official, but for
the calmness of his manner and the low tones of his voice. Keith came
immediately to the point.

"I have a piece of important work on hand this evening," he said, "of a
private and delicate nature." The detective's look was acquiescent.
"Could I get Dennison?"

"I think so."

Keith stated his case. At the mention of Wickersham's name a slight
change--the very slightest--flickered across the detective's calm face.
Keith could not tell whether it was mere surprise or whether it was
gratification.

"Now you see precisely what I wish," he said, as he finished stating the
case and unfolding his plan. "It may not be necessary for him even to
appear, but I wish him to be on hand in case I should need his service.
If Wickersham does not accede to my demand, I shall arrest him for the
fraud I have mentioned. If he does accede, I wish Dennison to accompany
him to the boat of the South American Line that sails to-morrow morning,
and not leave him until the pilot comes off. I do not apprehend that he
will refuse when he knows the hand that I hold."

"No, he will not. He knows what would happen if proceedings were
started," said the detective. "Excuse me a moment." He walked out of the
office, closing the door behind him, and a few minutes later returned
with David Dennison.

"Mr. Keith, this is Mr. John Dimm. I have explained to him the nature of
the service you require of him." He looked at Mr. Dimm, who simply
nodded his acquiescence. "You will take your orders from Mr. Keith,
should anything arise to change his plans, and act accordingly."

"I know him," said Keith, amused at the cool professional air with which
his old friend greeted him in the presence of his principal.

Dave simply blinked; but his eyes had a fire in them.

It was arranged that Dennison should precede Keith to the place he had
mentioned and order a supper there, while Keith should get the ticket at
the steamship office and then follow him. So when Keith had completed
his arrangements, he found Dennison at supper at a table near the
ladies' entrance, a view of which he commanded in a mirror just before
him. Mr. Dimm's manner had entirely changed. He was a man of the world
and a host as he handed Keith to his seat.

"A supper for two has been ordered in private dining-room 21, for 9:45,"
he said in an undertone as the waiter moved off. "They do not know
whether it is for a gentleman and a lady, or two gentlemen; but I
suppose it