The Clue of the Silver Key

'Hey!'

Reluctantly Tickler turned. He had been quick to identify the silent watcher. By straightening his shoulders and adding something of jauntiness to his stride he hoped to prevent the recognition from becoming mutual.

Surefoot Smith was one of the few people in the world who have minds like a well-organized card index. Not the smallest and least important offender who had passed through his hands could hope to reach a blissful oblivion.

'Come here--you.'

Tickler came.

'What are you doing now, Tickler? Burglary, or just fetching the beer for the con. men? Two a.m.! Got a home?'

'Yes, sir.'

'Ah, somewhere in the West End! Gone scientific, maybe. Science is the ruin of the country!'

Rights or no rights, he passed his hands swiftly over Tickler's person; the little man stretched out his arms obediently and sm