The Huttig news., 1909-01-02

I'm thinkin'," O'Hagan pursued, calmly ignoring the presence of the outsiders, "thot these do be the soot that domned thafe av the worruld stole off ye the day, sor. A la-ad brought ut at ayeleven o'clock, sor, wid partie- ular rayquest thot ut be daylivered to ye at once. The papers tore, an'''
 "OHagan," Maitland ordered sharp ly, undo that parcel. I think I can satisfy you now, sleuth. What kind of a suit did your luncheon acquaintance wear?'
 Gray"
 An here ut is," OHagan ap- nounced, arraying the clothing upon chair. "Iv'ry domn thing, aven down to the socks. And note for ye, sor''
 AS he shook out the folds of the ceat square white envelope dropped to the floor; the ianitor retrieved and offered it to his employer.
 Dear Mir. Maitland ; he read aloud; As you will probably sur misc my motive in thus restoring to you a portion of your property is not altogether uninfluenced by personal .and selfish considerations In brief. wish to discover whether or not you are to be at home tonight. If not, 1 shall take pleasure in calling; if the contrary, l shall feel that in justice to myself l must forego the pleasure of improving an acquaintance begun un- der auspices so unfavorable In either case, permit me to thank you for the use of your wardrobe-which, quaintly enough. has outlived it's usefulness to me, fat-headed detective named Hickey will tell you why-and to ex- tend to you expression of my highest consideration. Believe me, I am en- viously yours, Daniel Anisty'-Signed," added Hickey mechanically. his face working.
 Satisfied, sleuth ?''
 By way of reply, but ungraciously, the detective stepped forward and un- locked the handcuffs.
 Maitland stood erect, smiling Thank you very much, sleuth. I shan't forget you. O'Hagan" tossing the ianitor the keys from his desk. you'll find some-ah-lemon- pop and root-beer in the buffet. This officer and his friends will no doubt join you in a friendly drink down stairs. Cabby, I want word with you. Good morning, gentle men. Good morning, sleuth
 And he showed them the door. q shall be at your service. officer" he called over the janitor's shoulder, 'at any time tomorrow 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 silent look Maitland turned back to the cabby.
 You did me good turn, just now" he began
 Don't mention it, sir: I've carried you hoften before this evenin'. and--ex. cuse my sayin' sol never 'ad fare as tipped 'andsomer It's real pleas ure, sir, to be of service
 Thank you" returned Maitland, eying him in speculative wise. 'I wonder-'
 The man was rough, burly English man of one of the most intelligent, if not intellectual, kind: the British cab by, as type, has few superiors for sheer quickness of wit and under standing. This man had been sharp ened and tempered by his contact with American conditions His eyes were shrewd. his face honest if weath- er-beaten, his attitude respectful
 I've another use for you tonight" Maitland decided, If you are at lib erty and--discreet?" The final word was question, flung over his shoul- der as he turned toward the escritoire, Yes. sir" said the man thought. fully. "I allus can drive. sir, even when I'm drinkin 'ardest ana caai see nothink''
 Yes? You've been drinking to- night?" Maitland smiled quietly, stand l ing al the smal writing-desk and -x- tracting roll of bills from a con cealed drawer
 I'm fair blind, sir
 Very we'll" Maitland turned and extended his hand, and despite his professed affliction. the cabbys eyes bulged as he appreciated the size of the bill.
 My worrd," he gasped, slowing it away in the cavernous depths Of trousers pocket.
 You will wait outside" said Matt land, until I come out or--or send somebody for you to take wherever directed. Oh. that's all right-not an other wordl"
 The door closed behind the over whemed nighthawk, and the latch clicked loudly. For a space Maitland stood in the hallway. troubled, appre- hensive, heart strangely oppressed, vision clouded by the memory of the girl as he had seen her only a few minutes since; as she had stood be- | meath the chandelier, after acting upon her primary clear-headed impulse to give her rescuer the aid of the light.