I didn't mean to be so clumsy." - -Douglas reached under the table, where the box had rolled, and picked -it up. "It's all right, my dearest; don't look so worried; the ring -isn't injured, for it is still in the box, see----" he held it before -her eyes. "Give me your left hand, dear;" Eleanor shrank slightly -away from him, but Douglas was intent in removing the ring from the -box and did not notice her agitation. "It is very becoming to your -hand," slipping it on the third finger, "the deep crimson shows off the -whiteness of your skin." - -"It's just lovely." Eleanor drew a long breath, then raised her head -and kissed him tenderly. "Thanks, dear heart, for so beautiful a -present. But I am afraid if I wear it to-night our engagement will be a -secret no longer." - -"That's true!" exclaimed Douglas, his voice betraying his -disappointment. "Put it back in the box"--holding it out to her. - -"I'll do no such thing"--indignantly. "Take it off, Douglas, and give -it to me"; he did so, and she slipped the ring inside the bodice of her -low-cut evening gown. "Tell me, dearest, how did you happen to select a -ruby?" - -"It's my birthstone"--Douglas colored--"I hope you won't think me -horribly sentimental." - -"I shall not tell you what I think--it might turn your head. Hush! here -comes Uncle Dana." - -Thornton strode into the room with outstretched hand. "Welcome to 'The -Nest,' Douglas; I am sorry I wasn't downstairs when you came. I hope -Eleanor has been doing the honors acceptably." - -"She has, indeed, and proved a host in herself," laughed Douglas. - -"Good; though it's a mystery how she got down ahead of the others." - -"I was selfish enough to keep Annette to myself until I was fully -dressed," said Eleanor, "then I sent her to Cousin Kate." - -"So you brought Annette with you?" asked Thornton. - -"Yes, indeed. I had no intention of inflicting your bachelor household -with three women and no handmaiden. I knew Sophy would have her hands -full cooking dinner, therefore I brought Annette along." Her restless -eyes detected a figure hovering just outside the hall door. "Come in, -Cynthia," and she went forward to meet her friend. - -The two beautiful girls made a picture good to look upon as they stood -together. Cynthia wore a simple frock, which matched her cheeks in -whiteness; while the pathetic droop of her mouth and the dark shadows -under her eyes did not detract from her charm, she looked wretchedly -ill. She shook hands with Douglas, when he was presented to her, with -polite indifference, then seated herself in a chair and leaned back -wearily. Douglas and Thornton exchanged glances, and the latter shook -his head sadly. He was about to speak when Mrs. Truxton bustled into -the room. - -"I am sorry to keep everybody waiting," she exclaimed, as Douglas -pulled forward a chair for her. "But, if you will have dinner at such a -ridiculously early hour, Dana, you must expect your guests to be late." - -"You are not late, Kate, for dinner has not yet been announced. I had -it earlier than usual as I thought we would retire soon afterwards and -get a good night's rest." - -Cynthia shuddered involuntarily, and Eleanor, whose hand rested on her -shoulder, patted it affectionately. "It's all very well for you older -people to keep early hours, Uncle Dana, but Cynthia and I are going to -do just as we please. Personally, I expect to stay up until the wee -sma' hours." - -"Dinner am served," announced Nicodemus, opening the folding doors -leading to the dining room, and, with an old-fashioned courtly bow, -Colonel Thornton offered his arm to Mrs. Truxton and escorted her to -the table, the two girls and Douglas following in their wake. - -The dinner passed quickly. Thornton was an agreeable talker, and -Douglas, who had traveled in many lands, seconded his efforts by -recounting many amusing experiences which had befallen him. Cynthia's -pale cheeks assumed a more natural hue as the two skilful talkers -drew her out of herself, and Thornton sat back, well pleased, when he -finally succeeded in making her laugh. - -"Washington isn't what it used to be," he declared. "As trite a -statement as it is true. Its very bigness has spoiled it socially. -There are cliques within cliques, and too many foreign elements -dominate it nowadays." - -"Do you refer to the Diplomatic Corps?" asked Douglas, breaking off a -low-toned conversation with Eleanor. - -"Not entirely. When I speak of the 'foreign element,' I also mean the -'climbers.'" - -"We Georgetown people call them the 'pushers,'" announced Mrs. Truxton, -helping herself to the ice cream which Nicodemus was passing. - -"And yet," continued Thornton, "I dare say there were just as amusing -characters in Washington fifty years ago as now." - -"How about the woman of whom I have heard," asked Eleanor, "who carried -off the silver meat skewer at the French Legation, as it was then, as a -souvenir, and afterwards proudly used it as a hatpin?" - -"Human nature is very much the same from one generation to another," -acknowledged Mrs. Truxton. "But the types are different. I recollect my -grandmother's telling me that she attended services one Sunday at St. -John's Episcopal Church on Lafayette Square when the rector preached a -fiery sermon against the sin of dueling. Mrs. Alexander Hamilton and -her daughter sat in the pew just in front of my grandmother, and she -said Miss Hamilton bore the tirade for some minutes, then rose, turned -to her mother, and remarked in an audible tone: 'Come, Ma; we'll go. -This is no place for us.'" - -"Come, you needn't put it all on Washington," exclaimed Douglas. -"Georgetown has famous blunderers and eccentric characters as well." - -"And ghosts," added Mrs. Truxton. "Do not deprive Georgetown of its -chief attraction. Ghosts and Past Glory walk hand and hand through -these old streets." - -"Ghosts," echoed Douglas, turning to his host. "Unless my memory is -playing me false, this house used to be thought haunted. It seems to me -I've heard tales of secret passages and mysterious noises." - -Thornton laughed outright. "That old legend was caused by flying -squirrels getting in the wall through cracks in the eaves and chimneys. -Sometimes on still nights I can hear them dropping nuts, which make a -great noise as they fall from floor to floor. It's enough to scare a -nervous person into fits." - -"You are very disappointing, Uncle Dana," objected Eleanor. "When -Douglas--Mr. Hunter,"--catching herself up, but no one apparently -noticed the slip, and she went on hurriedly--"spoke of spooks I had -hopes of an ancestral ghost." - -"I always understood that this house was haunted, Dana," put in Mrs. -Truxton. - -"Well, I believe we are supposed to possess a ghost--a very -respectable, retiring one," added Thornton, as Cynthia's eyes, which -were fixed upon him, grew to twice their usual size. "My great-aunt, -Sophronia Thornton, was a maiden lady, a good deal of a Tartar, I -imagine, from the dance she led my Great-grandfather Thornton, who -was an easy-going, peaceable man. She ran the house for him until his -marriage, and then ran his wife, and, according to tradition, she has -run her descendants out of her room ever since." - -"Good gracious!" ejaculated Cynthia. "Do tell us all about her." - -"There is not so very much to recount." Thornton smiled at her -eagerness. "The story goes, as I heard it first from my grandfather, -that when he attempted to occupy her room, the southwest chamber, he -was driven out." - -"How?" - -"He was very fond of reading in bed. As I said before, my great-aunt -was very rigid and did not approve of late hours, which was one rock -she and her brother split on. My grandfather, not having the lighting -facilities of the present day, used to read in bed by placing a lighted -candlestick on his chest, holding his book behind the candle so that -its light fell full on the printed page. At eleven o'clock every night -he would feel a slight puff of air and the candle would go out. He -tried everything to stop it. He stuffed every crack and cranny through -which a draft might be supposed to come, but it was of no use; his -light was always extinguished at eleven o'clock." - -"Do you believe it?" asked Cynthia. - -Thornton shrugged his shoulders. "I can only give you my own -experience. I occupied the room once, when home on a college vacation. -The house was filled with visitors, and I was put in the southwest -chamber. Everything went on very smoothly until one night I decided -to cram for an examination, and took my books to my room. I had an -ordinary oil lamp on the table by my bed, and so commenced reading. -After I had been reading about an hour the lamp went out suddenly. I -struck a match and relit it; again it was extinguished. We kept that up -most of the night; then I gathered my belongings and spent the rest of -the time before breakfast on the sofa in the library, where I was not -disturbed by the whims of the ghost of my spinster great-aunt." - -"'There are more things in Heaven and earth,'" quoted Eleanor, as she -rose in obedience to a signal from Mrs. Truxton. "Where shall we go, -Uncle Dana?" as they strolled out into the hall. - -"Into the library. Nicodemus will serve coffee there, and, if you -ladies have no objection, Douglas and I will smoke there also." - -"Why, certainly," exclaimed Mrs. Truxton, picking out a comfortable -chair and signaling Douglas to take the one next hers, and without more -ado she plunged into questions relating to his family history. He cast -longing glances at Eleanor, but she refused to take the hint conveyed, -and, to his secret annoyance, walked out of the room shortly after. - -Cynthia was having an animated conversation with Colonel Thornton and -sipping her coffee when, happening to look in the direction of the -hall door, she saw Eleanor standing there, beckoning to her. Making a -hurried excuse to the Colonel, she joined Eleanor in the hall, who, -without a word, slipped her arm about her waist and led her into the -drawing-room. - -"What is----?" The words died in her throat as she caught sight of -a tall, soldierly figure standing under the chandelier. Eleanor -discreetly vanished, closing the hall door softly behind her as she -went. - -"You!" Cynthia shrank back against the wall as Lane stepped forward. - -"Cynthia, darling!" He held out his arms pleadingly, but with a moan -she turned her face from him. His eyes flashed with indignation. -"Cynthia, you have no right to condemn me unheard. I am innocent." He -approached her and gently took her hand in his. - -Her eyes were closed, and a few tears forced themselves under the lids, -the scalding teardrops that come when the fountain is dry and only -bitter grief forces such expression of sorrow. - -"Dear one, look at me. I am not guilty. I have forced myself upon you -because I want you to understand"--he spoke slowly, as if reasoning -with a child--"that I am absolutely innocent...." - -"Not in thought!" burst in Cynthia. - -"Perhaps not,"--steadily,--"but in deed. I spoke in anger. Your uncle -had insulted me grossly when I met him just before going to Mrs. Owen's -dance, and in my indignation I uttered a wish which would have been -better left unsaid. But listen to reason, dear; to think evil is not a -crime." - -Cynthia threw back her head and gazed at him wildly. "Oh, I would so -gladly, gladly believe you innocent!" She placed her small, trembling -hands on his breast. "It hurts horribly--because I love you so." - -Lane caught her in a close embrace. "My darling--my dear, dear one----" -His voice choked. - -Cynthia lay passive in his arms. Suddenly she raised her white face and -kissed him passionately, then thrust him from her. "Oh, God! why did -you take that sharp letter file with you?" - -"I didn't!" The words were positive, but his looks belied them. - -"She says you did--she declares that when she met you looking for the -carriage you held it in your hand----" The words seemed forced from -Cynthia. She placed a hand on the chair nearest her as she swayed -slightly. - -"She! Who?" The question was almost a roar. - -"Annette." - - - - -CHAPTER XVI - -A CRY IN THE NIGHT - - -Eleanor tiptoed over to the bed. At last Cynthia had dropped asleep. -It seemed hours since Lane's call for help had taken her into the -drawing-room, where she found Cynthia stretched upon the floor and the -young officer bending frantically over her. Dr. Marsh, who fortunately -resided next door but one, had been sent for, and, on his arrival in -hot haste, Cynthia had been revived and carried to her room. Cynthia -had shown a sudden aversion to having Annette about, so Eleanor had -sent the maid to bed, and since ten o'clock had been sitting with -Cynthia, trying to quiet her. - -Eleanor glanced about the room. There was nothing more she could do, -and, stretching herself wearily, she arranged the night light so that -it would not shine in Cynthia's eyes, and placed an old-fashioned -brass bell on the small table by the bed, so that if Cynthia needed -assistance she could ring for aid. Then, moving softly for fear of -waking the sleeper, she stole across the room, turned out the gas, and, -stepping into the hall, closed the door gently after her. - -Some time later she was busy undressing in her own room when a faint -knock disturbed her. On opening the door she found Mrs. Truxton -standing in the hall with a quilted wrapper drawn tight around her -portly figure. - -"I thought you hadn't gone to bed," she remarked in a sibilant whisper -which was more penetrating than an ordinary low-pitched voice. "I just -could not go to bed"--selecting a large oak rocker--"until I had some -explanation of this extraordinary affair. Will you please inform me -what made that poor girl faint in the drawing-room?" - -"She is in a very nervous, excitable condition, Cousin Kate, which -reacts on her heart action." Eleanor glanced despairingly at Mrs. -Truxton. She knew the latter was an inveterate, though kindly, gossip. -Apparently she had come to stay for some time, as she sat rocking -gently to and fro, her curl papers making a formidable halo around her -soft gray hair. - -"Heart action?" echoed Mrs. Truxton. "That's as it may be. What was -Captain Lane doing here?" - -Eleanor started violently. She particularly wanted to keep the fact -that Cynthia and Lane had been together a secret. She had watched -for his arrival, and had let him in before he had an opportunity to -ring the front door bell, and had shown him at once into the deserted -drawing-room. During their interview she had mounted guard in the hall. -Hearing Lane's call for assistance, she had opened the drawing-room -door, and, before summoning her uncle and the servants, had advised -Lane to leave the house. She supposed he had followed her advice. - -"Where in the world did you see him?" she asked. - -"So he was here!" Mrs. Truxton smiled delightedly, while Eleanor -flushed with vexation as she realized she had given herself away -unnecessarily. "Your uncle and Douglas were discussing politics, and I -slipped away to remind Nicodemus to put some sandwiches in my room, as -I always want a late supper, particularly after so early a dinner. When -I walked through the billiard room on my way to the library I happened -to glance through the door leading into the hall, and was surprised to -see a man standing by the hatrack. As he raised his head I thought I -recognized Fred Lane--I wasn't quite sure, though, but before I could -call his name he had vanished." - -"I see." Eleanor came to a quick resolution. "You have probably heard, -Cousin Kate," sitting down on the edge of her bed nearest the older -woman, "that Fred Lane is very much in love with Cynthia." Mrs. Truxton -nodded her head vigorously. "Eventually, after he had paid her a great -deal of attention, they became engaged. Unfortunately"--Eleanor was -feeling her way with care--"unfortunately they had a lover's quarrel. -Cynthia refused to see Fred, and he finally came to me and asked me -to arrange an interview, saying that he felt convinced, if given the -opportunity, he could straighten out their misunderstanding." - -Mrs. Truxton pondered some moments in silence. "Did this lover's -quarrel take place _before_ Senator Carew's death?" she asked. - -"Yes." Eleanor's blue eyes did not waver before Mrs. Truxton's piercing -look. "Why?" - -"I was just thinking that, if Senator Carew had known of an engagement -between a member of his family and a Lane, he'd have died of -apoplexy--instead of having to be stabbed to death." - -"What was the exact trouble between Senator Carew and Governor Lane, -Cousin Kate?" asked Eleanor. "I never have heard." - -"It began years ago." Mrs. Truxton hitched her chair close to the bed. -"Governor Lane was an intimate friend of Philip Winthrop, Sr., and, -after the latter's marriage to Charlotte Carew, came frequently to -Washington to visit them. To my thinking, Philip Winthrop was a bad -egg, specious and handsome; and he took in the Carews completely, as -well as Governor Lane. He was a stock broker in Wall Street, and during -a panic was ruined financially. He promptly committed suicide." - -"Oh, poor Mrs. Winthrop!" exclaimed Eleanor warmly. "What hasn't she -been through!" - -"Well, losing her rascal of a husband was the least one of her -troubles," said Mrs. Truxton dryly. "Philip Winthrop's failure was not -an honorable one; there was talk of criminal proceedings, but all that -was put a stop to by Senator Carew stepping forward and paying his -creditors." She paused for breath. - -"I don't see what Governor Lane has to do with it," objected Eleanor, -glancing meaningly at the clock, which was just striking one o'clock. -She stifled a yawn. - -"I am coming to that," explained Mrs. Truxton. "Philip Winthrop -appealed to Governor Lane, among other of his old friends, to loan him -money to tide over the financial crisis, and the Governor trusted him -to the extent of ten thousand dollars." - -"That was exceedingly generous of him." - -"Yes, and I reckon he repented of his generosity many times." Mrs. -Truxton spoke with emphasis. "He loaned it to Winthrop without taking -security and without knowing that the latter was on the point of -absolute failure. And this is where the row comes in. Lane went to -Carew and told him of the transaction, showed him the canceled check, -and the latter, on finding that Lane had no promissory note or other -security, declined to pay off the indebtedness." - -"I see." Eleanor was paying full attention to the older woman. - -"Lane was naturally incensed, for Carew had assumed all the other -obligations, and he felt that his was a prior claim, being a debt of -honor between friends. Carew didn't see it that way, and it led to a -bitter quarrel. The ill feeling between the two men was intensified on -Governor Lane's part because he met with financial reverses later, and -the old Maryland homestead, which might have been saved by the return -of the ten thousand dollars, was sold under the hammer." - -"This is all news to me. I was only told they were political enemies." - -"They were. Lane vowed to get even in every way in his power, and -so entered politics. He was a man of great force of character and -intellectual ability--although lacking in business sense," she -interpolated, "and a born orator. And when he found, after holding -several important state positions, that Senator Carew was going to run -for governor of Maryland, he entered the field against him, and Carew -was beaten by a few votes only." - -"When did this happen?" - -"Oh, back in the early nineties. The quarrel was most acrimonious, -particularly on Carew's side. He must have realized that he had not -acted fairly to his old friend. As long as he had assumed Winthrop's -debts it seemed only right that he should return the money owing to -Lane. Public opinion was with the latter." - -"Perhaps at that time he may not have had the ten thousand," suggested -Eleanor. "I have always heard and believed the Senator an honorable -man; and certainly it was good of him to shoulder any of his -brother-in-law's debts." - -"He only did it to protect his sister, who was left penniless, and -quiet scandal." - -"Mrs. Winthrop penniless! Why, how comes it, Cousin Kate, that she -lives as she does." - -"Senator Carew gave her a large allowance. He always said that Cynthia -should inherit his fortune." - -"I never knew until the other day that Philip Winthrop was not Mrs. -Winthrop's son." - -"She adopted him legally, I believe, at the time of her husband's -death, and persuaded her brother, the Senator, to have him brought -up as one of the family. Philip Winthrop's first wife was a South -American, I am told. I never saw her, as she died before he came to -Washington. Mercy on us!" glancing at the clock, "I had no idea it -was so late." She rose and started for the door. "How did you leave -Cynthia?" - -"Sound asleep, thank Heaven!" - -"Did she and Fred Lane patch up their quarrel?" - -"I am afraid not." Eleanor kissed her cousin a warm good night, and -watched her cross the wide hall to her bedroom, then closed and locked -her own door and hastened to complete her undressing. - -About three in the morning Cynthia awoke and lay for a few minutes, -bewildered by her surroundings. Then recollection returned to her with -a rush, and she sank back among her pillows with a half-strangled -sob. Slowly she reviewed her interview with Fred, trying to find some -solace; but she could discover none, and with a moan turned on her side -and buried her face in the pillow. Their romance had promised so much, -but, instead, her happiness had been nipped in the bud. - -She raised her hot face and glanced about, looking for a glass of -water, for she was parched with thirst. Eleanor had forgotten, -apparently, to place any drinking water in the room. Cynthia sat up -and gazed eagerly around by the aid of the night light, but she could -discover no glass on either the chiffonier or bureau. She was on the -point of lying down again when she remembered having seen a pitcher of -ice water on a table near the head of the stairs. She started to ring -the brass bell, but decided it would be cruel to call Eleanor, who had -been up with her most of the night. - -She pondered a moment, but she was growing more thirsty, and, after a -few minutes of indecision, she climbed out of the huge four-poster and, -slipping on a wrapper and bedroom slippers, stole out of her room and -down the hall in the direction of the stairs. - -So intent was Cynthia in reaching her goal that she never noticed a -figure crouching on the landing of the stairs, who drew back fearfully -into the shadows at her approach. She found the ice pitcher on the -table with several glasses. Filling one of them, she took a long drink -of the ice-cold water, then, feeling much refreshed, she refilled the -glass, intending to take it with her to her room. She paused again and -looked about her with interest, for the hall was illuminated by the -moonlight which streamed through the diamond-shaped panes of a window -at one end of a wing of the house. The figure below her on the stair -landing peered at her intently, poised for instant flight to the darker -regions below in case she started to descend the stairs. - -Cynthia was about to return to her room when her roving eyes fell on a -closed door leading to a room in the wing. The moonlight was beating -upon it. For one long second Cynthia stood transfixed; then she uttered -a cry which roused the sleeping household--a cry of such terror that it -froze the blood in the listeners' veins. - -The figure on the landing stood glued to the spot until recalled -to action by the hurried opening of doors; then, with incredible -swiftness, it vanished, as Eleanor, her hastily donned wrapper -streaming in the wind, rushed to Cynthia's side. - -"Good God! Cynthia! What is it?" she gasped, throwing her arms about -her friend. - -Cynthia caught her wrist in a grip which made her wince. "Look!" she -cried. "Look!" pointing toward the door at the end of the wing. "My -dream! See, the panels are in the shape of a cross!" - -Eleanor cast a startled glance in the direction indicated. It was true. -The panels stood out in bold relief in the brilliant moonlight, and -they formed an unmistakable cross. - -"Yes, yes, dear," she said soothingly. "It simply shows that your dream -was founded on fact. Come to bed." - -"No, no!" Cynthia was trembling violently, but she refused to leave the -spot. "You forget that in my dream the door is always locked." - -"In this case it is not," exclaimed Colonel Thornton, who, with -Douglas, had rushed into the hall as soon as they had struggled into -some clothes. Mrs. Truxton brought up the rear, her curl papers -standing upright and her eyes almost popping from her head. "It's -simply used as a storeroom," he added. "Don't be so worried, Cynthia," -catching sight of her agonized face. - -"I tell you it is _not!_" She stamped her foot in her excitement. - -For answer Thornton stepped down the short hallway and turned the knob. -To his intense surprise the door did not open. - -"Ah!" Her cry was half in triumph, half in agony. "I told you it was -locked. It must be opened--I shall go mad if it is not," and her looks -did not belie her statement. - -Douglas joined Thornton as he stood hesitating. "I think it would be -best to humor her," he said in an undertone. - -Thornton nodded in agreement. "I can't understand how it got locked," -he muttered. "How the devil can I get it open? It is English quartered -oak." - -"Is there any way of entering the room by a window?" asked Douglas. - -"No, it's too high from the ground, and there's nothing but the -bare brick wall to climb up; no tree grows near it," said Thornton -thoughtfully. "And unfortunately I have no ladder long enough to reach -the window." - -"Then there's nothing left but to try and force the door." Douglas -braced his powerful shoulders against the panels until his muscles -almost cracked under the strain. "Run against it," he gasped, -perspiration trickling down his face; and Colonel Thornton obediently -threw himself forward as the door gave slightly. "Again!" cried -Douglas, and he threw his own weight on the panel, which yielded a -little. "Once more," and with a rending crash the upper and weaker -panel splintered sufficiently to allow Douglas to slip his hand inside -and turn the key which was in the lock. He also shot back the rusty -bolt with difficulty, and withdrew his hand. - -"Get the women back into their rooms," he whispered, his face showing -white in the moonlight. "The room is full of escaping gas." - -Thornton gazed blankly at him for a second, then turned to Mrs. -Truxton. "Kate, I insist upon your taking these girls to your room." -She nodded understandingly, and he turned to Cynthia with an air of -command. "Go with Mrs. Truxton, Cynthia. I promise to come instantly -and tell you what we discover in this room." - -She nodded dumbly, past speech. The reaction had come, and Mrs. Truxton -and Eleanor led her, unresisting, back to her room and helped her to -bed, where she lay, her eyes pleading to be relieved from her mental -anguish. - -Colonel Thornton and Douglas watched them until they disappeared inside -the bedroom, then the latter opened the broken door of the locked room. -An overpowering smell of illuminating gas choked them, and they drew -back, gasping. Douglas stepped over to the hall window and threw up -the sash, letting in the cool air. Then, holding his breath, he rushed -inside the room and, locating the escaping gas jet by the overpowering -odor, he reached up and turned off the cock of the wall bracket. - -"It's no use; we'll have to wait and give the gas a chance to -evaporate," he said, returning to the Colonel's side. "Are you sure the -room is unoccupied?" - -Thornton's eyes were half starting from his head. "Unoccupied?" he -stammered. "It's been unoccupied for half a century. This is the -southwest chamber, which is supposed to be haunted by my great-aunt. A -dog won't sleep there." - -Douglas stared at his companion in amazement for some seconds, then, -holding his breath, again bolted into the room. The remaining gas -almost overcame him, but fortunately, catching sight of the outlines -of the windows, he opened first one and then the other, and rejoined -the Colonel, who was hovering in the doorway, as quickly as possible. -Without speaking they waited until the pure night air had swept away -the poisonous gas; then Douglas stepped inside the room, struck a match -and applied it to the chandelier. As the light flared up a horrified -exclamation escaped Thornton. - -"Good God! Look!" - -Douglas' eyes followed his outstretched arm. Stretched on the high -four-posted bedstead was the body of a woman, lying on her side, her -face concealed by the masses of dark hair which fell over it. A book -lay by her side, one finger of her left hand caught between the pages. -A drop light, minus shade and chimney, stood on a low table beside the -bed. - -Reverently the two men tiptoed to the bedside. Thornton laid a shaking -hand on the drop light. "She must have been reading and fallen asleep," -he muttered between twitching lips. "She didn't know that the light is -always blown out after eleven o'clock in this room." - -Awestruck, Douglas gazed down at the silent figure. No need to feel -pulse or heart; to the most casual observer the woman was dead. - -"Who--who--is it?" demanded a quivering voice behind them. Both men -wheeled about to find Eleanor, white-lipped and trembling, standing -there. She had stolen into the room without attracting their attention. - -Douglas leaned forward and raised the strands of hair gently from the -cold face. - -"_Annette!_" Eleanor's trembling lips could hardly form the whisper; -she swayed backward, and Douglas caught her as she fell. - - - - -CHAPTER XVII - -THE MYSTERY DEEPENS - - -"Where's Brett?" asked Thornton, coming hurriedly into the library, -where Douglas was seated at the telephone. The latter hung up the -receiver before answering. - -"He will be here directly, Colonel; at present he is with the doctor -and coroner in the southwest chamber. You had better sit down, sir," -glancing with commiseration at Thornton's haggard face; but the Colonel -continued his nervous pacing to and fro. - -"Jove!" he muttered. "This affair has given me a devilish shock." He -paused before a small wall cabinet, and, selecting a key on his ring -bunch, he opened the door and took out a decanter. - -"Will you join me?" he asked, placing it on the table with several -tumblers. - -"No, thanks, Colonel." Douglas heard the glass click faintly against -the mouth of the decanter as the Colonel poured out a liberal portion, -which he drank neat. He was just replacing the decanter in the wall -cabinet when Brett, followed by the coroner, walked into the room. - -"If you have no objection, Colonel Thornton, we will hold an informal -investigation here," said Dr. Penfield, courteously. - -"Not at all, sir, not at all," exclaimed Thornton heartily. "I am most -anxious to have this terrible affair cleared up as soon as possible. -Simply state your wishes and they will be carried out to the best of my -ability." - -"Thanks." The coroner seated himself at the mahogany table standing -in the center of the room and drew out his notebook and fountain pen, -while Brett established himself on the opposite side. - -"Shall I retire?" inquired the Colonel. - -"I think it would be best," replied Dr. Penfield gravely. "I prefer -to examine the members of the household separately. No offense is -intended." - -"And none is taken." Thornton smiled wearily. "You forget I'm a lawyer, -Doctor, and understand your position. If you wish to see me I will be -in my room." - -"All right, Colonel." The coroner consulted his notebook as Thornton -left them, then turned to Douglas. "You were the first to enter the -southwest chamber, were you not?" - -"Yes, I broke in a panel of the door with Colonel Thornton's -assistance, and----" - -"One moment." Penfield held up his hand. "Was the door locked on the -_inside_?" - -"Yes, by an old-fashioned bolt, as well as by lock and key." - -"Did the bolt and lock work stiffly?" - -"They did." - -"In your opinion would a person locking the door and shooting the bolt -into place make enough noise to awaken the sleeper?" - -"I think so, yes." - -"Did you find the windows of the room also bolted when you entered?" - -"No, they were closed, but the bolts, similar to the one on the door, -only smaller, were not fastened." - -"I see." Penfield drummed on the table for a moment with his left hand. -"Could anyone have slipped past you and Colonel Thornton when you stood -waiting in the hallway for the gas to evaporate?" - -"No, we would have been sure to see them, and, besides, no one could -have remained in that room alive, the escaping gas was overpowering." - -"Did the room have no other exit except the one door leading to the -hall?" - -"That is all I could discover. I searched the room thoroughly with -Brett." The detective nodded affirmatively. "We could find no trace of -any other entrance or exit." - -"Strange!" exclaimed Penfield. "The windows are too great a height from -the ground, and can only be reached by a scaling ladder." - -"And beside that," put in Brett, "I've examined the ground under -and near the two windows of that room, and there isn't a trace of a -footstep or ladder anywhere around." - -The coroner laid down his pen. "I think that is all just now, Mr. -Hunter. Brett, will you ask Dr. Marsh to step here." - -The two men left the room. "I'll wait in the drawing-room, Brett," -called Douglas, as the detective started upstairs to find the doctor. -In a few minutes Brett reappeared in the library with Dr. Marsh. - -"I won't detain you long, doctor," began Penfield. "Be seated. You were -the first to examine the dead woman upstairs; what do you think caused -her death?" - -"She was asphyxiated by illuminating gas. Every symptom points to -that. Of course," added the doctor cautiously, "this cannot be proved -absolutely until the autopsy is held." - -"I think you are right; my diagnosis coincides with yours," said the -coroner. "Did you discover any evidence of a struggle or marks of -violence about the woman's person?" - -"No. Judging from what I found, and I believe nothing had been -disturbed by either Colonel Thornton or Mr. Hunter, I think that the -Frenchwoman was reading in bed, fell asleep, and was overcome by the -gas." - -"How long do you think she had been dead before you reached her?" - -"Several hours, judging from the condition of the body. She was lying -in such a position that she got the full force of the gas directly in -her face; the room did not have to become filled with the deadly fumes -before she was affected by them." - -"I noticed that," exclaimed the coroner, "the drop light stood on a -low stand, so that the gas fixture was on a level with the woman's -head, as the four-poster bed was an unusually high one. I have no -further questions to ask just now, Doctor; an autopsy will be held this -afternoon at the city morgue, where the body will be taken shortly. -Brett, ask Miss Cynthia Carew to come here." - -Doctor Marsh stopped on his way to the door. "I have just given Miss -Carew an opiate," he said quickly; "she must not be disturbed at -present." - -The coroner's face fell. "That's too bad," he grumbled. "I particularly -wanted to ask what she was doing in the hall at that hour, and what -drew her attention to the closed door." - -"As it happens, I can answer those two questions." Marsh returned -to the table. "Before I could quiet Miss Carew she repeated her -experiences a dozen times. It seems that she was thirsty and went into -the hall to get a glass of water, as she recollected seeing an ice -pitcher and tumblers on the hall table near the stairs. She drank some -water, and was returning when she noticed the door in the moonlight, -dropped the glass she was carrying, and screamed." - -"I found a broken glass lying in the hall," supplemented Brett. - -"What was it about the door that caused her to scream?" asked the -coroner. - -"The panels, which are made in the shape of a cross," explained Doctor -Marsh. "It seems that Miss Carew apparently suffers from nightmare -which takes the form of a door with panels of that shape. She declares -it always foretells disaster. When she found such a door confronting -her in the ghostly moonlight it was too much for her nerves and she -screamed." - -"What is all this I am told about the southwest chamber being haunted?" - -Marsh shrugged his shoulders. "I have resided all my life in Georgetown -and have always heard that a room in this house was supposed to be -haunted. That particular kind of door with the panels forming a cross -is called the 'witches' door,' and was put there in the days just after -the Revolution. It is to ward off evil, so the legend goes." - -"Well, it doesn't seem to have fulfilled its mission." The coroner -carefully turned a page in his notebook and made an entry. "I am very -much obliged to you, Doctor," as Marsh prepared to depart. "I wish you -would let me know when Miss Carew is in fit condition to see me." - -"I will; good-bye," and the busy physician beat a hasty retreat. - -"Suppose you get the butler, Brett," said the coroner when the two men -were alone. - -"May I suggest, Dr. Penfield, that you allow Mr. Hunter to be present -when the servants are examined," began Brett. "He is deeply interested -in the murder of Senator Carew, and is assisting me in trying to -unravel that mystery, and I think"--deliberately--"this French maid's -singular death has something to do with the other tragedy." - -"Indeed!" The coroner's eyes kindled with fresh interest. "Certainly, -Brett, if you think Mr. Hunter should be present, call him in. I will -be glad of his assistance." - -The detective hastened out of the room, to return within a few minutes -with Douglas and Nicodemus. The old darky was gray with fright, and -his eyes had not regained their natural size since being awakened by -the commotion attending the breaking in of the door. He had lain in -his bed, too frightened to get up, until Douglas entered his room and -hauled him out from under the bedclothes and made him go downstairs -and build the fire for the cook, Sophy, who was more composed than her -brother, and busied herself in preparing coffee and an early breakfast -for those who desired it. - -"Is there such a thing as a long scaling ladder on the premises?" -inquired the coroner, after he had asked Nicodemus' full name and -length of service. - -"No, suh; dey isn't, only a pa'r ob steps so high"--demonstrating with -his hand. "Dat's der onliest one on de place." - -"Is any house being built in this neighborhood?" - -"No, suh, dar isn't." - -"How did you come to put the maid in that room?" - -"I didn't put her dar," in quick defence; "she went dar ob her own -accord; 'deed dat's so, Marse Douglas," appealing to him directly. "De -Cunnel, he done tole Sophy an' me ter fix three rooms fo' de ladies, -an' a room fo' yo', suh; he done say nuffin' about de maid, Annette." - -"Then you were not expecting her?" - -"No, suh. I was 'sprised when Miss Eleanor brunged her. After I haid -shown de ladies ter dey rooms I took Annette up ter de third flo', an' -tole her she could take de front room dar." - -"Then how did she come to be occupying the other room?" asked the -coroner quickly. - -"It were dis-away, suh; jes' befo' dinnah she cum ter me an' Sophy an' -say she doan like de room in de third flo'----" - -"Why not?" broke in Penfield. - -"She said it were too far off from her folks, dat she had to be down -whar she could hear dem. I tole her dat de warn't no room down on de -second flo', dat dey was all occupied, an' she says, quick-like, dat -she had jes' been in de room in de wing, an' dat she'd sleep dar." - -"Ah, then it was her own suggestion that she should occupy the room," -exclaimed Brett quickly. - -"Yessir. She dun say dat de bed looked comfo'able, an' dat she'd jes' -take de bedclothes offer de bed in de room on de third flo', an' move -her things down inter de odder room. Sophy tole her dat de place were -mighty dusty, 'cause it's been used as a storeroom, but Annette said -she'd 'tend ter dat." - -"Did she speak to Colonel Thornton or to Miss Eleanor before moving -into the room?" asked Douglas, thoughtfully. - -"No, suh, I don't think she did. I axed her ef she had, an' she said -dat dey was all in de drawin'-room, waitin' fer dinnah, an' dat she -didn't want ter 'sturb 'em, an' dat dey wouldn't care whar she slep'." - -"Then _no_ one knew she was occupying that room except you and Sophy?" -asked the puzzled coroner. - -"No, suh; 'less she tole dem later. I done warned her dat dat room were -unlucky,"--Nicodemus' eyes rolled in his head,--"an' dat no good would -cum ob her sleepin' dar, an' she jes' larf and larf. An' now she's -daid,"--he shook his woolly head solemnly; "it doan do ter trifle wid -ghosts." - -"I won't keep you any longer," said the coroner, after a long pause. -"Send Sophy up here, Nicodemus. By the way, is she any relation of -yours?" - -"Yessir, she's ma sister, an' we've bof worked hyar since befo de wah. -I'll send her right up, suh," and he disappeared. - -Sophy was not long in coming, and she confirmed all that Nicodemus -had said. She added that the southwest chamber had not been occupied -as a bedchamber for years, although the four-poster was left standing -with its mattresses and pillows in place, after which she was excused. -Colonel Thornton was then sent for by the coroner. - -"Your servants say, Colonel, that you did not expect your niece to -bring her French maid, Annette, with her last night," began Penfield. -"Is that so?" - -"My niece is at liberty to bring anyone," with emphasis, "to this -house," said Colonel Thornton. "But I must admit that I did not know -until just as dinner was announced that the maid had accompanied her." - -"Did you not see them arrive?" asked Brett. - -"No, they came earlier than I anticipated, and I was not in the house -when they reached here." - -"Did Nicodemus inform you that the maid was here?" - -"No; why should he? He knows that this is my niece's second home, and -that she is virtually mistress of the house." - -"Then your niece is thoroughly acquainted with this building?" put in -Brett. - -"Haven't I just said so,"--impatiently. "Miss Thornton brought her maid -with her because she knows I have but two old servants, enough for my -bachelor needs, but she very naturally considered that my other guests, -Mrs. Truxton and Miss Carew, might desire a maid's services." - -"I understand. Were you aware that Annette intended to sleep in the -southwest chamber?" continued Brett. - -"I was not. If I had known it I would not have permitted her to occupy -the room." - -"Please tell me the exact superstition which hangs about that room," -said the coroner, after a brief pause. - -"It is believed that no light can be burned in that room after eleven -o'clock; after that time it is always extinguished by some mysterious -agency." - -"How comes it, then, that you allowed gas pipes to be placed in the -room?" - -"I gave the contract to have gas put in the house years ago, at the -same time that I had running water and plumbing installed. The gas -contractor naturally fitted each room with modern appliances. As the -room is never used after dark, I never gave the matter another thought." - -"Then why was a drop light fastened to the wall bracket by the side of -the bed?" - -"I've been puzzling over that fact myself,"--the Colonel tipped his -chair back on two legs,--"that drop light is one I used to have in my -bedroom. It didn't give very satisfactory light to read by, so several -months ago I purchased another, transferred the chimney and shade to -the new lamp, and sent the other one into the storeroom." - -"Then it is highly probable that Annette found it there, and, wishing -to read in bed, attached it to the bracket herself." - -"And thereby sealed her own fate," added the Colonel solemnly. - -"Do you really think that supernatural means caused her death?" asked -the coroner incredulously. - -"It seems to be either that or suicide." - -"From what I hear I incline to the latter theory," acknowledged Dr. -Penfield. "I don't take much stock in ghosts or other hallucinations, -Colonel, with all due respect to you, sir. Will you be so kind as to -ask your cousin, Mrs. Truxton, to step here for a few minutes?" - -On being summoned by Colonel Thornton, Mrs. Truxton hastened into the -library. Her statements added nothing to what the coroner already knew, -and she was quickly excused and Eleanor Thornton sent for. - -Douglas had not seen her since carrying her to her room some hours -before, and he was shocked by her appearance. "My precious darling!" he -murmured in a tone which reached her ear alone as he opened the library -door to admit her. "Is there anything I can do for you?" - -She shook her head and smiled at him, a smile which hurt him woefully, -for it showed the effort it cost her. Dr. Penfield, struck by her -beauty, which was enhanced by her unnaturally flushed cheeks and the -dark shadows under her large eyes, rose and pulled forward a chair for -her use. - -"I won't detain you long, Miss Thornton," he commenced, reseating -himself. "Did you know your maid was sleeping in the southwest -chamber?" - -"No, I did not. On the contrary, she told me, when helping me change my -dress for dinner, that she had been put in the room over mine." - -"When did you last see your maid?" - -"She came to my assistance when Miss Carew fainted, shortly after -dinner. After I had seen Miss Carew revived and put in bed I had -Annette help me out of my evening dress, and then told her to go to -bed, as I would not require her services any longer." - -"At what hour was that?" - -"Shortly before ten o'clock. I do not recollect the exact time." - -"Did she say nothing to you then about having moved down on your floor?" - -"Not a word." - -"Has your maid had an unfortunate love affair?" inquired the coroner. - -"Not to my knowledge." - -"Has she been despondent of late?" - -"No; she seemed in her usual good spirits." - -"Do you know if she had lost money?" - -"I never heard her mention such a thing." - -"Has she been with you long?" - -"About two years." - -"And you found her----?" - -"Excellent in every way; honest, reliable, and capable." - -"Miss Thornton," facing her directly, "have you formed any theory as to -how your maid came to be asphyxiated?" - -"I think it was due to an accident. She probably fell asleep, leaving -the gas burning." - -"But Mr. Hunter found the two windows closed, no possible draft could -get into the room to blow out the light--nor could any person have -blown it out, for the door, the only way of entrance, was locked -on the inside. How was it possible to have an accident under those -circumstances?" - -"Possibly it was suicide, though I cannot bear to think so," Eleanor -spoke with much feeling. - -"Miss Thornton,"--Brett rose, walked over to the table, and stood -looking directly down into the lovely face raised so confidingly to -his--"did your maid ever utter any threats against Captain Frederick -Lane in your presence?" - -"Never!" Eleanor's eyes opened in surprise. - -"Did she ever insinuate that he had something to do with the murder of -Senator Carew?" - -"No, never!" But Eleanor's firm voice quivered as she uttered the -denial, and Brett detected it. His eyes lighted with excitement. - -"What was Captain Lane doing here last night?" - -The question was unexpected, and Eleanor started perceptibly. - -"He came to see Miss Carew," she admitted, faintly. - -"Did he see your maid?" - -"Not to my knowledge." - -"Did Captain Lane spend the evening with you and Colonel Thornton?" - -"Oh, no, he only saw Miss Carew." - -"How long was he with Miss Carew?" - -"About ten minutes." - -"Indeed!" Brett paused and spoke with greater deliberation. "Captain -Lane, who is being shadowed by several of my men, was seen to enter -this house last night between nine and half-past--and, though my men -waited all night, he was never seen to leave it." - - - - -CHAPTER XVIII - -IN THE NAME OF THE LAW - - -"Well, and what then?" demanded a curt voice behind the group. The -three men and Eleanor wheeled around and gazed at the young officer in -surprise too deep for words. "Well, what then?" demanded Captain Lane -for the second time. - -"How did you get here?" asked Brett, recovering from his surprise. - -"Through the door. How did you suppose?" with a flicker of amusement in -his handsome eyes. "The butler told me I would find you here when he -admitted me a few seconds ago." Then his face grew stern. "I entered -in time to overhear your remark,"--turning directly to Brett. "Because -your men did not see me leave the house it doesn't follow that I spent -the night here." - -"Then where did you spend it?" asked Brett swiftly. - -"With my cousin, General Phillips, at his apartment at the Dupont," -calmly. - -"At what hour did you reach his apartment?" - -"About twelve o'clock." - -"And where were you between the hours of nine-thirty and twelve?" - -"Most of the time walking the streets." - -"Alone?" - -"Alone." Lane faced them all, head up and shoulders back, and gave no -sign that he was aware of the antagonism which he felt in the tense -atmosphere. The coroner was the next to speak. - -"Suppose you take a chair, Captain Lane, and give us a more detailed -account of your actions last night," he suggested, and Lane dragged -forward a chair and seated himself. "When did you leave this house?" - -"About half-past ten o'clock." He caught Eleanor's start of surprise, -and added hastily, "I am, as perhaps you already know, engaged to Miss -Carew. During our interview last night she fainted, and I summoned Miss -Thornton, who urged me to go, but I felt that I could not leave the -house until I knew that Miss Carew was better. So, instead of going out -of the front door, I picked up my coat and hat and slipped into the -dining room, which was empty." - -"What was your object in going there?" - -"I hoped that Miss Thornton would come downstairs again, and I could -then get an opportunity to speak to her." - -"Would it not have been better and more straight-forward to have -stepped into the library and informed Colonel Thornton of your presence -in his house?" asked the coroner, dryly. - -Lane flushed at his tone. "Possibly it would,"--haughtily,--"but I was -acting on impulse; I was extremely alarmed by Miss Carew's condition -and could think of nothing else." - -"What caused Miss Carew's indisposition?" inquired the coroner. - -"She is not strong, and overtaxed her strength yesterday." - -The coroner did not press the point, to Lane's relief. "Did anyone see -you in the dining room last night?" - -"I think not; the room was not lighted, and the table had been already -cleared, so no servant entered the room." - -"Did you see Miss Thornton again?" - -"No. I had not been waiting long before I saw Colonel Thornton come -down the stairs with a man whom I judged to be a physician. As they -passed the dining room door I heard the doctor tell Colonel Thornton -that Miss Carew had regained consciousness, and would be all right -after a night's rest. A few minutes after that I left the house." - -"How?" - -"I have dined frequently with Colonel Thornton and know the house -fairly well; so, as I had promised to keep my visit to Miss Carew -a secret, I opened the long French window which gives on the south -veranda, ran down the steps, and walked down the garden path, jumped -the fence between this property and the next, and walked out of their -gate into the street." - -Brett said something under his breath that was not complimentary to -his detective force. "May I ask you why you thought such precautions -necessary?" he inquired. - -"Because I was perfectly aware that I had been followed over here," -retorted Lane calmly. "And, as I considered it nobody's business but my -own if I chose to call on Miss Carew, I decided to avoid them." - -"And what did you and Annette, Miss Thornton's French maid, discuss -before you left here?" Brett rose to his feet and confronted Lane -squarely as he put the question. - -"I did not speak to anyone except Miss Carew and Miss Thornton while in -this house,"--steadily. - -"No? Then perhaps you only saw the maid, Annette, when she was -_asleep_?"--with emphasis. - -"I don't catch your meaning?" Lane tapped his foot nervously with his -swagger stick. - -"Listen to me, Captain Lane,"--Brett dropped back in his chair and -emphasized his remarks by frequent taps on the table with his left -hand. "You can't dodge the issue with fake testimony." - -"I am dodging nothing!" Lane's eyes flashed ominously and his voice -deepened, the voice of a born fighter, accustomed to command. "I have -no testimony to fake." - -"I suppose you will say next,"--sarcastically,--"that you don't know -the maid, Annette, is dead." - -"Dead?" echoed Lane, bounding from his chair. - -"Dead--murdered last night." - -"Good God!" There was no mistaking Lane's agitation and surprise. Brett -watched him closely; if he was acting, it was a perfect performance. -"How--what killed her?" - -"Asphyxiated by illuminating gas,"--briefly,--"when asleep last night." - -"This is horrible!" Lane paced the floor in uncontrollable excitement. -"But what," pulling himself up, "what has that unfortunate girl's -death to do with me?" - -"What had _you_ to do with the unfortunate girl's death is more to the -point," retorted Brett meaningly, and Lane recoiled. - -"By God; I'll not stand such an insinuation!" He made a threatening -step toward Brett, who did not move. "Are you such a fool as to imagine -because I was in this house for a short time last night that I killed a -servant whom I had seen occasionally when she opened the door for me on -my calling at Miss Thornton's residence?" - -"I am not a fool, nor am I a believer in miracles." Brett grew cool -as Lane's excitement rose. "I was to have seen Annette this morning -to get sworn testimony which she said would implicate you in Senator -Carew's murder." Lane staggered back, appalled. "Instead, I find her -dead, under mysterious circumstances; you are the only person whom her -death benefits. And you were in this house, unknown to the inmates, -and, by your own admission, no one saw you leave it. It is stretching -the probabilities to suppose her death was a coincidence. You, and -you alone,"--his voice rang out clearly,--"had the motive and the -opportunity to bring about her death." - -"I deny it--deny it absolutely!" thundered Lane, his knuckles showing -white, so tightly were his fingers clenched over his swagger stick, -which he raised threateningly. - -"Stop, Mr. Brett!" exclaimed Eleanor, who, with Douglas and the -coroner, had sat too astounded to speak during the rapid colloquy -between the two men. "You forget that the door to the southwest chamber -occupied by Annette was locked on the _inside_, and that door was -the only means of entering the room. It is only fair to you, Captain -Lane,"--turning courteously to the young officer,--"to remind Mr. Brett -of the very obvious fact that no one could have entered the sleeping -woman's room, blown out the light, and, on leaving the room, locked and -bolted the door on the inside, leaving the key in the lock." - -"Thanks," exclaimed Lane gratefully, as he sat down and wiped the -perspiration from his white face. - -Brett scowled. He had hoped that his summing up of damaging facts and -sudden accusation might wring a confession from Lane, or, if not that, -some slip of the tongue which the other might make in his agitation -might give him a clew as to how the murder was committed. He was -convinced of Lane's guilt. He glanced angrily at Eleanor. Why had -she intervened? Long and silently he gazed at the beautiful face. The -broad forehead, delicately arched eyebrows, and the large wistful eyes, -shaded by long curling eyelashes, and finely chiseled features were -well worth looking at; but Brett did not see them--a new problem was -puzzling his active brain. - -"I understood you to say, Captain Lane, that you had promised to keep -your visit here a secret," he said, breaking into the conversation of -the others. "To whom did you make such a promise?" - -"To Miss Thornton." The question was unexpected, and the answer slipped -out thoughtlessly; then Lane bit his lip as he caught Eleanor's warning -glance too late. - -Brett turned swiftly on Eleanor. "Why did you wish him to keep his -visit here a secret, Miss Thornton?" - -"Because I was afraid Mrs. Winthrop would hear that Captain Lane and -her niece had met here; my uncle might inadvertently mention it to her. -Mrs. Winthrop does not approve of Captain Lane's attentions to Miss -Carew," explained Eleanor quietly. - -"On what grounds?"--quickly. - -"Ask Mrs. Winthrop; she can tell you better than I." - -"I will," grimly. "Captain Lane," wheeling around, "why have you -returned to this house at so early an hour in the morning?" - -"I came to inquire for Miss Carew. I asked to see Miss Thornton, and -the butler showed me into this room. And this is the first opportunity -I have had, Miss Eleanor, to ask you how Cynthia is this morning." His -face betrayed his anxiety. - -"She is asleep just now," answered Eleanor, "but I hope she will be -much better when she wakes up. I will tell her that you have called." - -"Thanks." Lane rose. He felt that he was dismissed. "Has Cynthia been -told of Annette's death?" - -"Not yet. We explained the breaking in of the door of the southwest -chamber by saying that Nicodemus had locked it and neglected to tell -Colonel Thornton, who had it forced open." - -"I understand." Lane shook hands with her warmly. "Will you please -telephone me how Cynthia is. I'll be at the Army and Navy Club all -day. Good morning." He bowed formally to the coroner and Douglas, then -turned to leave the room, only to find his exit barred by Brett. - -"It is my duty to inform you, Captain Lane, that a warrant has been -sworn out for your arrest," he announced, taking a paper from his -pocket. - -Lane stepped back involuntarily. "What do you mean?" he stammered. - -"In the name of the law I arrest you for the murder of Senator Carew." -Brett ceased speaking and signaled to several men who were sitting in -the hall to enter the room. - -It was some seconds before Lane broke the strained silence. - -"Stand back!" he growled between clenched teeth, as the two detectives -approached him. "I'll go with you peaceably. Let me tell you, Brett," -glaring defiantly at him, "you'll live to regret this day's work! Who -swore out that warrant?" - -"Mrs. Winthrop." - -Lane gazed at him in dazed surprise. "Mrs. Winthrop!" he mumbled. "Mrs. -Winthrop!" - - - - -CHAPTER XIX - -THE ACCUSATION - - -Eleanor dropped her embroidery and gazed out into the garden, with its -flower-beds lit by the fading rays of the Western sun and the soft wind -from the open window fanned her cheeks. An involuntary sigh escaped her. - -"A penny for your thoughts," and Douglas, who had approached unnoticed, -stepped up to the raised window-seat. A loving smile curved Eleanor's -pretty mouth as she made room for him beside her and slipped her hand -confidingly in his. - -"Do you think a penny would bring me any comfort?" she asked. - -"Take me for a penny, and I will do my utmost to comfort you." Douglas -kissed her gently as she leaned her head against his broad shoulder. - -"Take you--gladly!" She raised her hand and pressed it against his -cheek. "And I am richer in happiness than I ever was before." - -"My darling!" Douglas checked his impetuosity; the dark circles under -Eleanor's eyes had deepened and her extreme nervousness was betrayed by -her restless glances about the room and the incessant movement of her -fingers. "Now for your thoughts." - -"My thoughts? They are all with Cynthia. Oh, Douglas!"--straightening -up,--"I can't tell her of Fred Lane's arrest; on top of all she has -borne it would be cruel, cruel!" - -"Is she better?" - -"She is at last sleeping naturally. When she awoke from the opiate, -some hours ago, she evinced no interest, and so I was able to avoid the -questions which I feared she would ask me." - -"She was probably still under the effects of the opiate and too drowsy -to recall the events of last night." - -"I dread her awakening." - -"You will have to put off telling her of Lane's arrest and Annette's -death until she is strong enough physically to bear the shock." - -"Do you think him guilty?" The question seemed wrung from her. - -"Of which crime?" - -"Of both." - -"I don't see how it is possible for him to have had anything to do -with Annette's death," replied Douglas thoughtfully, "for the very -reason you pointed out when Brett was accusing him this morning. It -would be physically impossible for him to have left the room and locked -and bolted the door on the inside." - -"What do you think caused her death?" - -"I think it highly probable that she committed suicide." - -"You don't think the draft blew out the gas?" - -"A draft? Where on earth could it come from? Both windows were tightly -closed, and the door also. Upon my word," turning to look at her, "you -don't place any faith in that old legend about the ghost--of your -great-great-aunt's habit of extinguishing all lights in her room after -eleven o'clock at night?" - -"Yes, I do," reluctantly. - -"Oh, come now," a chuckle escaped Douglas, but it died out suddenly. He -had remarkably keen eyesight, and as he raised his head he encountered -a steady stare from an oil portrait hanging on the wall opposite him. -It was not the stare that attracted his attention, but the remarkable -whiteness of the eyeballs in the painted face on which the light from -the window was reflected. As he looked the eyes seemed to blink, -then were gone. With an exclamation he rose, startling Eleanor by his -sudden movement, and walked across the room until he stood directly in -front of the painting, which was life-size and represented a handsome -man in a navy uniform of the War of 1812. On closer inspection, the -eyes appeared not to be painted in at all, and were represented by -shadows. As he retreated from the portrait, however, the shadows took -form and he distinctly saw the long lashes and eyeballs. It was an -optical illusion, cleverly conceived by the artist, and, satisfied on -that point, he returned to Eleanor, who had watched his movements with -growing curiosity. - -"Why this sudden interest in my great-great-grandfather?" she asked. - -"It's a fine portrait." He reseated himself by her side. "I didn't -notice it last night. What is the old gentleman's name?" - -"Commodore Barry Thornton; my father was named for him. He inherited -the same black hair, blue eyes, and tastes of that old sea-fighter," -nodding toward the portrait. "Do you know on what grounds they arrested -Fred Lane for the murder of Senator Carew?" - -[Illustration: "With an exclamation he rose, and walked across the -room"] - -"Only in a general way. It is known that the Senator opposed his -engagement to Cynthia, that they had a bitter quarrel that night, and -that Lane left the ball to look for Cynthia's carriage. He was gone -some time, and, when the carriage did turn up, Senator Carew was seated -in it--dead." - -"Is that enough to convict?" - -"It's purely circumstantial evidence,"--evasively,--"I don't know yet -what new testimony Mrs. Winthrop may have contributed to cause his -arrest." - -"Mrs. Winthrop's attitude is incomprehensible to me," burst out -Eleanor. "Fred's father, Governor Lane, was her husband's best friend, -and Mr. Winthrop was under great financial obligations to him when he -died. And now look at the way Mrs. Winthrop is treating that friend's -son--hounding him to the gallows. Is that gratitude?" with biting scorn. - -"Some natures don't wear well under an obligation, and the cloven hoof -crops out." Douglas pushed the window farther open. "Ingratitude is an -abominable sin, and the one most frequently committed." A faint knock -on the hall door interrupted him. "Come in," he called, and Brett -opened the door. He drew back when he saw Douglas was not alone. - -"Don't go," said Eleanor, gathering up her embroidery and workbag, "I -must run upstairs and ask the nurse how Miss Carew is." She hastened -toward the door, which Brett still held open, but he stopped her on the -threshold. - -"I will be greatly obliged if you will spare me half an hour, Miss -Thornton; when you come downstairs again will be time enough," he -added, as Eleanor stepped back into the library. - -Eleanor studied his impassive face intently for a second before -answering, then: "I'll be down again shortly," and she disappeared up -the hall. - -Brett closed the door carefully and selected a chair near Douglas, and -sat down heavily. Douglas pulled out his cigarette case and handed it -to the detective, who picked out a cigarette and, striking a match, -settled back in his chair contentedly as he watched the rings of smoke -curling upward. - -"I am glad of an opportunity to have a quiet word with you, Mr. -Hunter," he began. "Things have been moving pretty swiftly to-day, and -I'm free to confess that the death of Annette has stumped me. Was it -murder or suicide?" - -"Everything points to suicide." - -"I'm not so sure of that," drawing his chair nearer and lowering his -voice. "I've been searching Annette's belongings and have found several -things which puzzle me completely." - -"What were they?" - -"Well, for one thing, the torn kimono." - -"What--you don't mean----?" - -"Exactly. Annette apparently owned a wrapper precisely like Miss -Thornton's, and it was she who paid you that midnight visit when -you spent the night in the library on Tuesday evening at the Carew -residence. I found the wrapper upstairs among her effects. She had -mended the tear very neatly, but the slip which you tore out of it that -night exactly fitted the darn. I had the slip with me in my pocket and -fitted the two together." - -"Great Scott! what on earth was she doing in the library at that hour?" - -"Aye, what?" significantly. "You recollect that Nicodemus testified -that Annette did not want to sleep on the third floor because--'it wor -too far off from her folks, an' she had to be down whar she could hear -dem.' It looks as if Annette were in the habit of taking an unusual -interest in her mistress' affairs." - -"It does indeed," agreed Douglas, knocking the ashes from his cigarette -on the window ledge. "Did you get any information from Annette -yesterday?" - -"Very little. I saw her soon after I found your note telling me of her -interview with Colonel Thornton. She admitted that she had information -which she was willing to sell, and finally made an appointment to see -me early this morning. Thanks to circumstances--call it murder or -suicide--I am no wiser than I was twenty-four hours ago." - -"Do you still cling to the theory that she met her death because some -one was afraid of what she would tell you to-day?" - -"Yes; it looks that way to me. And yet I can't for the life of me -discover how anyone could have committed a murder in that locked room." - -"In searching the room did you discover any secret passages leading to -it?" exclaimed Douglas. - -"I did not. I thought I might find one, so I tapped that entire wall, -but could not find a trace of any concealed door. I tell you, Mr. -Hunter, Annette did not commit suicide," Brett spoke earnestly. "She -expected to receive a large sum of money within a few days; I virtually -pledged the amount to her. There was no object in her taking her own -life." - -"Why don't you investigate her past, Brett? That might give you a clew." - -"I have already cabled her description to the Paris police, asking -for any information about her which they may have. I expect an answer -shortly." - -"Good. Tell me, what information did Mrs. Winthrop supply which induced -you to arrest Captain Lane?" - -"She told me that he had been seen on the street Monday night, when -looking for Miss Carew's carriage, and that he was carrying a sharp -letter file." - -"Who gave her that information?" - -"She didn't state, but I have an idea that it was Annette; probably the -girl wanted money and went to her direct, she was none too scrupulous, -apparently." - -"I believe you are right," exclaimed Douglas. - -"Mrs. Winthrop also told me that she found, tucked away among her -brother's papers, yesterday an envelope containing a threatening -letter. The contents were written in a disguised hand, but the postmark -on the envelope read, 'Lanesville, Maryland.' She is firmly convinced -that, if young Lane didn't write those letters himself, he instigated -them." - -"Oh, nonsense! He isn't such a fool," roughly. "I believe he is -innocent." - -At that moment the door opened and Colonel Thornton walked in. He flung -his hat on the table. "I am glad to find you both here," he said. -"Don't get up," as Douglas rose, "I'll take this chair. I called you -up at headquarters, Brett, but they told me you had just come here, so -I hurried over from Mrs. Winthrop's to catch you." - -"Does she want me for anything in particular?" asked Brett. - -"She simply wanted to ask a few more details in regard to the coroner's -inquest. She is very much upset over Annette's extraordinary death. -It seems that the girl made some statement to her, and Mrs. Winthrop -depended on her testimony to prove Lane killed Senator Carew." - -"What did I tell you?" Brett glanced triumphantly at Douglas. "I'm -afraid, though I'm morally certain of Captain Lane's guilt, that we -will have some difficulty in establishing the fact." - -"You will," agreed Colonel Thornton. "So far you have only proved, -first, that there was enmity between the two men; second, that Lane had -the opportunity; third, that Annette saw him with the letter file, the -weapon used to kill Carew, in his hand." - -"The last has not been sworn to," objected Douglas, "and Annette is -dead, so that statement, the most important of all, cannot be accepted -as testimony." - -"Unless some one else saw Lane in the street at the time Annette did," -burst in Brett swiftly, resuming his seat. - -"If they had they would have come forward before this," reasoned -Douglas. "I consider it extremely probable that Annette was lying when -she said she saw a letter file in Lane's hand. Remember the drenching -rain; walking in what proved almost a cloudburst would make most people -blind to so small a thing as a letter file carried in a man's closed -fist." - -"What on earth was her object in making such a statement?" asked -Colonel Thornton. - -"That is what we have yet to find out," answered Douglas. "And there's -another point, Brett, which you have overlooked." - -"What's that?" - -"You recollect that you told me Senator Carew's clothes were absolutely -dry when his dead body was found in the carriage. Considering the -downpour of rain that night, it seems incredible that he should not -have got wet." - -"I have come to the conclusion that the coachman, Hamilton, lied when -he said he had not stopped at the house for Senator Carew on Monday -night," replied Brett. "Having lied in the beginning, he is now afraid -to admit the truth for fear that he may be convicted of killing the -Senator." - -"That sounds plausible," acknowledged Colonel Thornton. - -"I don't believe it." Douglas shook his head obstinately. "It has been -proved already that the Senator did not spend Monday evening at home. -I tell you the key to this mystery is how Senator Carew got into that -carriage on such a stormy night without getting his clothes wet. When -you have solved that problem you will know who committed the murder." - -Thornton was about to reply when the hall door was thrown open, and -Eleanor, her lovely eyes opened to their widest, exclaimed: - -"Uncle Dana, the Secretary of State wishes to see you!" - -"God bless me!" Colonel Thornton sprang out of his chair as the -distinguished statesman followed Eleanor into the room. - -"Please don't let me disturb you," exclaimed the Secretary, as Douglas -stepped forward, and Brett edged toward the door. "I only dropped in -for a second to pick up Mr. Hunter," laying a hand on Douglas' arm. -"They told me at the Albany that you were stopping here for a few days, -so I came over in my motor to ask you to drive back to my office with -me, although it is Sunday." - -"Won't you be seated, Mr. Secretary?" asked Colonel Thornton, as -Douglas hastily gathered up some papers which he had left on the center -table, and started for the door. - -"Thanks, no; it is imperative that I get to my office----" The -Secretary stopped speaking as a man darted inside the door and slammed -it shut. In his haste the newcomer collided with Douglas and then -collapsed into the nearest chair. - -"Philip Winthrop!" gasped Eleanor, while the others gazed at the -exhausted figure in amazement. - -"Have you any brandy?" exclaimed the Secretary, noticing the ghastly -color of Winthrop's face. Thornton hastily produced a decanter and gave -the half-fainting man a stiff drink, which in a few minutes had the -desired effect of bringing him round. - -"Thanks," he murmured faintly. - -"What does the doctor mean by letting you come out?" asked Thornton. -"You are in no condition to leave your room." - -"I'll be better in a minute; give me some more," Winthrop motioned -toward the decanter. Colonel Thornton glanced questioningly at the -Secretary, who nodded assent, so he gave Winthrop a milder dose, which -restored him somewhat, and his voice was stronger when he resumed -speech. "The doctor doesn't know I'm here. I slipped out while Mother -was lying down, caught a cab at the corner, and drove over here. I want -to see the detective, Brett." - -"Here I am, sir." Brett stepped forward into the circle about Winthrop. - -"Good!" Winthrop raised himself just in time to see Eleanor open -the hall door softly. "Come back!" he shouted; then, as she paid no -attention to him, cried, "Stop her! stop her; don't let her slip away!" - -"What is the meaning of this?" demanded Colonel Thornton, as he stepped -forward and pulled Eleanor back into the room and shut the door. "You -drunken loafer! stop bellowing at my niece." - -"I won't, I won't!" Winthrop had worked himself into a frenzy. "She -can't drug me here, fortunately--I won't be silent--_she is an -international spy, and she murdered Senator Carew!_" - - - - -CHAPTER XX - -WEAVING THE WEB - - -Slowly the meaning of Winthrop's words dawned on the four men. - -"It's false! false as hell!" thundered Douglas. He stepped forward and -seized Winthrop in a grip of iron and shook him as a dog would shake a -rat; then, before the others could intervene, threw the struggling man -on the floor. "Bah! you're not worth killing." - -Whimpering with rage and weakness, Winthrop caught hold of the table -and dragged himself upright, and stood swaying on his feet. - -"It's true, it's true!" he reiterated. "Look at her,"--pointing a -shaking finger to where Eleanor stood aghast, watching the scene. Her -hand was on the doorknob and she seemed poised for instant flight. A -curious smile twisted her pale lips as the men turned and faced her. - -"He doesn't seem to have recovered from delirium tremens," she remarked -slowly. - -"It may be, Miss Thornton,"--the Secretary of State spoke with grave -deliberation,--"but it is a serious charge which he is making, and I -think it had better be investigated now." Eleanor winced visibly, then, -controlling herself, advanced further into the room. - -"I am at your service," she said with sudden hauteur, "but as I have an -important engagement later I trust you will be brief." - -"Sit by me here, Eleanor." Colonel Thornton, who had listened to -Winthrop's charges in stupefied silence, pulled forward an armchair. -"Mr. Secretary, will you occupy the desk chair, and you," turning to -Winthrop, who cowered back as he caught the smoldering wrath in the -older man's eyes, "sit over there," pointing to a chair some distance -away. - -Brett, seeing that Winthrop was too exhausted to move without -assistance, piloted him to the chair indicated by Thornton, and, -getting another chair, placed himself by Winthrop's side. Douglas, at a -sign from the Secretary, sat down at the further end of the table and -handed the statesman some paper and ink. - -"Now, Mr. Winthrop," began the Secretary, "if you are more composed, -kindly answer my questions. Why have you waited all this time before -mentioning that you think Miss Thornton guilty of Senator Carew's -murder?" - -"Because I've been drugged, so that I couldn't give evidence. I tried -twice to get a message to Brett, but Annette said she couldn't reach -him." Winthrop spoke with labored effort. - -"Annette!" chorused Colonel Thornton, Brett, and Douglas, while the -Secretary and Eleanor looked their surprise. - -"Yes, Annette," peevishly, "she used to come in occasionally to give me -water when those devilish nurses were neglecting me. She told me that -Brett was seldom at the house, and that she never had an opportunity to -speak to him alone." - -"The monumental liar----" Brett checked himself. "Never mind that now, -Mr. Winthrop, go on with your story." - -"She told me how Miss Thornton used to steal in and drug me, and asked -me why she did it." - -"Great Heavens!" Eleanor's exclamation was followed by a half-strangled -laugh which ended in a sob. "What a viper!" - -"You were not there last night," sputtered Winthrop vindictively, -"and therefore I didn't get my usual dose, so I can tell what I know -to-day." A triumphant leer distorted his features. - -"Suppose you continue your story without making comments," directed the -Secretary sternly. - -Winthrop nodded sullenly, then began: "You recollect that I spent -Monday night at the Alibi Club, Brett?" - -"Yes." - -"Well, when I left there I motored up Nineteenth Street, instead -of taking the more direct way home. I thought I would turn into -Massachusetts Avenue at Dupont circle, where there was less danger of -running into electric cars, for the rain was falling in such torrents -that I could hardly see through my wind-shield. - -"When opposite the Owen residence I ran into a lot of waiting carriages -and motors, and had to slow down. In fact, I went so slowly that by -the time I was nearly opposite Miss Thornton's residence I stalled -my engine and had to get out in all the wet and crank up," he paused -dramatically. "You can imagine my surprise when I saw Miss Thornton -come down under the awning which led to her front door and stand at the -curb, looking up and down the street." - -"How do you know it was Miss Thornton?" broke in Douglas harshly. - -"There was a street lamp by the side of the awning and the light fell -full on her; besides, I recognized the scarlet cloak she was wearing. I -have seen it many times." - -"What did my niece do, besides standing still and looking up and down -the street?" demanded Colonel Thornton scornfully. - -"She ran out into the middle of the street and down where a carriage -was drawn up at the curb, opened the door, stood there talking, -apparently, for a few minutes, then shut the door and bolted back to -the awning, and I presume entered her house, as I saw no more of her." - -"What did you do next?" inquired Douglas, with peculiar emphasis. - -Winthrop flushed at his tone. "I had curiosity enough to step back and -see that it was Senator Carew's landau, the last of a long queue of -vehicles, at which she had stopped; then I went on about my business." - -"Do you mean to say that you did not investigate further?" asked the -Secretary, leaning forward the better to scan Winthrop's face. - -"No. I knew enough never to interfere with Senator Carew's love -affairs!" His sneer was intolerable. - -"By God!" Colonel Thornton sprang to his feet and advanced on -Winthrop, but Brett stepped between the two men. - -"Have a little patience, Colonel," he said, pushing the irate man -toward his seat; "then you can settle with Mr. Winthrop." - -"Do you think I'm going to sit here and listen to aspersions on my -niece's character?" he shouted. "Let me get my hands on that scoundrel!" - -"Wait, Uncle Dana,"--Eleanor leaned forward and placed her hand on -his arm,--"let him finish; then I will speak," and her lips closed -ominously. - -"That is excellent advice," agreed the Secretary; "resume your seat, -Colonel Thornton." His tone of command was not to be denied, and -Thornton dropped back in his chair. "Now, Mr. Winthrop, explain your -last remark." - -"Senator Carew told me on Monday afternoon that he expected to marry -Miss Thornton, and that he intended to spend the evening with her." - -Douglas leaned forward and gazed earnestly at Eleanor, but she refused -to meet his look, and with a troubled expression he turned his -attention to Winthrop, who was again speaking. - -"I told Senator Carew that I had heard a member of one of the embassies -here declare that Miss Thornton was an international spy." - -"And what did he say to that statement?" - -"He said that he would look into the matter." - -"When did this conversation take place?" - -"On Monday afternoon." - -"And is that all you have to go upon for such an accusation?" inquired -Brett scornfully. - -Douglas was gazing moodily ahead of him. A memory of Paris, of -Eleanor's extraordinary behavior there, of the whispers which followed -her about, harassed him. Had his faith been misplaced? No, a thousand -times no. He would pin all hope of future happiness on her innocence -and purity of soul. He rose suddenly and stepped behind her chair, and -laid his hand encouragingly on her shoulder. She looked up, startled, -then, seeing him, her lips parted in a smile, and her hand stole up to -meet his. His firm clasp gave her courage to face the situation, for it -told her of his unshaken confidence and love. - -Winthrop glowered at them when he saw the tableau, and his eyes gleamed -wickedly. "It is very obvious," he said, "that Senator Carew found -my statement was true, and charged her with being a spy; then left -her house. Exposure meant Miss Thornton's ruin; even her influential -relatives,"--he glanced meaningly at Thornton,--"could not intervene -to save her, so she took the law into her own hands, picked up the -letter file, stole out of the house, opened the carriage door, engaged -the Senator in conversation--and stabbed him." - -A strained silence followed, which the Secretary was the first to -break. He turned directly to Eleanor. - -"You called to see Secretary Wyndham at the Navy Department on -Wednesday morning, did you not, Miss Thornton?" - -Douglas' hand tightened involuntarily, but Eleanor showed no sign of -agitation as she answered, "Yes, Mr. Secretary, I did." - -"Have you anything further to say, Mr. Winthrop?" - -"Not now, Mr. Secretary." - -"Then let me suggest," exclaimed Thornton, "that Mr. Winthrop, in -trying to implicate my niece in a dastardly crime, has but established -his own guilt." - -"How so?" The question shot from Winthrop's clenched teeth. - -"We all know from the testimony of reputable servants that Senator -Carew and you had quarreled," continued Thornton. "We know your habits -are none of the best; we know that you have suddenly become possessed -of large sums of money----" - -Winthrop moistened his dry lips. "I deny it," he exclaimed. - -Thornton paid no attention to the interruption. "You alone knew where -Senator Carew was spending the evening, and you went there and laid in -wait for him, and now, you despicable cur, you are trying to lay the -blame on an innocent girl." - -Winthrop rose, goaded by the scornful looks of the others. "I may -have had the motive and the opportunity to kill Senator Carew," he -admitted sullenly, "but I did not have--the weapon. The criminal sits -there,"--he pointed at Eleanor;--"I am absolutely positive of her -guilt, for the letter file used to kill the Senator belonged to a -silver desk set given her by Miss Cynthia Carew." - -Thornton frowned and turned a troubled countenance toward Eleanor, who -nodded reassuringly as she rose to her feet, stepped back to Douglas' -side, and, leaning on the back of the chair she had just vacated, -addressed the Secretary. - -"I am a young girl, Mr. Secretary," she began, "and, living alone as I -do, I have been forced on numerous occasions to use my own judgment. -It would have been better, perhaps, had I spoken of certain events -before this, but I was so alarmed by the position in which I found -myself placed that I foolishly held my tongue. I had hoped that certain -facts would not become public. Those facts Mr. Winthrop has maliciously -distorted. I have been guilty of a blunder, not a crime." - -"I would be most happy to believe you, Miss Thornton," said the -Secretary gravely; "but to probe this matter to the bottom I must ask -certain questions." - -"Which I will gladly answer." - -"Did Senator Carew call on you on Monday night?" - -"He did, reaching my house about nine-thirty, just before the rain -commenced." - -"Did anyone else know that he was there?" - -"Only my Japanese butler, Fugi, who admitted him. My cousin, Mrs. -Truxton, who is spending the winter with me, had gone to bed -immediately after dinner." - -"Was Annette in the house?" asked Brett quickly. - -"No, it was her evening out. She returned shortly after the Senator -left." - -"At what hour did he go?" questioned the Secretary. - -"About half-past twelve o'clock." - -"Wasn't that rather an unusual hour for him to stay?" - -Eleanor colored warmly. "It was most unusual," she admitted. "But the -pouring rain was responsible for that. He telephoned for a herdic cab -or a taxi, but they were all engaged, and he waited, hoping that one -would eventually be sent to my house." - -"Mr. Winthrop spoke of an awning at your door, Miss Thornton," again -broke in Brett. "I have passed your house a number of times and have -never seen one." - -"I had a large tea on Monday afternoon, and had the awning put up for -that occasion, as the weather was threatening and my house stands some -distance from the curb. The awning was removed early the next morning." - -"It is not so very far from your house to the Senator's residence," -mused the Secretary. "I should have thought, considering the lateness -of the hour, that he would have walked home." - -"But he was not going home, Mr. Secretary. He told me that he was going -to drive to your house, as he had to see you immediately on your return -that night." - -"Indeed!" The Secretary was bending forward in his eagerness. "Did the -Senator state what he wished to see me about?" - -"Only in a general way. He said that he had that afternoon discovered -proof of a gigantic plot against the United States; that the secrets -of the Government were being betrayed; and that he must give you the -names of the arch traitor and his confederate. He called up your house -by telephone earlier in the afternoon, and found that you were expected -home on the eleven o'clock train." - -"I had intended to take it, but was detained at the last moment by -pressing business and did not reach Washington until the following -night," explained the Secretary. "If he couldn't get a cab, why did -he not call up his own house and send for his carriage earlier in the -evening?" - -"He tried to, Mr. Secretary, but his telephone was out of order, and no -one answered the stable call." - -"How, then, did he get his own carriage?" - -"My drawing-room windows look out on Nineteenth Street, and the -Senator, in one of his numerous trips to discover if the rain was -letting up, saw his carriage standing in front of my door. He -recognized the horses and Hamilton by the light from the lamp-post -under which they stood, waiting for the long queue of carriages -ahead to move up the street. The Senator instantly decided to enter -his carriage, wait for Cynthia, and then drive to your house, Mr. -Secretary." - -"So that's how he got into the carriage without getting wet," cried -Brett; "the awning protected him. I suppose he just popped into his -carriage and said nothing to Hamilton, as he intended to wait for his -niece, and Hamilton was too befuddled with drink and the storm to -notice the opening and closing of the door. Did you watch the Senator -leave the house?" - -Eleanor shook her head. "No," she said. - -"Miss Thornton,"--the Secretary bent forward impressively,--"were you -engaged to Senator Carew?" - -Eleanor's color rose, but she faced the keen eyes watching her -unflinchingly. "No, Mr. Secretary; the Senator did me the honor to ask -me to marry him on Monday night, but I refused." - -"Then you deny running out after his carriage, which Mr. Winthrop -declares you did?" - -"No, sir, I do not deny it. Mr. Winthrop is quite right." She paused, -and the men looked at her expectantly. "I have a quest in life--not the -one attributed to me by this gentleman,"--waving her hand scornfully -toward Winthrop, who was listening to her statement with an incredulous -smile distorting his features,--"but an honorable legacy which my dear -mother left me to execute. - -"On bidding me a hasty good night, Senator Carew, whether in jest or -earnest, told me that, if I would marry him, he would assist me to -bring my mission to a successful conclusion." - -"Would you mind stating what this quest is?" asked the Secretary. - -Eleanor hesitated. "It is a family matter, and I would rather not go -into it just now. But--if necessary--I promise to explain later." - -The Secretary did not press the point. "Continue your story, Miss -Thornton." - -"About five minutes or more after the Senator left I came -to the conclusion that my duty"--she glanced appealingly at -Douglas--"compelled me to marry him. On an impulse, I picked up my -cloak, which was hanging on the hall rack, opened the front door, and -ran down to the curb. - -"The Carew landau is easily recognized, and after peering up and down -the street I saw that it had moved up several doors. Without stopping -to think or consider the consequences, I ran down the street to the -carriage and opened the door----" She stopped, breathless. - -"Go on, go on," urged Douglas. - -"I opened the door," she repeated, "and, as God is my witness, I found -Senator Carew sitting there--_dead._" - - - - -CHAPTER XXI - -AN INTERNATIONAL INTRIGUE - - -As her voice ceased on the last solemn word Eleanor read astonishment -and incredulity written on her listeners' faces, and her heart sank. -She bit her lips to hide their trembling. - -"How did you discover Senator Carew was dead, Miss Thornton?" asked -the Secretary harshly. "It has been testified that the interior of the -landau was dark and that the carriage lamps had been extinguished." - -"I did not see he was dead,"--Eleanor hesitated. "After opening the -carriage door I spoke to him several times. On getting no reply, I -put out my hand and accidentally touched his chest, and my fingers -encountered the round base of the letter file." Her large eyes filled -with horror at the recollection. "I did not, of course, know what -it was then, but I realized that something was dreadfully wrong. -The Senator's silence, the touch of that cold metal in such a place -terrified me. I drew back, instinctively closed the carriage door, and -fled to my house. The next morning I heard of the murder from Annette." - -"Why did you not come forward with this information then?" asked Brett -sternly. - -"Because I was afraid." Eleanor threw out her hands appealingly. "I -had no one to verify my statements, and I feared I would be charged -with the crime. Confident of my own innocence, I did not think any -information I might furnish would assist the arrest of the guilty -person." - -"You should have spoken sooner," said Colonel Thornton sharply. -He tempered his rebuke by rising and leading Eleanor to his -own comfortable chair, into which she sank wearily. "But the -harm your silence has done can fortunately be remedied. Philip -Winthrop,"--swinging around on the young man,--"your plea that you -lacked the weapon used is puerile; you could easily have picked one -up at the club; letter files are kept on most desks. Knowing where -Senator Carew was to be on Monday night, you laid your plans carefully -beforehand, and with devilish ingenuity picked out an unusual weapon, -so that it would be harder to trace the murder to you." - -"You lie!" growled Winthrop fiercely; then, addressing them all, "I -had nothing whatever to do with the Senator's death. She did it, though -your misplaced sympathy blinds you to the truth." - -"Miss Thornton's sex will not shield her," declared the Secretary -firmly, "if she be guilty--but, Mr. Winthrop, your story will also be -investigated to the minutest detail. Until your innocence is proved -without a shadow of a doubt you will consider yourself under arrest. -Brett will see that the proper papers are made out." - -Winthrop blanched. "I'm--I'm--in no condition to go to jail," he -stammered. "It is monstrous!" - -"Just a moment," broke in Douglas. He had been deep in thought, and had -paid but little attention to their conversation. "You say, Winthrop, -that the letter file used to slay Senator Carew belonged to a desk set -given to Miss Thornton by Miss Cynthia Carew." - -"I do," exclaimed Winthrop positively. - -Eleanor's surprise was reflected in her uncle's face. Was Douglas -taking sides against her? Her eyes filled with tears, which she winked -hastily away. - -"Have you such a desk set, Eleanor?" demanded Douglas. - -"Yes, Cynthia gave it to me last Christmas." - -"Is the letter file missing?" - -The answer was slow in coming. "Yes," she breathed faintly. - -"Ah! What did I tell you?" cried Winthrop triumphantly. - -Douglas paid no attention to him, but continued to address Eleanor. -"Where do you keep this desk set?" - -"In the writing room across the hall from my drawing-room." - -"Describe your first floor, please, Eleanor." - -"The drawing-room is to the left of the front door; to the right -is the small writing room, back of that the staircase, and back of -the drawing-room is the dining room. The house is what is called -three-quarters." - -"I see. Does the dining room communicate with the drawing-room?" - -"Yes; there are old-fashioned sliding doors between the two rooms." - -"Do you use portières?" - -"Yes, on all the doors." - -Douglas smiled at her encouragingly, then he turned to the four men. -"Miss Thornton has testified that no one of her household knew that -Senator Carew was with her Monday night. She is mistaken. There was -one other person who knew that fact; who had ample opportunity to -overhear her conversation with the Senator; to take the letter file -from the desk in the writing room, and steal after him when he left, -open the carriage door, and stab him." - -"Who was it?" questioned Eleanor breathlessly, while the others hung on -his words. - -"The servant who admitted him." - -"Fugi!" gasped Thornton. "My God! I believe you're right. But the -motive, man?" - -"An international intrigue." Douglas caught the Secretary's eye, who -nodded appreciatively. "Miss Thornton has already stated that Senator -Carew told her that he had discovered proof of a plot against this -country, that the secrets of this government were being betrayed, that -he knew the names of the spy or spies, and that he was on the way to -inform the Secretary of State. Concealed in one of the portières, Fugi -overheard all this, and, to save his own life, killed Senator Carew." - -"You've solved it," declared Brett, rising. "I'll run over to your -house now, Miss Thornton, and catch Fugi before he can get away." - -"I don't think you'll find him there," interposed Eleanor. "Mrs. -Truxton went out in my motor for a drive this afternoon, and Fugi, who -acts as chauffeur as well as butler, is driving the car. I expect them -here at any moment." - -"So much the better." - -"There is a car drawn up alongside of mine now," exclaimed the -Secretary, who had gone over to the window overlooking the street. - -Brett started for the door, but, before he reached it, it was flung -open and Mrs. Truxton precipitated herself into the room. Her hat was -cocked on one side in the most rakish manner and her flushed face -testified to her perturbed state of mind. - -"I've found you, Mr. Secretary!" she exclaimed, slamming the door shut. -"Don't go," as Brett moved past her. "I went to your house, then to the -State Department----" She stopped, breathless. - -"Sit down," said the Secretary soothingly, "and tell me why you wished -to see me so urgently." - -"Oh, dear, I'm so confused!" Mrs. Truxton drew a long breath, then -plunged into her story. "I stopped at our house, Eleanor, as I had -forgotten to bring my writing materials here. I found my letter book in -my room where I had left it, and, on opening it, discovered this letter -addressed to you, Mr. Secretary"--drawing out an envelope from her -handbag. "I can't conceive where it came from," added the poor woman, -"except that I left my letter book in Eleanor's drawing-room on Monday -night on my way to bed. I was up early Tuesday morning before any of -the servants were down, and, on entering the drawing-room, found my -letter book still lying on the table, with several of its leaves turned -over. I gathered up all the papers without looking at them carefully, -and took them up to my desk and laid them away in a drawer. This is the -first time I have opened the letter book, for in your absence, Eleanor, -I have used your writing room." Mrs. Truxton paused to take breath. -"It's marked 'important,' and that's why I hurried after you; besides, -handwriting is like a photograph to me, and I never forget one I have -seen--that letter is from Senator Carew." - -"Good God! the missing letter!" shouted Brett. - -The Secretary took the letter from Mrs. Truxton and tore it open, and, -in a voice of suppressed excitement, read its contents aloud. - - "MY DEAR MR. SECRETARY: - - "I am writing to you in case I do not see you before you attend the - Cabinet meeting to-morrow morning. Your servant tells me that you - are expected home on a late train to-night, but I may be detained - in reaching your house, or the train may be later than scheduled, - and therefore I might miss you. The President will reach Washington - to-morrow on the _Mayflower_ from his trip down the Chesapeake, and it - is impossible for me to reach him to-night. - - "I have discovered that Colombia is inciting Panama to revolt. We - are not too well liked down there as it is. I have also discovered - that Japan will take a hand in the game. The Island of Gorgona, in - the Pacific, which belongs to a wealthy Colombian, has a magnificent - harbor--the Harbor of Trinidad--and it has been offered to the latter - nation as a coaling station. Japan does not have to appeal to European - nations to finance a war; the South Americans will provide funds. They - are jealous of our growing prestige, our increasing commerce, and fear - our colonization. We reached out and grasped Panama, and they think - we are casting covetous glances at Mexico and other countries to the - South. Japan has also been guaranteed the Philippines. - - "I induced Douglas Hunter, attaché of the American Embassy at Tokio, - to make certain investigations. I expect to see him to-morrow, and, if - he has discovered anything of material value, I will bring him with me - to the State Department at once. - - "In making these researches I find perfidy and dishonor exists in an - astounding quarter. Government secrets are being betrayed by a paid - spy and traitor--Dana Thornton----" - -A chair was dashed aside, and, before anyone could move, Colonel -Thornton had thrown open the hall door and disappeared. So totally -unexpected was the _dénouement_ that the others sat too stunned to -move, and that moment's respite gave Thornton his chance. The roar of -a motor broke the spell, and the men, galvanized into sudden action, -raced to the front door, only in time to see Eleanor's powerful car, -far down the street, with Colonel Thornton at the wheel. He turned the -machine into Wisconsin Avenue and disappeared. - - - - -CHAPTER XXII - -THE PURSUIT - - -"Take my car!" called the Secretary of State, as Brett and Douglas -started up the street on a run. They turned and rejoined the Secretary -as the latter's chauffeur, attracted by the disturbance, hastened out -of the garden, where he had gone to get a glass of water. - -The three men sprang into the machine, and in a few seconds were off. -They swung into Wisconsin Avenue and sped on up that thoroughfare. -The avenue was almost deserted at that hour, and the Sunday quiet was -only broken by the whirr of their car as it gained headway. Far in -the distance they could descry Thornton's motor, and, in obedience to -Brett's order, the chauffeur increased his speed. - -On and on they went. A bicycle policeman shouted at them as they -whizzed by and, clambering on his machine, started in pursuit. They -passed a crowded trolley car, and the passengers stared at their mad -speed. They reached the outskirts of Georgetown and the more open -country beyond. They gained on the car ahead of them, and Brett shouted -aloud with the joy of the chase as they drew nearer. They passed the -Naval Observatory, cut across Massachusetts Avenue extended, just -shaving several other automobiles, the startled drivers thereof wasting -their breath in sending endless curses after them. They swept past the -Cathedral Close and continued their race along the Rockville pike. - -As they approached the River Road they saw Thornton turn his car, -scarcely reducing his speed, and cut across the road. It was a -dangerous corner at any time, and as the front wheels made the turn the -body of the car slued around. There was a grinding, splintering crash -as the car struck one of the tall poles supporting the overhead trolley -wires, and the big machine turned turtle. - -Brett's chauffeur put on a final burst of speed, and the limousine -leaped madly down the road. A cry of horror broke from the three men as -a tongue of flame shot up from the overturned car ahead of them. - -"By Heavens! the gasolene has ignited!" gasped Douglas. He was on the -running board when the car slowed down near Thornton's motor. The -latter was a mass of flames. Douglas sprang to the ground, and the -others followed him. "Get some fence rails," he directed. "We must try -and lift the car so that Thornton can crawl out." - -In a few minutes the men were back with boards torn from a nearby -fence, but in that short time the flames had gained headway, and they -were driven back by the intense heat. Unfortunately there was no loose -sand at hand. An outgoing trolley car stopped, and several passengers -ran to Douglas' aid. The fence boards caught fire and had to be put -out, but finally the car was raised a slight distance from the ground, -and a cry of exultation broke from the toiling men, only to die into a -groan as a sharp explosion, followed by a heavier detonation, rang out. -Dropping their hold on the boards, the men bolted to a safe distance -down the road. - -"It's hopeless!" gasped Brett. "No man can live in that fiery furnace." - -Douglas groaned aloud. He had been shocked beyond measure by the -discovery of Thornton's guilt and treachery, for he had liked him, and -had accepted his hospitality. It was horrible to see him meet such a -fate. Better the electric chair than being roasted alive. - -"Perhaps he jumped from the car before it turned turtle," he suggested. - -"It's hardly likely," exclaimed Brett dubiously. "Still, we might look -along the road. We can do no good over there." He shuddered slightly as -he turned to look at the still burning car. The steel and metal work -had been twisted into grotesque shapes by the great heat, which added -to the ghastly picture. - -Their search along the roadside was fruitless, and Douglas and Brett -returned to the Secretary of State's limousine. They had to wait some -time before the flames about the remains of Thornton's car died down -into a smoldering mass. After the fire had burned itself out, Brett, -with the assistance of horror-stricken spectators among the crowd that -had collected with the Aladdin-like magic which characterizes street -gatherings, examined the ground with minute care. Suddenly he moved -over to where Douglas was standing, keeping back the curious crowd, and -beckoned him to one side. - -"Colonel Thornton did not jump from the car, Mr. Hunter," he said -gravely. "We've just found all that's left of him--his ashes." - - - - -CHAPTER XXIII - -THE END OF THE QUEST - - -"And so that was his end!" Eleanor drew a long, shuddering breath. -"Poor Uncle Dana! Douglas, do you really think he was guilty?" - -"I'm afraid so," sorrowfully. "The very fact that he was trying to -escape proves it; otherwise he would have stayed here and faced an -investigation." - -"It's dreadful, dreadful!" moaned Eleanor. "And almost unbelievable. -A traitor! A murderer! But"--checking herself--"that last hasn't been -proved." - -"That's Brett's voice," exclaimed Douglas, springing from his chair and -crossing to the hall door. "Come in, Brett; Miss Thornton and I are -sitting in the library." - -The detective gave his hat and light overcoat to Nicodemus and followed -Douglas back into the room, first closing the door carefully behind him. - -"Has Captain Lane been here yet?" he inquired. - -"Yes, he came over at once on being released. Mrs. Truxton took him -upstairs to see Cynthia, who is rapidly improving, now that the mystery -of Senator Carew's death is solved and Fred cleared of any complicity -in it," explained Eleanor. - -"Then would you mind asking Captain Lane to come down, Miss Thornton? -I have several pieces of news which I must tell you, and I think his -presence is necessary." Eleanor looked at him questioningly, and he -added hastily, "He won't be involved in any further trouble." - -"What tragedies have happened since I reached this house twenty-four -hours ago," exclaimed Douglas, pacing the room restlessly. "Annette's -death last night, and now the Colonel----" He did not finish his -sentence, but instead stopped before the full-length portrait of a -dead and gone Thornton, and gazed moodily at the painted face. From -that gallant naval hero to Dana Thornton, traitor, was indeed a great -descent. "A good man gone wrong," he commented, finally. - -"An accomplished scoundrel," growled Brett. He stopped speaking as -Eleanor reëntered the room, followed by Fred Lane. The young officer -showed the ordeal he had gone through that morning and afternoon by the -deep lines under his eyes and around his mouth. He bowed curtly to -Douglas and Brett. - -"You wish to see me?" he asked. - -"Sit down, please." Brett pushed forward a chair for Eleanor, and the -others grouped themselves about the center table. By common consent -they all avoided Colonel Thornton's favorite armchair. "I am anxious to -have a talk with you because there are several loose threads to this -mystery which must be straightened out." - -"What are they?" questioned Lane impatiently; he longed to be back with -Cynthia. - -"On my return from the River Road to headquarters I found an answer -from the Paris police to my cable. They tell me, Miss Thornton, that -your maid, Annette, was an international spy." - -"Great heavens!" ejaculated Eleanor, in round-eyed astonishment. - -"She was also in the habit of impersonating you." Eleanor's face was a -study. "She had clothes made exactly like yours, even her kimono was -a duplicate. From what I hear, Mr. Hunter, I judge Annette, who you -recollect was in the hall when we were discussing the mysterious letter -written by Senator Carew, decided to try and find it, and that's why -she paid you a visit in the library last Tuesday night. She did not -know that I had asked you to sleep there." - -"I was grossly deceived in her," declared Eleanor bitterly. "I presume -her splendid recommendations were all----" - -"Forgeries," supplemented Brett. "Quite right, they must have been. I -have just talked with one of the nurses from Providence Hospital who -attended Philip Winthrop, and he declares that he caught Annette trying -to give Philip a sleeping powder. Probably she wished to reap all the -reward that she could, through blackmail and otherwise, and was afraid -if Philip saw me that he would spoil her 'scoop.' With her usual habit -of involving you, Miss Thornton, she made that crazy fool believe you -were drugging him." - -"Will you please explain to me," broke in Fred Lane, "why Mrs. Winthrop -swore out a warrant for my arrest? What led her to believe me guilty?" - -"Mrs. Winthrop wished me to tell you, Captain Lane, that she bitterly -regrets her hasty action. I never saw anyone so completely broken up. -It seems she wanted that graceless stepson of hers to marry her niece, -Miss Carew, so that he would eventually inherit the Carew fortune. Then -she has a natural antipathy for you because you are your father's -son, and she was, unfortunately, only too ready to believe you guilty. -Annette told her a number of lies,"--Brett shrugged his shoulders -expressively,--"and there you have it--along with other circumstantial -evidence, which would have pretty nearly convicted you." - -Lane flushed angrily. "So Mrs. Winthrop took the word of a worthless -servant, the better to humiliate me...." - -"Had Annette any grounds for her accusation?" questioned Brett swiftly. -"Mrs. Owen said her library desk file mysteriously disappeared the -night of her dance." - -"A coincidence which I cannot account for," declared Lane, looking the -detective squarely in the eye. "It may be that Annette saw the end of -my silver handled umbrella which I was carrying, and in the uncertain -light mistook it for a weapon of some sort." - -"Considering Annette's natural disposition to lie," broke in Douglas, -"I think it highly probable that she made up the story, and told it to -Miss Carew." - -"And probably promised to keep silent if Miss Carew paid her," -suggested Brett scornfully. "It's too bad Miss Carew permitted the maid -to blackmail her." - -"What about the threatening letters to Senator Carew which Mrs. -Winthrop thought I sent?" inquired Lane. - -"Philip Winthrop wrote them." - -"The miserable scoundrel!" ejaculated Lane. - -"He was that and more--the Secretary of State and I took him back home -in the former's motor, and when we had done grilling him we had cleared -up many details in regard to this international intrigue. Through -Senator Carew's letter and Winthrop's disclosures the intrigue has been -nipped in the bud before more serious results can happen." - -"Thank God for that!" exclaimed Douglas devoutly. - -"It seems that Philip Winthrop has been a go-between for a wealthy -Colombian, whose name he obstinately withholds, and some person -whom the conspirators called 'our mutual friend.' Strange to say, -Philip declares he never knew until Carew's letter was read that the -mysterious individual was Colonel Dana Thornton. He says he gave all -communications for the 'mutual friend' to Annette, and Annette, if you -please, made him believe that the spy was--Miss Thornton." - -"Well, upon my word!" cried Eleanor, her eyes blazing with indignation. -"I was a nice cat's-paw for her. Do you know, I believe she, and not -my uncle, killed Senator Carew." - -"I'm sorry,"--Brett hesitated, then went slowly on. "I'm sorry to say -there's no doubt but that Colonel Thornton did murder the Senator. I -don't want to inflict any more pain than necessary, Miss Thornton, -but you will hear the details from others if not from me. I have seen -Soto, your Japanese cook, and he swore that Colonel Thornton called at -your house on Monday night, just after the Senator's arrival, and Fugi -admitted him. On being informed that Senator Carew was with you, your -uncle told the butler not to announce him, but that he would wait in -the writing room until the Senator left. Soto showed me an umbrella -which Fugi had carried to the kitchen to dry for the Colonel. It has -your uncle's initials engraved on the handle, and Nicodemus positively -identified it as belonging to the Colonel when I showed it to him on my -arrival here just now. - -"On being pressed, Soto also admitted that late Monday night he left -your house to post a letter. As he came up the area steps to the -terraced walk, which was covered by the awning, leading from the house -to the sidewalk, he almost collided with Senator Carew, who seemed -buried in thought and did not notice his approach. Soto drew back -respectfully toward the area steps to let him pass. As the Senator -entered his carriage another man sped down your high front steps, and, -on reaching the carriage, pulled open the door and entered the vehicle, -which then moved on. Soto swears solemnly that this last man was -Colonel Thornton." - -Eleanor drew a long, sobbing breath, and glanced helplessly at the -others. Her uncle was not only a traitor but a murderer. Her worst -fears were realized. None cared to break the pause, and, after waiting -a moment, Brett took up his narrative where he had left off. - -"It must be, Miss Thornton, that your uncle overheard all or part of -your conversation with the Senator. He probably waited in the writing -room until the Senator left the house, picked up the letter file, as -he had no other weapon handy, and stole after him. Hamilton was too -drunk to notice anything. The horses probably moved up the street of -their own accord when the preceding carriages made room for them to -advance. It was unpremeditated murder, and yet chance concealed Colonel -Thornton's tracks most successfully." - -"You are right," agreed Douglas. "If Annette had found Carew's letter -to the Secretary of State instead of Mrs. Truxton, Thornton would have -escaped detection." - -"Annette was always complaining of Mrs. Truxton's early rising," -Eleanor laughed hysterically, then cried a little. - -"My darling, let me get you some wine!" exclaimed Douglas in distress. - -"No, no, sit down!" Eleanor clutched his coat. "Don't pay any attention -to me; I'll be all right in a minute." - -"Fugi has disappeared," went on Brett, after a brief silence. "I think -he overheard our conversation here this afternoon, for Nicodemus says -he was loitering in the hall. On searching his room at your house, Miss -Thornton, I found evidence, through certain papers, that he had been in -your uncle's pay." - -"He thought it wiser to bolt," commented Fred Lane. "I have no doubt he -knew more of affairs than we are giving him credit for." - -"It's a great pity, Miss Thornton, that you kept silent so long," said -Brett. "If I had known that Senator Carew spent the evening with you, -and also about the awning, I would have cleared up this mystery sooner." - -"I should have spoken." Eleanor looked so troubled that Douglas sat -down on the arm of her chair and took her hand gently in his. As -his strong grasp tightened she formed a sudden resolution. "There -is another reason for my silence which I have not told you; wait a -moment," and she rose and hurriedly left the room. - -The men smoked in silence until her return. "The room is very dark, -won't you light another burner, Douglas?" she asked, on her return. She -waited until her wish had been complied with, then, as the men seated -themselves near her, she began her story. "On Tuesday morning, just -after I had heard of Senator Carew's death, I received a cardboard box -containing jewels. That in itself bewildered me, but I was astounded by -the message written in an unknown hand which I found on a card inside -the box." As she spoke she opened the small box which she had just -brought into the room with her. "Here is the card; read the message -aloud, Douglas." - -"'_The appointment was not kept. Well done._'" - -Douglas laid the card on the desk and the three men looked at each -other in amazement. - -"The message frightened me horribly," continued Eleanor. "I realized -that some one must have thought me guilty of the Senator's death--and -_approved_ of it. The mystery of it appalled me. I did not know whom -to take into my confidence; so I put the jewels into my strong box and -said nothing, hoping that I would be able to ferret out the mystery by -myself." - -"Let us see the jewels," suggested Douglas. - -Eleanor opened the box and pulled off the top layer of cotton, then -rolled the necklace of rubies on the table, where the stones lay -glittering under the strong light. - -"They are superb!" exclaimed Douglas, while a low murmur of admiration -broke from Lane. - -"Their almost priceless value frightened me more than anything else," -explained Eleanor. "I could not imagine who had sent them to me----" - -"That's easily answered." Brett picked up the necklace and examined it -minutely. "This necklace was sent you by the man who stole it." - -"What?" ejaculated the two men, while Eleanor collapsed limply in her -chair. - -"These are the Hemmingway rubies," went on Brett. "They were stolen -about a month ago in New York, and the police of this country and -Europe were notified of their loss. I have here," drawing out a leather -wallet and extracting a thin, typewritten sheet, "one of the notices -sent to headquarters. Let me refresh my memory." He skimmed over -the lines, then a shout of exultation escaped him. "Listen: 'Mrs. -Hemmingway was entertaining a house party at the time of the theft. -Among her guests were Mr. and Mrs. Henry St. John, of Philadelphia; -Miss Snyder, of Chicago; Colonel Dana Thornton, of Washington----'" - -"Oh, no, no!" Eleanor cried, throwing out her arms as if to thrust the -idea from her, then dropped forward and buried her head on her arms on -the table. - -Douglas started to move over to her side, but Brett checked him. "Let -her alone," he advised in an undertone; "it's a shock, but she will -recover." Then, in a louder tone: "By Heavens! that man was a positive -genius!" in reluctant admiration. "He probably heard that the case had -been turned over to the police, although the Hemmingways had asked to -have the search conducted quietly, and therefore it did not reach the -papers. Fearing to keep the necklace in his possession, he sent it to -his niece with a cryptic message which he knew she would not, under -the circumstances, dare show to others, and also reasoned that she -would keep the necklace concealed for the same cause. I don't doubt he -expected her eventually to ask his advice about the jewels and then -he would get them back again, as soon as all danger of detection was -over, on the plea that he would have them returned to the rightful -owner, or some such plausible excuse." - -"Upon my word, such villany exceeds belief." Lane gazed incredulously -at the detective. "And yet I don't doubt you have guessed the right -solution of the problem." - -"Eleanor, dear,"--Douglas turned to the weeping girl. "If you feel -strong enough I wish you would tell us about your quest to which -you alluded this afternoon." Eleanor raised her head and looked -reproachfully at him. "I realize the subject may prove painful to you -at this time, but, Annette having implicated you in her transactions, I -think it is best for you to clear up any seeming mysteries." - -"Perhaps you are right." Eleanor sighed as she wiped away her tears. "I -must first tell you that my mother was Nora Fitzgerald----" - -"The famous actress?" broke in Brett. - -"The same. She gave up the stage when she married my father, Barry -Thornton, then a lieutenant in the United States Navy. Their married -life was unusually happy; therefore it was all the more incredible and -tragic when one day he disappeared----" - -"Disappeared?" echoed Douglas blankly. - -"Disappeared utterly. His ship was at Hampton Roads and he was given -shore leave one day. At the wharf he told the coxswain to come back for -him at ten o'clock that evening, and he walked on up to the hotel. From -that hour to this he has never been seen or heard from." Eleanor paused -and pushed her hair off her forehead, then continued: "A short time -before his mysterious disappearance my father fell from the rigging of -the ship to the deck with such force that he was picked up unconscious. -It is supposed that the fall may have affected his brain, and so -accounted for his subsequent disappearance." - -"That is very likely," commented Lane. "I saw a similar case in the -Philippines, but pardon me, Miss Eleanor, I did not mean to interrupt." - -"Several days after my father's disappearance a nude body was washed -ashore miles below Norfolk. The condition of the body prevented -positive identification, but many persons, among them Uncle Dana, -believed it to be my father. My mother, however, refused to accept that -theory. She was convinced that he was still alive and suffering from -mental aberration. She returned to the stage, first placing me with my -uncle, John Fitzgerald, who brought me up. She visited many cities and -many countries, but could find no trace of my father. Shortly before -her death she sent for me and charged me solemnly to continue her -search, which I have done to the best of my ability." - -"My poor girl," said Douglas softly. - -"My idea has been that if my father was still alive he would pursue his -profession, so I searched the records of other navies, thinking that -perhaps he might be serving under another flag. The day that you saw -me at the Navy Department, Douglas, I had been going over old records, -hoping to find some clew to his present whereabouts." - -Douglas colored hotly as he remembered the construction which he had -put on her presence in the department. "What did you mean," he asked, -"by saying this afternoon that Senator Carew told you he could help you -to bring your quest to a successful conclusion?" - -"Senator Carew said that while in Panama he had seen a man who closely -resembled my father. The stranger apparently did not recognize him, -but so certain was Senator Carew of his identity that he gave him his -visiting card, and insisted that he should call at the Navy Department -in Washington. Douglas, do you recollect asking me about a man who -you thought you saw with me in the elevator at the Navy Department on -Wednesday?" - -"I do." - -"I was terribly excited by your apparently simple question, for in -stating that the man had black hair and blue eyes you exactly described -my father." - -"Great heavens!" Douglas sprang to his feet. "It is most astounding, -but such a man as you describe really did call at the Department that -morning and insisted on seeing the Secretary, saying that he had an -appointment to meet Senator Carew." - -"What became of him?" Eleanor's lovely eyes were aglow with excitement. - -"I don't know. The Secretary and I both thought he had stolen the plans -of the battleships." Eleanor's shocked expression stopped him. "Of -course, now we know it was Colonel Thornton who called there later with -you and Mrs. Wyndham, although how on earth he managed to steal the -plans under the very nose of the Secretary is beyond me." - -"Let me think." Eleanor pressed her hands to her throbbing temples. -"I remember now; it must have been when Uncle Dana was using the desk -telephone. He was leaning forward across the desk, and I recall that -I noticed he had his right hand in a drawer; I couldn't see very -distinctly, as his body was between us and the drawer and his overcoat -was also thrown on the desk. Mrs. Wyndham was looking at a book, and -the Secretary was coughing his head off by the further window, with his -back toward us." - -Brett struck the table a resounding blow with his clenched fist. - -"By George, but he was slick! The smartest criminal I've run across in -years." - -A discreet tap sounded on the library door, and a muffled voice asked: -"'Scuse me, but am Miss Eleanor in dar?" - -"Come in, Nicodemus," called Eleanor. The old darky entered and, -circling the table, handed her a note on the silver salver. She hastily -tore it open and read its contents. "I must consult Cousin Kate," she -announced, rising hastily, "before I can answer this." - -"We must all be going," said Brett, following her into the hall, while -Nicodemus paused to put out the lights. "One moment, Miss Thornton, -will you please give me the ruby necklace." - -"Why, I handed it to you," ejaculated Eleanor, in surprise, turning -back from the staircase. - -"I beg your pardon," said Brett, with positiveness. "I saw Mr. Hunter -drop it on the table in front of you." Douglas and the young officer -joined them. - -"So he did," declared Lane, and with the others followed Eleanor as she -hastily reëntered the library. - -"Why, it's not anywhere on the table." Eleanor felt among the table -ornaments. "Douglas, do light the gas," in growing alarm. - -"Where in thunder are the matches?" growled Douglas, overturning a -vase on the secretary in his endeavors to find a matchbox. "Got any, -Nicodemus?" as a figure brushed by him in the darkness and approached -the chimney. The other men were busy searching vainly in their pockets -for a match. - -"Good for you, Nicodemus," called Douglas, as a tiny flame appeared -in the direction of the chimney. "Bring it over here and light this -chandelier." His order was not obeyed. - -The flickering light grew stronger, and then Douglas realized that it -was burning some distance from the servant. The flame became stronger, -and by its rays a face grew out of the surrounding darkness. A strong, -handsome face, whose pallor was enhanced by the heavy black beard and -dark shaggy eyebrows. The eyes were fixed on Nicodemus, who stood in -the shadow with his back to the rest, and the two stared unblinkingly -at each other. The silence was intolerable. Eleanor and the three -men stood transfixed, too astounded to move. Suddenly a choking sob -burst from Nicodemus. He threw out his arms as if to ward off some -overmastering horror, swayed forward, and fell heavily to the floor. - -The candle flickered suddenly as it was raised and applied to a wall -gas jet. The sudden light caused the spellbound spectators of the -scene to blink violently; then, as their eyes grew accustomed to the -illumination, they made out the figure of a tall man in nondescript -clothes standing near the chimney. - -"Who--who are you, and where in hell did you come from?" gasped Brett. - -"I am Barry Thornton, formerly of the United States Navy." The newcomer -caught sight of Eleanor, and stretched out his arms pleadingly. "My -dear, dear daughter." - -Eleanor, grown deadly white, clutched the table for support. "I don't -understand," she stammered. - -"I forgot." The newcomer's arms dropped to his side. "You were too -young to remember me when I last saw you. Fortunately," meeting Brett's -incredulous stare, "Nicodemus knows me." - -"Your spectacular appearance seems to have knocked him silly," -exclaimed Captain Lane, regaining his voice. "I reckon we'll have to -bring him around before he can identify you properly." - -"Nicodemus, tell these gentlemen who I am," commanded the newcomer. - -"Yo' is my marse, Cap'n Barry Thornton, suh." The voice came from -behind Douglas, and all in the room wheeled in that direction. There -stood Nicodemus, his eyes starting from his head, his face gray with -fright. He had entered unnoticed a second before. - -Eleanor's senses were reeling. With desperate effort she controlled -herself. "Then who is that?" she cried, frantically, pointing to the -motionless figure which was partly hidden from their view by the divan. - -For answer the newcomer stepped forward and thrust the sofa to one -side, then stooped and rolled the figure over, disclosing the white -hair and well-known features of Colonel Dana Thornton. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIV - -THE FINAL EXPLANATION - - -Douglas caught Eleanor as she fell and carried her to the lounge. - -"Get some water and wine, Lane," he directed, and the young officer -sped out of the room, to return quickly with Nicodemus bearing the -necessary articles. Douglas forced some of the stimulant between -Eleanor's clenched teeth, and bathed her temples and hands with the -iced water, and, to his infinite relief, he had the satisfaction of -seeing her open her eyes. - -"Father," she murmured, "Father!" - -"I am here." The tall, sad-faced man stooped over her, and she -placed her trembling hand against his cheek. "Don't look so wild, my -darling,"--as recollection returned fully to her. "Think no more of -it," and he laid his hand softly over her eyes. She smiled like a tired -child, and, reaching over, laid her hand in Douglas', then, reassured, -lay still. Seen together, the likeness between father and daughter -was obvious. Eleanor had inherited his handsome deep blue eyes, long -eyelashes, and brilliant coloring. - -Brett rose from beside the still figure. "He's dead--this time," he -said tersely. "Apoplexy. It beats me how he got out of that burning -automobile." - -"He wasn't in it," said Barry Thornton calmly. - -"He wasn't?" Brett's excitement overcame him. "Why, I saw him with my -own eyes." - -"You saw him leave here, yes; but you probably did not notice that -the Japanese chauffeur was crouching at his feet in the car. When the -machine turned into Wisconsin Avenue, out of your sight, my brother -slowed down and sprang out, giving his hat to the Japanese, who took -his place at the wheel and raced the machine up Wisconsin Avenue." - -"Well, I'll be damned!" ejaculated Brett. "So it was poor Fugi who was -burned up. But, good Lord! when Colonel Thornton had made so successful -a getaway what induced him to put his head in the lion's mouth by -returning here, and what was he doing in this room?" - -"If you search his pockets you may find out," was the cryptic reply as -Barry Thornton drew up a chair by Eleanor's couch and seated himself. - -Brett thrust his hand first in one pocket of the dead man's clothing -and then in another. In the last one he jerked it out again as if -his fingers had been bitten. In his hand dangled the priceless ruby -necklace and a wallet filled with bank notes! Brett sat down on the -floor, for once speechless. - -"How did you know it?" he asked finally. - -Barry Thornton raised his disengaged hand and pointed to the portrait -of his ancestor and namesake. "I was watching this scene through -those peepholes,"--an exclamation escaped Douglas,--"you almost -caught me this morning, Mr. Hunter. This old house is honeycombed -with secret passages. My brother kept a large sum of money in a -secret drawer in that desk. He probably needed funds to assist him in -escaping from this country, so came back here and entered the house -by means of one of the secret passages. He has been concealed behind -that sliding panel,"--pointing to an aperture in the wall near the -chimney,--"waiting to slip into this room. He seized the opportunity -when Nicodemus put out the lights, and left by the billiard room door, -to steal the necklace as well as get his money. Your reëntering the -room flustered him, and he was making in haste for the secret passage -when I stepped out of it and faced him. Thinking me dead years -ago--his escape barred--the shock proved too much...." Thornton did not -complete his sentence. There was a moment's silence. - -"I think it would be as well, Mr. Thornton, that we remove your -brother's body to his room," suggested Douglas, recovering somewhat -from his astonishment. - -"Well, I don't know about that; the coroner----" objected Brett -dubiously. - -"We can all testify to the details of Colonel Thornton's death," put in -Lane. "But we cannot leave him lying here on his own floor. His death -was natural, brought on by shock." - -"Very well, sir." Brett rose and walked to the door. He returned in -a moment with a plain-clothes policeman, and, with the assistance of -Douglas and Lane, all that was mortal of Dana Thornton was carried to -his room. Barry Thornton had requested them to return, and Douglas, -Lane, and Brett trooped back to the library. - -"Eleanor has told me of her long search," began Thornton. "My -disappearance came from lapse of memory, and the latter was brought on -by a fall on shipboard. That fall,"--deliberately,--"was caused by my -brother, Dana." - -"Oh, Father!" Eleanor sat bolt upright. - -"Yes, I had found out some of his deviltries and taxed him with them. -I told him I would expose him if he did not mend his ways, and he -promised to do so. He visited me on board ship, and while he was there -I had occasion to mount the rigging. He followed me up, and managed to -push me as I was swinging from one of the ropes. I lost my balance and -fell, with what result you already know." - -"The fiend!" cried Eleanor, bitterly. "And I trusted him so." - -"His ability to inspire confidence has been his greatest asset," said -her father dryly. "After leaving the gig that day at Old Point Comfort, -everything is a blank to me." - -"What brought back your memory?" asked Douglas. - -"A chance remark overheard in a drinking hell of Colon, Panama. Two -days before that a man whose face was dimly familiar met me in the -streets of Cristobal and gave me his card, telling me I must ask for -him at the Navy Department at Washington, and that the Secretary was -keeping a place open for me. At the time, while his words impressed me -deeply, they conveyed no very clear idea, nor did Senator Carew's name -enlighten me; but they caused me to renew my efforts to remember the -past, which I felt convinced was very different from my surroundings -then. - -"As I have said, two days after I overheard two men plotting against -the United States. Toward the end of their conversation the younger -man, whom I took to be an American, mentioned the name which woke the -sleeping chords of memory--the name of my dearly loved wife, Nora -Fitzgerald,"--his voice broke with a sob. Eleanor raised his hand -to her lips and kissed it tenderly. Her father's grasp tightened -involuntarily and he continued: - -"I hastened back to Washington as soon as I could get here, working -my passage, and on my arrival went to see Secretary Wyndham. The news -of Senator Carew's death was a great shock, for I had depended on him -to assist me to find my wife and child. I believe I had some sort of -attack at the Department, but all I recollect is finding myself again -in the street." - -"What did you do then?" questioned Douglas, as the older man paused. - -"I came on here, thinking I might find Dana. He was out, but old -Nicodemus opened the door for me. He recognized me almost instantly; -hurried me out into the kitchen, and there poured out such an -extraordinary tale of Dana's behavior that I sat dumfounded." - -"Do tell us what he said," urged Brett, hitching his chair forward. - -"In justice to myself I must," was the grave reply. "Dana was a moral -degenerate; brave to a fault, and very clever, he did not know the -difference between right and wrong. If he had been content to keep -straight he might have risen to high places; instead he practiced -deceit and dishonor." Thornton's sad face hardened. "He was always a -first class actor, and that talent helped him in the double life he -was leading. Nicodemus told me that he was in the habit of disguising -himself whenever he was up to deviltry." - -"Ah, that explains why Annette did not know that Dana Thornton was 'the -mutual friend' to whom she delivered and from whom she received secret -despatches," put in Brett, who had followed Captain Thornton's words -with breathless interest. - -"After what Nicodemus told me I decided not to let my brother know of -my presence here," continued Captain Thornton, "and so occupied an -unused room in the garret, where Nicodemus took care of me." - -"Oh, why didn't you come to me?" asked Eleanor passionately. - -"I did, dear; yesterday morning, but you were out." An exclamation -broke from Eleanor. "I did not leave any message or name, so you were -not told of my visit. Nicodemus told me of my wife's death, and of your -presence in Washington, Eleanor. - -"How I kept my hands off Dana I don't know!" Thornton's eyes blazed -with righteous indignation. "He was the cause of all my misfortunes. -When possible I spied upon him; not an honorable occupation, but I felt -I must fight the devil with fire. When I entered this room just now I -intended to slay him, but Providence intervened and gave him a more -merciful death than I would have meted out to him." - -"I don't know about that," said Brett; "in the hour of his triumph -you snatched his victory from him. God only knows what thoughts were -concentrated in his active brain when physical endurance succumbed to -the shock of seeing you." - -"Perhaps you are right," agreed Thornton wearily. "I think that is all -I have to tell you, gentlemen." - -"There is one question I feel I must ask," Brett rose to his feet as -he spoke. "Did Annette commit suicide, or was she killed by human or -supernatural agency?" - -"I think my brother planned her murder; one crime more or less did not -trouble his elastic conscience." - -"By Heaven! she brought it on herself by offering to confess to Colonel -Thornton what she knew of Senator Carew's murder. But how the devil -did he accomplish it?" questioned Brett. "The only door was locked on -the inside, and no one could have entered by the windows. I examined -all the wall space, thinking there might be a concealed entrance, but -couldn't find a sign of one." - -"But you did not examine the floor of the closet," replied Thornton. -"It has a trapdoor cleverly concealed. The passage leads to a secret -door which opens on the landing of the circular staircase leading from -this floor to the next. My idea is that Dana stole into the room, found -the maid asleep, and blew out the gas, leaving her to be asphyxiated, -and then returned to his room." - -"Did you see him do this?"--sternly. - -"Most certainly not. If I had had the faintest idea that he intended to -murder the maid, I would have prevented the crime. I stayed downstairs -last night, going over some papers in Dana's desk until nearly three -this morning. I was stealing up to my room when I saw Miss Carew coming -down the hall, and, when she screamed and roused the household, I -bolted into the secret passage opening from the stair landing." - -"I am exceedingly obliged to you, sir, for straightening out these -mysteries," said Brett, stepping to the door. "How much do you wish -made public?" - -"Only that which is absolutely necessary to clear the innocent from -suspicion," returned Thornton gravely. "I leave the matter to your -judgment." - -"Very good, sir; I'll hush it up as much as possible. Good -evening,"--and Brett departed. - -Eleanor slipped from the lounge where she had been lying. "Wait for me -here, Father," she requested, as she left the room. - -"Will you excuse me, Mr. Thornton," said Fred Lane, rising. "I would -like to join Mrs. Truxton and Cynthia for half an hour." - -"Certainly, Captain, and I will be exceedingly grateful if you will -explain to Mrs. Truxton what has taken place here to-night. Tell her as -much or as little as you think necessary." - -"I will indeed, sir; good night," and Lane, his step elastic as he -thought of joining Cynthia, hastened to Mrs. Truxton's room. - -Eleanor was not long absent. Walking over to the lounge, she laid a -number of leather-bound journals on her father's knee. - -"Mother kept a diary for you, Father; she charged me never to part with -it until we should meet, when I was to give it to you." - -Thornton kissed her in silence. As Eleanor stood hesitating, Douglas' -arm stole round her waist. "Come with me, dear heart," he murmured. -The lovelight transfigured his strong face and was reflected in her -beautiful eyes. Together they strolled to the door, but before passing -out of the room Eleanor paused and glanced back at her father. - -Thornton's iron composure had given way, and his head was bowed over -the familiar handwriting as he read through tear-dimmed eyes the -messages of love and faith penned by his girl wife in the years that -were no more. - -THE END - - - - -TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES: - - -A change to the List of Illustrations has been made to correct the -typesetters' error for the placement of the illustration facing -page 18. - -Minor changes have been made to correct obvious typesetters' errors -and regularize hyphenation. Variant spellings have been retained. - -Words and phrases that were typeset in the original book have been -noted by an underscore (_) on each side of the word or phrase. - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's The Man Inside, by Natalie Sumner Lincoln - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE MAN INSIDE *** - -***** This file should be named 63223-8.txt or 63223-8.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/6/3/2/2/63223/ - -Produced by D A Alexander and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images generously made available by The -Internet Archive) - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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