The Washington times. [volume] (Washington [D.C.]) 1902-1939, 1907-06-16
CHAPTER TX (Continued.)

Copyright 1906. by the Frank a. Munsey Co.
?" o their chagrin. Darling was
not at HIS place OF business.
A case had called him away;
he might return that after
noon and ne might not. In
view Of the urgency OF the
affair. It was not altogether cheering.
They left word, however. for him 70 all
at the Wanderers Club at the earliest
moment and wait until either Ar
Fayies or Mr.. Penross arrived. The
youthful clerk looked unpromising as
an adviser.
''wer," said Fsyles as they stood
on the corner, what's next7'
TO take whatever steps we can our
selves, I suppose Penrose sighed.
This afternoon shan have to give a
couple Of hours TO business. Until
noon I'll give 10 this matter. We're
too deep IN now TO devote every
spare second to It."
And you've on idea7'
Yes. and one that at least can do
no harm. Last night Reeves mem
toned seeing the agent who has
charge. nominally at least. OF this
House Of Suspicion. II recall correct
ly. his name IS Bender or Henderson.
or something or the sort. and ne's on
Conford street. up IN the neighDorhood
OF the house. The best thing to do Is
20 call on him"
I'm willing" Fayles looked UP and
down for a car. "He-he must GER
tainly know something"
Rather YEARLY they boarded the troll
ley for another Of the long trips up
town. Search disclosed Conford street,
and further search revclaed the office
''R. r. henderson, Real Estate and
Insurance"
II was a mild. conventional sort OF
place, a perfectly ordinary office. with
gilt glittering upon the windows. so
mild and conventional was il. indeed.
that any possible connection with the
CHASTITY mysteries Of the House Of Sus-
piclon seemed absurd. Behind a roll
top desk a mild looking. bald headed
man was scratching busjly with his
pen. They surveyed him silently for
a little while before entering.
Hardly looks like the business agent
Of a murderer's club. does hep Fayles
remarked.
There must be a whole lot behind
that innocent face OF his" Penrose
muttered. Come along,"
Mr.. Henderson rose smllingIy. There
were seven distinct rows Of new fat
houses IN that immediate neighborhood
20 be sold, and these two gentlemen
looked most promising.
Mr.. Henderson" Penrose began.
Then. as the small man bowed
arably, an idea struck Penrose. Rela-
lively speaking. he was well supplied
with this worlds goods. II a thousand
or two would help toward solving the
horrible mystery. Il would certainly
be well spent. and as he thought OF
Maltby's original tale. It seemed that
dollars here might surely accomplish
something.
There is a large. vacant. prlvate
residence on ShOreley avenue" ne be-
gan, up near Holly"
All, yes?'' Henderson looked al
him for an instant rather curIousIv.
You have charge Of it. have YOU
not?''
Il have. but It is not FOR sale. sir"
7 don't wish to buy II. Mr.. BEN
derson. understand It is for rent?''
'Um-yes."
"All right then. I wish to rent il.
here and now" He drew out his check.
book. IF you will name<the figure. I
shall be glad to pay for the first
month"
The hand OF the real estate dealer
closed rather theoretically on the arm
rest OF his desk. His eyes narrowed a
little, and he looked almost annoyed.
His glance rested on Penrose for a
moment on his check book for an
other. Then he stared at the floor.
My dear man." he began, do you
do you know the rental Of that
house?"
Il do not"
ID q q q To-