Page:Waylaid by Wireless - Balmer - 1909.djvu/146

Rh and clever and audacious, and he has invariably operated with such careful choice and consideration and has shown himself so decidedly exceptional and—exclusive a pilferer, that it—it would be rather a rare experience to tell, wouldn't it, that I'd actually been travelling about with him? Of course, I realize jolly well that I should go out this moment and tell what I know to that chap in the hall who's watching you in the King's name. But, I say, Mr. Preston, if you have additional audacity to actually attempt to-night and carry off a last, bold haul under the very noses of these police chaps, you can be sure they'll get no help from me. You shall sail Scot free, as far as I can help you! Ah—wait, Mr. Preston!" he protested hastily, as he watched the American's expression. "I was not saying you were Mr. Manling. I was merely saying if you were and—"

"Of course you weren't saying that, Mr. Dunneston!" The American arose grimly. He turned away and stood looking down the Hoe to the busy shipping in the harbor; and, as 124