The times dispatch. [volume] (Richmond, Va.) 1903-1914, 1911-03-12


informed. He had high forehead and
4 somewhat long and narrow face: his
eyes were watchfu and Keen with Il
dare devil CLEAN in them at times, but
more often they an nlolcnt and
even sleepy expression He was a man
possessed Of much tact and ii was evil
IDENTIFY his role to do Kindness and make
friends. IN consequence he was popular,
and most people spoke of him right
good fellow. lie and had been on many
voyages together in the North Star. and
never knew whether was glad or sorry
TO sec his name on our passenger list. The
man constant luzzlc 10 me. re-
pclling and attracting alternately.
About himself he was singually reserved.
He had constant business in Colombo,
and occasionally he went with us as far
us sydney, but he spoke little or nothing
about Why he took these voyages or
visited these distant lands On one oc-
cason it is true, he tol me that he was
Il confidential agent Of many Of the
largest European dealers in Oriental
trcasurcs-as he spoke he led the way
to his Cabin. and We spent an interesting
hour examining his sroi!S and curos.
Amongst these 10 he seen ivory
carvings. precious stones. rare coins, odd
musical instruments. and even weapons
of war for savage tribes
DO YOU spend all your time over
this Kind Of thing?" 1 could not help
asking.
'Ch, have many strings to my bow
was his ambiguous answer, and glancing
UP caught an expression III his eyes
which for the moment startled me. There
vas keen and almost blood thirsty
glcam in them. decided on that oc-
casion that did not like Quentin. but
the next time had an opportunity Of
talking With him his fascination drew me
once more. and oftcn when he was not
on board found myself thinking OF him.
1t was late III the following autumn
that was destined 10 lift the veil from
this curious personality and to discover the
man as he really was. Tho circumstances
which led me TO CHASTITY conclusion beg
an apparently ordinary way. l was spend
week in London before starting on one
usual voyages to sydney One afternoon
CURED to me 10 call on old friend. This
was no less n person than Professor Birchc
great conchologist. Some years ago had
him q small service. and he had often asked
Visit him. knew that Birchcll was a IN
slender means. but he had mania for coll
shells, and his collection vas. he told me. ,
the finest in Europe drive to his house n
hansom and on my inquiring if the Pro
in, the servant replied in the aliirlnat
entered dark and dnsy hall and the mex
mcnt was shown into far-SiZcd room /
with small tables, upon which stood various
covered specimen cases. which I at n
contained shells in countless variety.
Birchel was standing ut the further 6
the room. his black velvet skull cap on his
lie was engaged In earnest conversation
some one. In the half light I did not see
was, but as | approached nearer, to my asst
ment recognized Michael Quentin
"Ah, Conway" said Birchell. when he
sight Of me. Il am glad to see YOU So n
YOU have redeemed your promise. Qucnt
me Introduce YOU to my friend Mr. Conway.
Conway and have met before said
tin. with that almost furtive smile which
torted rather than improved his face. He he
his hand to me. Birchell glanced from one
TO the other
1T is bit Of luck. Your dropping In jus
Conway" he said. Had known your add
should have written TO you before. It lies il
power to do me a service"