A SUCCESSFUL SHADOW;OR, A Detective's Successful Quest. BY OLD SLEUTH, _Author of All the Famous Old Sleuth Stories_. TABLE OF CONTENTS PROLOGUE. Chapter I THE SAME OLD INCIDENT OF A MISSING BEAUTY--A WIDOW'SNARRATIVE--AN AROUSED INTEREST--THE POSSIBILITIES INA NAME--STARTLING SUGGESTIONS--WAS IT A CLUE. Chapter II A MOST SINGULAR AND WONDERFUL COINCIDENCE--THEDETECTIVE STRIKES A NEW TRAIL--A DENOUEMENT MOSTWONDERFUL--POSSIBILITIES AND PROBABILITIES BEYONDPERADVENTURE. Chapter III ONE MYSTERY SOLVED--A SUCCESSFUL "SHADOW" INDEED--ON ANEW "LAY"--IN A GAMBLING ROOM--A NEW ACQUAINTANCE--THEDETECTIVE PERPLEXED--FALSE OR TRUE?--A RIDDLE TO BESOLVED. Chapter IV PLAYING A DEEP GAME--AN AMENDED NARRATIVE--IN THEOPERA HOUSE--A RECOGNITION--GETTING DOWN TO FACTS BYACCIDENT--THE STORY OF AN EXPECTANT HEIR--GAINING ACLEARER LIGHT. Chapter V A STARTLING BETRAYAL--THE CUTENESS OF THEDETECTIVE---SUGGESTIONS THROUGH A WORD--THE BODY INTHE BRUSH-WOOD--JACK LAYS A SCHEME--SADDEST OF ALLCONCLUSIONS. Chapter VI JACK'S DEEP INTEREST IN THE AFFAIR--A NEWGAME--BETTER PLAY--SHOTS THAT TOLD--A SCHEMEUNMASKED--A HURRIED MESSAGE--THE DETECTIVE PLAYSSPANISH. Chapter VII A MEETING WITH THE BARON--STARTLING DISCLOSURES--AGAINTHE SPANISH MILLIONAIRE--SHADOWING DOWN FOR A CHAIN OFSTEEL--THE DRAFT--A TRIUMPHANT TRICK--A DENOUEMENT TOCOME. Chapter VIII JACK'S GREAT DETECTIVE WORK--"WALK INTO MY MESHES, "SAID THE DETECTIVE--A ROGUE WALKS IN--THE FORGEDACCEPTANCE--CLOSING DOWN FOR A CONFESSION. Chapter IX JACK AT HIS BEST--THE HEARTLESS MILLIONAIRE--A TRICKTHAT BROUGHT RESULTS--A CONFERENCE--TERRIBLEINTIMATIONS--THE MYSTERY CLEARED UP--SAFE BUT GREATWORK DEMANDED. Chapter X CONCLUSION. PROLOGUE. Those of our readers who read our narrative "Two Wonderful Detectives, "will more especially enjoy the further adventures of Jack Alvarez. Tothose who did not read that narrative we will state that this remarkabledetective had just solved a great mystery--one of the most remarkabledetective feats ever accomplished. He had found that there had been atrue heir to a great fortune which had been deposited in a mostmysterious manner with a banker, but, alas! when his "shadow" appearedsuccessful in one direction, he encountered a little tombstone in anout-of-the-way graveyard, which appeared to settle beyond all disputethat the heiress had died when a child, and the great fortune which shewould have inherited was diverted in another direction. Indeed through asingular combination of circumstances, the detective himself became heirto a portion of the great estate. He did not feel disposed, however, toaccept the benefice, and made up his mind that there were actual heirsliving who were through kinship entitled to the fortune. He had startedout on a former "shadow" without a clue, and in his resolve to find thecollateral heirs he also started out minus a single clue, but he was aman, as our readers know, to discover clues, and in a most remarkablemanner he succeeded through a series of thrilling adventures in findinga legitimate heir to an immense estate. CHAPTER I. THE SAME OLD INCIDENT OF A MISSING BEAUTY--A WIDOW'SNARRATIVE--AN AROUSED INTEREST--THE POSSIBILITIES INA NAME--STARTLING SUGGESTIONS--WAS IT A CLUE. "Mr. Alvarez, I am very poor; I cannot offer you a large reward, but Ihave saved a few hundred dollars, and those I will give you if you aresuccessful in finding my lost child. " Jack Alvarez, the detective, was seated in his office when a veiledwoman entered and addressed him in the language with which we open ournarrative. The detective was a kind-hearted man, well-to-do financially, and as itoccurred not immediately engaged on any special job. He looked thevisitor over a moment and then said: "Madam, before I can entertain your proposition at all, I must see yourface. " "Is that necessary, sir?" "It is. " "I am sorry. " "Why?" "Simply because I fear that you will be so shocked you will not aid me. " "Why will I be shocked, madam? Are you a criminal?" "I am an honest woman, sir, but oh, how bitter has been my life--yes, sir, it has been one of humiliation and suffering, and now there hascome to me this terrible sorrow. It may prove even a greater sorrow thanI at present dare anticipate, but I trust not. " "You need not fear to show me your face. " "May I first tell you my story, sir?" "Yes. " "I was left an orphan at a very early age. I was reared in aninstitution until I was able to go out to work. I never knew my parents, I never knew my real name. I was deserted in my infancy and I grew up tobe quite a fair-looking girl. I can say this now, sir, without anyfeeling of exultation, for what beauty I may once have possessedvanished in one night, and I am now hideous to look at. When I left theasylum in which I had been placed I went to live with a very kindfamily, and at the age of twenty I married a poor but very worthy man. My little daughter was five years old when one night our little familywas aroused by the barking of our dog. We lived up in the country inNew York State. My husband was an invalid and slept in a room adjoiningthe one I occupied with my child. As I told you, I was aroused by thebarking of our dog; I knew it meant danger, and I leaped from my bed andinstantly discovered that our little home was on fire. I rushed down theone flight of stairs with my child in my arms, and then returned to aidmy husband to escape, but, alas! I was overcome by smoke and flame andfell unconscious, and would have been consumed had not a neighbor rushedin and dragged me forth. I was saved, but when the fire was subdued andthey entered the room of my husband, they found him dead. He had beensuffocated, and I, alas! was horribly disfigured for life, beingterribly burned in the face. This, sir, is a part of my story. I amterribly scarred and, now if you still desire to see my face I willremove my veil before continuing my story. " "Madam, you need not be ashamed to remove your veil. Your scars werehonorably won; you should be proud--yes, I will look upon your face. " The woman removed her veil, and indeed she did have two ghastly lookingscars, but she had exaggerated her disfigurement, for despite the scarshers was not an uncomely face to look upon. Her eyes were beautiful, andthe detective was led to say with chivalrous truth and gallantry: "Madam, you may once have been so beautiful, over-sensitiveness causesyou to exaggerate your misfortune, but enough, tell me your story. Tellme about the loss of your child. " The woman's voice was very musical; she spoke in low tones and herpronunciation and general demeanor betrayed the fact that gentle bloodran in her veins. "As I told you, sir, my husband was suffocated, and I was left a widowwith one little child, a daughter. I will not dwell upon my sorrow, butkindly permit me to say that the horror of that catastrophe has neverpassed from my mind, and I have been a sad woman; and now, alas! itappears as though a greater sorrow were about to overwhelm me. " "Not if I can aid you, madam. " "It is refreshing and gladdening to hear you say so. I had been toldthat you were a wonderful and very kind man, and a hero whom any onecould trust. I need the services of a brave, discerning man. " "And if I can serve you, madam, I will; continue your narrative. " "After the death of my husband I removed with my infant daughter to NewYork City, as it was necessary that I should earn a living for my child. I was ambitious to give my daughter a good education--yes, give heropportunities that were never vouchsafed her mother. I was a veryskillful needlewoman, and taking cheap apartments I applied for work atsome of the large stores, and my skill soon secured me employment and Icontinued to live economically in order to save money to educate mychild; and, sir, I succeeded. I worked steadily and was alwayssuccessful in securing work, for as I have said, I was a very expertneedlewoman, and so the years sped by until my child became sixteen, and, sir, I can say that she was indeed splendidly equipped as far aseducation is concerned. I intended that she should become a governessand thus be surrounded by environments in line with her education andrefined tastes. She was always a dutiful and loving daughter, cheerfulwhere I was sad; hopeful where I was despondent. One year ago mydaughter became appointed as governess in a well-known family and theytreated her in the kindest manner, and became very much attached toher--indeed they treated her more as an equal than as an employee. As Ihave said, my daughter is not only very beautiful, but splendidlyeducated, and during her residence with the family I have named she metamong their guests a young German, who claims to be a baron. This youngbaron fell in love with her, and from what information I can obtain hislove, or pretended love, was not reciprocated by my child; and now comesthe mystery. One day my daughter went out to do a little shopping; shehas not been seen by any of her friends since, and I am almostdistracted with apprehension. She is very beautiful, as I've said, and Ifelt that she was perfectly safe while living with the family where shewas employed. I was told by a person with whom I am acquainted that Ishould put the affair in the hands of a detective at once, and I wasreferred to you. " "And who referred you to me, madam?" The visitor mentioned the name of a person whom our hero knew well, andafter a moment's meditation the detective demanded: "How long has your daughter been missing?" "It's now nearly a week since she went forth and failed to return. " "And what is the name of this baron?" "He is known as August Wagner. He claims that is but an assumed name, and that he is really a baron and heir to great estates in Germany. " "Did your daughter ever speak to you about this young man?" "Yes. " "And did she show any indication to look favorably upon his professionsof attachment?" "On the contrary, she showed the utmost aversion to him, and it ispossible that because of her aversion she has run away and hiddenherself so as to escape his attentions, or it is possible he haspersuaded her to elope with him. Her friends favor the latter idea. " "By her friends you mean the family with whom she resided?" "Yes. " "They are favorable to the baron?" "They appear to be, and strangely, since my daughter's disappearancethey have turned against her. " "Against your daughter?" "Yes. " "Where is the baron?" "He is still a visitor at the Richards' home. " "Richards is the name of the family with whom you resided?" "Yes. " "And they still entertain the baron?" "Yes. " "Have you seen the baron?" "I have. " "And what does he say?" "He says he knows nothing about my daughter. " "And he claimed to have loved her?" "Yes. " "Does he exhibit any sorrow or anxiety?" "He does not, and this to me appears very significant. " The detective was thoughtful. He recognized that indeed the baron'ssudden indifference was significant. "He has not offered to aid you in finding her?" "He has not. " "And the Richards family, do they exhibit any anxiety?" "They do not. " "This baron is their intimate friend?" "He appears to be. " "And they suggest that he knows where she is?" "Not exactly; they merely declare that my daughter was not abducted, that wherever she is her absence is voluntary. " "And the Richards family appear to have turned against your daughter?" "Yes. " "And previously they were very fond of her?" "Yes, apparently. " "The apparent change has come since her disappearance?" "Yes. " "Madam, I will undertake this case. What is your daughter's name?" "Amalie Speir. " The detective gave a start, and we will here explain the cause. Amaliewas the name of the heiress to the fortune which he at that moment heldin trust. Ordinarily there would not be much significance in two personshaving the same given name, but our hero was a man subject to wonderfuldiscernments--a man who builded on the slightest incident--and from thatinstant he had more than an ordinary interest in the missing AmalieSpeir, and that interest within a few hours was to grow into a thrillingintensity under later very singular coincident discoveries. CHAPTER II. A MOST SINGULAR AND WONDERFUL COINCIDENCE--THEDETECTIVE STRIKES A NEW TRAIL--A DENOUEMENT MOSTWONDERFUL--POSSIBILITIES AND PROBABILITIES BEYONDPERADVENTURE. "And your name?" asked the detective, in an apparently indifferent tone. "My name is Amalie Speir. " The detective repeated: "Your name is Amalie?" "Yes. " "Then your daughter is named after you?" "Yes. " The detective tried to appear indifferent as he asked: "What was your name, madam, before your marriage to Mr. Speir?" "I do not know. " "You do not know?" repeated our hero. "No; I was called Amalie, that is all I can remember. You see, sir, Imost always have lived with strangers, and if my last name was evermentioned in my hearing it was done so rarely that I never rememberedit. " "Have you ever sought to find out what your name was previous to yourmarriage?" "I have, but I have failed. " There was intense eagerness in the tones of our hero's voice despite hiseffort to conceal his interest when he asked: "Madam, do you know your age?" "Yes, to a day. " "How old are you?" "I am forty-six sir, a little past. " "Do you know the date of your birth?" "Yes, sir, I was born July 20, 18--. " The detective figured in his mind, and there came a strange gleam in hiseyes as he said: "Madam, you can count upon my services. " "May I ask, sir, why you are so interested in my age and my maidenname?" "You may ask certainly, but I shall not answer your question at present. I may to-night; tell me where you reside and this evening I may callupon you and I may have some news of your daughter. " The woman gave her address and went away, and the moment the detectivewas alone he leaped up, and pacing rapidly to and fro across the room, muttered: "Great Jerusalem! of all the strange, weird and remarkable incidents, this beats them all in its fateful significance. There is the littlegrave marked Amalie Canfield, died aged four years. Great ginger! hereis a nameless Amalie who may have been older than the child AmalieCanfield. " We will here state to those of our readers who have not read Jack'sformer adventures as related in "Two Wonderful Detectives, " that theywill understand the detective's excitement as they proceed with thenarrative. Jack did not waste much time in words. He left his rooms, also a notefor his brother, his partner as a detective, and started for New Jersey. Fortunately, he caught a train, and an hour later alighted at a station, and rapidly he walked along the road for a couple of miles, when hearrived at a little graveyard. He entered the cemetery and almost ran toa little grave, and dropping down he fixed his eyes on the tombstone, and there he read: "AMALIE CANFIELD. "Born, ---- ----. Died, December --, 18--. " The detective rose to his feet, his handsome face all aglow, and heagain muttered: "Here is a mystery--a little mystery--but it can be explained. One orthe other Amalie died. It's my opinion Amalie Stevens lives, and afterall I have at last found the heir to a million. I lose the fortune, butthe true heiress will get it. Yes, I'll swear I am on to the finalsolution, the most successful shadow I shall ever make. It is thegreatest catch of my life--yes, although I lose half a million, and I'drather lose a million than to learn that I have been misled. I must goslow--yes, very slow--but as it stands I believe I've struck it atlast. " The detective returned to New York, where he arrived early in theafternoon. He had a close friend, a very wealthy banker, for whom he haddone a great service. He proceeded direct to the home of the banker, anold gentleman, but a man of great vigor considering his age, bothmentally and physically. "Hello, Mr. Wonderful, " was the banker's salutation as our hero enteredhis presence. "Where did you come from? I have not seen you for severalmonths. " "No, but I am here now. " "And your presence means that you have made another of your wonderfuldiscoveries. " "I think I have. " "What is it. " "I believe I have found an heir to the Stevens' fortune. " "I thought you would some day, if there was a surviving heir. " "I believe there is, and I can put my hand on her at any moment. " "Who is the party?" "Amalie Stevens. " The banker started, and exclaimed: "I thought you had positive evidence of the child's death?" "I thought I did, but, alas! it appears now that I was mistaken. Icannot tell yet, but I will know to-night, I will as sure as my name isJack Alvarez. " Again we say to our readers the significance of the above conversationwill be duly explained as our narrative proceeds. Our hero returned to his lodgings. He had gained very important factsand he intended to justify them, and early in the evening he proceededto a plain little house where the lady, Mrs. Amalie Speir, resided. Hefound Mrs. Speir awaiting his presence. He was led into a neatlyfurnished room, and taking a seat spoke about some everyday matter, buthis keen, restless eyes were wandering about that room. He was a man ofmarvelous quick perceptions, and he discerned that no matter what hadbeen the early surroundings of the woman who lived in those rooms, hernatural tastes were those of a lady. "You were to bring me news of my daughter. " "News for your daughter, " corrected our hero, and after a moment headded: "Madam, it is possible I have a very remarkable revelation tomake to you; it is possible that a strange fate brought us together. " "I care only for my daughter, sir. If you have anything to communicatethat concerns my daughter proceed, otherwise I am too distracted todiscuss any other matter. " "I desire to ask you a number of questions concerning yourself, and itis possible that these questions may concern your daughter moreintimately than you suspect. I ask you to listen to me patiently, andanswer my questions calmly and truthfully as far as your memory willpermit. " "Let me ask, have you made any discoveries concerning my daughter?" "As yet, no, but I propose to begin my quest to solve the mystery of herdisappearance this very night. I will tell you frankly, I do not believeyou have anything terrible to dread as concerns your child. " "On what do you found your belief?" "On the facts that you have revealed to me. Of course I cannot sayanything positive at present; by to-morrow I may give you a more decidedopinion, but I desire now to talk about a matter which under anycircumstances is very important--yes, important to you and to yourdaughter also--if no real disaster has overtaken her. I believe andtrust she is alive and well. I found my belief on evidences that Icannot make plain to you; and now answer me. Madam, is there no namethat is familiar to you, no name that awakens memories when you hearit?" "I cannot recall that there is. " "Have you any suspicion why you were named Amalie?" The woman did not make an immediate reply. Jack saw that he was making headway, and said: "Did you ever hear the name Canfield?" "I cannot recall that I ever did. " "Let me see, did you ever hear the name Amalie Stevens?" The woman turned deathly pale, and after a moment in a trembling toneasked: "Why do you mention that name?" "Never mind, answer me. " "Yes, I know something about the name Amalie Stevens. " "What do you know?" "Answer me first: Have you any reason to believe that you know anythingabout a person named Amalie Stevens?" "I may. " The woman meditated a long time and said: "Wait a moment; I have perfect confidence in you; I will show yousomething. " Mrs. Speir left the room, but in a few minutes returned, bringing withher a little garment, age stained, but otherwise perfect. She held thegarment up to the light and pointed to a letter mark. The marks werefine--very fine--but the detective had his glass with him. He subjectedthe letters to inspection and plainly made out the two letters A.  S. , and there shot a thrill through his frame, while the woman watched himwith eager eyes, and she said: "I never heard the name Stevens, but when you mentioned the combinationAmalie Stevens, I remembered the letters on this little garment. I haveoften studied over them; for, sir, since matters have gone so far, Iwill say that I have always felt that there was a mystery in my lifewhich would never be cleared up. " "Who wore this garment?" asked Jack. "I did. " It was the detective's turn to become thoughtful. He had made a mostextraordinary discovery--indeed, in his own mind he had found an heir tomillions in this modest and hitherto unfortunate woman. Jack meditatedfor a long time, and Mrs. Speir at length asked: "Will you tell me, sir, what this all means? I know you are not wastingtime. You know or suspect something. Is it possible that after all theseyears I am to learn who my parents were?" The woman spoke in the plural, and the detective, desiring to beevasive, could safely say: "I fear, madam, that is a mystery that can never be wholly solved, but Ihave something to show you. " The detective always carried the photograph with him, and our readerswill understand later the story of the photograph. He showed the pictureto the woman, and she almost fainted, so intense was her agitation. Jackobserved her agitation, and there came a look of triumph in his face. Hecould discern, as he believed, that after all he had made a successful"shadow. " "Where did you get this picture?" demanded the woman, in an agitatedtone. "You recognize it?" "I do. " "You knew the original?" "I did. " "She still lives?" "She does. " "Where?" "Here. " "What do you mean, madam?" "I have the mate to that picture, as I live. " "You have the mate to the picture?" "I have. " "Where?" "Here. " The woman drew a locket from her bosom and handed it to our hero, who ata glance recognized that the locket portrait and the daguereotype werepictures of the same child. "You say you know the original of these two portraits?" "I do. Oh, strange, strange, I never noticed it so strikingly before, but either picture might be taken as a portrait of my dear child at thesame age. How wonderful the resemblance! and here I am a scarred-facewoman, hideous to gaze upon--so hideous I always go veiled. It'swonderful, it's wonderful. " The detective saw that the woman was really talking to and communingwith herself, but after a moment he asked: "Madam, was that picture taken for you when you were a child?" "It was. " "You are certain?" "When you see my daughter you will have proof--sufficient proof. Tellme, sir, what does it all mean--where did you get that picture?" "Shall I tell you the history of that picture?" "If you please. " "Madam, I will, and you must prepare to listen to a very remarkablestory. A little more than forty years ago a gentleman in New Yorkreceived a visitor. The gentleman was a young banker; his visitordeposited with him a large sum of money, placing the money in trust. Thebanker was to hold the money for twenty years and then open a letterthat was given to him. The banker invested the money but lost theletter, and at the expiration of twenty years found himself thecustodian of a large fortune without any knowledge as to its owner. Itwas at this time that he called in detectives, but they failed insolving the mystery, and twenty years elapsed, when the case was givento me. The banker furnished me no clue, and I started out to solve themystery by methods not necessary to explain. I learned that the man whodeposited the fortune was named Jake Canfield, and was killed the veryday he left the money with the banker. Further discoveries led up tothe fact that the man Jake Canfield left a supposed granddaughter, andjust as I discovered these facts the letter was found, and it wasfurther learned from the letter that the supposed granddaughter wasreally the child of a man whose life Jake Canfield had saved. Thislatter gentleman was named Harold Stevens, and he had a child, and inview of his own approaching death he confided his child to the care ofJacob Canfield, and--" At this moment the woman, Mrs. Speir, uttered a cry, and would havefallen had not the detective held and assisted her to a chair. Sherevived after a little and the detective resumed his strange narrative. CHAPTER III. ONE MYSTERY SOLVED--A SUCCESSFUL "SHADOW" INDEED--ON ANEW "LAY"--IN A GAMBLING ROOM--A NEW ACQUAINTANCE--THEDETECTIVE PERPLEXED--FALSE OR TRUE?--A RIDDLE TO BESOLVED. It was evident that Mrs. Speir, who was bright and quick of perception, had discerned partially what the ultimate conclusion of the narrativewould be, and it was her excess of emotion that affected her, but asstated she speedily recovered and the detective immediately continuedhis story: "As I said, " resumed Jack, "the gentleman, Harold Stevens, confided hischild to old Mr. Canfield because he had reason to know that JacobCanfield was an honorable man, and he also confided to this oldfisherman a large fortune in trust, but for reasons that will never beknown he made the singular conditions that his child Amalie should bekept in ignorance of the fortune until she was twenty-five. The old man, fearing to keep the money, transferred the trust to the banker, a Mr. Townsend, and left the letter of instructions, which was not found untilafter forty years; and now, madam, I come into the romance. Once more Istarted out to find this heir; I learned that Jacob Canfield had placedhis ward in charge of friends to care for, but we could not discover whothese friends were, and I was compelled to go it blind. I had found thepicture which I showed you and learned a name. I spent weeks inprosecuting my search, and at length found a little grave in anout-of-the-way cemetery, and on the tombstone was engraved: 'AmalieCanfield, died December 20, 18--, aged four years. ' This age aboutaccorded with the age of Amalie Stevens, and we were forced to concludethat Amalie Stevens was known as Amalie Canfield. I gave up the search, concluding that there was no heir unless Harold Stevens had left otherheirs than his own child. I have been looking for those heirs, and hadabout given up all hope of ever finding them when you came to me. " There followed a moment's silence and then the woman asked: "What do you conclude now?" "I will tell you; I believe that Jacob Canfield did have agranddaughter, and that this granddaughter was but a little younger thanhis ward. I believe he placed his granddaughter in the care of certainpeople, and that this child died, while the real heiress, AmalieStevens, survived. " "You believe now that Amalie Stevens survived?" "I do. " "And why have you told me this strange, weird narrative?" "Madam, do you not guess?" The woman did not answer, and the detective again produced hisdaguereotype, and pointed to the name Amalie Stevens. "What does this suggest, sir?" "That is a portrait of Amalie Stevens, and Amalie Stevens is the heiressof Harold Stevens, and you claim to be the original of that portrait. Madam, if this can all be substantiated you are a very wealthy woman. Iwill tell you candidly, I believe you are the heiress; I believe yourclaim can be established. Remember, your baby clothing was marked A.  S. We need but one more proof. " "And what is that?" "You say your girlhood lineaments are preserved in your daughter?" "Yes, in a most remarkable manner. " "Then all we have to do is to find your daughter, confirm your claim, and all the evidence under present conditions is gained, and you shallbe recognized as the heiress, and the fortune will be surrendered toyou. " "Who holds this fortune?" "I do, madam--yes, the banker is now an old man. He turned the fortuneover to me to hold in trust for any heir that might be found, or failingthat the money under the original plan as outlined in the letter was tobe mine through the banker, who under certain conditions became theheir. " "But how will I prove all the facts in court?" "There is nothing to prove in court; I alone am to be convinced that youare the heiress, and all I have to do is to transfer the property overto you--yes, let me learn, or rather, be satisfied that you are reallyAmalie Stevens that was, and the whole property is yours. " "Sir, you are a most extraordinary man. " "I am?" "You are. " "How?" "You tell me if the heirs are not found the property is yours. " "That is true; part mine, and part goes to charity. " "And you have been searching for parties to whom you might give thisfortune?" "No, madam, I give nothing; I've been searching for parties to whom thisfortune belongs. " "And you think it belongs to me?" "Frankly, I do. " "Again I say you are a remarkable man, and now I will ask one favor. Ifit should prove that the fortune is mine do not mention the fact to aliving soul until you receive permission from me. " "I do not recognize your right to place me under any such restriction, but I will so agree all the same to oblige you. " "And you will never regret your decision; and now, sir, how about mychild?" "I propose to search for your child. " There came a sad look to the face of Amalie Speir, as she said: "If anything evil has befallen my child this fortune is yours. " "What evil do you fear?" "There are several. One is that this baron has bewitched her. If thisshall prove true, in mercy never reveal the story of the fortune. I willnever need it, and that wretch shall never enjoy it. No, sir, if mychild has become his victim, I should wish her in her grave. " The detective did have grave misgivings as to the possible fate of themissing girl, and knowing who she was, for in his own mind he wasperfectly satisfied, he determined to devote all his time and his bestenergies to discovering what her fate might be. "Madam, " he said, "one fact is assured, since what has developed you cantrust me. " "I can; you are a noble man. " "Then do not make any efforts yourself to find your child; leave all tome. " "I will. " The detective made a great many inquiries concerning the Richards familywith whom Amalie Speir had resided. Mrs. Speir, however, knew but littleabout them. He made an arrangement, however, that he would call uponMrs. Speir on the following day and then went forth. He had such adescription of the young baron that he did not doubt being able torecognize the man at a glance, and when he left the humble home of Mrs. Speir he proceeded to the home of the Richards family. Jack had determined upon a very novel plan in order to assure the safetyof Amalie Speir in case he should become satisfied that she had beenabducted. He had thought the matter over very calmly, and had arrived ata very positive conclusion in one direction. He arrived at the Richardshouse at a very fortunate moment, for lo, the very man he had started to"shadow" had just issued forth. The detective recognized the man at onceand started to follow him, and saw him enter a low gambling house on theEast Side. The detective followed the man, saw him put up a few chips, and start in to gamble. His face betrayed great anxiety, although he hadonly a few dollars at stake, and he was a loser. Our hero got into thegame and bet recklessly. Jack could afford to lose when set toaccomplish a given purpose, for he had plenty of money to spare. He wasvery reckless and had taken a seat beside the baron, with whom heengaged in conversation, and soon he learned that the pretended noblemanwas "broke. " "Luck went against you, " said our hero. "Yes, it always does. " "Permit me to give you a chance to win your money back. " "Sir, you are a stranger. " "A friend in need is a friend indeed. " "But I have no right to accept your money. " "You have if I offer it to you. " "But why should you offer me money?" "I believe your luck will change. " "Alas! no, luck is against me, I cannot lose your money. " Here an enigma confronted our hero. If this man was a fraud, as had beenrepresented, he would have accepted money from any source. The questionarose, Was he refusing the money fairly or was he merely playing a game? "I have good luck as a rule, " said Jack; "I will play for you. " "There is no reason, sir, why you should play for me. " The detective was more and more perplexed. He had been led to believethat the baron was a cold-blooded fraud, and yet here he was displayingthe qualities of a proud and honorable man, with a high sense of honor. The detective played on and luck turned in his favor. He won a littlemoney. The baron had gotten up from the table, but stood over our hero'schair and occasionally a word would pass between the two young men. Jackadmitted that he was mystified--all at sea concerning the real characterof the so-called baron. He discounted prior prejudice, which, as isknown, goes a great way in forming conclusions, and yet he did notunderstand the young man. Finally our hero rose from the table and said: "My luck was much better than yours. " The baron was certainly a very handsome young man. His manners werethose of a gentleman, and his language and general demeanor indicativeof one who had been well born, and we repeat, in view of all statementsconcerning the young man, our hero was mystified. "Come, " he said in an offhand way, "let's go and have some supper. " "Why do you ask me?" "I need a companion; you are a good fellow and a loser. I am a goodfellow and a winner. You will go with me?" "As you insist I will; you appear to be a very charming gentleman. " Jack led his new friend to a fine restaurant and they were soon seatedat a table, and our hero undertook to order a very sumptuous meal, alsosome very choice wine; but later, to his surprise, he observed that thebaron did not touch the wine, and Jack said: "You do not drink the wine?" "No, I never drink wine. " "That is strange, seeing you are a German. Probably you prefer beer?" "No, thank you. Yes, I am a German, but I never drink beer. " "You amaze me. " "Possibly so, but I have the best of reasons for not using any sort ofliquors. " The baron spoke good English, but there was just enough of the Germandialect to indicate that he was not an American. "Your countrymen, as a rule, are free drinkers. " "Yes, unfortunately, yes; but I am not; I repeat, I never do drinkliquor of any sort. " "To tell the truth, " said Jack, "I am not a drinking man myself. Irarely use liquors; I really ordered the wine thinking it would beagreeable to you. " "You were very kind. " "You made a remark, " said our hero, "that I did not understand. " "Indeed?" "Yes. " "What did I say, please?" "You said you always had hard luck. " "It is true. " "Then why do you gamble?" "I do not desire to air my misfortunes. " The baron spoke as a reserved gentleman would speak under thecircumstances. "Excuse me, " said Jack, "I did not put the question in a specificmanner, but only in a general way. " "You appear to be a good fellow. I will answer you frankly. I gamblebecause I want the money. " "It's a poor way to get money. " "Yes, I know it, but I am very poor. I have a small remittance, notsufficient to support me. I was not reared to labor--indeed, I do notknow what to do. I am half-inclined to put a pistol to my head and endit all. " Jack was more and more amazed. The young man talked less like a roguethan any individual he had met in a long time. He meditated a moment andthen said: "I have plenty of money; possibly I can be of some service to you. " "A stranger?" "Yes, a stranger; why not? We are both young men and have the worldbefore us. I will admit that I have taken a great fancy to you. " "I am very much obliged for your kind interest in me, but you cannot beof any service. " The detective was perplexed beyond measure. CHAPTER IV. PLAYING A DEEP GAME--AN AMENDED NARRATIVE--IN THEOPERA HOUSE--A RECOGNITION--GETTING DOWN TO FACTS BYACCIDENT--THE STORY OF AN EXPECTANT HEIR--GAINING ACLEARER LIGHT. Jack remained nearly two hours with the young baron, and as will belearned, made a very favorable impression upon him--indeed, it wasagreed that they were to meet the following evening and go to the operatogether. The detective was approaching his point by easy stages. When the detective finally bade the young baron good-night he walked offtoward his own lodgings lost in deep thought. He had started out withone theory, but following his meeting with the young baron othersuspicions penetrated his mind, and he muttered: "There is something here I cannot explain, but I will get at the bottomof it before I get through; and I will here say that the present aspectof the affair presents a more hopeful view of the probabilities. " On the day following our hero called upon Mrs. Speir, and that ladydemanded in eager tones: "Do you bring me news of my daughter?" "No direct news, madam, but I desire to question you very particularly. You gave me to understand that August Wagner was a pseudo baron?" "Yes. " "Did you ever impart this fact to your daughter?" "I hinted it to her. " "She discussed the baron with you?" "Yes. " "And she displayed the utmost aversion to him?" Mrs. Speir did not answer immediately, and Jack said: "That is right, Mrs. Speir, think well. Answer me slowly and truthfully, for this is a very important matter we have on hand. " "I cannot answer you positively. " "Aha! this is a different view from your original statement. " "I may have used too strong a word when I said aversion. " "How will you put it now?" "My daughter laughed every time I mentioned the baron's name, as Ithought, or possibly as I wanted to believe, derisively. " "She did not say right out that she despised the baron?" "Frankly, no. " "You admit you overstated the matter?" "In my bewilderment and anxiety I may have done so; but, sir, what dothese questions mean?" "They are general and intended to serve as side lights only. Now tellme, how did you learn that the young man, August Wagner, was a pseudobaron?" "I have no positive evidence; I so believe, however. " "But suppose he is a real baron?" "Then my daughter's peril is greater, and I have the saddest prospectahead of me. " "You told me the baron betrayed no sorrow at the disappearance of yourdaughter. " "I so interpreted his tone and manner. Now tell me, sir, what you havelearned. " "I have not learned anything positively, but let me ask you, is thereany one else who would have a motive in abducting your daughter?" "I know of no one else. " The detective had learned facts which threw a new light on the affair, and he went to meet August Wagner under different impressions than hadgoverned him when he first started upon the young man's trail. Jack met young Wagner and went to the opera with him, and during thecourse of the evening he saw the young man acknowledge a recognitionfrom a party in one of the boxes. The detective did not immediatelyinquire who the parties were, but he observed that Wagner sought toavoid any further recognition, and just before the close of the last acthe said: "I will go out if you will excuse me. " "I have had enough of it; I will go with you, " said Jack, adding: "Wewill go and have some supper. " The young men left the theater, and once outside, young Wagner said: "I cannot go and have supper with you. " "Why not?" "You treated last night. " "Nonsense, don't mention that to me. " We will here announce that our hero was under a disguise, and hepersuaded Wagner to go with him, and he observed that his companion atevery heartily. He observed another fact. Near the table where he satwith Wagner another party, a shrewd-faced man, had taken a seat, andJack soon fell to the fact that this shrewd-faced man had young Wagnerunder surveillance, and when the two young men had nearly completedtheir repast this party boldly walked over and took a seat at theirtable with the remark: "Excuse me, but, young man, I desire to ask _you_ a few questions. " The words were addressed to the young baron, and special emphasis waslaid on the word _you_. The baron was singularly cool under the circumstances, proving him to bea man of nerve. Really our hero was more disturbed than his companion. The latter made no answer to the man's declaration, but quietly waitedfor a further explanation, and the stranger said: "Your name is Wagner, or at least, you are known as August Wagner?" "That is true. " "You claim to be a German baron?" "That is not true. " "It is not true?" "It is not true, " repeated the young man. "Then I have been misinformed?" "Probably not. " "What do you mean?" "I do not claim to be a baron, but I am next heir to a barony; atpresent an elder brother is the baron. " "Then you are not a fraud?" "It would be dangerous for any one to intimate that I have at any timemade a _false_ claim. " Jack was delighted at the turn the affair had taken. Another waseliciting facts that our hero most desired to have made clear. "You were at the opera this evening?" "I was. " "There was a party in Box C?" "Yes, sir. " Jack observed that there came a glitter to the young man's eyes, and aslight color to his cheeks as he answered: "I was. " "The parties in that box were the Richards family?" "Yes, but I do not know how the fact concerns either you or me. " "It may concern you, my young friend. What do you know about theRichards family?" "Nothing save in a social way, sir. " "That is all?" "It is. " "Then permit me to advise you to drop all social intercourse with themif you wish to avoid future trouble; that is all, sir. " The stranger, having spoken in the strange manner related, rose andwithout another word departed, and there followed a few moments'silence, broken at length by our hero, who said: "So that was the Richards family who occupied the box in the theaterthis evening?" "Yes. " "They are friends of yours?" Wagner made no answer, but asked: "Do you know them?" "I have heard about them. " "I met them in Paris; I know nothing about their social standing. I havefound them very pleasant people and I do not understand the hints ofthat man, nor why he should address me. He appeared to know my name, andwas otherwise well posted, as it appears, concerning my acquaintancewith those people. Who can the man be?" "He is probably a detective. " "A detective?" "Yes. " Young Wagner became thoughtful for quite an interval, and then in amusing tone said: "I do not understand it. " "Let me see, " said Jack; "it strikes me that this Richards family is thesame family from whose home a young lady disappeared a week or so ago. Possibly this detective has his suspicions concerning that young lady'sdisappearance. I've heard about it. I remember now that some youngbaron's name was associated with her disappearance. " Wagner's face became very pale. He fixed his fine eyes on the detective, and after a moment said: "From whom did you hear this?" "The girl's mother; she is an acquaintance--yes, she told me all aboutit. She is very much distressed; and now, come to think, are you theyoung German baron alluded to in the case?" Wagner sat for a moment with a solemn and perplexed look upon hishandsome face, when suddenly he demanded: "Who are you?" "I told you my name was Jack Pitts. " "And you know the mother of this missing girl?" "Yes. " "What did she tell you?" "Merely that her daughter was missing, and that it was very strange. Sheappeared to feel, however, that her daughter was only temporarilyabsent, and would return all right in a little while. " "Did you ever see this daughter?" asked Wagner. "I never did. " "She is a very beautiful girl. " "Then you are acquainted with her?" "I saw her at the Richards' home. " "What sort of folks are these Richards people?" Wagner made no immediate answer, but after a moment he said: "I am only slightly acquainted with you. Remember, we first met lastnight; I do not feel at liberty to give you my confidence. I wish Icould, for at this moment I need a friend. I have been sadly villified, I know, and there is a false impression concerning me in some quarters. I do not deserve to be misunderstood in this way, for I never did adishonorable act in my life. " "Although we only met last night, August, you can trust me--yes, trustme as freely as though I were your own brother. Tell me about yourself. " The young German meditated a few moments and then said: "I am really the brother of a baron. The baron is unmarried and hasbeen, so I have been informed, stricken with a fatal disease. My brotherhas lived a very reckless life; he has mortgaged our family estatesbeyond their market value. To-day should he die I would become thebaron, but alas! only an empty title would come to me. I came to Americaintending to win and woo some wealthy heiress. In Paris I met theRichards family. To me they have always appeared honorable enough, but Iwill admit that I have heard stories to the contrary. Mr. Richards has adaughter living in Paris--" and here the young man suddenly stopped. "Go on, " said our hero. "Do not think me egotistical if I tell the truth. " "Certainly not; I see you are not an egotistical man. " "I am not, although the second son of a baron who was descended from along line of barons. I have known poverty all my life. My brother, thepresent baron, is twice my age, and he had involved the estates asprospective heir before I was born, and when he came into possession hefinished them up. No, I am not proud in one way, and I will tell thetruth. I know that the Richards family, who appear to have a great dealof money, desired to have me marry their daughter. I could not do so. " "Why not?" "I did not love her, and she is not a true type of the American girl. Icrossed in the same steamer with the Richards family, and they are aboutthe only people with whom I have been intimate since my arrival here, and--" Again the young man stopped shortly, and the detective urged: "Proceed, tell me the whole story; you will not regret it. " "I have reason to believe that while the Richards family have been verykind to me, for reasons of their own they have circulated the storiesabout me. They have recognized me at their social gatherings, but I haveevidence that they have given out that I am a pretense. " "Have you suspected their motive?" "Yes. " "What is it?" "They do not wish me to meet with recognition outside of themselves. They are determined that I shall marry their daughter; I never will. " It was the detective's turn to meditate, and we will here state that hebelieved the young man had told him the truth. He had brought hislogical mind to bear upon the circumstances and had arrived at aconclusion. After a moment he said: "I am very much obliged to you for trusting me, but there is somethingyou have held back. " "I believe I have told you all. " "No, I am a sort of mind-reader, and I have discerned something that youhave not told me. " "Then you have a suspicion?" "Yes. " "What do you suspect?" "I suspect that you know something concerning the disappearance of theyoung lady who was acting as governess in the Richards family. " CHAPTER V. A STARTLING BETRAYAL--THE CUTENESS OF THEDETECTIVE---SUGGESTIONS THROUGH A WORD--THE BODY INTHE BRUSH-WOOD--JACK LAYS A SCHEME--SADDEST OF ALLCONCLUSIONS. Young Wagner smiled sadly and answered: "I cannot go into that matter. " "But you do not understand me. " "I do not?" "No. " "How so?" "That man who interrupted us is a detective. " "Well?" "He suspects that you are an abductor. " The young man started, and after a moment said: "If that is true it is the Richards family who have thrown the suspicionaround me. " "Then they must have had a purpose?" "Certainly. " "And you know their purpose?" "It is in line with what I have told you. " "Since you are the baron, so-called, I will make an admission to you. You must not _think_ that I knew you were the baron when we accidentallybecame acquainted, but now that I know you are I can tell you a greatdeal. Amalie Speir's mother suspects that you had something to do withthe girl's disappearance. " Wagner was thoughtful for a long time before he answered, and then hesaid: "It's not strange that the girl's mother should suspect me. " "It is not strange?" "No. " "Why not?" "You appear to be an honorable man; let me ask you one question: Did youever meet Miss Amalie Speir?" "I never saw her in my life, " came the truthful answer. "You know her mother?" "I do. " "You can tell her mother that I say on my honor I do not know anythingabout the present whereabouts of her daughter. " "Oh, I see, you do not trust me. " "No, I distrust you. " "You distrust me?" "I do. " "Why?" "Because you have not been frank with me. " Our hero smiled. He had determined to declare himself, being satisfiedthat Wagner was an honorable young man. "Do you want me to be frank?" "Yes. " "What shall I do?" "Tell me plainly why you made my acquaintance?" "You suspect?" "Yes, I suspect. " "What do you suspect?" "That you are a detective employed to shadow me, and I suspect that theman who spoke to me a little while ago is your confederate. " "All right; what you suspect is true. " "And you are a detective?" "I am. " "And you made my acquaintance with design?" "I did. " "What is your conclusion?" "My conclusion is that you are an honorable young man. " "Thank you, and now let me tell you I know nothing about Amalie. I donot know _whom to suspect_; I so told her mother. " There came a strange glitter in our hero's eyes, and a suspicion thatalmost caused his heart to stand still. He had reckoned himself a veryshrewd, sharp man, but suddenly, and on evidence that would not havearoused a passing comment on the part of most men, he became convincedthat he had been magnificently played. He was equal to the occasion, however; he had always been. He was indeed a wonderful man, and he said: "I am very glad to hear you say so. Now that I have confessed so much Iwill confess more. I did believe you were guilty; I did believe that youwere the abductor. " "No, I loved her too well. " "You loved her?" "I did. " "And did she know that you loved her?" "She did. " "And did she love you?" "I have reason to believe that Amalie loved me; I know that I lovedher. " "But she is a poor girl; she could not aid you to remove the mortgagesfrom your estates in case you should become the baron. " "It makes no difference. She is a beautiful girl, one of the loveliestcreatures I ever met in all my life. I am a sad man; I shall always besad. " "You shall always be sad?" "Yes. " "Why?" "Because I have lost her. " "Lost her?" "Yes. " "She may reappear?" "Never. " "Why do you say she will never reappear?" "She has carried out her threat. " "Her threat?" "Yes. " "What did she threaten?" "To drown herself. " "What led her to make this threat?" "She was despondent--very despondent. Shall I tell you all?" "Yes, tell me all. " "She loved me; I am poor. I offered her my love and asked that she waituntil I became the baron and then I would make her my wife. She said shecould not wait. " We will leave our readers to judge of the feelings of the detective ashe listened to this singular statement. All he said was: "Then you believe she is dead?" "Yes. " "I do not. " "You believe she lives?" "I do not believe, August, that she was fooling you. She is indeed avery beautiful woman if all reports are true, for I never saw her. I amglad, however, that you are not implicated in any way in her strangedisappearance. This shall not interfere with our friendship. I honor andrespect you, in case you have properly represented everything to me. Shall we meet to-morrow and lunch together?" "No, I cannot accept more bounty; you have been very kind. " "All right; we will meet again and I may have a pleasant surprise foryou. " The detective parted from the prospective young baron and returned tohis own lodgings, and once in his own room he became a very thoughtfulman. The detective muttered aloud, and there was much of suggestion inhis mutterings. He said: "There is a mystery here within a mystery. There is something I have notgotten on to yet. Why should this man secrete the girl Amalie Speir?Every move of this Richards family means something. Why should theybecome so deeply interested in this penniless girl? It is not within thebounds of possibility that they could have in any way discovered thatshe is an--" Here the detective stopped short and gave utterance to anexpletive more expressive than elegant, and after a little he resumedhis musings, saying: "Let me see; yes, yes, it is possible. I see I have a little exploringto do in another direction, and in the meantime I must have an eye onthis dignified young baron and these Richards people. Yes, yes, there isan underlying possibility that may explain the whole matter if I canever strike to its bottom fact, and by ginger! I will. " Jack had arrived at a conclusion that necessitated the very finest sortof detective work--indeed, his task was one of the hardest because itconsisted in discovering a motive. On the morning following the incidents related, the detective sat downto his rolls and coffee and had his paper, when a paragraph met his eyeswhich caused his blood to run cold. The paragraph was a brief statementunder showy headlines that the body of a young woman had been found inthe bushes near the Orange Mountains. There was nothing in the paragraphreally to arouse so great interest on his part were it not that he wasthrilled by one of those wonderful premonitions which ofttimes came tohim. Jack believed that later in the day there would come further details, and in the meantime he visited Mrs. Speir and showed her the paragraph. Mrs. Speir became greatly agitated at first, but after a moment said: "You observe that it is a woman; my daughter is less than twenty. " "Yes, I observe that; but do you notice that the face is mutilated sothe body will only be identified by the clothing? And now, Mrs. Speir, Ihave a few words to say. I fear you are going to be called upon toundergo a very trying ordeal, but mark my words: no matter what thelater evidences may be, it is not the body of your daughter. " The woman glared but remained silent, and the detective continued: "I believe I can discern the whole business, and more than that, Ibelieve there is a most thrilling, startling and wonderful revelationunder all this business. But again I say, mark well my words: it is notthe body of your daughter, and I tell you now I believe all the evidencewill go to prove that is your daughter's body. " "You talk in enigmas. " "And I believe I know just what I am talking about. There is a greatgame being played; the game is an old one. The motive is something weare not 'on to' yet, but we will uncover the whole business. But let meimpress upon you with the greatest earnestness that I know your daughterlives. " "Then what does it mean?" "You can accept my word that it is an attempt to prove that yourdaughter is dead. " "Why should any one wish to prove that she is dead?" "I think I can discern; I may be mistaken, but one fact is certain: somevery thrilling denouement is to follow in the end, but your daughter isnot dead, and you can judge how reliable is my statement when I say nowthat I have only seen that newspaper paragraph, but in the end the moststartling evidence will be produced to make it appear that it is yourdaughter, and it may be necessary that you should seem to accept theevidence and hold a funeral over the body of a stranger. I repeat, agreat game is being played--has been played--but we will beat it. Wewill catch these people in their own trap. " "But what can be their motive?" The detective hesitated a moment and then said: "We cannot now tell how these folks found out that your daughter is agreat heiress, your heir, for you are a very rich woman; and it ispossible that there may be people who are ready to step forward andclaim the estate which I hold as trustee. " We will again state that the detective held no such suspicion. He wasleading the mother astray for reasons that will be disclosed later on. All he desired to do at the moment was to make it appear to Mrs. Speirthat his idea explained the true motive, but he knew better. Two days later the predictions of the detective in a certain directionwere all singularly verified. The clothing and other incidents indicatedthat the body found in the woods was that of Amalie Speir, and that thelovely girl had committed suicide. There were proofs that she was youngand beautiful, and acting under the detective's advice Mrs. Speirpermitted it to be assumed that she recognized the dead girl. Theremains were brought to New York, taken to an undertaker's, and afterthe usual preparation and ceremony, were buried from there, and our herowas the only attendant who accompanied the unfortunate girl to thegrave, and that same night he held a long talk with Mrs. Speir. He said: "They have played their last card now, but I cannot discern what theirmotive could have been in making it appear that your daughter is dead. " Tears were running down Mrs. Speir's cheeks as she said: "I can. " "You can?" queried the detective. "I can. " "Well?" "They are seeking to cover up a more horrible crime than her murder. " This same suspicion had run through our hero's mind. We will here state that the evidences attending the discovery of thedead girl apparently indicated beyond all possibility of doubt that shehad taken her own life. The mutilations which prevented a positiveidentification were attributed to some animal that had discovered theremains before they were discovered by the lads who reported the find;and as apparently there was no mystery in the case, the affair droppedaway from immediate public attention; the circumstances did not appearto call for an investigation, but here were the facts. Mrs. Speir waspositive that it was not the body of her child, and against this was thetragic testimony that her daughter's clothing and trinkets had beenfound on the body, and these served for identification--anidentification which was apparently complete and absolute. It not beingAmalie Speir, and the fact that testimonies were present to indicatethat it was, seemed to make it appear almost positive that there wassome deep design in the presence of those articles, and we can add thatour hero sadly feared that the motive suggested by the mother was thetruth, that the girl had been the victim of some heartless villain, andhe concluded that if such were indeed the fact the smooth, cunning, adroit and skillful baron was the despoiler. CHAPTER VI. JACK'S DEEP INTEREST IN THE AFFAIR--A NEWGAME--BETTER PLAY--SHOTS THAT TOLD--A SCHEMEUNMASKED--A HURRIED MESSAGE--THE DETECTIVE PLAYSSPANISH. It is not necessary to state that our hero was aroused and stirred tothe very lowest depths of his nature. There did remain one remote chancethat the motive was different from the one indicated, but such apossibility was very remote. Our hero had the deepest possible interestin the missing girl, and he did feel that if the mother's premonitionswere correct that it would have been far better if indeed the dead hadbeen veritably Amalie Speir; but as long as there was a possibility ourhero was determined not to give up, and he said cheerily to the almostdistracted mother: "I think I can assign another motive for the passing off of the dead forthe living, and I will solve the mystery. If Amalie, your child, is thevictim of villains she still lives and we can find and rescue her, andmark my words: if any harm has come to her the perpetrators will havereason to wish that they had never been born; but on my honor, I assureyou I can discern where there could have been another motive, and up tothis time, if I am correct, your daughter lives scatheless of any realharm save the sorrow and anxiety she must feel in considering yoursufferings because of her strange absence. " "Can you bid me hope?" "I can. " "And you will find my child?" "I will; remember you are a rich woman; no one can dispute your right tothe great fortune I hold in trust for you, and I have a suggestion tomake. I desire that you follow my suggestion. " "I will. " "It may startle you, but it is for the best. " "You are my best and only friend in these present trying conditions. Iwill do whatever you suggest. " "I intend with the full approbation of Mr. Townsend to turn over yourfortune to you. Among your properties is a very fine house handsomelyfurnished. I desire that you occupy this house, take possession atonce. " "My doing so will excite comment. " "No, your life has been so comparatively obscure no one will pay anyattention to it. I only desire that the Richards family and this baronbecome aware of the fact that you have fallen heir to a great fortune. All inquiries as to the source of your wealth will remain asecret--yes, a secret forever. No one can dispute your ownership. Shouldthere be any comment Mr. Townsend can offer the explanation, and hishigh reputation as a former banker and citizen will silence all comment. I have a special reason for the carrying out of this scheme, and shouldany one so far interest themselves as to inquire whence your fortunecomes refer them to Mr. Townsend, who has acted as trustee. " Our hero proceeded to carry out the business of the transfer. He hadsettled the matter as to the heirship, and in the meantime Mrs. Speirvery reluctantly took possession of an elegant residence, and when Mr. Townsend and our hero called upon her the latter said: "You will have a grand home to welcome your daughter to when shereturns, and this home is your own. " When everything was arranged Jack went under a disguise and through Mr. Townsend he had himself introduced as a young Spanish millionaire ofexcellent family. To those of our readers who have not read the previous exploits of ourhero, we will say that Jack Alvarez had lived many years in Madrid andspoke the language like a native. His boyhood years had been passed inSpain--indeed, his mother, an American woman, was in Spain when her twosons, Jack and Gil, were born. As the young Spanish millionaire Jack went under a most radical change. He was an adept at disguises, and no one would ever have suspected inthe young Spaniard who could not speak English the real Jack Alvarez, the acute detective. Our hero arranged to play a dual rôle, and it wasas Jack Alvarez he met the baron. There had come a complete change overthe demeanor of the baron. He appeared to have money, and he actuallyinvited our hero to dine with him and Jack accepted the invitation, andduring the meal the baron said: "I may appear gay, but I am very sad. " "Indeed?" "Yes, you are my only confidant; I loved Amalie Speir, the younggoverness, and I have been heartbroken since the discovery that the poorgirl committed suicide. " "It was sad. What do you suppose could have been her motive?" "Despondency, of course. " "What could have caused the despondency?" "Without egotism I can say that she loved me, and my inability to marryat present caused the despondency. " "You are wrong. " "I am wrong?" "Yes. " "Then you know what caused her despondency?" "I do not, but I know it was not love for you, nor her inability tomarry for lack of money. Were you aware that Miss Amalie Speir was anheiress?" The baron's face assumed the hue of death, while a feeling of exultationagitated our hero's heart. That sudden pallor to a man like Jack spokevolumes. "She was an heiress?" repeated the man, and actually in husky tones. "Yes, she was an heiress. Do you not know that her mother has come intoher share of the property, and is at present living in a magnificentmansion of her own?" "It is all news to me. Did Amalie know that she was an heiress?" "Certainly she did, but she was a girl who would not boast of herprospects. She was to arrive at a certain age before she came intopossession. In a year or two, if she had lived, she would have been avery rich woman; but you must excuse me; I have enjoyed your treat verymuch; next time it will be my treat. " "But hold, I desire to ask you a few questions. " "I cannot answer any questions now; I am very busy; in fact, I will tellyou that evidence has been furnished that leads the friends of AmalieSpeir to believe that she did not commit suicide, but was murdered. _Iam investigating the facts. _ If it is proved that she was murdered itwill go hard with her murderers, that's all. " The changing expressions upon the face of the baron were many, and everychange of expression was a telltale look to our hero, and as he wasdoing so well he proceeded and said: "In fact, the incidents of that death are very conflicting andcomplicated. Mrs. Speir is beginning to believe that her daughter is notdead, that it is all a conspiracy to make it appear that her daughter isdead in order to rob her of her fortune. So you see, my dear baron, itmay be that after all you may win a rich and handsome bride. I have thecase in hand and am gaining ground every day. I believe I will soon beable to establish that Amalie Speir still lives. " The baron fell back in his chair like one suddenly stricken, and as thedetective gazed upon the man the thought ran through his mind: "Youplayed me nicely there for awhile, but my turn has come. We are playinganother game now. " We will say that our hero did admire the man's talents, althoughmystified by the incidents attending the fine play, but he was gettingeven in a most thrilling manner. If ever a criminal by his agitationbetrayed guilt, August Wagner did so. Under the fire of the detective, so skillfully directed, the schemer lost all his equipoise, for Jack hadbecome, as indicated, fully convinced that Wagner was at the bottom ofthe whole scheme, or the instrument of the party who was putting up whatour detective denominated "a game. " Jack kept pretending all the timethat he desired to get away, but Wagner urged him in almost pitifultones to stay. "I haven't time. " "But tell me what are the testimonies you have secured. " "It is not in my line of business to betray our movements. I am aregular detective and I have been assigned to this case. I am determinedto push through to some startling denouement. " The detective had already pushed through to a startling denouement. Hehad purposely lingered a long time at the dinner. The two young men hadentered the place very late in the afternoon, and darkness was beginningto fall. Jack only took a few moments to work a complete change in hisappearance. He was down to active work and determined to move very fast. While working his change our hero did not lose sight of the entrance tothe hotel where he and Wagner had dined, and he had prepared for what iscalled a "lightning change. " A few moments passed and he saw Wagnerleave the dining-room. He fell to the man's trail under his new guise. He saw Wagner go to a district telegraph station, saw him write a noteand dispatch a messenger with it, and he muttered: "Aha! young man, I will watch you. Never mind the messenger, I reckon itis a case where the mountain will come to Mahomet. " Having dispatched his note Wagner issued forth and walked slowly alongthe street, but in a short time he returned to the restaurant where hehad just dined, and Jack followed him in. The detective called a waiterand addressed him in Spanish. The waiter did not comprehend, and Jackmade quite a scene in his efforts to make himself understood, andfinally the head waiter approached the table. Wagner was interested inthe scene, as the Spaniard was only a few feet distant, and he heard thewaiter say to his chief: "This gentleman is a Spaniard; he cannot speak English. I cannot makeout what he says. " The head waiter knew a few words of Spanish and managed at length totake the supposed Spaniard's order, and the latter ordered quite anelaborate dinner. He had a purpose; he desired to make time. He did so;he sat there over an hour eating very slowly and reading a Spanish paperwhich he had drawn from his pocket, and soon a lady entered andapproached the table where Wagner sat. She said as she joined the baron: "I received your hurried message; what has occurred?" As the woman spoke she turned and glanced at the supposed Spaniard, andWagner said: "You need not fear him; he is Spanish; cannot speak a word of English. It is lucky he is there, as unconsciously he will protect us from otherneighbors, and I have a great deal to say. " "Order some wine. I am greatly disconcerted and alarmed. Your note wasso urgent. " "Necessarily urgent; I have the most startling information. " The man spoke in a low tone, but there were acute ears near by, and ourhero distinctly overheard every word that was spoken. "You have received startling information?" "I have. " "In what direction?" "As concerns Amalie. " "Well?" "A detective is employed to work on the case. " "A detective is employed?" "Yes. " "I thought the affair had dropped from public notice. ' "On the contrary, I know personally the detective who is employed. He is_not a very smart man_, but he is energetic and persistent. He told methat evidence had been procured that Amalie had been murdered. " The woman laughed in a disdainful manner and replied: "We know better. " "Certainly we do, but an investigation in that direction has alreadystirred up other suspicions. " "What other suspicions?" "Suspicions that may lead to the most perilous consequences to us. " "Consequences to us?" "Yes. " "How?" "In the first place it is known that Amalie is an heiress. " "Impossible!" "It is true, and more. " "What more?" "There are those who suspect that she still lives. " CHAPTER VII. A MEETING WITH THE BARON--STARTLING DISCLOSURES--AGAINTHE SPANISH MILLIONAIRE--SHADOWING DOWN FOR A CHAIN OFSTEEL--THE DRAFT--A TRIUMPHANT TRICK--A DENOUEMENT TOCOME. The woman gave a start and also uttered an exclamation that was verysignificant under all the circumstances, and after an interval sheadded: "This is all very strange. " "Yes, it is all very strange. " "How on earth any one could have _learned about that fortune_ is amystery to me. " Here was an admission that made our hero almost start and utter anexclamation himself, and if the woman's remark meant what he had reasonto believe it did, once again had he given proof of his wonderfulacuteness. "It is not more wonderful, _mother_, than the way we found it out. " Here was a second surprise for our hero. The baron had called the womanmother, and the woman, as our hero knew, was Mrs. Richards. "Something must be done at once, Mrs. Richards. " "What can we do but wait? The girl is buried; they can never secure anyevidence, and in case they do finally _it will be too late_. " "You know this detective?" "I do. " "Very well, I must have time to think; I wish he were a gentleman. " "Why?" "Then we could dispose of him. " The detective was getting a heap of information, but the informationonly complicated the affair; but he had learned enough to make him feelthat he could carry the most pleasant assurances to Mrs. Speir. The baron and the woman talked for some little time longer, but theirwords conveyed no further positive information, and finally theyseparated; and when once alone our hero had several problems to meditateover. In the first place Mrs. Richards was not a German woman and yetthe baron had called her mother. Here was a mystery to solve. Jack didvisit Mrs. Speir and told her to be hopeful--ay, more than hopeful--buthe did not state the evidence on which his cheering words were founded, but he set to work to investigate the Richards family. He learned ingood time that Mr. Richards was a well-known business man and a verygood man as far as was known. Our hero's informant, however, shook hishead when he came to speak of Mrs. Richards, and Jack asked: "Was the lady ever married before she became the wife of Mr. Richards?" The party questioned did not immediately answer. Jack pressed hisquestion, and the party asked: "Why do you wish to know?" "I have vital reasons. " The gentleman whom our hero was questioning was a lawyer, a very shrewdman, who had the reputation of not being overscrupulous, but there werereasons why he desired to oblige our hero, and after a moment he said: "You will not use my information?" "Not in any way to involve you. " "My communication, " said the lawyer, "is confidential?" "Certainly. " "She was married to a German who claimed to be a baron. He was aworthless fellow; he may be living yet, but her husband, Mr. Richards, does not know of her previous marriage. The younger children are hischildren. " "There is a young man who is on very intimate terms with Mrs. Richards, "said our hero, "known as August Wagner. " The lawyer made no remark and the detective asked: "What do you know about him?" "See here, I am getting into deep water. " "How?" "You are up to something. " "I am, and if you do not give me the information I seek I shall look forit elsewhere. I think, however, _you_ are bound to aid me. " "That young man, August Wagner, is her son by a former marriage. Shepretends he is only a friend; her husband does not suspect therelationship. " Here was a bit of news that was very important and explained certainseeming perplexities. In the first place the woman had at times shownexcellent feeling toward the baron, and then again she had apparentlymaligned him. Jack could see now the occasion--it was done to blind Mr. Richards. The woman was playing a double game. "What have you to say concerning Mrs. Richards? Come, be open and frankwith me. " "She is a very ambitious woman; her husband is a man of comparativelymoderate means. She has spent a great deal of time in Europe. She wasliving too fast for her husband, and he made her return to New York, andshe is now leading him beyond his means. Yes, she is socially veryambitious, not here in America, but abroad. To tell the truth, I do notbelieve her first husband is dead. She is leading a double life. She maynot be so much to blame, for I have heard that her first husband was, oris, a contemptible fellow. She once had money in her own right, but thebaron squandered it all. Her son has lived most of his time in Germany, and fortunately there is no family resemblance to betray therelationship. The son resembles the father; is essentially German inappearance, but he inherits from his mother a pretty bright intellect. He is a shrewd fellow; his mother supports him clandestinely, and Ireckon he costs her a good round sum. " The lawyer here lowered his voiceand said: "In fact, the woman has put herself in jeopardy by severalcriminal transactions in connection with her son. They are carryingforged notes, and at any time there may come an explosion anddisclosure. " "Do you think she would commit actual crime?" "I do not think that she is a criminal by nature, but extravagance leadsto criminal acts, and when one commits one crime they are often drivento commit others. " "You are right; but this family have come into considerable prominencelately owing to the tragedy connected with the young lady who wasgoverness in their family. " "Ah! I see that is the part of it you are investigating?" "Well, yes. " "I reckon that is all straight enough in one way. " "In one way?" "Yes. " "What way do you mean?" "The girl committed suicide. " "You think so?" "Yes, and the evidence proves it. " "Yes, I know, but why should she be driven to suicide?" The lawyer remained silent. "Come, you have an idea, " said our hero. "I may have an idea, yes, but that's all. " "What is your idea?" "I am perfectly willing to give you facts; I have no right to advance mysuspicions. I may be wrong. " "I can tell you what you suspect. " "No doubt. " "You think the young baron had something to do with the girl's death. " "I understand she was young and handsome. He is young and handsome; itis probable that he may have had indirectly something to do with herdeath. I know one thing--his mother would never permit him to marry thegirl. She is playing him off for a baron and seeks to marry him to arich wife. I believe she will succeed. It will be fortunate for her andher son also if they succeed--indeed, certain matters are being heldback in that contingency, that I know. " The detective had made great advances and he determined to work a greatgame, and within a few days he made the acquaintance of August Wagnerunder the disguise of the rich Spaniard, and as they both spoke Frenchthere was little trouble in their intercourse. Jack played his cardswell, made a great display of money, and one day he advanced matters toa crisis. He had forced the lawyer to furnish him further detailsconcerning the money transactions of the baron and his mother, and setmatters in motion so that it became necessary for the baron to have someready cash. Well, very well and skillfully had Jack played his game, andone day he and the baron were at dinner. The baron was being fooled andhe had not worked the same game on the Spaniard that he had worked onthe detective. On the contrary, he pretended to be very rich andpossessed of great sums of money; he even assumed to be richer than thebaron. As stated, the crisis arrived; the baron and our hero were atdinner. The baron appeared to be greatly depressed, and the Spaniardobserved it and said, speaking in French: "My good friend, you do not appear to be in good spirits to-day?" "I am not. " "I am sorry; I wish I could do something to cheer you up. " "My remittance failed to come. " "Aha! that is nothing. " "Not materially, and yet I am very much inconvenienced. " "Indeed; possibly I can come to your rescue. " "I would not dream of letting you do so. " "Why not?" "Oh, no. " "But it would be a pleasure. " "Really?" "Why, certainly. " "I cannot borrow from you, but if you would accept a draft onBerlin----" "Why not?" "For quite a sum?" "Why not, if the draft is good?" "I have a friend, a very rich gentleman, who has dealings with my bankerin Berlin; he will make a draft for me. His name is Richards, awell-known business man here in New York. " "My friend, you will offend me if you go into details. No, no, it is notnecessary. Have you the draft?" "Not with me; I can get it. " "Ah, yes; but, my dear baron, you will indorse it?" "I will, certainly. " "That is fine. I care not who makes the draft, your indorsement issufficient for me. " "Have you such confidence in me?" "Why not?" "Then we may do better. " "Any way. " "I will get a draft accepted by my friend here in New York; I willindorse it and I will take care of it. " "Any way, my dear friend; I am only too glad to be of service to you. " "You are very kind. " "Why not--are we not good friends. And I have not many friends in NewYork. How much will you need?" "Two thousand dollars. " "You shall have it at once--indeed, I feel ashamed to accept your note, but you see I must do so merely as a matter of business, that is all. Ifthe amount were less I'd not permit you to give me the draft on yourgood friend. Let me see, what is the name--did you say Richards?" "Yes. " "Oh, I see; he will accept the draft payable in sixty days. Ah, that isit; and you will make the draft?" "Yes. " "Good, very good; the money is ready for you any time. I am so glad tooblige you--why not?" The baron was an actor, but the detective was a better one, and it wasagreed that they were to meet the following morning, when our hero wouldhave the money ready. Meantime, the detective as known to the baron hadmost singularly been in evidence even within three minutes afterparting from the Spaniard. The baron met the detective, or rather hethought he did, but alas! it was just that part of the game where thetwin brother of Jack, Gil, the excellent aid, came in. Of course Gil hadhis instructions well rehearsed, and he played his part with splendidaddress and cuteness. The baron was being outmaneuvered in everydirection, while thinking that he was playing a winning hand. On the morning following the incidents recorded the baron met theSpaniard, and strange to say, only a minute previously he had met thedetective. Jack had the money all right, "why not?" and the baron hadthe draft, and in the presence of the detective he indorsed it. We mayadd in the presence of Gil also, for our hero had so arranged his plansthat his brother was a witness, and after the money had been paid overand Jack had the draft in his possession, he invited the baron tobreakfast with him. The baron was in high glee, excused himself, butsaid he would meet Jack and have lunch with him. Our hero sauntered over to the elegant home of Mrs. Speir. The latterhad suffered the most intense agony during all this time, and it hadpreyed upon her health. Our hero had learned that Mrs. Speir was a verylovely woman, and well fitted to adorn a mansion. On the occasion whenJack appeared he found Mrs. Speir seated in her library. There weretears in her eyes, and as the detective entered a photograph slid offher lap and fell to the floor. The detective leaped forward to restoreit, and as he raised it from the floor he caught a glimpse of the face, and he stood gazing in rapt and intense admiration. "I did not mean that you should see that, " said Mrs. Speir. "You did not mean me to see it?" "Not at present. " "But I have seen it. " "I cannot help it. " "One question: Whose portrait is that?" "It is a portrait of Amalie. " "Your child?" "Yes. " "She is indeed a beautiful girl, " came the declaration. CHAPTER VIII. JACK'S GREAT DETECTIVE WORK--"WALK INTO MY MESHES, "SAID THE DETECTIVE--A ROGUE WALKS IN--THE FORGEDACCEPTANCE--CLOSING DOWN FOR A CONFESSION. There came a look of pride through the glittering tears as the motherresponded: "Yes, she was a beautiful girl, but alas! I fear her beauty has provedher ruin. " "Madam, you can dismiss that fear; I have set in motion a series oftricks which will enable me, I am assured, to restore your daughter toyour love and arms unharmed. " "Alas! I wish I could share your hopefulness; I cannot. You are a nobleman, you have proved it, and more, you have proved that you are one ofthe most honorable of men. I am grateful, but I am hopeless. If mydaughter were alive, as you say, she would come to me. " "There is no doubt, madam, that your daughter is restrained of herliberty or she would come, but mark my words: within one week I willbring her to you unharmed. I cannot tell you now all I have learned, butyou can accept my word; I will make good my promise. " When our hero left the presence of Mrs. Speir, wild, strange hopes weresurging in his heart. He had never given much thought to ladies, beautiful or otherwise, only as they were a part of his duties, but whenhe had once gazed upon the face of the beautiful Amalie Speir there camea great change over him. There was something in the expression of herface, so bright and intelligent, so different from any face he had evergazed upon. We have often said, and we declare again, that beautiful faces are norarity in America. One cannot walk the streets or even enter a publicconveyance without being able to pass the time watching a beautifulface, and the types of beauty to be met with are varied, but not asvaried as the expressions. It is the expressiveness of a face after allthat constitutes its beauty, and among our girls who are compelled toearn their livelihood in factories and offices, one will behold facesdelicate and features classically beautiful. The anxieties attendingdaily toil do not destroy their beauty, and some of these girls havefeatures that light up with expressions wondrously charming, and herealso the types are varied, and it is wonderful how an impression willsometimes be mutually made. This is what is commonly called "love atfirst sight, " and it is not an uncommon experience. It does seem asthough some souls were born as one. We will not attempt to analyze the feelings of our hero, Jack, thedetective. He was young, well educated, well-to-do, and talented, besides he possessed one of the grandest physical structures that everyheld a human heart, and again, strangely enough, under all thecircumstances, he was not only an honorable man but a young man animatedwith the kindliest feelings. His great physical strength did not makehim an aggressor, but a protector. All along he had had a strong motive in solving the mystery of Amalie'sdisappearance, but after having seen her portrait his previous interestbecome wildly enthused, and he clinched his fist and muttered: "If any harm has come to that fair girl, woe to the man or woman who hasharmed her, that is all I've got to say. " As intimated, Jack had carried out a very cunning scheme, and on the dayfollowing his securing of the note he met the young man August Wagner. He met him under the rôle of the detective, invited him to dine withhim, and together the two young man entered a well-known café. They wereseated at a table, when lo, the Spaniard entered. Here again our herohad utilized his double, his twin brother Gil, and so well was Gilgotten up as the Spaniard that the most intimate friend of the disguisedmen would have failed to discover the "transform. " These brothers had a way of destroying their resemblance for the timebeing, and at the moment there was no observable resemblance betweenthem. Jack had appeared as Jack in one way when he assumed the rôle ofthe Spaniard. He traveled under the name of Tavares, and as his brotherGil entered the baron leaped up and made to go toward him, but Gil, having his cue, turned suddenly and walked out, giving the baron noopportunity to address him. As the latter resumed his seat Jack said: "Do you know that man?" "Yes, he is my intimate friend. " "Your intimate friend?" "Yes. " "Don't let any one know it. " "Don't let any one know it?" repeated the baron, in a tone of surprise. "No, sir. " "Why not?" "You know his character, don't you?" "He is a young Spanish millionaire. " "A what?" "A young Spanish millionaire. " "Hello, has he played you?" "Played me?" repeated the baron. "That is what I said. " "But I do not understand you. " "That man is the biggest fraud and pretense in New York--one of the mostdangerous men to have any dealings with in the United States. If youhave met him take my advice and do not keep up the acquaintance. Whenthat man makes your acquaintance _he has a design every time_. " The baron glared and turned pale--very pale--and finally asked: "Are you sure?" "I am sure. Why, has he worked you?" "Oh, no, but I am surprised. " "He is a terrible man. " "He was introduced to me, as I said, as a Spanish millionaire. " "He is a Spanish Shylock; he loans money, and he usually gets about twohundred per cent before he gets through. Why, I know a case where he gota lady to forge her husband's name to a note, and as soon as he got thenote he commenced to squeeze. He got all the woman's jewels, all hermoney, all the real estate she held in her own name, then exposed her, and she committed suicide. " The baron's face became ghastly, and the detective asked: "What is the matter? You look deathly pale. " "The wine has turned against me. " "But you haven't drank any. " "No, no, I've a sort of dizziness; I do not know what is the matter withme. But I am amazed at what you tell me; there must be some mistake. " "No, there is no mistake. " "The Spaniard cannot speak a word of English. " "What?" ejaculated the detective. "He cannot speak a word of English. " "Bah! he can speak English, French, and German. He is a splendidlinguist; he plays ignorance, that is all; it is a part of his design. " The baron recalled the scene in the hotel café, and said: "I know he can't speak English. " "How do you know?" "It was through his inability to speak English that I became acquaintedwith him. He was in a café and could not make his wants known, and Iwent to his rescue. " The detective laughed outright. "Why do you laugh?" "At the idea that he could not speak English. Why, my friend, it isevident he had some design on you. Look out for him, or take my adviceand do not have anything to do with him, or he will make you a heap oftrouble. I tell you he is a dangerous man; the next time you meet himsound him on the question of his knowledge of English. Suddenly saysomething comical to him, and then watch. You are shrewd; you will soonfind out he can speak English, even better than yourself. " Jack had set his fuse alight, and he started to work in anotherdirection. He left the baron after a few more words of warning, andenjoyed seeing the young man writhe in terror. Once on the street the detective smiled grimly and said: "The miserable little conniver, I reckon I am drawing the strings verytight on him now, and soon I will make him drop to his knees and confessall. " A little while following the scene we have described a gentlemanappeared at the house of Mrs. Richards and sent in a card, intimatingthat his business was very urgent. The lady sent back word she could not see any one until evening. Thevisitor would not accept this refusal to meet him, and sent such word asto cause the lady to have him invited inside, and after about half anhour's wait Mrs. Richards appeared. "Good-afternoon, madam, I am sorry to have insisted upon seeing you, butmy business is very urgent. " Jack spoke in broken English, and was gotten up as the Spaniard. "Your name is Jones, I believe?" "No, madam, my name is Tavares. I did not send you my own card forreasons which you will understand. " At the mention of the name Tavares Mrs. Richards winced, and there camea pallor to her face. She was a fine-looking woman, commanding in faceand figure, but she was a woman of wonderful shrewdness andself-control, and she asked: "What may be your business with me?" "You are acquainted, madam, with a young man named August Wagner? Ibelieve he claims to be a baron. " The woman spoke very slowly, as though measuring every word. "I know the baron; I have befriended him. " "Yes, madam, no doubt, and I fear he has taken advantage of yourkindness. " The woman trembled. "Taken advantage of my kindness?" "Yes, madam. " "You must be mistaken. " "I am not mistaken, and I thought I would come to you first--yes, cometo you before I saw him, because I know you are deeply interested inhim. " "Only in a general way. " "Don't say that, madam. " "Why not?" "Simply because the statement does not agree with information I havereceived. " "What information have you received?" "I have been informed that you are very deeply interested in the youngman. " "It is not true; I have sought to aid him, that is all. " "Again, madam, I am sorry to hear you say that. " "And again why?" "Because I have been informed that you take a _motherly_ interest inyoung Wagner. " The woman's face became ghastly. "Who was your officious informant?" "I am not at liberty to tell at present. " "Will you tell me how young Wagner has taken advantage of my interest inhim?" "I will. " "Do so. " "He got me to cash a draft for him. " "Dear me, is that all?" "Yes, madam, that is all. " "I know you will find the draft is good and will be paid. " "You know it will be paid?" "Yes; but why did you come to me?" "The draft purports to have been accepted by your husband. " The woman still maintained her coolness, and said: "Then my husband will pay it on maturity. " "Oh, that would be all right, but I have received information whichleads me to desire that your husband should acknowledge the acceptanceas genuine. " The woman began to break up, and she demanded in eager tones: "Has my husband repudiated the acceptance?" "Not yet, madam, simply because I have not presented the draft. Ithought I would come to you first. " "Do you believe the draft a forgery?" "In fact, madam, I have the most positive evidence in that direction. " The woman meditated a moment, and then said: "This rash young man, can it be possible that in anticipation ofremittances he has dared do this?" "It so appears, madam. " "I must save him. If it is a forged note my husband must not know it. Yes, poor young man, how I pity him! and I must save him, and I willsave him. " "That is good and kind of you, madam. " "Yes, I will save him; I will accept the draft myself. " "You are very kind, madam. " "I cannot bear to see the young man humiliated. " "You do not desire to see him humiliated?" "I do not, I will not. " "Then, madam, you must think of some other way of saving him, for youracceptance of the draft is not a sufficient security for me. Now if youwill persuade your husband to acknowledge the acceptance that will saveany humiliation. " CHAPTER IX. JACK AT HIS BEST--THE HEARTLESS MILLIONAIRE--A TRICKTHAT BROUGHT RESULTS--A CONFERENCE--TERRIBLEINTIMATIONS--THE MYSTERY CLEARED UP--SAFE BUT GREATWORK DEMANDED. "Oh, no, no, " exclaimed the woman. "Then pay me the cash. " "It is not convenient at present, but I will give you my note inexchange for the one you hold. " "I cannot accept your note, madam. " "You cannot accept my note?" "No, madam. " "I am surprised; do you fear non-payment?" "I do. " "Will you explain?" "Certainly; I have received information that the baron has quite anumber of notes out with your name on them and the name of yourhusband. " The detective had struck the fatal blow; the woman wilted. "You must have mercy on the young man, " she exclaimed. "It is not in my way, madam, to show mercy. What I need is money--my ownmoney. " "I will give you a note in double the amount. " "But, madam, I could not accept your note, no, and now I would notaccept your husband's note, for I have information that you and thebaron, your son, have so involved him that he will be a ruined man if hesaves your honor and credit. I cannot stand to lose, but, madam, I willsee you again. You will need time to think and time to confer with thebaron. I will call again. " The detective rose; the woman was really overwhelmed. The Spaniard evidently knew the truth--the whole truth--knew that thebaron was really her son. She did not bid the Spaniard to stay; she didneed time to think, and she walked the floor in the agony of herthoughts. Then she rang for a messenger boy and sent a hurried note, andin the meantime she had prepared to go forth to the street veiled, andthe detective, having worked a change, was at hand, and he fell to her"shadow, " and he muttered: "This drama is approaching its end; the play is most over; the curtainwill soon go down. " The woman went to the very same hotel where she had met the baron oncebefore. She did not enter the dining-room, but proceeded to a room. Jackwas on hand. He had learned that the baron had secured a room in thehotel and had been living there for some days, and with his usualforesightedness the detective under a "cover" had secured a room in thesame hotel, thinking that the time might come when he would desire towatch the baron and his visitors. He waited for the woman to enter thebaron's room and then quickly he entered the room he had secured. Right here we desire to state that this securing of adjacent rooms whendetectives are on a "lay" is a very common proceeding. It is done daily, it is being done to-day, and will be done in the future. It is indeedone of the most frequently adopted methods of the profession, and it isa common event also to place a detective as a pretended criminal in thesame cell or the adjacent cell to a criminal, with a view to catch hismutterings awake or asleep, or to listen to conversations between thewretched man and his visitors. Jack was all right; he wanted to learn facts and it was delightful tofeel that he had run these schemers down to a point where he couldlisten to their mutual explanations. The baron was in his room. This was a chance in the woman's favor, andupon her appearance he exclaimed: "You here?" "Yes, I am here. " The baron had gone to his room following his little chat with our hero. He had passed the time in a very uncomfortable manner, and of course thearrival of Mrs. Richards was a great surprise. We wish to state one fact to our readers: Our hero could have "closedin" on the two schemers, but he was seeking certain facts which theycould have withheld. He desired to know why they had taken such a suddeninterest in Amalie Speir, why they had commenced to scheme and make itappear that the fair girl was dead. While seeking this information hewas proceeding very slowly; he desired to gain it rather than attempt toforce it, for in the latter attempt he might fail. He knew that neitherMrs. Speir nor her daughter knew the motive--that is, so he haddecided--and his moves were intended, as stated, to gain informationfrom the schemers themselves. Mrs. Richards sat down; her face was pale and she was laboring undergreat excitement, as the baron observed the instant she entered theroom. When she did gain sufficient composure she said: "What have you been doing?" "I do not understand. " "That last acceptance----" "You knew all about it; you knew we needed the money to cover anothertransaction. " "But you have been trapped. " "Trapped?" ejaculated the young man. "Yes, trapped. " "By whom?" "This scoundrel Tavares. " The baron almost fainted as he fell back on a sofa and gazed withstarting eyes, and the woman proceeded and said: "This man called upon me within an hour, and he knows all. He knows youare my son, he knows the acceptance is forged. Were you drunk? did youmake a confidant of that man?" "Give me time to think, " said the baron in a husky tone, and then afterrising and drinking ice water from a goblet he asked: "What does all this mean?" "I tell you the Spaniard, Tavares, called upon me; he knows all. " "Did he call alone?" "He did. " "How did he manage to convey his information to you?" "He told me fact after fact with the utmost coolness and assurance. " "And he spoke English?" "He did. " "Then I was rightly informed and we are in that man's power--yes, in hispower absolutely. " "You say you were rightly informed?" "Yes. " "What was your information?" "I was informed that the man Tavares was a Shylock, a designing devil. You were right when you said I had been tricked. " "And who was your informant?" The baron proceeded and told the whole story, all the facts known to ourreaders, together with his recent meal with the detective who was hisinformant. The woman listened attentively with a glitter in her eyes, and when thenarrative had been concluded, she said: "All is lost unless you can force matters, then we can legitimatelyraise all the money we need. Your wife can get all the money shedesires, and at once. " The detective's blood ran cold. The words "your wife" were terrible intheir suggestion. "I can do better. " "You can?" "Yes. " "What can you do?" "Recover that note with the forged acceptance. " "How?" "I will invite that Spaniard to accompany me to some out-of-the-wayplace; I will overcome and force him to give up the note. " "You mean you would commit murder?" "No. " "And you must not, my son. We have gone far enough in crime. I willnever consent to the crime of murder. " "We need not murder him, we can abduct him and keep him out of the wayuntil our plans are completed. " "Yes, we might do that if we could succeed, then we could force mattersand let him loose later, even pay him an indemnity and return to Europe. My good husband would not object as long as it did not cost himanything. " "We must do something, and we must act at once. " "August, you are a brave and skillful man. Now you know the real dangeryou will be able to devise some plan, but no time must be lost; we mustmove rapidly. Let us get this immediate danger removed and we can bringthe other matter about at once, but it is strange how obstinate anddetermined _that girl_ is. There we must force matters, but I did hopethat we would secure money enough to go to Europe. If we could carry herto Europe we would be all right. We could furnish proofs of heridentity, secure the money, and all would be well, but she must first beyour wife, and I repeat, if she does not consent, then I will assent _tothe plan you proposed_. It is a terrible device, but she must be yourwife, and that within forty-eight hours. If she does not yield we willforce matters, and she will be glad to become the baroness. " The mystery was indeed all clearing up, and the detective overheardevery word of the conversation, and our readers can only imagine hisemotions and excitement, as we will not attempt to describe either. CHAPTER X. CONCLUSION. The mother and son remained together some time discussing their plans indetail, and when Mrs. Richards finally departed our hero was "on to thewhole scheme, " as detectives say, and he prepared like a lamb led to theslaughter to be entrapped by the bold baron, and there came a smile tohis face as he anticipated the turning of the tables at the lastmoment. Our hero was now absolutely assured that Amalie Speir lived, but thatshe was unharmed thus far, and he determined to take such steps as wouldinsure her safety until such time as he "closed in" on her abductors andforced her release. He determined to meet the baron that same night, andhe also resolved to be fully prepared to fall into the trap which he hadassumed was to be set for him. In the meantime, he called at the home ofMrs. Speir; his face was radiant and his hopefulness inspired the lady, who asked: "Do you bring me good news?" "Mrs. Speir, I bring you the very best of news, and it is my presentcalculation that within twenty-four hours I will bring you yourdaughter, pure, loving and unharmed. " "Succeed, Mr. Alvarez, and I will be the happiest woman in the world, and what is more, I will surrender to you your half of the fortune. " Jack smiled, for we will here admit that away down in his heart he didpermit a little flame of hope to smolder that in a roundabout way hemight some day secure the whole of it practically, and something withthe fortune more precious to him than the gold and the houses and lands. It was early in the evening when seemingly by chance the Spaniard andthe baron met, and the latter proved himself a great actor, and indeed ashrewd man, and the chances are he might have been a winner were heplaying against a man less shrewd and adroit than our hero, but Jack washard to beat, as our readers will learn. The baron proposed a luncheon, what he called "an early supper, " and heappeared to have plenty of money and made a display of it, and at theproper moment he said: "Mr. Tavares, I have good news for you. " "Indeed?" "Yes. " "Good news is always more inspiring than bad news. " "Yes, and I am going to redeem my note. " "Is that so?" "It is true; I have come into some money unexpectedly and I will pay youin full, and as you were kind enough to take chances I will pay interestto date; but you need not hold the note, I will redeem it. " "Good enough; I will be frank with you. I may have been misinformed, youmay have an enemy, but I was told that the note was not all right. I gotscared and I called upon Mrs. Richards. She demanded time to think thematter over, but as you are going to pay the note, why, that makes itall right. I will admit I am not as disinterested as I may haveappeared; I've lots of money, but I make my money tell to make more. When will you redeem the note?" "This very night, within the hour. I have a friend--a real friend--whowill help me out of my difficulty. It makes no difference to you whopays the note as long as you get the money back. " "No difference whatever. " "Then the matter can be easily fixed. We will finish our supper and thengo to my friend's house. I was to meet him between eleven and twelve. Hewill have the money all ready to settle up and redeem the note, and hewill hold it for me without making inquiries or seeking information. " "'A friend in need is a friend indeed, ' and I will admit that I shall bevery glad to get my money back. I do not care about the character of thenote as long as I take no chances. See, I am perfectly frank. " "Yes, very frank, and that is your best quality. " The latter remark was made with a laugh and was satirical. The young men finished their meal, went to a vaudeville show for alittle while, and then proceeded to the house where the pretendedSpaniard was to receive his money. The baron appeared to congratulatehimself at the ease with which he got the Spaniard into the trap, andled him to an out-of-the-way house in the suburbs of Long Island City. The Spaniard entered like a lamb led to the slaughter, and there was abig laugh hidden away down in his bosom. The baron led our hero to a rear room, sat down and bade his companionbe seated. Jack complied, and then there came a complete change over thedemeanor of the baron. He said: "Tavares, you have a note?" "Yes. " "I promised you its equivalent?" "You did. " "I do--it's your life. " "Aha!" "Yes, your life; I will have that note or your life. You secured it bytrick and device. I resolved to recover it by the same means, and let metell you, I am prepared to carry out my resolve. I have men here to aidme. " "And this is your trick?" "This is my trick. " "We will not waste words, August. " "No, we will not waste words. " "This is my trick. " As the detective spoke he cast aside his disguise and stood revealed. The baron stared aghast and in a husky voice exclaimed: "What! you are the detective?" "I am the detective. Call for your aids and I will summon mine; thelatter are at hand. " "What does this mean?" "It means that I have 'closed in' on you. I can send you to State'sprison on two or three charges, and your mother with you to look afteryou there. Meyer, you thought you were playing your game well, but youmade a mistake from the beginning. I had you 'shadowed' on every moveyou have made; there is but one way of escape for you. " "One way of escape?" "Yes. " The baron saw that he had been beaten in the most complete manner. Hesaw that indeed there was no hope for him but in the mercy of thedetective. The young man was no fool. "How can I escape?" "Surrender to me unharmed and uninjured Miss Amalie Speir. Do this and Iwill surrender the note, and you can keep the two thousand dollars. Ipermit the latter to save scandal. " "I accept your terms. " "So far so good, and now tell me why you sought to force this girl tomarry you. Tell me the whole truth and I will pay you an additionalthousand dollars. " "There is no need for me to conceal the facts. " "You are right. " "The girl is an heiress and does not know it. " "Tell me the facts. " "Her grandmother was a Mrs. Harold Stevens. Mrs. Stevens quarreled withher husband and they separated. The husband returned to America, Mrs. Stevens remained in Europe. Mrs. Richards made her acquaintance, andduring their intimacy Mrs. Stevens revealed the fact that she had adaughter living in America, and that she had deposited fifty thousanddollars to her daughter's credit to be surrendered upon identification. She gave Mrs. Richards a picture of her child and employed her to findthe heiress, and placed matters in such shape that the money could bepaid over upon proof. Mrs. Richards failed in finding the heiress untilMiss Amalie Speir came to live with her, and then she recognized in thatgirl the heiress, and determined that I should marry her, and we wouldsecure the deposit, which now amounts to nearly a hundred thousanddollars. " "But Amalie is not the heiress. " "No, her mother is the heiress, but had she become my wife we were tofurnish evidence that the mother was dead, secure the money on thegirl's wonderful resemblance to the picture of her mother. The money wasleft in such a manner that no legal steps were necessary. " "Amalie would not marry you?" "No; and now the game is up. " "One more question: How did you learn that I was interested in the caseand start to deceive me when we first met?" "We were watching the mother after the disappearance, and learned thatshe had employed you. I knew all the time you were a detective, but youhave beaten me; I surrender. " That very night Jack and Gil accompanied the baron to the place whereAmalie Speir had been held a prisoner, and Jack had met face to face thebeautiful girl who had so long filled his thoughts. It was morning erehe had finished the long story he had to relate to the beautiful girl, and when morning came he led Amalie to her mother's home. Words willnever describe the joy and delight of that mother. The baron quietly stole off to Europe. Jack had no desire to detain himor punish any one. He had wrought a successful "shadow" to the end andwas content. And now comes the most pleasant part of our narrative. Mrs. Speir's heart was filled with gratitude, and the daughter, thebeautiful Amalie, learned to admit more than gratitude. She gave herheart to the brave, persistent and determined young man who had done herand her mother such signal service, and it was a glorious occasion whenJack led to the altar the bride he had won in such a strange and weirdmanner. We could write more, but we believe we have told the whole taleas concerns _facts_, and comments we will leave to our readers. THE END. The World's Finger is the title of the most absorbing detectivenarrative ever written. [Illustration] One would not surmise from the title that such was the fact; but theclosing chapter of the book gives the clue to its meaning: "I swore tomy father on his death-bed that The World's Finger should never point toa Davanant as amongst the list of known convicts, and that oath I willkeep. " T.  W. HANSHEW is the author, and a writer of more exciting andsensational detective stories cannot be found at the present day. One reader writes: "I thought I would read a chapter or two of THEWORLD'S FINGER, to see what it was all about. I soon found out, and itwas two o'clock in the morning before I lay it down, having read it tothe end at one sitting. It certainly is a corker. " Bound in paper covers; price, 25 cents. Sent by mail to any address uponreceipt of price. Address all orders to J.  S. OGILVIE PUBLISHING COMPANY, P.  O. Box 767 57 ROSE STREET, NEW YORK. MRS. WINSLOW'S Soothing Syrup FOR CHILDREN TEETHING Greatly facilitates the process of teething by softening the gums andreducing all inflammation. Will allay all pain and spasmodic action, andis Sure to Regulate the Bowels. Depend upon it, mothers, it will give rest to yourselves and Relief andHealth to your Infants. We have put up and sold this article for over sixty years, and can sayin confidence and truth of it what we have never been able to say of anyother medicine: never has it failed in a single instance to effect acure when timely used. Never did we know an instance of dissatisfactionby any one who used it. On the contrary, all are delighted with itsoperations, and speak in terms of highest commendation of its magicaleffects and medical virtues. We speak in this matter "what we do know"after years of experience, and pledge our reputation for the fulfillmentof what we here declare. In almost every instance, where the infant issuffering from pain and exhaustion, relief will be found in fifteen ortwenty minutes after the syrup is administered. This valuable preparation has been used with never-failing success inthousands of cases. It not only relieves the child from pain, butInvigorates the Stomach and Bowels. MRS. WINSLOW'S SOOTHING SYRUP corrects acidity and gives tone and energyto the whole system. It will almost instantly relieve griping in thebowels and wind colic. We believe it the best and surest remedy in theworld in all cases of Diarrhoea in Children, whether arising fromteething or any other cause. We would say to every mother who has a child suffering from any of theforegoing complaints, do not let your prejudices, nor the prejudices ofothers, stand between your suffering child and the relief that will besure--yes, absolutely sure--to follow the use of this medicine if timelyused. Full directions for using will accompany each bottle. TWENTY-FIVECENTS A BOTTLE. None genuine unless the fac-simile of CURTIS & PERKINS, New York, is onthe outside wrapper. Sold by Druggists throughout the world. MOTHERS will find MRS. WINSLOW'S SOOTHING SYRUP the Best Remedy to usefor their children during the Teething period. [Transcriber's Note: The original edition did notcontain a Table of Contents. A Table of Contents hasbeen prepared for this electronic edition. Inaddition, the following typographical errors presentin the original book have been corrected. In Chapter IV, "No, direct news" was changed to "Nodirect news", "Did you ever seen" was changed to"Did you ever see", and a colon was added after "butafter a moment he said". In Chapter V, "one of the loveliest creaures" hasbeen changed to "one of the loveliest creatures". In Chapter VI, "the demanor of the baron" has beenchanged to "the demeanor of the baron". In Chapter VII, a semicolon following "preyed uponher health" was changed to a period. In the advertisement for Mrs. Winslow's SoothingSyrup, the hyphen in the word "fac-simile" waspresent in the original text. ]