ide. In low tones he
ordered the chauffeur to drive to the nearest police station. It was
all over in half a minute. They left the curiosity seekers goggling
from the pavement.

During the drive the two exchanged no word. The youth shrank back in
his corner, staring straight ahead of him out of his pale and
impenetrable mask. Occasionally he moistened his lips. Clearly he was
terrified, but a determined spirit held him to the line he had chosen.

Evan made no attempt to search him for the money, for he wished to have
a witness present when the marked bills were taken from him. But he
watched him throughout with lynx eyes, prepared to forestall any
attempt to make away with the bills.

Arriving at the station house the chauffeur, full of curiosity, was for
helping Evan take his prisoner in. But Evan paid him off and told him
he needn't wait. The man lingered, joining the little crowd that
always hangs around the station house steps when a prisoner is brought
in.

By this time the youth seemed to have recovered from the worst of his
fears. He went up the steps quite willingly in front of Evan. Within,
a bored and lordly police lieutenant sat enthroned at his high desk.
Evan, who had been holding himself in all this time, burst out:

"This man is a blackmailer. I want you to search him. You'll find the
money he extorted in the inside breast pocket of his coat. The bills
are marked."

The Lieutenant declined to become excited. Such dramatic entrances
were part of his daily routine. "Hold on a minute," he said, opening
his book. "Proceed in order." He addressed the prisoner: "What is
your name?"

"I decline to give it," said the youth--his voice was breathless but
determined still. "I have done nothing wrong. This man suddenly
seized me on the street. I think he's crazy. Search me. If you find
anything, then let him make a charge."

The Lieutenant spoke to a patrolman across the room: "Ratigan, search
him."

The youth spread his arms wide to facilitate the search. Evan, taken
aback by his assurance, waited the result anxiously. The patrolman
thrust his hand in his breast pocket.

"Nothing here," he said indifferently.

Evan's heart sank. "Are you sure?" he said.

"Look for yourself if you want."

"Search him thoroughly," commanded the Lieutenant.

But Evan already guessed that he had been tricked.

No money was found except a dollar bill and some change.

"Is this it?" asked th