good families."

"Just so," said Foster. "Would you be surprised to hear he hadn't got
out of that trouble yet?"

"Not surprised exactly; I was afraid of something like it, sir."

Foster knew this was as much as he would admit, but felt that he could
trust the man.

"Very well. My partner's in some danger, and with Mr. Featherstone's
permission I must try to see him through, but may want your help. I
suppose you're willing?"

"Yes, sir. If it's for Mr. Lawrence, you can take it that I am."

"You can drive an automobile pretty well?"

"Not like a professional, sir, but now we don't keep a chauffeur I
often drive to the station."

"That's satisfactory. I may want the car to-morrow evening, but nobody
else must know about this."

"Very good, sir," said John. "When you're ready you can give me your
instructions; they'll go no further."

Then he dipped a rag in the oil and began to rub a gun, and Foster went
out, feeling satisfied. It was plain that he could rely upon the old
fellow, who he thought was unflinchingly loyal to the Featherstones.
After all, it was something to have the respect and affection of one's
servant.

IX

THE FALSE TRAIL

When Foster got up next morning he had made his plan, and spent ten
minutes explaining it to John. The old fellow understood his orders,
and although he listened with formal deference, the faint twinkle in
his eyes showed that he approved. After breakfast, Foster asked
Featherstone to come out on the terrace and while they walked about
indicated the line he thought it best to take.

Featherstone agreed, but expressed some misgivings. "There may be
danger in putting Daly on the track, and after all I'm only delaying a
crisis that must be faced."

"The longer it's delayed, the better; something may happen in the
meantime," Foster replied. "Then, you see, the track is false. When
the fellow finds you obstinate, he'll try to get hold of Lawrence,
particularly as he got money from him before; but as he believes
Lawrence is in England, he'll have some trouble. The advantage is that
he won't be able to bother you while all his time and energy's occupied
by following me."

"That is possible," said Featherstone. "But you may find it difficult
to get away from the rogue, since you must give him some kind of a
clew."

Foster laughed. "I don't mind the difficulty, sir. In fact, I
imagine, I'm going to enjoy the chase."

"There's a point that must be