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 "Satisfied, Sleuth?"

By way of reply, but ungraciously, the detective stepped forward and unlocked the handcuffs.

Maitland stood erect, smiling. "Thank you very much, sleuth. I shan't forget you … O'Hagan," Tossing the janitor the keys from his desk, "you'll find someahlemon-pop and root-beer in the buffet. This officer and his friends will no doubt join you in a friendly drink downstairs. Cabby, I want a word with you. … Good morning, gentlemen, Good morning, sleuth."

And he showed them the door. "I shall be at your service officer," he called over the janitor's shoulder, "at any time to-morrow morning. If not here, O'Hagan will tell you where to find me. And, O'Hagan!" The janitor fell back. "Keep them at least an hour," Maitland told him guardedly, "and say nothing."

The Irishman pledged his discretion by a silent look. Maitland turned back to the cabby.

"You did me a good turn, just now," he began.