Page:Arthur Stringer - The Door of Dread.djvu/19

 "But how do you know Wilsnach is going to be put on this case?"

"Because he's the only man yuh've got who can round up that gang."

Again a meditative silence fell over the man at the desk. Then he threw aside his pose of hostility, as a man makes ready for work by throwing off his coat.

"Sadie, how old are you?" he quickly inquired.

"Good night!" was the girl's grimly evasive answer.

"You said your name was Wimpel. Have you any other?"

"None worth mentionin'."

"You mean you're not a married woman?"

"Not on your life!"

"And never were?"

A shadow crossed the pert young face under the Bendel hat.

"Me for the single harness!" she announced, with a shrug.

He sat pondering her for a silent moment or two.

"What nationality are you?"

"Come again," said the puzzled girl.

"Are you a good American?"