understand that. Also, doubtless you have no desire to
venture into Germany, Austria, Bulgaria, or Turkey. Scandinavia
remains open to you, and practically no other country except
Spain, because we do not permit you to go to Mexico or to Central
or South America. Do you comprehend? _We_ do not permit it.

"Therefore, hold your tongue and control your _furor scribendi_
while in New York. And make arrangements to take the next Danish
steamer for Christiania.

"This is a friendly warning. For if you are still here in the
United States two weeks after you have received this letter, other
measures will be taken in your regard which will effectually
dispose of your troublesome presence.

"The necessity which forces us to radical action in this affair is
regrettable, but entirely your own fault.

"You have, from time to time during the last two years, received
from us overtures of an amicable nature. You have been approached
with discretion and have been offered every necessary guarantee to
cover an understanding with us.

"You have treated our advances with frivolity and contempt. And
what have you gained by your defiance?

"Our patience and good nature has reached its limits. We shall ask
nothing further of you; we deliver you our orders hereafter. And
our orders are to leave New York immediately.

"Yet, even now, at the eleventh hour, it may not be too late for
us to come to some understanding if you change your attitude
entirely and show a proper willingness to negotiate with us in all
good faith.

"But that must be accomplished within the two weeks' grace given
you before you depart.

"You know how to proceed. If you try to play us false you had
better not have been born. If you deal honestly with us your
troubles are over.

"This is final.

"THE WATCHER."

XVI

THE WATCHER

"The Watcher," repeated Barres, studying the typewritten signature for
a moment longer. Then he looked at Westmore: "What do you think of
that, Jim?"

Westmore, naturally short tempered, became very red, got to his feet,
and began striding about the studio as though some sudden blaze of
inward anger were driving him into violent motion.

"The thing to do," he said, "is to catch this 'Watcher' fellow and
beat him up. That's the way to deal with blackmailers--catch 'em and
beat 'em up--vermin of this sort--this blackmailing fraternity!--I
haven't anything t