Page:Under three flags; a story of mystery (IA underthreeflagss00tayliala).pdf/58

 has to do with the mystery—but then I am not a detective or a newspaper man."

"It may have much to do with it," murmurs Ashley. Miss Hathaway looks at him inquiringly.

"What do you think?" she asks.

"Candidly, I don't know what to think," he confesses.

"Will you permit me to turn inquisitor for a few moments?" Miss Hathaway requests. "There are one or two questions I should like to have answered."

"I will answer a thousand," replies Ashley cheerfully, as he meets the direct gaze of the young lady.

"Is there any evidence against Derrick Ames, other than was brought out at the coroner's inquest?"

Ashley notes the anxiety in the voice and hesitates. It may be cruel, but it also may be profitable, so he replies slowly to Miss Hathaway:

"I regret to say that there are a great many things about Ames' movements that will have to be explained away."

Miss Hathaway covers her face with her hands. A less keen observer than Ashley could note the hopelessness in the face that she finally lifts.

"But you said that you believe him innocent," she exclaims, almost eagerly.

"I said so, surely," admits Ashley. "But in order to prove his innocence it will be necessary to produce him."

A silence. Miss Hathaway's troubled gaze is fixed upon him. His quick brain has been working and he has arrived at a conclusion. "This woman believes in the possibility of Ames' guilt and she has some reason other than the evidence that has been produced. Ah, why didn't I think of that before?"

"Miss Hathaway," says Ashley, speaking deliberately, "you said a moment ago that you would do anything to assist me in tracing the slayer of your father." She nods.

"Then will you show me the letter which you received from your sister upon her arrival in New York?"

If Ashley expects any result from this haphazard question he is assuredly not prepared for what really happens. Miss Hathaway's face turns ashen and a great fear