l man.

"The law cannot reach the insane, I believe," said the Doctor, calmly.

"You surely do not suppose that you can deceive the experts by
shamming madness?" asked Mr. Barnes, contemptuously. "We are too
advanced in science, in these days, to be baffled long by
malingerers."

"Observe me, and you will learn my purpose!"

Dr. Medjora went to a closet and returned with a hammer, a large
staple, and a long chain. Mr. Barnes watched him closely, with no
suspicion of what was to follow. The Doctor stopped at a point
immediately opposite to the door, and stooping, firmly fastened the
chain to the floor by nailing it down with the large staple, which was
long enough to reach the beam under the boarding. He then stood up
again. Taking a hypodermic syringe from his pocket, and also a small
phial, he carefully filled the barrel, and was about to inject the
fluid into his arm, when Mr. Barnes ejaculated:

"I thought that you said you would not commit suicide?"

"I have no such intention. In one moment I will explain my purpose to
you. Meanwhile watch me!"

With dexterous skill he plunged the point into one of the larger
veins, and discharged the fluid carefully, holding a finger over the
wound as he withdrew the needle to prevent any escape. If Mr. Barnes
was astonished by this, he was more surprised at what followed. The
Doctor stooped and picked up the ends of the chain, which the
detective now observed terminated in handcuffs. These the Doctor
slipped over his wrists, and snapping together the spring locks, thus
virtually imprisoned himself.

"What does this mean?" said Mr. Barnes. "I do not understand."

"Of course not," said the Doctor. "You are accustomed to deal with
brainless criminals. Despite your boast, science is beyond you. I will
explain: My object in thus chaining myself to the floor, is to insure
your safety."

"My safety?"

"Yes! In less than half an hour I will be a raving maniac. If not
restrained, I might do you an injury."

"Impossible!" cried the detective, incredulous.

"You will see! I ask in exchange for my thoughtfulness in preventing
myself from harming you, that when I shall have become irresponsible,
you will suggest the idea that I felt this attack of insanity coming
on, and took these precautions for the sake of others. Will you do
this?"

"Certainly! If----" Mr. Barnes stopped, confused by his thoughts.

"There is no if about this. I do not deal in chances. I have never yet