July 10, 2023
Nick Carter and The Gordon Elopement, Pt 1
Well, well, well, folks, it looks like Master Detective Nick Carter has gotten himself into quite the pickle this time. You see, he's been called upon to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a young man named Arthur Gordon, who only just deeded his brand new estate to his fiancee before vanishing into thin air. And to top it all off, he's accused of running away with another woman! Oh, the scandal!
But fear not, dear listeners, for Nick is on the case, and he's got his trusty assistants by his side. His client, Mina Strickland, is convinced that her beau is being targeted as a victim, and she's got her sights set on one Mortimer Deland, a notorious crook who managed to escape from prison hospital a few months back. Sounds like a real stand-up guy.
Will Nick be able to find Arthur and clear his good name? Or will he be sidetracked by Deland and his devious ways? Tune in to find out, folks, because in the world of Master Detective Nick Carter, anything can happen.
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Transcript
WEBVTT
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Hello again, friends and welcome to a new episode of forward into the past.
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I am JC your host and narrator.
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And today we're beginning a new story in the Nick Carter case files, but one that may have several familiar characters.
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If you listen to the previous story.
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Here we begin a new story.
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The Gordon elopement or Nick, Carter's three of a kind.
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Story papers and dime novels were a popular form of entertainment in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
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These publications were typically serialized, meaning that each issue would end with a cliffhanger leaving readers, eager to buy the next issue to find out what happened next.
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Story papers were typically larger in format than dime novels, and they often featured more serialized stories as well as serialized illustrations.
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Dime novels.
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On the other hand, we're a smaller and more cheaply produced and they typically featured only one serialized story per issue.
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Both story papers and dime novels were popular with a wide range of readers, including adults and children.
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They were however, considered to be low brow entertainment, but they also played an important role in popularizing new genres of fiction, such as the Western, the detective story and the science fiction story.
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However, the popularity of story papers and dime novels began to decline in the early 20th century.
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There are a number of factors that contributed to this decline.
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One factor was the rise of new forms of entertainment, such as movies and radio.
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These new forms of entertainment, offered readers a more immersive and visually stimulating experience than story papers and dime novels could provide.
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Another factor that contributed to the decline of story papers and dime novels was the increasing availability of public libraries.
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In the late 19th century, public libraries were still relatively rare.
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However by the early 20th century, public libraries had become more widespread and they offered readers access to a wide range of books, including classic novels, biographies, and histories.
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This made it less necessary for readers to turn to story papers and dime novels for their entertainment.
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In addition to the factors mentioned before.
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There may be a few other reasons that might have contributed to the decline of story papers and dime novels.
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One possibility is that the rise of literacy rates led to a demand for more sophisticated forms of literature.
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Another possibility is that the changing social and cultural landscape of the early 20th century made the themes and values of story papers and dime novels seem outdated.
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Well, whatever the reasons, the decline of these publications was a significant event in the history of American popular culture.
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However, thanks to the tireless efforts of the volunteers at project Gutenberg.
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We still have wonderful stories like this classic Nick Carter mystery from 1915.
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Here's the Gordon elopement or Nick Carter's three of a kind.
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Chapter one.
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An open question.
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Nick Carter did not interrupt the sobbing girl.
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He listened, patiently grave and attentive.
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Letting her run on in broken desultory phrases until her first paroxism of grief immediately following his arrival should abate sufficiently for her to tell him connectedly what had occurred.
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They may say what they will, what they will.
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Mr.
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Carter.
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But I cannot believe it.
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will not believe it.
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She tearfully declared.
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My faith in him is unshaken.
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He is incapable of such deceit, such cruelty, such terrible treachery.
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He is the victim of a plot, hideous conspiracy, or some terrible crime.
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Oh, I am sure of it.
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He would not betray me, not in this way.
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Not for life itself.
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I know he would not.
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Arthur is above such duplicity, such terrible.
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Nick now checked her with a gesture.
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I agree with you, Ms.
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Strickland, he said kindly.
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Arthur Gordon is in my opinion, a thoroughly honorable man.
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As you are so sure of it too, and that he is the victim of a conspiracy, you best can serve him by subduing your agitation and telling me precisely what has occurred.
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I can do nothing nor form any opinion of the case until I know all of the circumstances.
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Mr.
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Carter is right.
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Wilamena.
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Said her elderly uncle, Mr.
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Rudolph Strickland.
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It is very kind of him to come out here with his assistant this morning.
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Dry your eyes, therefore, or let me talk with him.
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I can inform him Mina better than you.
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Do so Mr.
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Strickland said Nick turning to him.
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What has befallen Arthur Gordon, as far as you know?
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The scene of this interview, which was the beginning of one of the most extraordinary criminal cases in the career of the famous detective was the library of a new and exceedingly fine wooden residence in one of the most beautiful rural sections of the Bronx.
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The hour was about 10 o'clock on a charming may morning, nearly seven months since Nick Carter first met these people and recovered for Mr.
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Rudolph Strickland, the costly art treasures stolen from the fifth avenue flat in which he then resided resulting also in the arrest of the notorious European crook, Mortimer Deland together with a gang of local Confederates.
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Nick had frequently met Arthur Gordon since then.
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And he knew that this wealthy young banker and broker of wall street was contemplating matrimony, but he was ignorant of many of the particulars, which Mr.
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Strickland hastened to impart.
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This is Mr.
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Gordon's new house, said he.
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Though he already has deeded the entire estate to Wilamena who soon is to be his wife.
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We were to be married next Wednesday evening.
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Put in the girl more calmly.
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This is to be their home Mr.
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Carter and I am to live with them.
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Mr.
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Strickland continued.
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Both insist that I shall dwell no longer in the flat I recently occupied.
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You are now living here.
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I infer.
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Nick remarked.
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Only Mina and I, aside from several servants.
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Now I see.
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It was Arthur's wish that the wedding should take place in the home he is to occupy.
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So he bought this fine estate of several acres and then built and finished this beautiful residence.
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It was completed nearly three weeks ago.
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Well, it certainly is a fine place and a fine house Nick admitted, glancing around.
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I since have been living here with Mina while she has been making preparations for the wedding.
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Strickland went on.
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Mr.
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Gordon has been living at home with his parents in Riverside drive all the while, but he has been coming out here each afternoon after business hours to direct the laborers who still are at work on various parts of the estate.
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Was he here yesterday afternoon.
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Nick inquired.
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Yes until nearly six o'clock.
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And then?
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We supposed, he would return to dinner at that time as usual.
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And we sent one of the servants to call him from the golf links where he went to supervise the work of some of the laborers.
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The servant returned in a few moments and stated that Mr.
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Gordon had gone.
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Gone gone where.
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That's the question said, Mr.
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Strickland.
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I am stating the circumstances in the order they occurred that you may better be able to determine whether.
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Oh, you are too slow.
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Uncle Rudolph cried.
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Wilamena interrupting.
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I cannot endure this suspense! Here, Mr.
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Carter, read this.
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It came by mail this morning.
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It will tell you, in a nutshell, what is said to have occurred.
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But I cannot believe it will not believe it.
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They say.
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Oh, Mr.
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Carter, they say that Arthur Gordon has deserted me and he eloped with his handsome stenographer.
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Nick had heard of such cases.
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He did not reply to the grief stricken girl nor make any comments.
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He took a letter, which she starting up while speaking, hurriedly brought from the library table and tendered with trembling hand.
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It was a typewritten letter on paper bearing the printed business heading of the missing banker.
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Also the date of the previous day.
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It read as follows.
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My dear Mina.
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I am writing you a few lines before leaving my office on a subject, which though I am to see you within an hour, I have not the heart nor courage to discuss with you in person.
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This is a late day indeed, for me to discover that it is best for us to part permanently.
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That I would do you a far greater wrong in making you my wife then in taking the step I am about to take.
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Conditions have arisen that make it imperative, however, and I can see no wise or even possible alternative.
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I shall be far away when you read this and it is my intention never to return.
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I cannot ask you to forgive me.
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My only hope is that you can forget me.
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And in time, find one more worthy of you.
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You already have the deed of the new place, which with all it contains I hope you will keep in part amending of the wrong I have done you.
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Do please try to forget me.
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Arthur Gordon.
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Nick Carter's grave, clean cut face on which Mina Strickland's tearful blue eyes were anxiously riveted.
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Underwent, no change while he read the letter.
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He handed it to Patsy Garvin, his junior assistant who had accompanied him there, saying quietly.
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Read it Patsy.
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The case, evidently is one that we must investigate.
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Patsy obeyed without replying.
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Please tell me at once Mr.
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Carter.
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Mina pleaded.
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Do you think that.
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That Arthur Gordon wrote it.
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Nick interposed, turning to her.
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Well, yes.
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Frankly, Ms.
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Strickland, I do not.
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Oh, thank heaven for that, cried the girl.
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Your opinion is worth to me more than that of all the world.
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It must be then that he is the victim of.
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Stop a moment.
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Nick again, interrupted.
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My opinion will be worth more after I know all of the circumstances.
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It is now based only upon the fact that all this is very unlike Arthur Gordon.
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It is indeed.
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Let me question you, that will be the quickest way to bring out the salient points.
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said Nick.
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Answer as briefly as possible.
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You received the letter this morning.
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Yes, sir.
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Said Mina eager to proceed.
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The written signature is like Gordon's.
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Oh, precisely.
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You have had other letters from him, of course.
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Yes many Mr.
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Carter.
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Were they usually typewritten.
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No, no very rarely.
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He nearly always used a pen.
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Do you know whether he can use a typewriter skillfully or even easily.
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I don't think so said Mina.
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I think he dictates all of his typewritten letters.
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I doubt very much, nevertheless, that he would have dictated such a letter as this.
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said Nick when Patsy returned it to him.
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That's true chief for fair.
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Bear in mind, Mr.
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Carter, that it would have been dictated to the girl with whom he is said to have eloped.
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Put in Mr.
00:11:25.556 --> 00:11:26.905
Strickland suggestively.
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Admitting that even, he would have been much more likely to have written so personal and private a letter.
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Nick replied.
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Who is his stenographer?
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Her name is Pauline Perot said, Mina.
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A French girl.
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Of French extraction.
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I think.
00:11:42.576 --> 00:11:43.176
You've seen her.
00:11:43.735 --> 00:11:44.306
Yes.
00:11:44.542 --> 00:11:47.152
She has been out here twice in the past 10 days with Mr.
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Gordon.
00:11:47.902 --> 00:11:52.466
She boards in Fordham through which he passes when coming out here with this touring car.
00:11:52.916 --> 00:11:57.895
He has, for that reason frequently taken her home from his office, when on his way here.
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Is she a very attractive girl Nick enquired.
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I don't think so said Mina with brows knitting.
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She is tall and dark with black hair and eyes that frighten me.
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I tremble when she looks at me, she fills me with awe and.
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Oh, Mr.
00:12:15.491 --> 00:12:15.971
Carter.
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I have felt sure that there was something wrong.
00:12:18.731 --> 00:12:21.912
Some calamity coming, though I could not imagine what.
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A cloud has been hanging over me ever since I first saw Pauline Perot.
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Hm.
00:12:28.446 --> 00:12:30.245
How long has she been in Gordon's employ.
00:12:30.846 --> 00:12:32.405
Four or five months, I think.
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Have you suspected her of other than business relations with him?
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Not for a moment, cried Mina, nor do I now believe him guilty of anything wrong.
00:12:42.346 --> 00:12:46.456
I feel sure that he is the victim of a plot, a conspiracy or..
00:12:46.601 --> 00:12:47.442
One moment.
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said Nick.
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Did he come out here with his touring car yesterday afternoon?
00:12:52.182 --> 00:12:55.961
He did, but he sent his chauffer home with it.
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I wondered at that Mr.
00:12:57.822 --> 00:13:00.312
Carter for he had never done so before.
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Nor did he offer any explanation?
00:13:03.402 --> 00:13:05.111
And you did not question him.
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No, sir.
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Did he appear as usual?
00:13:08.706 --> 00:13:10.851
Not quite Wilamena admitted.
00:13:11.451 --> 00:13:13.552
Oh, in what way was he different?
00:13:14.152 --> 00:13:19.192
He was more serious and self-absorbed as if he had something on his mind.
00:13:19.731 --> 00:13:25.692
He remained with us only a short time then said he was going out to see how the work on the links was progressing.
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He added that he would return a little later.
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That was the last I saw of him.
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Mina concluded with a sob.
00:13:33.839 --> 00:13:35.219
There is much more to this, Mr.
00:13:35.219 --> 00:13:35.639
Carter.
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Said Mr.
00:13:36.599 --> 00:13:37.078
Strickland.
00:13:37.589 --> 00:13:43.859
I went out to seek him or make further inquiries concerning him after our servant stated that he had gone.
00:13:44.451 --> 00:13:44.751
Hmm.
00:13:44.841 --> 00:13:46.011
And what did you learn?
00:13:46.611 --> 00:13:50.721
I was told by one of the workmen that he left the links about five o'clock.
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When last seen by them, he was walking south toward a Woodland road in that locality.
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I continued my search in that direction.
00:13:59.361 --> 00:14:02.152
And I soon met two women who had seen him.
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Women, you know, Yes.
00:14:05.091 --> 00:14:07.731
Two sisters, Mary and Ellen Dawson.
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They could not be mistaken, for both were employed here by Mr.
00:14:11.692 --> 00:14:14.272
Gordon to help clean and settle his house.
00:14:14.865 --> 00:14:16.035
Ah, I see.
00:14:16.365 --> 00:14:16.966
Nick nodded.
00:14:17.308 --> 00:14:19.168
When and where did they see him?
00:14:19.769 --> 00:14:24.899
About 10 minutes before at the juncture of a crossroad half a mile from where I met them.
00:14:25.056 --> 00:14:25.385
Mr.
00:14:25.385 --> 00:14:26.225
Strickland went on.
00:14:26.566 --> 00:14:28.956
He then was talking with Pauline Perrot.
00:14:29.625 --> 00:14:34.905
Both of the Dawson women have seen her here and both immediately recognized her.
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That evidently was a rendezvous, said Nick.
00:14:38.596 --> 00:14:39.556
I think so.
00:14:39.711 --> 00:14:40.042
Mr.
00:14:40.042 --> 00:14:40.942
Strickland agreed.
00:14:41.519 --> 00:14:48.389
Gordon then had a leather suitcase, but the women did not know whether it belonged to him or his companion.
00:14:48.826 --> 00:14:51.706
She was clad in a dark green traveling costume.
00:14:52.245 --> 00:14:56.145
When Gordon saw the two women approaching, he hurried away with Ms.
00:14:56.145 --> 00:14:59.176
Perrot as if anxious to avoid recognition.
00:14:59.755 --> 00:15:01.316
In which direction did they go?
00:15:01.902 --> 00:15:03.461
East through the crossroad.
00:15:04.062 --> 00:15:05.652
Did you continue your search?
00:15:06.251 --> 00:15:07.251
I did not Mr.
00:15:07.272 --> 00:15:18.412
Carter for I supposed that Arthur had unexpected business to look after having been sought by his stenographer, as I then inferred and that he would return that evening or telephone to us.
00:15:19.011 --> 00:15:21.111
Have you telephoned to his residence this morning?
00:15:21.716 --> 00:15:22.615
Yes indeed.
00:15:22.916 --> 00:15:27.475
He was not at home last night, nor can his parents explain his absence.
00:15:27.926 --> 00:15:30.206
They supposed that he spent the night here.
00:15:30.806 --> 00:15:32.755
Have you telephoned to his wall street office?
00:15:33.355 --> 00:15:36.775
I have, of course, about half an hour ago, said Mr.
00:15:36.775 --> 00:15:37.255
Strickland.
00:15:37.855 --> 00:15:38.725
With what result?
00:15:39.326 --> 00:15:41.456
Only two of the clerks, then we're there.
00:15:42.056 --> 00:15:43.676
They could give me no information.
00:15:43.975 --> 00:15:47.725
But I directed them to call me up at once if Mr.
00:15:47.725 --> 00:15:48.535
Gordon came in.
00:15:48.895 --> 00:15:53.245
I have no hope of that, however, in view of the letter that Mina has received.
00:15:53.849 --> 00:15:55.979
It does not indeed seem probable.
00:15:56.129 --> 00:15:56.698
Nick allowed.
00:15:57.298 --> 00:15:59.129
Added to all this said Mr.
00:15:59.129 --> 00:16:07.798
Strickland there now are rumors probably resulting from the gossip of the Dawson women that Gordon has eloped with Pauline Perot.
00:16:08.578 --> 00:16:12.359
If she is not in his office at her customary hour 10 o'clock.
00:16:12.869 --> 00:16:14.399
I shall began to fear.
00:16:14.981 --> 00:16:15.341
Mr.
00:16:15.341 --> 00:16:23.621
Strickland was interrupted by the ringing of a telephone on a stand in one corner, and Wilamena uttered a cry and ran to the instrument.
00:16:24.219 --> 00:16:24.639
Wait.
00:16:24.735 --> 00:16:25.456
Nick exclaimed.
00:16:25.668 --> 00:16:26.688
Let me answer it.
00:16:27.489 --> 00:16:30.788
The girl obeyed without a Remonstrance, if not quite willingly.
00:16:31.389 --> 00:16:31.808
Well?
00:16:31.961 --> 00:16:33.322
Nick queried over the wire.
00:16:33.922 --> 00:16:36.322
The response came in quick, agitated tones.
00:16:36.922 --> 00:16:37.432
Hello.
00:16:37.672 --> 00:16:38.422
I want Mr.
00:16:38.422 --> 00:16:40.101
Gordon, if he is there or Mr.
00:16:40.101 --> 00:16:41.905
Strickland, hurry! Mr.
00:16:41.905 --> 00:16:42.745
Gordon is not here.
00:16:42.956 --> 00:16:43.525
Who are you?
00:16:43.971 --> 00:16:45.861
Mr Beckwith, his cashier.
00:16:46.101 --> 00:16:47.692
Where can I communicate with Mr.
00:16:47.692 --> 00:16:48.081
Gordon?
00:16:48.322 --> 00:16:49.042
Do you know?
00:16:49.432 --> 00:16:50.932
He was not at home last night.
00:16:51.381 --> 00:16:52.912
I have just called up his residence.
00:16:53.032 --> 00:16:54.621
I must find him or..
00:16:54.818 --> 00:16:55.568
One moment, Mr.
00:16:55.568 --> 00:16:55.869
Beckwith.
00:16:56.032 --> 00:16:56.782
Nick interrupted.
00:16:57.081 --> 00:16:58.581
This is Nick Carter talking.
00:16:59.019 --> 00:16:59.708
Nick Carter?
00:17:00.158 --> 00:17:02.109
Good heavens what has occurred out there?
00:17:02.708 --> 00:17:06.489
Tell me instead, what is wrong in Gordon's office that you are so disturbed?
00:17:07.088 --> 00:17:09.278
Wrong enough came the quick reply.
00:17:09.608 --> 00:17:15.068
Cash, bonds, and securities aggregating$60,000 are missing from the vault.
00:17:15.548 --> 00:17:16.449
Uh, unless Mr.
00:17:16.449 --> 00:17:17.378
Gordon removed them.
00:17:17.566 --> 00:17:18.046
Wait.
00:17:18.182 --> 00:17:19.442
Nick commanded a bit sharply.
00:17:20.071 --> 00:17:21.301
Is Pauline Perrot there.
00:17:21.701 --> 00:17:24.402
Uh, no, she is not, she has not come in yet.
00:17:25.332 --> 00:17:27.491
Nick glanced at a French clock on the mantel.
00:17:27.942 --> 00:17:32.951
It's struck the half hour at that moment, a single stroke, like the sudden death knell.
00:17:33.372 --> 00:17:35.471
The half after 10 o'clock.
00:17:37.469 --> 00:17:38.308
Chapter two.
00:17:38.699 --> 00:17:40.019
The man who escaped.
00:17:41.009 --> 00:17:45.058
Nick Carter decided instantly what must be done and also not done.
00:17:45.568 --> 00:17:49.259
He continued talking with Beckwith without a perceptible pause.
00:17:49.979 --> 00:18:01.858
Nick questioned him briefly, obtain Pauline Perrot's Fordham address, and then directed him to give no publicity to the matter, but to await the arrival of chick Carter, his chief assistant.
00:18:02.011 --> 00:18:05.612
Whom he would immediately send to Gordon's office to investigate the case.
00:18:06.392 --> 00:18:10.892
Nick then called up the library in his Madison avenue house and talked with chick.
00:18:11.551 --> 00:18:16.382
He gave him a brief outline of the circumstances together with such instructions as were necessary.
00:18:16.741 --> 00:18:21.902
And he then directed him to report in person at Gordon's residence in the Bronx.
00:18:22.501 --> 00:18:27.061
It will take him a couple of hours at least, he remarked to Patsy after hanging up the receiver.
00:18:27.608 --> 00:18:32.409
We can get in our work elsewhere in the meantime and return before he arrives.
00:18:33.009 --> 00:18:36.909
Naturally, of course, several pertinent questions had arisen in Nick's mind.
00:18:37.041 --> 00:18:42.291
And which could not consistently be ignored in spite of his high opinion of Arthur Gordon.
00:18:42.882 --> 00:18:46.061
Was he really the writer of the letter received by Mina Strickland.
00:18:46.412 --> 00:18:51.122
Had conditions really arisen, which made imperative the course, he said he was about to shape.
00:18:51.469 --> 00:18:58.278
Had he realized at that late day, indeed, that he was not as deeply in love with Wilamena as he supposed?
00:18:58.878 --> 00:19:02.888
Had he too become helplessly infatuated with Pauline Perrot.
00:19:02.888 --> 00:19:06.429
And as an only desperate resort, determined to desert Ms.
00:19:06.429 --> 00:19:08.588
Strickland and elope with the stenographer?
00:19:09.041 --> 00:19:14.321
Was it, he, in that case who had taken the cash bonds and securities from the vault in his office?
00:19:14.771 --> 00:19:22.791
Had he sacrificed all, but that small part of his fortune to say nothing of character, friends and family for a mad love for another woman.
00:19:23.392 --> 00:19:31.461
In view of the fact that Gordon had been acting voluntarily and in a measure had deceived the Stricklands as to his intentions.
00:19:31.491 --> 00:19:37.011
The previous afternoon, nick could not, but give the foregoing questions, serious consideration.
00:19:37.582 --> 00:19:41.511
He had, as he observed before, known of such cases.
00:19:41.932 --> 00:19:47.031
They were common enough, in fact, and what man has done, man may do.
00:19:47.642 --> 00:19:56.991
Nick's face reflected none of his thoughts however, when he turned from the telephone and stated what he had learned and the effect upon Wilamena about what he was anticipating.
00:19:57.592 --> 00:19:58.432
Good heavens.
00:19:58.461 --> 00:19:59.451
Is it possible?
00:19:59.932 --> 00:20:02.932
She exclaimed ghastly with increasing apprehensions.
00:20:03.412 --> 00:20:05.152
All that money gone from his vault.
00:20:05.692 --> 00:20:07.221
Don't keep me in suspense, Mr.
00:20:07.221 --> 00:20:07.551
Carter.
00:20:07.852 --> 00:20:09.501
Tell me just what you think about it?
00:20:09.771 --> 00:20:10.372
Tell me.
00:20:10.721 --> 00:20:12.551
I must look deeper into the matter Ms.
00:20:12.582 --> 00:20:16.449
Strickland, before I can tell you anything definite Nick interposed, evasively.
00:20:16.951 --> 00:20:22.741
I have not changed my opinion such as it was, and I will lose no time in sifting the matter to the bottom.
00:20:23.402 --> 00:20:25.291
Try to be patient until I have done so.
00:20:25.892 --> 00:20:26.852
I will try Mr.
00:20:26.882 --> 00:20:28.795
Carter, at least she replied.
00:20:29.125 --> 00:20:33.865
But all this must be the culmination of the terrible secret dread I've been feeling.
00:20:34.346 --> 00:20:35.186
Secret dread?
00:20:35.682 --> 00:20:41.741
I say that only because I have not mentioned it to anyone being unable to ascribe a definite cause for it.
00:20:41.892 --> 00:20:42.632
Mina explained.
00:20:43.031 --> 00:20:46.571
But it has been hanging over me like a depressing cloud.
00:20:46.932 --> 00:20:49.211
Ever since I first saw Pauline Perrot.
00:20:49.781 --> 00:20:55.751
Ever since, in fact, The escape of that terrible criminal Mortimer Deland from the prison hospital.
00:20:56.189 --> 00:20:56.759
Yes.
00:20:56.818 --> 00:20:57.568
I remember.
00:20:57.721 --> 00:20:59.761
Said Nick regarding her more intently.
00:21:00.761 --> 00:21:02.201
You were employed by Arthur.
00:21:02.201 --> 00:21:04.001
You remember to run him down?
00:21:04.152 --> 00:21:04.811
She went on.
00:21:05.531 --> 00:21:09.852
I have heard that Mortimer Deland never forgets, nor ever forgives.
00:21:10.271 --> 00:21:12.342
Since that extraordinary escape, Mr.
00:21:12.342 --> 00:21:17.142
Carter, I have lived in fear of him for fear that he might attempt to kill Mr.
00:21:17.142 --> 00:21:20.051
Gordon or in some terrible way avenge.
00:21:20.652 --> 00:21:21.511
Oh, pshaw.
00:21:21.648 --> 00:21:22.788
Nick checked her kindly.
00:21:23.221 --> 00:21:24.511
Put Deland out of your head.
00:21:24.912 --> 00:21:29.352
It is unfortunate, of course, that he fooled the hospital guards and contrived to give him the slip.
00:21:29.932 --> 00:21:31.221
Unfortunate indeed.
00:21:31.571 --> 00:21:39.098
Yes, but as far as seeking vengeance goes, it is much more probable that he immediately fled to Europe whence he came Nick added.
00:21:39.602 --> 00:21:42.932
Besides, I am the man he would seek not Gordon.
00:21:43.281 --> 00:21:45.301
For it was I who cornered and convicted him.
00:21:45.872 --> 00:21:48.031
There is no occasion for those apprehensions, Ms.
00:21:48.031 --> 00:21:48.451
Strickland.
00:21:49.051 --> 00:21:49.862
I hope not.
00:21:49.862 --> 00:21:50.491
I'm sure.
00:21:50.642 --> 00:21:51.182
Said Mina.
00:21:51.991 --> 00:21:53.251
You, you are going.
00:21:53.862 --> 00:21:56.821
Nick had taken his hat from the table on which he had placed it.
00:21:57.422 --> 00:21:57.932
Yes.
00:21:58.201 --> 00:21:58.711
He replied.
00:21:59.372 --> 00:22:03.001
I will return it a couple of hours, however, and chick may arrive in the meantime.
00:22:03.481 --> 00:22:06.838
We will leave no stone unturned to ferret out the truth.
00:22:07.469 --> 00:22:12.538
He led the way out to his touring car in which Danny, his chauffer had been waiting in the front of the house.
00:22:13.088 --> 00:22:14.048
To Fordham, Danny.
00:22:14.229 --> 00:22:14.888
He directed.
00:22:15.398 --> 00:22:16.269
Let'er go lively.
00:22:16.872 --> 00:22:17.951
Why to Fordham, chief?
00:22:18.102 --> 00:22:23.882
questioned Patsy, when both were seated in the tonneau and the car was speeding down the long driveway to the rural road.
00:22:24.479 --> 00:22:31.169
To inspect Pauline Perot's apartments and interview her landlady said Nick, with rather ominous intonation.
00:22:31.769 --> 00:22:33.568
Do you suspect her of being a crook?
00:22:34.169 --> 00:22:38.068
I think she is back of this whole business, Patsy of whatever it consists.
00:22:38.669 --> 00:22:41.519
Gee, that looks like a cinch declared Patsy.
00:22:41.969 --> 00:22:45.598
Either, she's playing a deep game chief and working it out with wonderful success.
00:22:46.048 --> 00:22:49.439
Or Gordon has lost his head completely and bolted with the woman.
00:22:49.882 --> 00:22:54.994
That last may possibly be true since other men have been equally foolish said Nick.
00:22:55.444 --> 00:22:57.994
I find it hard to believe of Arthur Gordon, however.
00:22:58.595 --> 00:22:59.515
That goes too.
00:23:00.125 --> 00:23:04.065
I doubt very much that he would have gone so far as to buy a big estate.
00:23:04.355 --> 00:23:10.355
Build and furnish a fine residence and then bolt with a girl that he has known less than six months.
00:23:10.954 --> 00:23:14.164
But he evidently met her voluntarily yesterday afternoon.
00:23:14.755 --> 00:23:15.085
Hmm.
00:23:15.372 --> 00:23:17.741
She may have wheedled him into doing so.
00:23:18.229 --> 00:23:23.098
But how if Gordon did not remove them could she have got the bonds and securities from his vault.
00:23:23.699 --> 00:23:25.288
Chick will try to find out.
00:23:25.769 --> 00:23:28.979
I have left that to him and given him all the necessary points.
00:23:29.578 --> 00:23:32.128
It is useless for us to speculate upon it at this time.
00:23:32.731 --> 00:23:36.701
Gee it surely is some case chief and likely to become a difficult one.
00:23:36.922 --> 00:23:37.632
said Patsy.
00:23:38.138 --> 00:23:39.308
It's odd too, that Ms.
00:23:39.308 --> 00:23:44.229
Strickland has felt so apprehensive of deviltry by Mortimer Deland, since his escape.
00:23:44.828 --> 00:23:47.318
Well, that's just like a girl of her sensitive nature.
00:23:47.919 --> 00:23:55.118
For all that chief, Deland must be a mighty slick gink or he never could have given the hospital guards the slip in female attire.
00:23:55.285 --> 00:23:58.315
To say, nothing of having contrived to secretly get the garments.
00:23:58.795 --> 00:24:00.714
That whole business is still a mystery.
00:24:01.305 --> 00:24:02.575
And likely to continue one.
00:24:02.734 --> 00:24:03.194
Said Nick.
00:24:03.451 --> 00:24:07.561
It looked to me like bribery, Patsy, rather than cleverness on Deland's part.
00:24:07.981 --> 00:24:11.281
And the bribery of a prison official is difficult to expose.
00:24:12.241 --> 00:24:13.412
Well, that's right too.
00:24:13.815 --> 00:24:14.924
It was no fault of ours.
00:24:15.015 --> 00:24:16.672
However for, we did our part.
00:24:16.672 --> 00:24:18.172
When we rounded up the Rascals.
00:24:18.328 --> 00:24:18.808
Nick added.
00:24:19.068 --> 00:24:20.648
Uh, take the road to the left.
00:24:20.648 --> 00:24:23.459
Danny, I'll give you the street and number after we hit the town.
00:24:24.608 --> 00:24:29.528
Did Arthur Gordon really abandoned his fiance just days before their impending wedding.
00:24:30.128 --> 00:24:31.969
Why did he meet with his stenographer?
00:24:31.989 --> 00:24:32.828
So secretly.
00:24:33.338 --> 00:24:34.568
And where did he go?
00:24:35.108 --> 00:24:44.348
These questions and more will be answered in the next thrilling episode of the Gordon elopement or Nick Carters, three of a kind.
00:24:46.209 --> 00:24:49.148
Well, we're off to a good start in this mystery.
00:24:49.749 --> 00:24:54.308
And there's that specter of Mortimer Deland still hanging about in the background.
00:24:54.729 --> 00:24:55.269
Hmm.
00:24:55.689 --> 00:24:58.419
Well, well, just have to stay tuned for more than.
00:24:59.469 --> 00:25:02.348
I'd like to remind you to become a monthly supporter of the show.
00:25:02.858 --> 00:25:09.489
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00:25:09.939 --> 00:25:13.868
You can help make sure that the show continues to providing entertainment to you.
00:25:14.209 --> 00:25:16.368
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00:25:16.638 --> 00:25:19.368
Which is what I'm using to record all this craziness.
00:25:19.669 --> 00:25:24.858
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00:25:25.578 --> 00:25:26.989
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00:25:27.288 --> 00:25:27.949
That's fine.
00:25:28.368 --> 00:25:33.528
Unlike Patrion, the company that I use to provide the support options is called buy me a coffee.
00:25:33.858 --> 00:25:38.209
And they allow you to make a one-time donation if that works best for you.
00:25:38.808 --> 00:25:45.409
Also a plus, unlike Patrion, you don't have to download an additional app or force you to register.
00:25:45.769 --> 00:25:48.348
You are in control at all times.
00:25:48.528 --> 00:25:52.848
And you decide if you want to support monthly, which I hope you do.
00:25:53.239 --> 00:25:55.009
Or just a one-time donation.
00:25:55.818 --> 00:25:57.019
As an added bonus.
00:25:57.229 --> 00:26:05.778
If you become a monthly supporter, I will give you a discount code for use at either of my two merchandise shops for unlimited free shipping.
00:26:06.078 --> 00:26:08.118
Until the end of 2023.
00:26:08.929 --> 00:26:10.788
I mean, yeah, just can't lose.
00:26:11.269 --> 00:26:11.778
Okay.
00:26:11.778 --> 00:26:15.078
Friends as usual, I have rambled long enough.
00:26:15.648 --> 00:26:16.669
Until next time.
00:26:17.088 --> 00:26:18.048
Thanks for listening.
00:26:18.378 --> 00:26:22.729
Keep sharing the stories and be a good human.
00:26:23.659 --> 00:26:24.679
Bye for now.
00:00:00.050 --> 00:00:04.610
Hello again, friends and welcome to a new episode of forward into the past.
00:00:05.120 --> 00:00:08.029
I am JC your host and narrator.
00:00:08.390 --> 00:00:15.380
And today we're beginning a new story in the Nick Carter case files, but one that may have several familiar characters.
00:00:15.380 --> 00:00:16.969
If you listen to the previous story.
00:00:17.539 --> 00:00:19.640
Here we begin a new story.
00:00:20.059 --> 00:00:24.109
The Gordon elopement or Nick, Carter's three of a kind.
00:00:25.109 --> 00:00:31.230
Story papers and dime novels were a popular form of entertainment in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
00:00:31.859 --> 00:00:42.000
These publications were typically serialized, meaning that each issue would end with a cliffhanger leaving readers, eager to buy the next issue to find out what happened next.
00:00:42.659 --> 00:00:52.439
Story papers were typically larger in format than dime novels, and they often featured more serialized stories as well as serialized illustrations.
00:00:53.039 --> 00:00:53.759
Dime novels.
00:00:53.759 --> 00:01:01.229
On the other hand, we're a smaller and more cheaply produced and they typically featured only one serialized story per issue.
00:01:01.979 --> 00:01:08.370
Both story papers and dime novels were popular with a wide range of readers, including adults and children.
00:01:09.120 --> 00:01:23.099
They were however, considered to be low brow entertainment, but they also played an important role in popularizing new genres of fiction, such as the Western, the detective story and the science fiction story.
00:01:24.000 --> 00:01:29.640
However, the popularity of story papers and dime novels began to decline in the early 20th century.
00:01:30.329 --> 00:01:33.510
There are a number of factors that contributed to this decline.
00:01:34.140 --> 00:01:38.790
One factor was the rise of new forms of entertainment, such as movies and radio.
00:01:39.390 --> 00:01:47.640
These new forms of entertainment, offered readers a more immersive and visually stimulating experience than story papers and dime novels could provide.
00:01:48.480 --> 00:01:56.459
Another factor that contributed to the decline of story papers and dime novels was the increasing availability of public libraries.
00:01:56.939 --> 00:02:01.739
In the late 19th century, public libraries were still relatively rare.
00:02:02.430 --> 00:02:16.710
However by the early 20th century, public libraries had become more widespread and they offered readers access to a wide range of books, including classic novels, biographies, and histories.
00:02:17.340 --> 00:02:22.889
This made it less necessary for readers to turn to story papers and dime novels for their entertainment.
00:02:23.729 --> 00:02:25.979
In addition to the factors mentioned before.
00:02:26.340 --> 00:02:32.370
There may be a few other reasons that might have contributed to the decline of story papers and dime novels.
00:02:32.849 --> 00:02:40.439
One possibility is that the rise of literacy rates led to a demand for more sophisticated forms of literature.
00:02:41.439 --> 00:02:52.840
Another possibility is that the changing social and cultural landscape of the early 20th century made the themes and values of story papers and dime novels seem outdated.
00:02:53.500 --> 00:03:01.990
Well, whatever the reasons, the decline of these publications was a significant event in the history of American popular culture.
00:03:02.620 --> 00:03:07.270
However, thanks to the tireless efforts of the volunteers at project Gutenberg.
00:03:07.449 --> 00:03:13.569
We still have wonderful stories like this classic Nick Carter mystery from 1915.
00:03:13.930 --> 00:03:18.969
Here's the Gordon elopement or Nick Carter's three of a kind.
00:03:20.969 --> 00:03:21.659
Chapter one.
00:03:22.199 --> 00:03:23.400
An open question.
00:03:24.810 --> 00:03:27.479
Nick Carter did not interrupt the sobbing girl.
00:03:28.020 --> 00:03:30.509
He listened, patiently grave and attentive.
00:03:30.840 --> 00:03:42.780
Letting her run on in broken desultory phrases until her first paroxism of grief immediately following his arrival should abate sufficiently for her to tell him connectedly what had occurred.
00:03:43.370 --> 00:03:45.469
They may say what they will, what they will.
00:03:45.469 --> 00:03:45.800
Mr.
00:03:45.800 --> 00:03:46.189
Carter.
00:03:46.550 --> 00:03:48.319
But I cannot believe it.
00:03:48.539 --> 00:03:49.789
will not believe it.
00:03:50.030 --> 00:03:51.349
She tearfully declared.
00:03:51.729 --> 00:03:53.349
My faith in him is unshaken.
00:03:53.740 --> 00:03:58.689
He is incapable of such deceit, such cruelty, such terrible treachery.
00:03:59.050 --> 00:04:03.819
He is the victim of a plot, hideous conspiracy, or some terrible crime.
00:04:04.120 --> 00:04:05.830
Oh, I am sure of it.
00:04:06.370 --> 00:04:08.500
He would not betray me, not in this way.
00:04:08.530 --> 00:04:09.969
Not for life itself.
00:04:10.449 --> 00:04:11.560
I know he would not.
00:04:12.039 --> 00:04:15.490
Arthur is above such duplicity, such terrible.
00:04:15.949 --> 00:04:17.839
Nick now checked her with a gesture.
00:04:18.389 --> 00:04:19.230
I agree with you, Ms.
00:04:19.230 --> 00:04:20.670
Strickland, he said kindly.
00:04:21.329 --> 00:04:25.019
Arthur Gordon is in my opinion, a thoroughly honorable man.
00:04:25.579 --> 00:04:34.819
As you are so sure of it too, and that he is the victim of a conspiracy, you best can serve him by subduing your agitation and telling me precisely what has occurred.
00:04:35.720 --> 00:04:41.269
I can do nothing nor form any opinion of the case until I know all of the circumstances.
00:04:41.769 --> 00:04:42.129
Mr.
00:04:42.129 --> 00:04:42.939
Carter is right.
00:04:42.970 --> 00:04:43.509
Wilamena.
00:04:43.649 --> 00:04:45.449
Said her elderly uncle, Mr.
00:04:45.449 --> 00:04:46.290
Rudolph Strickland.
00:04:46.860 --> 00:04:50.759
It is very kind of him to come out here with his assistant this morning.
00:04:51.240 --> 00:04:54.480
Dry your eyes, therefore, or let me talk with him.
00:04:54.899 --> 00:04:56.910
I can inform him Mina better than you.
00:04:57.509 --> 00:04:58.168
Do so Mr.
00:04:58.168 --> 00:05:00.088
Strickland said Nick turning to him.
00:05:00.519 --> 00:05:03.009
What has befallen Arthur Gordon, as far as you know?
00:05:03.562 --> 00:05:18.661
The scene of this interview, which was the beginning of one of the most extraordinary criminal cases in the career of the famous detective was the library of a new and exceedingly fine wooden residence in one of the most beautiful rural sections of the Bronx.
00:05:19.262 --> 00:05:27.781
The hour was about 10 o'clock on a charming may morning, nearly seven months since Nick Carter first met these people and recovered for Mr.
00:05:27.781 --> 00:05:42.122
Rudolph Strickland, the costly art treasures stolen from the fifth avenue flat in which he then resided resulting also in the arrest of the notorious European crook, Mortimer Deland together with a gang of local Confederates.
00:05:42.771 --> 00:05:45.711
Nick had frequently met Arthur Gordon since then.
00:05:46.132 --> 00:05:55.552
And he knew that this wealthy young banker and broker of wall street was contemplating matrimony, but he was ignorant of many of the particulars, which Mr.
00:05:55.552 --> 00:05:57.112
Strickland hastened to impart.
00:05:58.112 --> 00:05:58.951
This is Mr.
00:05:58.951 --> 00:06:00.812
Gordon's new house, said he.
00:06:01.322 --> 00:06:06.901
Though he already has deeded the entire estate to Wilamena who soon is to be his wife.
00:06:07.548 --> 00:06:10.098
We were to be married next Wednesday evening.
00:06:10.449 --> 00:06:11.889
Put in the girl more calmly.
00:06:12.485 --> 00:06:14.175
This is to be their home Mr.
00:06:14.196 --> 00:06:16.355
Carter and I am to live with them.
00:06:16.656 --> 00:06:17.016
Mr.
00:06:17.016 --> 00:06:17.975
Strickland continued.
00:06:18.379 --> 00:06:22.338
Both insist that I shall dwell no longer in the flat I recently occupied.
00:06:23.338 --> 00:06:24.389
You are now living here.
00:06:24.389 --> 00:06:24.928
I infer.
00:06:25.348 --> 00:06:25.978
Nick remarked.
00:06:26.639 --> 00:06:30.269
Only Mina and I, aside from several servants.
00:06:30.869 --> 00:06:31.408
Now I see.
00:06:32.009 --> 00:06:36.629
It was Arthur's wish that the wedding should take place in the home he is to occupy.
00:06:36.838 --> 00:06:43.528
So he bought this fine estate of several acres and then built and finished this beautiful residence.
00:06:43.889 --> 00:06:46.559
It was completed nearly three weeks ago.
00:06:47.139 --> 00:06:52.379
Well, it certainly is a fine place and a fine house Nick admitted, glancing around.
00:06:52.978 --> 00:06:57.718
I since have been living here with Mina while she has been making preparations for the wedding.
00:06:57.971 --> 00:06:58.992
Strickland went on.
00:06:59.415 --> 00:06:59.836
Mr.
00:06:59.836 --> 00:07:12.286
Gordon has been living at home with his parents in Riverside drive all the while, but he has been coming out here each afternoon after business hours to direct the laborers who still are at work on various parts of the estate.
00:07:12.745 --> 00:07:14.755
Was he here yesterday afternoon.
00:07:15.086 --> 00:07:15.836
Nick inquired.
00:07:16.428 --> 00:07:18.918
Yes until nearly six o'clock.
00:07:19.516 --> 00:07:20.055
And then?
00:07:20.629 --> 00:07:24.019
We supposed, he would return to dinner at that time as usual.
00:07:24.319 --> 00:07:30.259
And we sent one of the servants to call him from the golf links where he went to supervise the work of some of the laborers.
00:07:30.709 --> 00:07:34.158
The servant returned in a few moments and stated that Mr.
00:07:34.158 --> 00:07:35.418
Gordon had gone.
00:07:36.016 --> 00:07:37.245
Gone gone where.
00:07:37.795 --> 00:07:39.721
That's the question said, Mr.
00:07:39.721 --> 00:07:40.201
Strickland.
00:07:40.555 --> 00:07:45.836
I am stating the circumstances in the order they occurred that you may better be able to determine whether.
00:07:45.988 --> 00:07:47.249
Oh, you are too slow.
00:07:47.249 --> 00:07:48.629
Uncle Rudolph cried.
00:07:48.629 --> 00:07:49.709
Wilamena interrupting.
00:07:50.038 --> 00:07:52.769
I cannot endure this suspense! Here, Mr.
00:07:52.769 --> 00:07:53.968
Carter, read this.
00:07:54.298 --> 00:07:55.738
It came by mail this morning.
00:07:56.098 --> 00:07:59.249
It will tell you, in a nutshell, what is said to have occurred.
00:07:59.519 --> 00:08:02.399
But I cannot believe it will not believe it.
00:08:02.728 --> 00:08:03.358
They say.
00:08:03.959 --> 00:08:04.649
Oh, Mr.
00:08:04.649 --> 00:08:10.819
Carter, they say that Arthur Gordon has deserted me and he eloped with his handsome stenographer.
00:08:11.418 --> 00:08:13.309
Nick had heard of such cases.
00:08:13.788 --> 00:08:17.538
He did not reply to the grief stricken girl nor make any comments.
00:08:18.108 --> 00:08:25.149
He took a letter, which she starting up while speaking, hurriedly brought from the library table and tendered with trembling hand.
00:08:25.649 --> 00:08:30.778
It was a typewritten letter on paper bearing the printed business heading of the missing banker.
00:08:31.139 --> 00:08:33.298
Also the date of the previous day.
00:08:33.808 --> 00:08:35.428
It read as follows.
00:08:36.328 --> 00:08:37.208
My dear Mina.
00:08:37.649 --> 00:08:47.548
I am writing you a few lines before leaving my office on a subject, which though I am to see you within an hour, I have not the heart nor courage to discuss with you in person.
00:08:48.418 --> 00:08:53.609
This is a late day indeed, for me to discover that it is best for us to part permanently.
00:08:54.028 --> 00:08:59.969
That I would do you a far greater wrong in making you my wife then in taking the step I am about to take.
00:09:00.599 --> 00:09:07.558
Conditions have arisen that make it imperative, however, and I can see no wise or even possible alternative.
00:09:07.948 --> 00:09:12.928
I shall be far away when you read this and it is my intention never to return.
00:09:13.499 --> 00:09:15.178
I cannot ask you to forgive me.
00:09:15.599 --> 00:09:17.849
My only hope is that you can forget me.
00:09:18.178 --> 00:09:21.359
And in time, find one more worthy of you.
00:09:22.078 --> 00:09:29.649
You already have the deed of the new place, which with all it contains I hope you will keep in part amending of the wrong I have done you.
00:09:30.068 --> 00:09:31.778
Do please try to forget me.
00:09:32.288 --> 00:09:33.068
Arthur Gordon.
00:09:33.672 --> 00:09:40.511
Nick Carter's grave, clean cut face on which Mina Strickland's tearful blue eyes were anxiously riveted.
00:09:40.871 --> 00:09:43.451
Underwent, no change while he read the letter.
00:09:44.231 --> 00:09:49.692
He handed it to Patsy Garvin, his junior assistant who had accompanied him there, saying quietly.
00:09:50.652 --> 00:09:51.402
Read it Patsy.
00:09:51.912 --> 00:09:54.672
The case, evidently is one that we must investigate.
00:09:55.272 --> 00:09:56.802
Patsy obeyed without replying.
00:09:57.402 --> 00:09:58.961
Please tell me at once Mr.
00:09:58.961 --> 00:09:59.412
Carter.
00:09:59.682 --> 00:10:00.371
Mina pleaded.
00:10:00.761 --> 00:10:02.111
Do you think that.
00:10:02.375 --> 00:10:03.966
That Arthur Gordon wrote it.
00:10:04.168 --> 00:10:05.639
Nick interposed, turning to her.
00:10:06.241 --> 00:10:07.322
Well, yes.
00:10:07.922 --> 00:10:08.432
Frankly, Ms.
00:10:08.432 --> 00:10:09.422
Strickland, I do not.
00:10:10.351 --> 00:10:12.961
Oh, thank heaven for that, cried the girl.
00:10:13.381 --> 00:10:16.471
Your opinion is worth to me more than that of all the world.
00:10:16.861 --> 00:10:19.381
It must be then that he is the victim of.
00:10:19.481 --> 00:10:20.231
Stop a moment.
00:10:20.392 --> 00:10:21.442
Nick again, interrupted.
00:10:21.981 --> 00:10:25.341
My opinion will be worth more after I know all of the circumstances.
00:10:25.701 --> 00:10:30.652
It is now based only upon the fact that all this is very unlike Arthur Gordon.
00:10:31.251 --> 00:10:32.182
It is indeed.
00:10:32.782 --> 00:10:36.501
Let me question you, that will be the quickest way to bring out the salient points.
00:10:36.692 --> 00:10:37.192
said Nick.
00:10:37.881 --> 00:10:39.562
Answer as briefly as possible.
00:10:40.371 --> 00:10:41.782
You received the letter this morning.
00:10:42.316 --> 00:10:42.735
Yes, sir.
00:10:42.938 --> 00:10:44.438
Said Mina eager to proceed.
00:10:45.038 --> 00:10:46.989
The written signature is like Gordon's.
00:10:47.619 --> 00:10:48.639
Oh, precisely.
00:10:49.239 --> 00:10:51.639
You have had other letters from him, of course.
00:10:52.135 --> 00:10:53.275
Yes many Mr.
00:10:53.275 --> 00:10:53.666
Carter.
00:10:54.255 --> 00:10:55.796
Were they usually typewritten.
00:10:56.395 --> 00:10:58.105
No, no very rarely.
00:10:58.196 --> 00:11:00.145
He nearly always used a pen.
00:11:00.745 --> 00:11:04.375
Do you know whether he can use a typewriter skillfully or even easily.
00:11:04.975 --> 00:11:07.032
I don't think so said Mina.
00:11:07.328 --> 00:11:10.239
I think he dictates all of his typewritten letters.
00:11:10.841 --> 00:11:15.042
I doubt very much, nevertheless, that he would have dictated such a letter as this.
00:11:15.198 --> 00:11:17.048
said Nick when Patsy returned it to him.
00:11:17.649 --> 00:11:18.999
That's true chief for fair.
00:11:19.599 --> 00:11:20.499
Bear in mind, Mr.
00:11:20.528 --> 00:11:24.596
Carter, that it would have been dictated to the girl with whom he is said to have eloped.
00:11:24.836 --> 00:11:25.556
Put in Mr.
00:11:25.556 --> 00:11:26.905
Strickland suggestively.
00:11:27.501 --> 00:11:32.782
Admitting that even, he would have been much more likely to have written so personal and private a letter.
00:11:32.936 --> 00:11:33.596
Nick replied.
00:11:33.942 --> 00:11:35.412
Who is his stenographer?
00:11:36.015 --> 00:11:38.359
Her name is Pauline Perot said, Mina.
00:11:38.928 --> 00:11:39.589
A French girl.
00:11:40.192 --> 00:11:41.511
Of French extraction.
00:11:41.511 --> 00:11:41.991
I think.
00:11:42.576 --> 00:11:43.176
You've seen her.
00:11:43.735 --> 00:11:44.306
Yes.
00:11:44.542 --> 00:11:47.152
She has been out here twice in the past 10 days with Mr.
00:11:47.152 --> 00:11:47.572
Gordon.
00:11:47.902 --> 00:11:52.466
She boards in Fordham through which he passes when coming out here with this touring car.
00:11:52.916 --> 00:11:57.895
He has, for that reason frequently taken her home from his office, when on his way here.
00:11:58.505 --> 00:12:00.922
Is she a very attractive girl Nick enquired.
00:12:01.522 --> 00:12:04.241
I don't think so said Mina with brows knitting.
00:12:04.692 --> 00:12:10.121
She is tall and dark with black hair and eyes that frighten me.
00:12:10.511 --> 00:12:14.172
I tremble when she looks at me, she fills me with awe and.
00:12:14.772 --> 00:12:15.491
Oh, Mr.
00:12:15.491 --> 00:12:15.971
Carter.
00:12:16.511 --> 00:12:18.731
I have felt sure that there was something wrong.
00:12:18.731 --> 00:12:21.912
Some calamity coming, though I could not imagine what.
00:12:22.316 --> 00:12:26.796
A cloud has been hanging over me ever since I first saw Pauline Perot.
00:12:27.395 --> 00:12:27.785
Hm.
00:12:28.446 --> 00:12:30.245
How long has she been in Gordon's employ.
00:12:30.846 --> 00:12:32.405
Four or five months, I think.
00:12:32.985 --> 00:12:36.076
Have you suspected her of other than business relations with him?
00:12:36.586 --> 00:12:41.956
Not for a moment, cried Mina, nor do I now believe him guilty of anything wrong.
00:12:42.346 --> 00:12:46.456
I feel sure that he is the victim of a plot, a conspiracy or..
00:12:46.601 --> 00:12:47.442
One moment.
00:12:47.601 --> 00:12:48.111
said Nick.
00:12:48.642 --> 00:12:51.581
Did he come out here with his touring car yesterday afternoon?
00:12:52.182 --> 00:12:55.961
He did, but he sent his chauffer home with it.
00:12:56.562 --> 00:12:57.822
I wondered at that Mr.
00:12:57.822 --> 00:13:00.312
Carter for he had never done so before.
00:13:00.971 --> 00:13:02.802
Nor did he offer any explanation?
00:13:03.402 --> 00:13:05.111
And you did not question him.
00:13:05.716 --> 00:13:06.166
No, sir.
00:13:06.765 --> 00:13:08.086
Did he appear as usual?
00:13:08.706 --> 00:13:10.851
Not quite Wilamena admitted.
00:13:11.451 --> 00:13:13.552
Oh, in what way was he different?
00:13:14.152 --> 00:13:19.192
He was more serious and self-absorbed as if he had something on his mind.
00:13:19.731 --> 00:13:25.692
He remained with us only a short time then said he was going out to see how the work on the links was progressing.
00:13:26.032 --> 00:13:28.131
He added that he would return a little later.
00:13:28.881 --> 00:13:31.642
That was the last I saw of him.
00:13:31.796 --> 00:13:33.235
Mina concluded with a sob.
00:13:33.839 --> 00:13:35.219
There is much more to this, Mr.
00:13:35.219 --> 00:13:35.639
Carter.
00:13:36.028 --> 00:13:36.599
Said Mr.
00:13:36.599 --> 00:13:37.078
Strickland.
00:13:37.589 --> 00:13:43.859
I went out to seek him or make further inquiries concerning him after our servant stated that he had gone.
00:13:44.451 --> 00:13:44.751
Hmm.
00:13:44.841 --> 00:13:46.011
And what did you learn?
00:13:46.611 --> 00:13:50.721
I was told by one of the workmen that he left the links about five o'clock.
00:13:51.201 --> 00:13:56.542
When last seen by them, he was walking south toward a Woodland road in that locality.
00:13:57.052 --> 00:13:59.091
I continued my search in that direction.
00:13:59.361 --> 00:14:02.152
And I soon met two women who had seen him.
00:14:02.751 --> 00:14:04.701
Women, you know, Yes.
00:14:05.091 --> 00:14:07.731
Two sisters, Mary and Ellen Dawson.
00:14:08.211 --> 00:14:11.692
They could not be mistaken, for both were employed here by Mr.
00:14:11.692 --> 00:14:14.272
Gordon to help clean and settle his house.
00:14:14.865 --> 00:14:16.035
Ah, I see.
00:14:16.365 --> 00:14:16.966
Nick nodded.
00:14:17.308 --> 00:14:19.168
When and where did they see him?
00:14:19.769 --> 00:14:24.899
About 10 minutes before at the juncture of a crossroad half a mile from where I met them.
00:14:25.056 --> 00:14:25.385
Mr.
00:14:25.385 --> 00:14:26.225
Strickland went on.
00:14:26.566 --> 00:14:28.956
He then was talking with Pauline Perrot.
00:14:29.625 --> 00:14:34.905
Both of the Dawson women have seen her here and both immediately recognized her.
00:14:35.505 --> 00:14:38.176
That evidently was a rendezvous, said Nick.
00:14:38.596 --> 00:14:39.556
I think so.
00:14:39.711 --> 00:14:40.042
Mr.
00:14:40.042 --> 00:14:40.942
Strickland agreed.
00:14:41.519 --> 00:14:48.389
Gordon then had a leather suitcase, but the women did not know whether it belonged to him or his companion.
00:14:48.826 --> 00:14:51.706
She was clad in a dark green traveling costume.
00:14:52.245 --> 00:14:56.145
When Gordon saw the two women approaching, he hurried away with Ms.
00:14:56.145 --> 00:14:59.176
Perrot as if anxious to avoid recognition.
00:14:59.755 --> 00:15:01.316
In which direction did they go?
00:15:01.902 --> 00:15:03.461
East through the crossroad.
00:15:04.062 --> 00:15:05.652
Did you continue your search?
00:15:06.251 --> 00:15:07.251
I did not Mr.
00:15:07.272 --> 00:15:18.412
Carter for I supposed that Arthur had unexpected business to look after having been sought by his stenographer, as I then inferred and that he would return that evening or telephone to us.
00:15:19.011 --> 00:15:21.111
Have you telephoned to his residence this morning?
00:15:21.716 --> 00:15:22.615
Yes indeed.
00:15:22.916 --> 00:15:27.475
He was not at home last night, nor can his parents explain his absence.
00:15:27.926 --> 00:15:30.206
They supposed that he spent the night here.
00:15:30.806 --> 00:15:32.755
Have you telephoned to his wall street office?
00:15:33.355 --> 00:15:36.775
I have, of course, about half an hour ago, said Mr.
00:15:36.775 --> 00:15:37.255
Strickland.
00:15:37.855 --> 00:15:38.725
With what result?
00:15:39.326 --> 00:15:41.456
Only two of the clerks, then we're there.
00:15:42.056 --> 00:15:43.676
They could give me no information.
00:15:43.975 --> 00:15:47.725
But I directed them to call me up at once if Mr.
00:15:47.725 --> 00:15:48.535
Gordon came in.
00:15:48.895 --> 00:15:53.245
I have no hope of that, however, in view of the letter that Mina has received.
00:15:53.849 --> 00:15:55.979
It does not indeed seem probable.
00:15:56.129 --> 00:15:56.698
Nick allowed.
00:15:57.298 --> 00:15:59.129
Added to all this said Mr.
00:15:59.129 --> 00:16:07.798
Strickland there now are rumors probably resulting from the gossip of the Dawson women that Gordon has eloped with Pauline Perot.
00:16:08.578 --> 00:16:12.359
If she is not in his office at her customary hour 10 o'clock.
00:16:12.869 --> 00:16:14.399
I shall began to fear.
00:16:14.981 --> 00:16:15.341
Mr.
00:16:15.341 --> 00:16:23.621
Strickland was interrupted by the ringing of a telephone on a stand in one corner, and Wilamena uttered a cry and ran to the instrument.
00:16:24.219 --> 00:16:24.639
Wait.
00:16:24.735 --> 00:16:25.456
Nick exclaimed.
00:16:25.668 --> 00:16:26.688
Let me answer it.
00:16:27.489 --> 00:16:30.788
The girl obeyed without a Remonstrance, if not quite willingly.
00:16:31.389 --> 00:16:31.808
Well?
00:16:31.961 --> 00:16:33.322
Nick queried over the wire.
00:16:33.922 --> 00:16:36.322
The response came in quick, agitated tones.
00:16:36.922 --> 00:16:37.432
Hello.
00:16:37.672 --> 00:16:38.422
I want Mr.
00:16:38.422 --> 00:16:40.101
Gordon, if he is there or Mr.
00:16:40.101 --> 00:16:41.905
Strickland, hurry! Mr.
00:16:41.905 --> 00:16:42.745
Gordon is not here.
00:16:42.956 --> 00:16:43.525
Who are you?
00:16:43.971 --> 00:16:45.861
Mr Beckwith, his cashier.
00:16:46.101 --> 00:16:47.692
Where can I communicate with Mr.
00:16:47.692 --> 00:16:48.081
Gordon?
00:16:48.322 --> 00:16:49.042
Do you know?
00:16:49.432 --> 00:16:50.932
He was not at home last night.
00:16:51.381 --> 00:16:52.912
I have just called up his residence.
00:16:53.032 --> 00:16:54.621
I must find him or..
00:16:54.818 --> 00:16:55.568
One moment, Mr.
00:16:55.568 --> 00:16:55.869
Beckwith.
00:16:56.032 --> 00:16:56.782
Nick interrupted.
00:16:57.081 --> 00:16:58.581
This is Nick Carter talking.
00:16:59.019 --> 00:16:59.708
Nick Carter?
00:17:00.158 --> 00:17:02.109
Good heavens what has occurred out there?
00:17:02.708 --> 00:17:06.489
Tell me instead, what is wrong in Gordon's office that you are so disturbed?
00:17:07.088 --> 00:17:09.278
Wrong enough came the quick reply.
00:17:09.608 --> 00:17:15.068
Cash, bonds, and securities aggregating$60,000 are missing from the vault.
00:17:15.548 --> 00:17:16.449
Uh, unless Mr.
00:17:16.449 --> 00:17:17.378
Gordon removed them.
00:17:17.566 --> 00:17:18.046
Wait.
00:17:18.182 --> 00:17:19.442
Nick commanded a bit sharply.
00:17:20.071 --> 00:17:21.301
Is Pauline Perrot there.
00:17:21.701 --> 00:17:24.402
Uh, no, she is not, she has not come in yet.
00:17:25.332 --> 00:17:27.491
Nick glanced at a French clock on the mantel.
00:17:27.942 --> 00:17:32.951
It's struck the half hour at that moment, a single stroke, like the sudden death knell.
00:17:33.372 --> 00:17:35.471
The half after 10 o'clock.
00:17:37.469 --> 00:17:38.308
Chapter two.
00:17:38.699 --> 00:17:40.019
The man who escaped.
00:17:41.009 --> 00:17:45.058
Nick Carter decided instantly what must be done and also not done.
00:17:45.568 --> 00:17:49.259
He continued talking with Beckwith without a perceptible pause.
00:17:49.979 --> 00:18:01.858
Nick questioned him briefly, obtain Pauline Perrot's Fordham address, and then directed him to give no publicity to the matter, but to await the arrival of chick Carter, his chief assistant.
00:18:02.011 --> 00:18:05.612
Whom he would immediately send to Gordon's office to investigate the case.
00:18:06.392 --> 00:18:10.892
Nick then called up the library in his Madison avenue house and talked with chick.
00:18:11.551 --> 00:18:16.382
He gave him a brief outline of the circumstances together with such instructions as were necessary.
00:18:16.741 --> 00:18:21.902
And he then directed him to report in person at Gordon's residence in the Bronx.
00:18:22.501 --> 00:18:27.061
It will take him a couple of hours at least, he remarked to Patsy after hanging up the receiver.
00:18:27.608 --> 00:18:32.409
We can get in our work elsewhere in the meantime and return before he arrives.
00:18:33.009 --> 00:18:36.909
Naturally, of course, several pertinent questions had arisen in Nick's mind.
00:18:37.041 --> 00:18:42.291
And which could not consistently be ignored in spite of his high opinion of Arthur Gordon.
00:18:42.882 --> 00:18:46.061
Was he really the writer of the letter received by Mina Strickland.
00:18:46.412 --> 00:18:51.122
Had conditions really arisen, which made imperative the course, he said he was about to shape.
00:18:51.469 --> 00:18:58.278
Had he realized at that late day, indeed, that he was not as deeply in love with Wilamena as he supposed?
00:18:58.878 --> 00:19:02.888
Had he too become helplessly infatuated with Pauline Perrot.
00:19:02.888 --> 00:19:06.429
And as an only desperate resort, determined to desert Ms.
00:19:06.429 --> 00:19:08.588
Strickland and elope with the stenographer?
00:19:09.041 --> 00:19:14.321
Was it, he, in that case who had taken the cash bonds and securities from the vault in his office?
00:19:14.771 --> 00:19:22.791
Had he sacrificed all, but that small part of his fortune to say nothing of character, friends and family for a mad love for another woman.
00:19:23.392 --> 00:19:31.461
In view of the fact that Gordon had been acting voluntarily and in a measure had deceived the Stricklands as to his intentions.
00:19:31.491 --> 00:19:37.011
The previous afternoon, nick could not, but give the foregoing questions, serious consideration.
00:19:37.582 --> 00:19:41.511
He had, as he observed before, known of such cases.
00:19:41.932 --> 00:19:47.031
They were common enough, in fact, and what man has done, man may do.
00:19:47.642 --> 00:19:56.991
Nick's face reflected none of his thoughts however, when he turned from the telephone and stated what he had learned and the effect upon Wilamena about what he was anticipating.
00:19:57.592 --> 00:19:58.432
Good heavens.
00:19:58.461 --> 00:19:59.451
Is it possible?
00:19:59.932 --> 00:20:02.932
She exclaimed ghastly with increasing apprehensions.
00:20:03.412 --> 00:20:05.152
All that money gone from his vault.
00:20:05.692 --> 00:20:07.221
Don't keep me in suspense, Mr.
00:20:07.221 --> 00:20:07.551
Carter.
00:20:07.852 --> 00:20:09.501
Tell me just what you think about it?
00:20:09.771 --> 00:20:10.372
Tell me.
00:20:10.721 --> 00:20:12.551
I must look deeper into the matter Ms.
00:20:12.582 --> 00:20:16.449
Strickland, before I can tell you anything definite Nick interposed, evasively.
00:20:16.951 --> 00:20:22.741
I have not changed my opinion such as it was, and I will lose no time in sifting the matter to the bottom.
00:20:23.402 --> 00:20:25.291
Try to be patient until I have done so.
00:20:25.892 --> 00:20:26.852
I will try Mr.
00:20:26.882 --> 00:20:28.795
Carter, at least she replied.
00:20:29.125 --> 00:20:33.865
But all this must be the culmination of the terrible secret dread I've been feeling.
00:20:34.346 --> 00:20:35.186
Secret dread?
00:20:35.682 --> 00:20:41.741
I say that only because I have not mentioned it to anyone being unable to ascribe a definite cause for it.
00:20:41.892 --> 00:20:42.632
Mina explained.
00:20:43.031 --> 00:20:46.571
But it has been hanging over me like a depressing cloud.
00:20:46.932 --> 00:20:49.211
Ever since I first saw Pauline Perrot.
00:20:49.781 --> 00:20:55.751
Ever since, in fact, The escape of that terrible criminal Mortimer Deland from the prison hospital.
00:20:56.189 --> 00:20:56.759
Yes.
00:20:56.818 --> 00:20:57.568
I remember.
00:20:57.721 --> 00:20:59.761
Said Nick regarding her more intently.
00:21:00.761 --> 00:21:02.201
You were employed by Arthur.
00:21:02.201 --> 00:21:04.001
You remember to run him down?
00:21:04.152 --> 00:21:04.811
She went on.
00:21:05.531 --> 00:21:09.852
I have heard that Mortimer Deland never forgets, nor ever forgives.
00:21:10.271 --> 00:21:12.342
Since that extraordinary escape, Mr.
00:21:12.342 --> 00:21:17.142
Carter, I have lived in fear of him for fear that he might attempt to kill Mr.
00:21:17.142 --> 00:21:20.051
Gordon or in some terrible way avenge.
00:21:20.652 --> 00:21:21.511
Oh, pshaw.
00:21:21.648 --> 00:21:22.788
Nick checked her kindly.
00:21:23.221 --> 00:21:24.511
Put Deland out of your head.
00:21:24.912 --> 00:21:29.352
It is unfortunate, of course, that he fooled the hospital guards and contrived to give him the slip.
00:21:29.932 --> 00:21:31.221
Unfortunate indeed.
00:21:31.571 --> 00:21:39.098
Yes, but as far as seeking vengeance goes, it is much more probable that he immediately fled to Europe whence he came Nick added.
00:21:39.602 --> 00:21:42.932
Besides, I am the man he would seek not Gordon.
00:21:43.281 --> 00:21:45.301
For it was I who cornered and convicted him.
00:21:45.872 --> 00:21:48.031
There is no occasion for those apprehensions, Ms.
00:21:48.031 --> 00:21:48.451
Strickland.
00:21:49.051 --> 00:21:49.862
I hope not.
00:21:49.862 --> 00:21:50.491
I'm sure.
00:21:50.642 --> 00:21:51.182
Said Mina.
00:21:51.991 --> 00:21:53.251
You, you are going.
00:21:53.862 --> 00:21:56.821
Nick had taken his hat from the table on which he had placed it.
00:21:57.422 --> 00:21:57.932
Yes.
00:21:58.201 --> 00:21:58.711
He replied.
00:21:59.372 --> 00:22:03.001
I will return it a couple of hours, however, and chick may arrive in the meantime.
00:22:03.481 --> 00:22:06.838
We will leave no stone unturned to ferret out the truth.
00:22:07.469 --> 00:22:12.538
He led the way out to his touring car in which Danny, his chauffer had been waiting in the front of the house.
00:22:13.088 --> 00:22:14.048
To Fordham, Danny.
00:22:14.229 --> 00:22:14.888
He directed.
00:22:15.398 --> 00:22:16.269
Let'er go lively.
00:22:16.872 --> 00:22:17.951
Why to Fordham, chief?
00:22:18.102 --> 00:22:23.882
questioned Patsy, when both were seated in the tonneau and the car was speeding down the long driveway to the rural road.
00:22:24.479 --> 00:22:31.169
To inspect Pauline Perot's apartments and interview her landlady said Nick, with rather ominous intonation.
00:22:31.769 --> 00:22:33.568
Do you suspect her of being a crook?
00:22:34.169 --> 00:22:38.068
I think she is back of this whole business, Patsy of whatever it consists.
00:22:38.669 --> 00:22:41.519
Gee, that looks like a cinch declared Patsy.
00:22:41.969 --> 00:22:45.598
Either, she's playing a deep game chief and working it out with wonderful success.
00:22:46.048 --> 00:22:49.439
Or Gordon has lost his head completely and bolted with the woman.
00:22:49.882 --> 00:22:54.994
That last may possibly be true since other men have been equally foolish said Nick.
00:22:55.444 --> 00:22:57.994
I find it hard to believe of Arthur Gordon, however.
00:22:58.595 --> 00:22:59.515
That goes too.
00:23:00.125 --> 00:23:04.065
I doubt very much that he would have gone so far as to buy a big estate.
00:23:04.355 --> 00:23:10.355
Build and furnish a fine residence and then bolt with a girl that he has known less than six months.
00:23:10.954 --> 00:23:14.164
But he evidently met her voluntarily yesterday afternoon.
00:23:14.755 --> 00:23:15.085
Hmm.
00:23:15.372 --> 00:23:17.741
She may have wheedled him into doing so.
00:23:18.229 --> 00:23:23.098
But how if Gordon did not remove them could she have got the bonds and securities from his vault.
00:23:23.699 --> 00:23:25.288
Chick will try to find out.
00:23:25.769 --> 00:23:28.979
I have left that to him and given him all the necessary points.
00:23:29.578 --> 00:23:32.128
It is useless for us to speculate upon it at this time.
00:23:32.731 --> 00:23:36.701
Gee it surely is some case chief and likely to become a difficult one.
00:23:36.922 --> 00:23:37.632
said Patsy.
00:23:38.138 --> 00:23:39.308
It's odd too, that Ms.
00:23:39.308 --> 00:23:44.229
Strickland has felt so apprehensive of deviltry by Mortimer Deland, since his escape.
00:23:44.828 --> 00:23:47.318
Well, that's just like a girl of her sensitive nature.
00:23:47.919 --> 00:23:55.118
For all that chief, Deland must be a mighty slick gink or he never could have given the hospital guards the slip in female attire.
00:23:55.285 --> 00:23:58.315
To say, nothing of having contrived to secretly get the garments.
00:23:58.795 --> 00:24:00.714
That whole business is still a mystery.
00:24:01.305 --> 00:24:02.575
And likely to continue one.
00:24:02.734 --> 00:24:03.194
Said Nick.
00:24:03.451 --> 00:24:07.561
It looked to me like bribery, Patsy, rather than cleverness on Deland's part.
00:24:07.981 --> 00:24:11.281
And the bribery of a prison official is difficult to expose.
00:24:12.241 --> 00:24:13.412
Well, that's right too.
00:24:13.815 --> 00:24:14.924
It was no fault of ours.
00:24:15.015 --> 00:24:16.672
However for, we did our part.
00:24:16.672 --> 00:24:18.172
When we rounded up the Rascals.
00:24:18.328 --> 00:24:18.808
Nick added.
00:24:19.068 --> 00:24:20.648
Uh, take the road to the left.
00:24:20.648 --> 00:24:23.459
Danny, I'll give you the street and number after we hit the town.
00:24:24.608 --> 00:24:29.528
Did Arthur Gordon really abandoned his fiance just days before their impending wedding.
00:24:30.128 --> 00:24:31.969
Why did he meet with his stenographer?
00:24:31.989 --> 00:24:32.828
So secretly.
00:24:33.338 --> 00:24:34.568
And where did he go?
00:24:35.108 --> 00:24:44.348
These questions and more will be answered in the next thrilling episode of the Gordon elopement or Nick Carters, three of a kind.
00:24:46.209 --> 00:24:49.148
Well, we're off to a good start in this mystery.
00:24:49.749 --> 00:24:54.308
And there's that specter of Mortimer Deland still hanging about in the background.
00:24:54.729 --> 00:24:55.269
Hmm.
00:24:55.689 --> 00:24:58.419
Well, well, just have to stay tuned for more than.
00:24:59.469 --> 00:25:02.348
I'd like to remind you to become a monthly supporter of the show.
00:25:02.858 --> 00:25:09.489
For your choice of five, seven or$10 a month, about the cost of one typical Starbucks run.
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You can help make sure that the show continues to providing entertainment to you.
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Which is what I'm using to record all this craziness.
00:25:19.669 --> 00:25:24.858
So again, by helping out the show on a monthly basis, you can help me out quite a bit.
00:25:25.578 --> 00:25:26.989
Don't want to make a full commitment.
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That's fine.
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Unlike Patrion, the company that I use to provide the support options is called buy me a coffee.
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00:25:38.808 --> 00:25:45.409
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00:25:53.239 --> 00:25:55.009
Or just a one-time donation.
00:25:55.818 --> 00:25:57.019
As an added bonus.
00:25:57.229 --> 00:26:05.778
If you become a monthly supporter, I will give you a discount code for use at either of my two merchandise shops for unlimited free shipping.
00:26:06.078 --> 00:26:08.118
Until the end of 2023.
00:26:08.929 --> 00:26:10.788
I mean, yeah, just can't lose.
00:26:11.269 --> 00:26:11.778
Okay.
00:26:11.778 --> 00:26:15.078
Friends as usual, I have rambled long enough.
00:26:15.648 --> 00:26:16.669
Until next time.
00:26:17.088 --> 00:26:18.048
Thanks for listening.
00:26:18.378 --> 00:26:22.729
Keep sharing the stories and be a good human.
00:26:23.659 --> 00:26:24.679
Bye for now.
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