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268 and cleared out the machinery—as well as two thousand pounds in genuine English banknotes. I knew their hiding-place and, daring detection, I came here and took them a week ago. Unfortunately, however, the old man, before he left England, told his son where they were. The boy is searching for them, and suspects me of stealing them. If I do not refund them he will go to the police and tell them the whole truth."

"H'm. Pretty awkward for you, eh? I suppose he can tell them some rather queer stories."

"He can. And the worst of it is that the infernal boy has clean hands."

I rose from the chair where I had been sitting, and, assuming my stiffest professional manner, said:

"I'm afraid that it is not in my power to assist you, Mrs. Netherall. I much regret it."

"Not if I give you five thousand pounds in good notes—in gold if you like. You are a clever doctor, and surely the little affair would not be difficult."

"Madam, I am not in the habit of performing such services," I said in stern rebuke.

"What?" she gasped, staring at me in horror as she rose. "You refuse?"