June 21, 2024
The Suicide, Or Nick Carter and the Lost Head, Pt 4
In this enthralling episode, Nick Carter and his assistant Patsy Garvan find themselves embroiled in a complex web of deception and treachery. As they uncover a sinister plot involving a supposed suicide, a cunning impostor, and a desperate attempt to secure a fortune, the stakes are raised to unprecedented levels. With thrilling twists and shocking revelations, the detectives must navigate a dangerous game of cat and mouse to unravel the truth and bring the culprits to justice.
Nick Carter's pursuit of the truth takes an unexpected turn when he discovers the true identity of an enigmatic figure, leading to a startling revelation that changes the course of the investigation. As the intricate scheme unravels, Nick and Patsy race against time to thwart the nefarious plans of the masterminds behind the elaborate ruse. Will they succeed in outsmarting their adversaries and unveiling the ultimate truth?
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Transcript
WEBVTT
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Hello again, friends and welcome to another exciting episode of Forward Into The Past.
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I am JC Rede, your host and narrator.
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And today we conclude the exciting tale from 1915, entitled The Suicide or Nick Carter and the Lost Head.
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Story papers often filled with serialized narratives have been a staple in shaping popular culture.
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These papers have not only provided entertainment, but also reflected and influenced societal norms and values.
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From the penny dreadfuls of Victorian England to the pulp magazines of early 20th century America, story papers have been instrumental in the dissemination of cultural trends and ideas.
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The serialized format of story papers allowed readers to engage with stories over extended periods, fostering a sense of anticipation and community among readers.
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This format also enabled writers to respond to readers feedback, creating a dynamic interaction that helped shape the narrative direction and consequently its cultural impact.
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Moreover story papers have been a platform for introducing iconic characters and stories that have stood the test of time, influencing various forms of media and entertainment.
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Characters like Nick Carter, who first appeared in the New York Weekly have become cultural icons, inspiring countless adaptations and interpretations across different media platforms.
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The accessibility of story papers made literature available to the masses, contributing to literacy and public discourse.
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They were a means for people to escape the mundanity of life, imagine new possibilities and engage with issues of their time in a narrative form.
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In essence story papers have played a significant role in shaping popular culture by acting as a mirror to society, reflecting its hopes, fears, and values, while also providing a canvas for new ideas to flourish.
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They remind us that stories are not just a form of entertainment.
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They are powerful tools that can influence thought and culture across generations.
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And speaking of influencing thought across generations, let's head back in time, back to 1915, to be exact and experience the thrilling conclusion of the Nick Carter mystery, The Suicide or Nick Carter and the Lost Head.
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Chapter seven.
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A startling discovery.
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Nick Carter had accomplished his object, but at some little cost.
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He had aimed to force the suspects into some impetuous move that would fully confirm his suspicions.
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He had expected it to follow his assertion, that Cyrus Darling was alive and that the supposed suicide was, but part of a knavish scheme, including Kate Crandall, Jim Dacey and Cyrus Darling himself.
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The speedy effect of his declarations, however, as well as the resources of the rascals had exceeded his anticipations.
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But there was still another reason for the sudden aggressive move made by Phillip Floyd.
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A reason that Nick could not possibly have anticipated, yet which alone necessitated the desperate step Floyd had taken.
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Patsy Garvin was responsible for it, though not because of any fault on his part.
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Following the instructions that Nick had given them, Patsy and Chick arrived at the Ashburton Chambers about 10 minutes after Nick, separating before entering.
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Patsy to look up Sheldon and Floyd, while Chick undertook to identify the suspect seen by Danny in company with Kate Crandall that afternoon.
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Nick had remarked before leaving home that with three strings to their bow, there certainly should be something doing and there was.
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Patsy entered the house about 10 minutes after Nick went up to Kate Crandall's suite, and as luck would have it, he shaped the same course that his chief had taken.
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He began his work with buying a cigar and interrogating the girl clerk with precisely the same question.
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Have you seen Ralph Sheldon here this evening?
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The girl laughed while giving Patsy his change.
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You're not alone, she remarked.
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Another man just asked me the same question.
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Is that so?
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Queried Patsy, knowing it must have been Nick.
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How long ago was that?
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Oh, not more than 10 minutes said the girl.
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Sheldon must be in demand this evening.
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He was talking with the clerk a short time ago.
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I guess you'll find him in his suite.
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Third floor rear corridor, number 94.
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Oh, thanks said Patsy with a smile.
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It's not material.
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That's just what the other man said.
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replied the girl laughing.
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Gee, I must be walking right in the chief's tracks.
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Thought Patsy moving away.
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That denotes that I've got a long head at least, but I must cut it out all the same or someone may get wise to what we're doing.
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It's odds that the chief took the elevator, so I'll vary the program by hoofing it.
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Patsy knew, of course, that Nick had gone to seek an interview with Kate Crandall as he had stated.
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I'll look up Sheldon's suite.
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He said to himself.
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If he still was with the Crandall woman.
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It's odd that he left when the chief showed up.
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He may be with a confederate in his apartments at this time.
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In which case their conversation might enable me to clinch the chief's suspicions if I can contrive to overhear it.
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I'll locate the suite at all events and find out what's doing.
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Patsy climbed the stairs to the second floor, then sought a corridor leading to the rear of the house.
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He found it with no great difficulty, but upon entering the corridor, adjoining the rear rooms, he turned in the wrong direction to find the main stairway.
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He brought up in a narrow dimly lighted hall instead and at the narrow stairway already mentioned.
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Gee, I'm in wrong.
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He muttered, glancing at several doors in the dim uncarpeted entry.
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I ought to have gone the other way.
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These stairs will take me to the next floor, however, and the rear corridor must run parallel with one of this floor.
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These doors must be rear exits from some of the side and back suites.
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I'll go up and have a look.
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Patsy started up the stairs with the last.
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The long corridor through which he had just come was deserted.
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The narrow entry and stairway appeared to be for the use of servants only and entirely out of use at that hour.
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Nevertheless while still only part way up the stairs.
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Patsy suddenly heard the rustle of skirts and hurried footsteps in the narrow entry on the third floor.
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He stopped short and listened.
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The sounds ceased in a moment and Patsy thought he heard the cautious closing of a door.
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Uncertain as to the last, however, he remained motionless on the stairs, holding his breath and listened intently for several moments.
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By Jove, that's mighty strange.
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He said to himself.
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I certainly heard a woman's steps and the rustle of skirts.
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She was in a hurry too, yet was moving stealthily.
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That ought to signify something.
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Have I stumbled upon a rear entrance to Kate Crandall's suite?
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Has she elluded the chief by stealing out of the back door?
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Gee, I'd better look into this.
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Patsy's suspicion was perfectly natural under the circumstances.
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It acted upon him like a spur, moreover.
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He crept quickly up to the third landing and glanced through the narrow hall.
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It was unoccupied.
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The several doors were closed.
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A short side entry around a corner and several feet from the stairs caught Patsy's eye.
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That also was deserted.
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It contained only a single door also closed and Patsy stole nearer to it and listened.
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He could hear no sound from within nor detect any sign of light on the threshold.
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He stole away, retracing his steps and listened at one of the other doors, then another and still another.
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Patsy paused longer at the last, then suddenly crouched and tried vainly to peer through the keyhole.
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He had heard a man's voice from within crying curtly.
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Come in.
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Gee he's not addressing me.
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thought Patsy.
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He couldn't have heard my cat like tread.
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Then other words reached his ears and a familiar voice.
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Holy smoke.
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It's the chief himself.
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He muttered.
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He just inquired for Sheldon or Floyd.
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He has just arrived in Sheldon's suite, as sure as I'm a foot high instead of interviewing Kate Crandall.
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Oh, He's already seen her maybe.
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And.
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Patsy's inference was correct, but his rapid train of thought ended abruptly.
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He heard a sound from the direction of the stairs.
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He thought someone was ascending them.
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Gee, I must not be caught playing spy here, flashed through his mind, nor must I lose the chance of doing so later.
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I'll hide in the side entry.
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He darted toward it on the instant, eager to round the corner before the approaching person could arrive at the head of the stairs on which Patsy still supposed him to be.
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He had however mistaken the precise direction of the sound.
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He moved like a flash, yet as noiselessly as a shadow.
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He turned the corner at nearly top speed and collided violently with another none other than Mr.
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Philip Floyd.
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Patsy needed no introduction to him.
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The description of him provided by Nancy Nordeck and Mrs.
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Darling was fresh in his mind.
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There could be no mistaking him under the circumstances, his dark face, his piercing black eyes and his drooping black mustache.
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Yes, Patsy recognized him instantly, but with an unexpected discovery and a thrill that went through him like an electric shock from head to foot.
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For the figure with which he had collided, that he had seized in his arms to prevent a fall, that at once began to struggle to free itself from his involuntary embrace was not the figure of a man.
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It was the supple yielding figure of.
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A woman.
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Patsy guessed the truth on the instant, there was no need for explanations.
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He knew now why Nancy Nordeck had distrusted her master's visitor, why she felt sure that she had seen him before and why he had involuntarily betrayed his recognition of her when she first admitted him to the Darling residence.
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It was a discovery that clenched all of Nick Carter's suspicions for Patsy now plainly recognized the cleverly disguised face.
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It told him on the instant that Phillip Floyd and Kate Crandall were one and the same.
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The recognition was mutual, moreover and a half smothered oath broke from the lips of the dismayed woman.
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Let me go.
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she hissed, struggling viciously.
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Let me go, I say.
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Not much, muttered Patsy exultedly.
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I know you now, and I've got you for keeps.
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His arms closed more tightly around her.
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He had seized her by chance so that her arms were confined to her sides and she could not free them, could not use them to scratch and tear him as she fain would have done.
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But she writhed from side to side, like an eel in his powerful grasp.
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Her eyes glowing like balls of fire, her breath coming in quick sharp gasps and falling hot on Patsy's cheeks.
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Let me go, let me go.
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She repeated in fierce frantic whispers.
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Curse you.
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Let me go.
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Not by a jug full, said Patsy, I know you now.
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You're Kate Crandall.
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Let me go.
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You'll go all right.
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But you'll go with me.
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You devil you.
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Oh, cut out your struggling.
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You can't get away.
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Patsy interrupted.
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Though content to let her exhaust herself with her furious efforts.
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I've got you and I'm going to hold you.
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I will kill.
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Here, none of that.
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You'll be roughly handled if you try to pull a gun.
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Patsy had felt her working one hand behind her to reach a hip pocket.
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He seized her wrist and held her closer, almost crushing her in his embrace for not for an instant had she ceased her fierce frantic struggles and she was possessed of more than ordinary womanly strength and was giving him quite a battle.
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She muttered a vicious oath again, when foiled in her attempt to draw a weapon.
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Then while they still swayed to and fro in the narrow entry, she took another course.
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She suddenly bowed her head and tried to set her teeth in Patsy's neck.
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Patsy had expected no less.
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He forced her quickly away then swung her around to crowd her against a wall, rendered a bit impatient by her fury and now determined to handcuff her and end her struggles.
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Instead of forcing her against the wall however, Patsy forced her against the only door in the narrow side entry, the rear door of her own suite.
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It was an unfortunate move on his part.
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The struggle was now heard from within.
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The door was suddenly opened by the man whom Danny had seen with Kate Crandall that afternoon.
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All of this proved disastrous for Patsy Garvin.
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He partly lost his balance when the door opened and he fell against the casing.
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A gasp of relief came from the woman and then a fierce cry.
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Down him down him, Jim, for God's sake.
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Dacey needed no bidding.
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He had guessed the truth upon hearing the noise of the struggle.
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He had drawn a weapon while approaching the door.
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The same weapon that felled Nick Carter a quarter hour later.
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It fell like a flash when Patsy reeled against the casing and while the frantic appeal was still on the woman's lips.
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The sandbag caught Patsy squarely on the head, dropping him as it dropped Nick a little later.
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Without a groan even, he sank in a crimped and senseless heap on the threshold of the door.
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It was a brutal blow, dealt by the hand of a brutal man.
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It was this man who had been smoking a cigarette in Kate Crandall's suite just before the arrival of Nick Carter, but who had stolen into the rear entry before the detective entered, returning after his departure.
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Safely enough indeed, the woman had given Nick permission to search her apartments.
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Quick.
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She now said curtly, drag him in here, Jim.
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Do you know him?
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questioned Dacey, hastening to obey.
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Know him?
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I should say so.
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snapped Kate.
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He's one of Carter's assistants.
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His name is Garvin.
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The devil.
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Dacey exclaimed.
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Things are looking bad.
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We can right them or get what's coming to us at least.
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Kate hurriedly replied.
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Come what may Jim, these dicks have nothing on us.
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We must stave off arrest and exposure however, if possible.
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Cut one of the window cords and bind this whelp.
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Dacey hastened to do so asking in the meantime, How did you run foul of him?
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We met in the entry.
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What was he doing there?
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Give it up.
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Said Kate tersely.
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There must be more doing than we have suspected.
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There is only one course for us, Jim, until we can land the coin.
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What's that?
00:15:15.490 --> 00:15:20.289
We must get Nick Carter also, if he has gone to Sheldon's suite, as I suspect.
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Kate hurriedly explained.
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We must get away with both of these dicks and hold them at your place until we can bring Sheldon to our terms.
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There's nothing else to it.
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Can it be done?
00:15:31.610 --> 00:15:33.000
questioned Dacey doubtfully.
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It must be done.
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Kate insisted.
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Is Moran on the side street with your limousine?
00:15:39.210 --> 00:15:39.720
Yes.
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Open the window, whistle him up here.
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He will aid us.
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Surest thing you know! cried Dacey darting to the window.
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Note me Jim, and follow my instructions, Kate quickly added.
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I'll go at once to Sheldon's suite as planned and find out whether Carter is there.
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I get ya.
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If he is and appears likely to give us further trouble, I'll hold him up with a gun in about 10 minutes.
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In the meantime with Martin Moran to aid, gag this whelp and tie his hands together, then steal into Sheldon's suite through the rear door.
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He left it unlocked for me.
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I'm on it.
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Dacey nodded.
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Come quietly, mind you and be ready to lend me a hand, Kate directed.
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If we can get away with Carter and this fellow and confine them in your crib, we'll jump this house and remain at your place until we can bring Sheldon to his milk.
00:16:28.346 --> 00:16:32.636
He'll be so rattled up by this turn of affairs that I think he will weaken.
00:16:33.136 --> 00:16:33.917
But how...
00:16:34.086 --> 00:16:35.076
I'll explain later.
00:16:35.326 --> 00:16:36.197
Kate interrupted.
00:16:36.496 --> 00:16:37.787
There's no time at present.
00:16:38.086 --> 00:16:41.476
I must hike to Sheldon's suite in case Carter is already there.
00:16:41.976 --> 00:16:44.017
Follow me with Moran as soon as possibly.
00:16:44.346 --> 00:16:45.397
The rear door, mind you.
00:16:45.517 --> 00:16:46.866
I must go around the front.
00:16:47.366 --> 00:16:48.267
I understand.
00:16:48.517 --> 00:16:49.326
Dacey replied.
00:16:49.576 --> 00:16:51.466
But how can we get them out of the house?
00:16:51.966 --> 00:16:57.037
There's a lift for trunks and merchandise just beyond the backstairs, Kate hurriedly explained.
00:16:57.407 --> 00:16:59.177
We can use it without being detected.
00:16:59.626 --> 00:17:02.716
We'll lower them both down and get away with them in your car.
00:17:03.136 --> 00:17:04.307
It can be done all right.
00:17:04.457 --> 00:17:05.567
Take my word for that.
00:17:06.067 --> 00:17:07.567
Your word goes with me, Kate.
00:17:07.817 --> 00:17:09.346
Dacey declared significantly.
00:17:09.826 --> 00:17:11.297
Be off then to Sheldon's suite.
00:17:11.656 --> 00:17:14.297
I'll be on hand with Moran in less than 10 minutes.
00:17:15.567 --> 00:17:16.826
As has already appeared.
00:17:17.156 --> 00:17:20.126
Jim Dacey proved to be as good as his word.
00:17:21.626 --> 00:17:22.436
Chapter eight.
00:17:22.856 --> 00:17:23.876
The third string.
00:17:24.977 --> 00:17:30.136
Chick Carter was not idle while Nick Carter and Patsy Garvin were engaged as described.
00:17:30.826 --> 00:17:36.527
Chick had of course, a very good description of the man whose identity he had undertaken to discover.
00:17:36.717 --> 00:17:39.116
And it soon proved sufficient for his need.
00:17:39.507 --> 00:17:50.366
For the man had been a frequent visitor to the apartments of Kate Crandall and he was quite well known by Tom Carson, the clerk with whom Chick had a confidential interview soon after entering the house.
00:17:50.866 --> 00:17:51.366
Know him?
00:17:51.416 --> 00:17:51.926
Sure.
00:17:52.176 --> 00:17:56.057
Carson declared after Chick had introduced himself and stated his mission.
00:17:56.846 --> 00:17:59.547
That description fits just one man to a nicety.
00:17:59.997 --> 00:18:01.826
His name is Jim Dacey.
00:18:02.326 --> 00:18:04.166
Capital! Said Chick earnestly.
00:18:04.497 --> 00:18:05.336
Jim Dacey, eh?
00:18:05.586 --> 00:18:06.666
What do you know about him Mr.
00:18:06.696 --> 00:18:07.086
Carson?
00:18:07.586 --> 00:18:09.596
Well, nothing very bad, Mr.
00:18:09.596 --> 00:18:09.987
Carter.
00:18:10.227 --> 00:18:13.856
Nor so good that he'll be sought out for a Sunday school superintendent.
00:18:14.287 --> 00:18:14.987
laughed the clerk.
00:18:15.237 --> 00:18:17.906
He's a man about town and a good deal of a rounder.
00:18:18.406 --> 00:18:19.366
Is he in business?
00:18:19.866 --> 00:18:20.767
I don't think so.
00:18:21.267 --> 00:18:22.317
What does he do for a living?
00:18:22.817 --> 00:18:25.366
Anything that comes his way, I guess, or anybody.
00:18:25.616 --> 00:18:28.257
He must have means enough to sport on, in a quiet way.
00:18:28.527 --> 00:18:31.616
And I think he gambles frequently when he finds an easy game.
00:18:32.126 --> 00:18:33.777
I can't put you wise to much more.
00:18:34.277 --> 00:18:36.346
Is he quite friendly with the Crandall woman?
00:18:36.807 --> 00:18:37.586
Chick enquired.
00:18:38.086 --> 00:18:39.227
Oh, he certainly is.
00:18:39.477 --> 00:18:40.106
Said Carson.
00:18:40.656 --> 00:18:42.067
How long has she been living here?
00:18:42.567 --> 00:18:44.007
Oh, about two months.
00:18:44.507 --> 00:18:45.676
And what's her reputation.
00:18:46.176 --> 00:18:47.106
None too good.
00:18:47.267 --> 00:18:48.346
She's pretty fly.
00:18:48.346 --> 00:18:48.826
I reckon.
00:18:49.017 --> 00:18:50.396
If the whole truth were told.
00:18:51.007 --> 00:18:53.257
We have been thinking of asking her to move out.
00:18:53.737 --> 00:18:54.846
That tells the story.
00:18:55.346 --> 00:18:56.366
Hmm, quite right.
00:18:56.757 --> 00:18:57.477
Chick replied.
00:18:57.727 --> 00:18:59.797
Do you know where Jim Dacey lives?
00:19:00.297 --> 00:19:01.376
Not exactly.
00:19:01.626 --> 00:19:02.346
Said Carson.
00:19:02.707 --> 00:19:04.356
But you can easily find out.
00:19:04.856 --> 00:19:05.396
How so.
00:19:05.896 --> 00:19:08.027
Go out and question Tony Hogan.
00:19:08.307 --> 00:19:10.317
He has a taxi cab stand around the corner.
00:19:10.676 --> 00:19:12.866
He has frequently taken Dacey home from here.
00:19:13.227 --> 00:19:15.987
He can tell you more about the man and just where he lives.
00:19:16.916 --> 00:19:18.866
Thanks! said Chick approvingly.
00:19:19.376 --> 00:19:20.757
Not a word about this to others.
00:19:20.757 --> 00:19:21.207
Mind you.
00:19:21.707 --> 00:19:22.576
Trust me, Carter.
00:19:22.666 --> 00:19:23.237
I'm dumb.
00:19:23.737 --> 00:19:25.446
You haven't seen Dacey this evening.
00:19:25.946 --> 00:19:27.807
No, not since yesterday.
00:19:28.457 --> 00:19:30.106
There was a very good reason for it.
00:19:30.606 --> 00:19:37.267
Leaving his limousine and the side street in the charge of his chauffeur Martin Moran, who was a bird of the same shady feather.
00:19:37.626 --> 00:19:42.757
Jim Dacey had entered the side door of the house when he went up to Kate Crandall's apartments.
00:19:43.477 --> 00:19:46.416
Chick, thanked Carson again, and repaired to the street.
00:19:47.047 --> 00:19:53.817
He soon found the man he was seeking: a shrewd keen-eyed Irishman who already knew Chick by sight and reputation.
00:19:54.547 --> 00:20:00.457
Hogan needed only a hint from the detective, moreover, to cut loose and tell all that he knew about Dacey.
00:20:01.416 --> 00:20:11.356
But Chick soon found that Hogan could add, but little definite information to that already obtained, which of itself was quite sufficient to convince Chick that he was on the right track.
00:20:12.027 --> 00:20:20.636
This was further confirmed by the fact that Dacey dwelt in a somewhat isolated place that was less than a mile from the Darling residence.
00:20:20.886 --> 00:20:25.176
Where he employed only a deaf housekeeper and the chauffer already mentioned.
00:20:25.676 --> 00:20:29.047
Chick paused only briefly to determine what course he would take.
00:20:29.547 --> 00:20:31.527
Nick and Patsy can look after things here.
00:20:31.616 --> 00:20:32.487
He said to himself.
00:20:33.267 --> 00:20:34.376
They will not need me.
00:20:34.707 --> 00:20:41.037
There is a bare possibility on the other hand, that Darling is in the clutches of this bunch of blacklegs as Nick suspects.
00:20:41.366 --> 00:20:43.557
And that he is confined to the Dacey place.
00:20:44.057 --> 00:20:47.997
I'll go out there and look it over at all events and communicate later with Nick.
00:20:48.497 --> 00:20:50.957
Then turning to the cabman he said, abruptly.
00:20:51.207 --> 00:20:54.686
Take me out there Hogan and drop me a couple of hundred yards from the place.
00:20:55.076 --> 00:20:57.356
I'll decide later whether I have further use for you.
00:20:57.856 --> 00:20:58.997
That's good enough for me, Mr.
00:20:58.997 --> 00:21:00.737
Carter, Hogan said readily.
00:21:00.946 --> 00:21:01.696
Tumble in, sir.
00:21:02.346 --> 00:21:04.866
Less than half an hour, brought them to their destination.
00:21:05.196 --> 00:21:13.567
A crossroad from which could be seen in the near distance, quite an old wooden dwelling, half hidden among the trees flanking one side of the narrower road.
00:21:14.067 --> 00:21:20.977
It could be discerned only dimly in the star light though some lighted lower windows could be plainly seen through the trees.
00:21:21.396 --> 00:21:26.436
It was the only dwelling in the immediate locality and Chick came to a quick conclusion.
00:21:27.076 --> 00:21:30.916
Drive on about a quarter mile, Hogan and wait till I come, he directed.
00:21:31.547 --> 00:21:33.616
I cannot say just how long you may have to wait.
00:21:34.116 --> 00:21:35.287
My time is yours Mr.
00:21:35.317 --> 00:21:35.767
Carter.
00:21:36.017 --> 00:21:36.557
Said Hogan.
00:21:36.866 --> 00:21:38.307
You'll find me there when you come.
00:21:38.807 --> 00:21:39.406
Good enough.
00:21:39.686 --> 00:21:40.186
said Chick.
00:21:40.696 --> 00:21:41.926
You'll get all that's coming to you.
00:21:42.426 --> 00:21:43.866
I know I can bank on that, sir.
00:21:44.366 --> 00:21:48.057
Chick waited until the taxi cab had disappeared around a curve in the main road.
00:21:48.507 --> 00:21:59.166
He then followed the other for a short distance, presently vaulting a low wall and crossing a strip of rough land from which he could steal into the grounds at one side of the Dacey dwelling.
00:22:00.007 --> 00:22:05.616
They were unattractive in appearance denoting that the owner was far from being a man of means.
00:22:06.336 --> 00:22:16.176
Chick sized them up correctly and was about to steal nearer the house to peer through one of the windows, when the side door was opened and a woman appeared in the lighted hall.
00:22:16.676 --> 00:22:22.017
She lingered briefly gazing out toward the road, and then closed the door and vanished.
00:22:22.666 --> 00:22:23.807
The deaf housekeeper.
00:22:24.057 --> 00:22:27.237
Thought Chick who had easily seen her tall gaunt figure.
00:22:27.886 --> 00:22:31.497
She is evidently expecting someone, probably Dacey himself.
00:22:31.747 --> 00:22:35.136
There would be lights in more than that one room if he were at home.
00:22:35.866 --> 00:22:40.336
By Jove, if she is as deaf as Hogan stated and also is alone there.
00:22:40.676 --> 00:22:45.987
I can easily enter unheard through one of the doors and search the house from cellar to roof.
00:22:46.287 --> 00:22:49.676
I could find Darling, all right, if he is confined in there.
00:22:50.326 --> 00:23:01.707
Not yet convinced that Dacey was absent however, Chick still proceeded cautiously, approaching one of the lighted windows on all fours, then stealthily rising to peer between the curtain and the casing.
00:23:02.356 --> 00:23:04.936
He could see part of a cheaply furnished sitting room.
00:23:05.426 --> 00:23:07.406
An oil lamp burned on the table.
00:23:07.886 --> 00:23:11.606
The housekeeper was seated nearby absorbed in reading a newspaper.
00:23:12.116 --> 00:23:16.106
It was half past nine by a small oak clock on the mantle.
00:23:16.757 --> 00:23:21.346
Chick watched the woman for a few moments, then gently tapped once on the window pane.
00:23:22.067 --> 00:23:23.596
The woman did not stir.
00:23:24.477 --> 00:23:30.487
Chick tapped louder, then knocked quite sharply, but the sounds brought no sign from the reading woman.
00:23:31.136 --> 00:23:32.757
As deaf as a hitching post.
00:23:33.007 --> 00:23:33.636
Thought Chick.
00:23:34.136 --> 00:23:39.836
I'll force a window in the opposite side of the house, she might detect the chill of the night air if I were to open a door.
00:23:40.487 --> 00:23:46.307
Stealing around the house, Chick selected the side window of a front room, then shrouded in darkness.
00:23:46.936 --> 00:23:55.436
Thrusting his knife blade between the sashes he easily forced the lock aside and it was about to lift the lower section when a flash of light deterred him.
00:23:55.936 --> 00:23:57.317
He saw it again in a moment.
00:23:57.777 --> 00:23:59.936
It flashed between the trees in the distance.
00:24:00.656 --> 00:24:04.346
It came from the lamps of an automobile running at high speed over the main road.
00:24:04.686 --> 00:24:09.666
Suddenly it diverged and a steady glare fell upon the road, approaching Dacey's place.
00:24:10.317 --> 00:24:12.156
By Jove, it may be coming here.
00:24:12.426 --> 00:24:13.567
Chick muttered, watching.
00:24:14.067 --> 00:24:17.557
Dacey's returning perhaps, just in time to prevent my search.
00:24:18.307 --> 00:24:20.557
Oh, Yes by thunder.
00:24:20.557 --> 00:24:21.307
I am right.
00:24:21.336 --> 00:24:22.477
It is coming here.
00:24:22.977 --> 00:24:24.537
The car was slowing down.
00:24:24.896 --> 00:24:27.446
The outlines of a limousine could now be seen.
00:24:28.076 --> 00:24:37.047
It's worked into a driveway, approaching the house and Chick dropped flat on the ground, close to the foundation wall, lest he might be seen in the glare of the headlights.
00:24:37.626 --> 00:24:42.727
He now saw that there were several men in the car, but he could not distinguish their faces.
00:24:43.297 --> 00:24:44.406
The number of surprised him.
00:24:44.906 --> 00:24:45.807
Great Scott.
00:24:46.287 --> 00:24:51.787
There are six at least, he said to himself, I'm up against more of a gang than I expected.
00:24:52.356 --> 00:24:53.737
Where the deuce are they going?
00:24:54.237 --> 00:24:58.047
The car had passed the side door and was rounding a rear corner of the house.
00:24:58.547 --> 00:25:04.277
Chick crept out from his concealment far enough to see that it had stopped directly back of the dwelling.
00:25:05.037 --> 00:25:08.007
Presently too, he saw four of the men alighting.
00:25:08.666 --> 00:25:11.846
For he naturally supposed that all of them were men.
00:25:12.346 --> 00:25:16.217
One of them hastened to open a bulkhead door, leading into the cellar.
00:25:16.717 --> 00:25:18.967
The chauffer extinguished the lights of the car.
00:25:19.467 --> 00:25:23.267
Then a cry came from Dacey as he returned from the cellar with a lighted lantern.
00:25:23.767 --> 00:25:26.106
All ready for them, Martin he said, curtly.
00:25:26.537 --> 00:25:27.497
Lend a hand Sheldon.
00:25:27.797 --> 00:25:30.227
You stand aside, Floyd and hold this lantern.
00:25:30.616 --> 00:25:32.836
We can lift them out and lug them into the cellar.
00:25:33.146 --> 00:25:36.057
We'll lock them in the laundry till we have settled this business.
00:25:36.666 --> 00:25:37.926
I'll send Sarah to bed.
00:25:38.076 --> 00:25:39.606
Though she's as deaf as an adder.
00:25:40.106 --> 00:25:41.777
Would she squeal, Jim, if she knew.
00:25:41.940 --> 00:25:43.109
Questioned Kate Crandall.
00:25:43.609 --> 00:25:44.720
Never a squeal.
00:25:44.886 --> 00:25:48.339
Dacey declared, but she's best out of the way for all that.
00:25:48.839 --> 00:25:52.029
By Jove, that was a woman's voice, as sure as I'm over seven.
00:25:52.202 --> 00:25:54.393
Thought Chick, when he heard Kate's question.
00:25:54.752 --> 00:25:56.603
A woman in male attire, eh?
00:25:57.153 --> 00:26:00.603
Great guns! I begin to scent the rat in the meal.
00:26:01.002 --> 00:26:04.272
This bunch of Rascals have in some way, got the best of Nick and Patsy.
00:26:04.932 --> 00:26:07.962
But there is still a third string to the chief's bow.
00:26:08.502 --> 00:26:10.512
It's always safe to bank on one of us.
00:26:11.012 --> 00:26:13.982
Chick had not long to wait for his suspicion to be confirmed.
00:26:14.313 --> 00:26:25.053
He saw Nick and Patsy lifted from the limousine and carried into the cellar, both conscious then, but gagged and securely bound and Chick stole quickly back to the window he had unlocked.
00:26:25.553 --> 00:26:36.303
I'll get into the house while the coast is clear, he said to himself, I'll find out what business is to be settled by these Rascals, then I'll settle them and their business, or at least know the reason why.
00:26:36.803 --> 00:26:42.143
Noiselessly lifting the window Chick crept over the sill and stood in a gloomy front parlor.
00:26:42.323 --> 00:26:44.633
Reclosing the window and locking it.
00:26:45.323 --> 00:26:47.212
There he paused for a moment listening.
00:26:47.712 --> 00:26:52.992
He could hear the men outside, the muffled sound of their voices and the bang of a closed door.
00:26:53.492 --> 00:26:56.323
The bulkhead door or that of the laundry, he muttered.
00:26:56.573 --> 00:26:57.843
Got Nick and Patsy eh?
00:26:58.462 --> 00:27:00.143
I must contrive to liberate them.
00:27:00.462 --> 00:27:02.232
I'll try to locate the cellar stairs.
00:27:02.732 --> 00:27:04.653
Chick did not find it difficult to do so.
00:27:05.153 --> 00:27:10.472
He tiptoed to the door, leading into the hall, which ran straight through the house to a rear door and the kitchen.
00:27:11.133 --> 00:27:17.163
It was lighted only by a feeble oil lamp and the glow that came through the open door of the sitting room.
00:27:17.663 --> 00:27:22.282
Pausing, Chick peered cautiously in that direction then quickly drew back.
00:27:22.782 --> 00:27:25.603
A door near the main stairway was suddenly opened.
00:27:26.103 --> 00:27:30.482
Jim Dacey had come up from the cellar and was striding through the dimly lighted hall.
00:27:31.982 --> 00:27:32.792
Chapter nine.
00:27:33.212 --> 00:27:34.202
The inner wheel.
00:27:35.702 --> 00:27:42.722
Chick Carter stepped back of the parlor door and peered between it and the casing, shifting a revolver to his side pocket.
00:27:43.222 --> 00:27:46.492
Jim Dacey turned abruptly, however, and entered the sitting room.
00:27:46.992 --> 00:27:50.623
Chick heard him shout to the deaf housekeeper and order her to go to bed.
00:27:51.313 --> 00:27:55.903
She came out with a lamp in a few moments and Chick saw her disappear up a back stairway.
00:27:56.403 --> 00:28:07.272
She scarce had vanished when Floyd, or Kate Crandall still in male attire, came through the cellar doorway and was joined in the hall by Dacey who asked abruptly with a look of grim misgivings.
00:28:07.772 --> 00:28:08.512
Where's Sheldon?
00:28:08.873 --> 00:28:10.373
What's turned him so sour and...
00:28:10.469 --> 00:28:10.888
Cut it.
00:28:11.073 --> 00:28:13.262
Kate sharply whispered audible to Chick.
00:28:13.893 --> 00:28:15.333
He must not hear us.
00:28:15.843 --> 00:28:17.133
I have something to say to you.
00:28:17.583 --> 00:28:21.272
I have ordered him to watch the laundry doors till Moran returns.
00:28:21.772 --> 00:28:22.522
Where's he gone?
00:28:23.022 --> 00:28:24.073
To house the car.
00:28:24.462 --> 00:28:26.022
He'll not show up for several minutes.
00:28:26.353 --> 00:28:27.942
That will give me time to explain.
00:28:28.442 --> 00:28:29.313
Explain what?
00:28:29.813 --> 00:28:30.863
Come into the sitting room.
00:28:31.133 --> 00:28:32.182
I'll soon tell you.
00:28:32.682 --> 00:28:41.843
You'll tell me also you Jade and I'll wager I'll make the most of it, thought Chick, watching the couple enter the room and noting that they only partly closed the door.
00:28:42.343 --> 00:28:44.232
Unless I am much mistaken by Jove.
00:28:44.413 --> 00:28:46.813
I shall now get the key to the whole mystery.
00:28:47.415 --> 00:28:53.746
Chick lingered only a moment then stole into the hall and found concealment under the rise of the main stairway.
00:28:54.246 --> 00:29:01.596
That brought him within 10 feet of the sitting room door and with an easy view of that opening upon the landing at the head of the cellar stairs.
00:29:02.096 --> 00:29:08.155
He scarce had concealed himself in the dark corner he had selected, when he made, another discovery.
00:29:09.145 --> 00:29:11.955
The cellar door was slowly swinging open.
00:29:12.455 --> 00:29:14.965
A stealthy hand was cautiously moving it.
00:29:15.465 --> 00:29:19.635
Presently, not only the hand, but the spy himself could be seen.
00:29:20.135 --> 00:29:28.506
He was crutching on the landing, his head thrust forward, his ears strained his eyes glowing, like those of a cornered Wolf.
00:29:29.006 --> 00:29:29.695
Sheldon.
00:29:29.945 --> 00:29:33.316
Thought Chick, startled by the terrible look on the man's face.
00:29:34.006 --> 00:29:35.566
By Jove, I'm not alone.
00:29:35.986 --> 00:29:38.836
He too, wants to learn what this vixen has up her sleeve.
00:29:39.336 --> 00:29:45.276
Sheldon having reached the vantage point desired, did not stir from his crouching posture on the landing.
00:29:46.086 --> 00:29:47.556
Chick waited and listened.
00:29:48.056 --> 00:29:53.096
Kate Crandall's voice, though somewhat subdued could be distinctly heard by both.
00:29:53.596 --> 00:29:57.826
I can tell you, in a nutshell, Jim, just where we stand and what must be done.
00:29:58.155 --> 00:29:59.296
She was saying earnestly.
00:29:59.986 --> 00:30:03.316
Our easy mark has ceased to be an easy mark.
00:30:03.675 --> 00:30:05.175
He has become suspicious.
00:30:05.715 --> 00:30:11.715
He begins to feel sure that I am in love with you instead of with him and that I intend to throw him down.
00:30:12.236 --> 00:30:18.596
That's why he has balked at making over half of his fortune to me and at putting it in my hands before I marry him.
00:30:19.076 --> 00:30:24.935
That's what has kept us hung up in the Ashburton chambers for a whole week, since the supposed suicide.
00:30:25.435 --> 00:30:27.836
By thunder! Chick mentally exclaimed.
00:30:28.135 --> 00:30:29.455
Supposed suicide.
00:30:29.816 --> 00:30:30.746
Easy mark, eh?
00:30:31.355 --> 00:30:36.036
This man, Sheldon must be Cyrus Darling then, as sure as there is juice in a lemon.
00:30:36.536 --> 00:30:41.395
Chick needed only one glance at the face of the crouching man to convince him that he was right.
00:30:41.895 --> 00:30:43.066
I know all that Kate.
00:30:43.239 --> 00:30:44.739
Dacey responded with a growl.
00:30:45.398 --> 00:30:46.509
But what's the answer?
00:30:46.628 --> 00:30:47.528
What's to be done?
00:30:48.028 --> 00:30:51.689
We must blind him still farther and contrive to get his coin.
00:30:52.259 --> 00:30:52.979
That done.
00:30:53.278 --> 00:30:55.798
We must get rid of him and bolt for Europe.
00:30:56.298 --> 00:30:57.048
Get rid of him.
00:30:57.548 --> 00:30:58.328
Exactly.
00:30:58.828 --> 00:30:59.489
What do you mean?
00:30:59.989 --> 00:31:00.439
Listen.
00:31:00.689 --> 00:31:03.749
Kate Crandall's voice took on more vicious accents.
00:31:04.148 --> 00:31:10.338
He has turned all of his fortune into cash and has it in a deposit drawer downtown.
00:31:10.838 --> 00:31:11.409
Well?
00:31:11.909 --> 00:31:20.159
Providing I will marry him and go with him to live in Europe, he will get the bundle of money from the safety deposit in order to take it with us.
00:31:20.659 --> 00:31:22.903
Well, Dacey repeated grimly.
00:31:23.403 --> 00:31:25.502
Here now is the point.
00:31:25.685 --> 00:31:26.346
Kate went on.
00:31:26.976 --> 00:31:34.326
The Carters have us hard pressed, but they do not yet suspect that Sheldon and Cyrus Darling are one and the same.
00:31:34.826 --> 00:31:35.726
Surely not.
00:31:36.226 --> 00:31:40.935
They are the only persons on earth who really believe that Darling is alive.
00:31:41.236 --> 00:31:43.096
No one else suspects it even.
00:31:43.596 --> 00:31:44.645
Surely not.
00:31:44.945 --> 00:31:46.205
Dacey again, repeated.
00:31:46.705 --> 00:31:47.306
But.
00:31:47.806 --> 00:31:49.306
If we were to kill him, then.
00:31:49.665 --> 00:31:54.046
And get rid of his body who the devil would ever suspect the crime.
00:31:54.556 --> 00:31:55.695
Only the Carters.
00:31:56.056 --> 00:31:57.796
But they could not prove anything.
00:31:58.336 --> 00:32:01.935
They could not even show that Darling did not kill himself.
00:32:02.566 --> 00:32:12.976
He's as good as dead already, as far as that goes, and they can never learn where Moran got the body that was substitute for Darling at the time of the supposed suicide.
00:32:13.476 --> 00:32:16.986
By heaven Kate, you have got all the makings of a devil in you.
00:32:17.236 --> 00:32:18.635
Said Dacey with a growl.
00:32:19.155 --> 00:32:22.561
I'm only showing you the way, Kate Crandall replied.
00:32:22.981 --> 00:32:25.021
It can be done easily enough.
00:32:25.481 --> 00:32:28.902
It's the only way by which we can make Darling produce the coin.
00:32:29.402 --> 00:32:30.362
So what's your plan.
00:32:30.862 --> 00:32:34.432
We will keep Carter and Garvin here until the trick is turned.
00:32:34.761 --> 00:32:37.041
We'll fake a marriage ceremony with Darling.
00:32:37.412 --> 00:32:43.031
That done and his money on his person we'll end him forever and bolt with the coin.
00:32:43.531 --> 00:32:44.372
I see.
00:32:44.622 --> 00:32:45.432
Dacey nodded.
00:32:45.932 --> 00:32:51.019
When Carter and Garvin are liberated, they'll have only a guess coming to them, Kate added.
00:32:51.469 --> 00:32:53.989
They cannot prove that Floyd and I were one.
00:32:54.409 --> 00:32:56.959
They cannot show that Sheldon and Darling were one.
00:32:57.409 --> 00:33:02.628
All they can do Jim, will be to look wise and guess at the whole business.
00:33:02.959 --> 00:33:05.538
It can be done like breaking sticks.
00:33:06.169 --> 00:33:06.979
What do you say?
00:33:07.479 --> 00:33:08.739
Kill Darling, eh?.
00:33:08.989 --> 00:33:09.858
queried Dacey.
00:33:10.358 --> 00:33:11.019
Why not.
00:33:11.348 --> 00:33:12.548
There is no risk.
00:33:12.669 --> 00:33:14.828
He's dead already in the eye of the law.
00:33:15.328 --> 00:33:16.229
Well, that's true.
00:33:16.729 --> 00:33:20.479
We surely can turn the trick and get away without serious suspicion.
00:33:20.979 --> 00:33:23.048
It does look so Kate I'll admit.
00:33:23.222 --> 00:33:24.573
Dacey thoughtfully agreed.
00:33:25.073 --> 00:33:32.603
How this enterprising colloquy would have ended and at what final conclusion, the plotters would have arrived will never be known in this world.
00:33:33.292 --> 00:33:40.803
Chick Carter, glancing at the crouching man, saw him withdraw from his position and cautiously descend the cellar stairs.
00:33:41.303 --> 00:33:47.843
Chick suspected a genuine suicide and he stole quickly from his concealment and noiselessly followed.
00:33:48.343 --> 00:33:52.098
When partway down the stairs, he again, discovered his man.
00:33:52.598 --> 00:33:59.138
Sheldon was tearing the disguise from his face in frantic haste and was casting it fiercely upon the floor.
00:33:59.638 --> 00:34:01.378
Chick waited and watched him.
00:34:01.878 --> 00:34:05.479
The disguise now removed, revealing a weak featured man of 40.
00:34:05.989 --> 00:34:10.159
Darling hastened to open the door of the laundry, into which he vanished.
00:34:10.659 --> 00:34:13.389
Chick crept down the stairs and to the open door.
00:34:13.889 --> 00:34:21.659
Darling was hurriedly cutting the bonds from Nick and Patsy, at the same time crying in nervous, frantic, agonized whispers.
00:34:22.159 --> 00:34:27.079
Enough of this, enough of it! I am going to confess, going to tell the whole truth.
00:34:27.440 --> 00:34:33.590
I've been a blinded cursed fool an infernal madman, crazy with love for an unscrupulous woman.
00:34:34.039 --> 00:34:36.920
I am Cyrus Darling, Cyrus Darling himself.
00:34:37.280 --> 00:34:39.949
I'll tell the whole truth and take my medicine.
00:34:40.519 --> 00:34:41.329
Come with me, Mr.
00:34:41.329 --> 00:34:47.630
Carter, come with me for God's sake and arrest that she devil and her knavish confederate! Come with me, and.
00:34:47.880 --> 00:34:48.480
Hush.
00:34:48.730 --> 00:34:50.139
Nick calmly interrupted him.
00:34:50.639 --> 00:34:53.730
He was then free and on his feet as was Patsy.
00:34:54.099 --> 00:35:05.889
He saw Chick entering the room also, and he knew that the case was precisely what he had asserted: that of a man with a lost head and that the finish was, but the work of moments.
00:35:06.389 --> 00:35:08.789
Nick waited only to hear Chick's statement.
00:35:09.159 --> 00:35:12.489
Half a minute later, still engaged in discussing their devilish plot.
00:35:12.849 --> 00:35:18.280
Dacey and Kate Crandall beheld, the three detectives and the undisguised man enter the sitting room.
00:35:18.789 --> 00:35:20.559
Both instantly guessed the truth.
00:35:20.840 --> 00:35:26.210
And while Dacey weakened perceptibly, only a loud laugh came from the woman.
00:35:27.230 --> 00:35:32.780
Oh, it's all off then! She cried with mingled, disgust and defiance.
00:35:33.380 --> 00:35:35.630
You have called the turn on us Carter, have you?
00:35:36.130 --> 00:35:37.179
You'll find that I have.
00:35:37.429 --> 00:35:38.119
Nick replied.
00:35:38.809 --> 00:35:41.119
Oh, well that don't rattle me any.
00:35:41.369 --> 00:35:42.539
Kate sharply asserted.
00:35:43.199 --> 00:35:44.940
You have got nothing on us, Carter.
00:35:45.179 --> 00:35:48.030
I told you I never would lay myself liable.
00:35:48.449 --> 00:35:53.969
Any man may pretend to commit suicide if he wants to and turn all of his fortune into cash.
00:35:54.519 --> 00:35:58.630
The more fool, he, in that case, and he's the one who must pay the price.
00:35:59.019 --> 00:36:05.360
You've got nothing on us, Carter and well you know it, otherwise you'd have had us in iron's at this time.
00:36:05.860 --> 00:36:10.539
Nick Carter knew that there was some truth in this, yet he said, sternly.
00:36:11.039 --> 00:36:13.059
Don't you be so sure of it, Kate Crandall.
00:36:13.480 --> 00:36:19.480
I can send you up for a term of years for conspiracy, abduction and opposing officers of the law.
00:36:20.059 --> 00:36:23.329
If I don't do so, there will be but one reason.
00:36:23.579 --> 00:36:24.750
He added pointedly.
00:36:25.250 --> 00:36:26.929
And what reason is that?
00:36:27.440 --> 00:36:29.300
Kate demanded with color fading.
00:36:29.800 --> 00:36:33.760
You have made an infernal fool of this man, and he knows it now.
00:36:34.300 --> 00:36:38.170
I think he will behave himself in the future and I'm going to give him a chance.
00:36:38.809 --> 00:36:44.960
I shall do so for the sake of his wife, who is as fine a woman as you are the reverse.
00:36:45.500 --> 00:36:51.710
I shall invent a story to account for all that has occurred and shall send Cyrus Darling home to his wife.
00:36:52.210 --> 00:36:55.090
Neither she nor the public must know the truth.
00:36:55.599 --> 00:37:02.059
Your only hope Kate Crandall and that of your confederates, lies in your permanent secrecy.
00:37:02.559 --> 00:37:04.960
I agree to that Carter! Cried Kate quickly.
00:37:05.170 --> 00:37:06.880
The truth shall never be told.
00:37:07.380 --> 00:37:08.679
Does that go with you Dacey?
00:37:08.889 --> 00:37:10.059
Nick sternly demanded.
00:37:10.559 --> 00:37:12.842
You bet! Dacey eagerly cried.
00:37:13.393 --> 00:37:14.963
And you will silence Moran?
00:37:15.463 --> 00:37:16.302
Silence him.
00:37:16.603 --> 00:37:17.202
You bet.
00:37:17.202 --> 00:37:17.833
I'll silence him.
00:37:17.862 --> 00:37:19.213
If I have to cut his tongue out.
00:37:19.762 --> 00:37:25.432
Nick turned to Cyrus Darling who had sunk upon the nearest chair with his head bowed in his hands.
00:37:25.932 --> 00:37:29.862
What Nick said to the erring man is of minor importance.
00:37:30.353 --> 00:37:39.862
It is enough to add that he adjusted the matter in the manner suggested, that Cyrus Darling returned home a few days later with a story that Nick had invented for him.
00:37:40.132 --> 00:37:44.273
And that the real truth was indeed never disclosed.
00:37:45.202 --> 00:37:46.333
The End.
00:37:47.833 --> 00:37:52.902
Well there, you have it folks, another thrilling tale from the pages of yesteryear.
00:37:53.382 --> 00:37:59.413
We hope you enjoyed: The Suicide or Nick Carter and the Lost Head from 1915.
00:37:59.913 --> 00:38:03.722
Those classic stories sure know how to keep you on the edge of your seat, don't they?
00:38:04.623 --> 00:38:10.353
If you're enjoying Forward Into The Past, there are a couple of ways you can help us keep these timeless tales alive.
00:38:10.722 --> 00:38:15.492
First, consider leaving a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform.
00:38:15.862 --> 00:38:19.822
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00:38:20.483 --> 00:38:23.572
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00:38:28.273 --> 00:38:34.402
Head over to our website at Forward Into The Past Podcast dot com to learn more.
00:38:35.362 --> 00:38:38.032
Thanks again for joining us on this journey through time.
00:38:38.543 --> 00:38:39.862
Until next time folks.
00:38:40.313 --> 00:38:41.273
Thanks for listening.
00:38:41.632 --> 00:38:45.983
Keep sharing the stories and be a good human.
00:38:46.972 --> 00:38:48.202
Bye for now.
00:00:01.500 --> 00:00:06.809
Hello again, friends and welcome to another exciting episode of Forward Into The Past.
00:00:07.349 --> 00:00:09.929
I am JC Rede, your host and narrator.
00:00:10.109 --> 00:00:18.510
And today we conclude the exciting tale from 1915, entitled The Suicide or Nick Carter and the Lost Head.
00:00:19.559 --> 00:00:25.289
Story papers often filled with serialized narratives have been a staple in shaping popular culture.
00:00:26.070 --> 00:00:32.369
These papers have not only provided entertainment, but also reflected and influenced societal norms and values.
00:00:32.939 --> 00:00:45.509
From the penny dreadfuls of Victorian England to the pulp magazines of early 20th century America, story papers have been instrumental in the dissemination of cultural trends and ideas.
00:00:46.560 --> 00:00:56.250
The serialized format of story papers allowed readers to engage with stories over extended periods, fostering a sense of anticipation and community among readers.
00:00:57.000 --> 00:01:07.980
This format also enabled writers to respond to readers feedback, creating a dynamic interaction that helped shape the narrative direction and consequently its cultural impact.
00:01:08.519 --> 00:01:18.569
Moreover story papers have been a platform for introducing iconic characters and stories that have stood the test of time, influencing various forms of media and entertainment.
00:01:19.109 --> 00:01:30.930
Characters like Nick Carter, who first appeared in the New York Weekly have become cultural icons, inspiring countless adaptations and interpretations across different media platforms.
00:01:31.680 --> 00:01:38.829
The accessibility of story papers made literature available to the masses, contributing to literacy and public discourse.
00:01:39.200 --> 00:01:49.489
They were a means for people to escape the mundanity of life, imagine new possibilities and engage with issues of their time in a narrative form.
00:01:50.060 --> 00:02:04.310
In essence story papers have played a significant role in shaping popular culture by acting as a mirror to society, reflecting its hopes, fears, and values, while also providing a canvas for new ideas to flourish.
00:02:04.819 --> 00:02:08.599
They remind us that stories are not just a form of entertainment.
00:02:08.960 --> 00:02:15.289
They are powerful tools that can influence thought and culture across generations.
00:02:15.650 --> 00:02:31.759
And speaking of influencing thought across generations, let's head back in time, back to 1915, to be exact and experience the thrilling conclusion of the Nick Carter mystery, The Suicide or Nick Carter and the Lost Head.
00:02:33.509 --> 00:02:34.289
Chapter seven.
00:02:34.889 --> 00:02:36.569
A startling discovery.
00:02:38.319 --> 00:02:42.219
Nick Carter had accomplished his object, but at some little cost.
00:02:42.729 --> 00:02:48.159
He had aimed to force the suspects into some impetuous move that would fully confirm his suspicions.
00:02:48.699 --> 00:03:02.500
He had expected it to follow his assertion, that Cyrus Darling was alive and that the supposed suicide was, but part of a knavish scheme, including Kate Crandall, Jim Dacey and Cyrus Darling himself.
00:03:03.050 --> 00:03:10.460
The speedy effect of his declarations, however, as well as the resources of the rascals had exceeded his anticipations.
00:03:10.960 --> 00:03:16.810
But there was still another reason for the sudden aggressive move made by Phillip Floyd.
00:03:17.039 --> 00:03:24.610
A reason that Nick could not possibly have anticipated, yet which alone necessitated the desperate step Floyd had taken.
00:03:25.479 --> 00:03:30.080
Patsy Garvin was responsible for it, though not because of any fault on his part.
00:03:30.659 --> 00:03:40.590
Following the instructions that Nick had given them, Patsy and Chick arrived at the Ashburton Chambers about 10 minutes after Nick, separating before entering.
00:03:40.800 --> 00:03:49.259
Patsy to look up Sheldon and Floyd, while Chick undertook to identify the suspect seen by Danny in company with Kate Crandall that afternoon.
00:03:50.550 --> 00:03:58.960
Nick had remarked before leaving home that with three strings to their bow, there certainly should be something doing and there was.
00:03:59.629 --> 00:04:08.870
Patsy entered the house about 10 minutes after Nick went up to Kate Crandall's suite, and as luck would have it, he shaped the same course that his chief had taken.
00:04:09.530 --> 00:04:16.040
He began his work with buying a cigar and interrogating the girl clerk with precisely the same question.
00:04:16.540 --> 00:04:18.670
Have you seen Ralph Sheldon here this evening?
00:04:19.170 --> 00:04:21.730
The girl laughed while giving Patsy his change.
00:04:22.230 --> 00:04:24.269
You're not alone, she remarked.
00:04:24.480 --> 00:04:26.699
Another man just asked me the same question.
00:04:27.779 --> 00:04:28.560
Is that so?
00:04:28.733 --> 00:04:30.923
Queried Patsy, knowing it must have been Nick.
00:04:31.523 --> 00:04:32.692
How long ago was that?
00:04:33.382 --> 00:04:36.173
Oh, not more than 10 minutes said the girl.
00:04:36.473 --> 00:04:38.273
Sheldon must be in demand this evening.
00:04:38.572 --> 00:04:40.702
He was talking with the clerk a short time ago.
00:04:41.182 --> 00:04:43.132
I guess you'll find him in his suite.
00:04:43.432 --> 00:04:46.072
Third floor rear corridor, number 94.
00:04:46.853 --> 00:04:49.223
Oh, thanks said Patsy with a smile.
00:04:49.583 --> 00:04:50.783
It's not material.
00:04:51.283 --> 00:04:53.502
That's just what the other man said.
00:04:53.673 --> 00:04:55.033
replied the girl laughing.
00:04:55.533 --> 00:04:58.382
Gee, I must be walking right in the chief's tracks.
00:04:58.622 --> 00:04:59.913
Thought Patsy moving away.
00:05:00.413 --> 00:05:07.132
That denotes that I've got a long head at least, but I must cut it out all the same or someone may get wise to what we're doing.
00:05:07.702 --> 00:05:12.202
It's odds that the chief took the elevator, so I'll vary the program by hoofing it.
00:05:13.612 --> 00:05:18.653
Patsy knew, of course, that Nick had gone to seek an interview with Kate Crandall as he had stated.
00:05:19.302 --> 00:05:20.892
I'll look up Sheldon's suite.
00:05:21.062 --> 00:05:21.932
He said to himself.
00:05:22.432 --> 00:05:24.713
If he still was with the Crandall woman.
00:05:24.983 --> 00:05:27.653
It's odd that he left when the chief showed up.
00:05:28.192 --> 00:05:31.192
He may be with a confederate in his apartments at this time.
00:05:31.533 --> 00:05:37.692
In which case their conversation might enable me to clinch the chief's suspicions if I can contrive to overhear it.
00:05:38.533 --> 00:05:41.653
I'll locate the suite at all events and find out what's doing.
00:05:42.302 --> 00:05:47.733
Patsy climbed the stairs to the second floor, then sought a corridor leading to the rear of the house.
00:05:48.302 --> 00:05:57.252
He found it with no great difficulty, but upon entering the corridor, adjoining the rear rooms, he turned in the wrong direction to find the main stairway.
00:05:57.983 --> 00:06:04.132
He brought up in a narrow dimly lighted hall instead and at the narrow stairway already mentioned.
00:06:05.362 --> 00:06:06.562
Gee, I'm in wrong.
00:06:06.773 --> 00:06:10.642
He muttered, glancing at several doors in the dim uncarpeted entry.
00:06:11.142 --> 00:06:12.583
I ought to have gone the other way.
00:06:13.392 --> 00:06:18.942
These stairs will take me to the next floor, however, and the rear corridor must run parallel with one of this floor.
00:06:19.552 --> 00:06:22.913
These doors must be rear exits from some of the side and back suites.
00:06:23.603 --> 00:06:24.923
I'll go up and have a look.
00:06:25.572 --> 00:06:27.762
Patsy started up the stairs with the last.
00:06:28.262 --> 00:06:31.983
The long corridor through which he had just come was deserted.
00:06:32.442 --> 00:06:38.663
The narrow entry and stairway appeared to be for the use of servants only and entirely out of use at that hour.
00:06:39.262 --> 00:06:42.562
Nevertheless while still only part way up the stairs.
00:06:42.833 --> 00:06:48.502
Patsy suddenly heard the rustle of skirts and hurried footsteps in the narrow entry on the third floor.
00:06:49.463 --> 00:06:50.843
He stopped short and listened.
00:06:51.343 --> 00:06:56.382
The sounds ceased in a moment and Patsy thought he heard the cautious closing of a door.
00:06:57.033 --> 00:07:04.870
Uncertain as to the last, however, he remained motionless on the stairs, holding his breath and listened intently for several moments.
00:07:05.519 --> 00:07:07.529
By Jove, that's mighty strange.
00:07:07.740 --> 00:07:08.730
He said to himself.
00:07:09.420 --> 00:07:12.750
I certainly heard a woman's steps and the rustle of skirts.
00:07:13.230 --> 00:07:16.410
She was in a hurry too, yet was moving stealthily.
00:07:17.129 --> 00:07:18.959
That ought to signify something.
00:07:19.889 --> 00:07:22.980
Have I stumbled upon a rear entrance to Kate Crandall's suite?
00:07:23.610 --> 00:07:26.430
Has she elluded the chief by stealing out of the back door?
00:07:27.089 --> 00:07:29.250
Gee, I'd better look into this.
00:07:30.730 --> 00:07:34.300
Patsy's suspicion was perfectly natural under the circumstances.
00:07:34.839 --> 00:07:37.040
It acted upon him like a spur, moreover.
00:07:37.600 --> 00:07:41.620
He crept quickly up to the third landing and glanced through the narrow hall.
00:07:42.339 --> 00:07:43.490
It was unoccupied.
00:07:44.350 --> 00:07:46.240
The several doors were closed.
00:07:46.730 --> 00:07:51.519
A short side entry around a corner and several feet from the stairs caught Patsy's eye.
00:07:52.060 --> 00:07:53.829
That also was deserted.
00:07:54.459 --> 00:08:00.189
It contained only a single door also closed and Patsy stole nearer to it and listened.
00:08:00.839 --> 00:08:05.339
He could hear no sound from within nor detect any sign of light on the threshold.
00:08:05.970 --> 00:08:12.750
He stole away, retracing his steps and listened at one of the other doors, then another and still another.
00:08:13.399 --> 00:08:19.259
Patsy paused longer at the last, then suddenly crouched and tried vainly to peer through the keyhole.
00:08:19.839 --> 00:08:22.550
He had heard a man's voice from within crying curtly.
00:08:22.800 --> 00:08:23.430
Come in.
00:08:24.079 --> 00:08:25.560
Gee he's not addressing me.
00:08:25.939 --> 00:08:26.639
thought Patsy.
00:08:27.209 --> 00:08:29.069
He couldn't have heard my cat like tread.
00:08:29.569 --> 00:08:32.809
Then other words reached his ears and a familiar voice.
00:08:33.649 --> 00:08:34.669
Holy smoke.
00:08:34.669 --> 00:08:35.990
It's the chief himself.
00:08:36.110 --> 00:08:36.740
He muttered.
00:08:37.370 --> 00:08:39.529
He just inquired for Sheldon or Floyd.
00:08:40.110 --> 00:08:44.879
He has just arrived in Sheldon's suite, as sure as I'm a foot high instead of interviewing Kate Crandall.
00:08:45.629 --> 00:08:48.029
Oh, He's already seen her maybe.
00:08:48.269 --> 00:08:48.570
And.
00:08:49.500 --> 00:08:53.460
Patsy's inference was correct, but his rapid train of thought ended abruptly.
00:08:53.879 --> 00:08:56.730
He heard a sound from the direction of the stairs.
00:08:57.120 --> 00:08:58.889
He thought someone was ascending them.
00:08:59.539 --> 00:09:06.049
Gee, I must not be caught playing spy here, flashed through his mind, nor must I lose the chance of doing so later.
00:09:06.409 --> 00:09:07.700
I'll hide in the side entry.
00:09:08.350 --> 00:09:16.909
He darted toward it on the instant, eager to round the corner before the approaching person could arrive at the head of the stairs on which Patsy still supposed him to be.
00:09:17.490 --> 00:09:20.940
He had however mistaken the precise direction of the sound.
00:09:21.179 --> 00:09:25.299
He moved like a flash, yet as noiselessly as a shadow.
00:09:25.870 --> 00:09:32.529
He turned the corner at nearly top speed and collided violently with another none other than Mr.
00:09:32.529 --> 00:09:33.490
Philip Floyd.
00:09:34.139 --> 00:09:36.029
Patsy needed no introduction to him.
00:09:36.269 --> 00:09:39.929
The description of him provided by Nancy Nordeck and Mrs.
00:09:39.929 --> 00:09:41.490
Darling was fresh in his mind.
00:09:41.850 --> 00:09:49.200
There could be no mistaking him under the circumstances, his dark face, his piercing black eyes and his drooping black mustache.
00:09:49.720 --> 00:09:58.669
Yes, Patsy recognized him instantly, but with an unexpected discovery and a thrill that went through him like an electric shock from head to foot.
00:09:59.129 --> 00:10:12.309
For the figure with which he had collided, that he had seized in his arms to prevent a fall, that at once began to struggle to free itself from his involuntary embrace was not the figure of a man.
00:10:12.909 --> 00:10:15.909
It was the supple yielding figure of.
00:10:16.419 --> 00:10:17.320
A woman.
00:10:18.460 --> 00:10:22.720
Patsy guessed the truth on the instant, there was no need for explanations.
00:10:22.909 --> 00:10:37.509
He knew now why Nancy Nordeck had distrusted her master's visitor, why she felt sure that she had seen him before and why he had involuntarily betrayed his recognition of her when she first admitted him to the Darling residence.
00:10:38.029 --> 00:10:47.330
It was a discovery that clenched all of Nick Carter's suspicions for Patsy now plainly recognized the cleverly disguised face.
00:10:47.690 --> 00:10:53.929
It told him on the instant that Phillip Floyd and Kate Crandall were one and the same.
00:10:54.580 --> 00:11:00.639
The recognition was mutual, moreover and a half smothered oath broke from the lips of the dismayed woman.
00:11:01.289 --> 00:11:02.250
Let me go.
00:11:02.279 --> 00:11:04.200
she hissed, struggling viciously.
00:11:04.409 --> 00:11:05.580
Let me go, I say.
00:11:06.080 --> 00:11:08.437
Not much, muttered Patsy exultedly.
00:11:09.157 --> 00:11:11.586
I know you now, and I've got you for keeps.
00:11:12.086 --> 00:11:14.187
His arms closed more tightly around her.
00:11:14.427 --> 00:11:24.386
He had seized her by chance so that her arms were confined to her sides and she could not free them, could not use them to scratch and tear him as she fain would have done.
00:11:24.937 --> 00:11:29.317
But she writhed from side to side, like an eel in his powerful grasp.
00:11:29.466 --> 00:11:36.996
Her eyes glowing like balls of fire, her breath coming in quick sharp gasps and falling hot on Patsy's cheeks.
00:11:38.206 --> 00:11:39.907
Let me go, let me go.
00:11:40.037 --> 00:11:42.476
She repeated in fierce frantic whispers.
00:11:42.669 --> 00:11:43.240
Curse you.
00:11:43.389 --> 00:11:44.259
Let me go.
00:11:44.509 --> 00:11:47.870
Not by a jug full, said Patsy, I know you now.
00:11:48.049 --> 00:11:49.070
You're Kate Crandall.
00:11:49.320 --> 00:11:50.340
Let me go.
00:11:50.590 --> 00:11:51.700
You'll go all right.
00:11:52.000 --> 00:11:53.200
But you'll go with me.
00:11:53.860 --> 00:11:55.600
You devil you.
00:11:55.759 --> 00:11:56.970
Oh, cut out your struggling.
00:11:56.990 --> 00:11:58.100
You can't get away.
00:11:58.230 --> 00:11:59.190
Patsy interrupted.
00:11:59.259 --> 00:12:02.919
Though content to let her exhaust herself with her furious efforts.
00:12:03.529 --> 00:12:05.240
I've got you and I'm going to hold you.
00:12:05.740 --> 00:12:07.029
I will kill.
00:12:07.279 --> 00:12:08.330
Here, none of that.
00:12:08.600 --> 00:12:10.759
You'll be roughly handled if you try to pull a gun.
00:12:11.309 --> 00:12:15.090
Patsy had felt her working one hand behind her to reach a hip pocket.
00:12:15.419 --> 00:12:29.750
He seized her wrist and held her closer, almost crushing her in his embrace for not for an instant had she ceased her fierce frantic struggles and she was possessed of more than ordinary womanly strength and was giving him quite a battle.
00:12:30.269 --> 00:12:34.860
She muttered a vicious oath again, when foiled in her attempt to draw a weapon.
00:12:35.230 --> 00:12:39.940
Then while they still swayed to and fro in the narrow entry, she took another course.
00:12:40.179 --> 00:12:44.149
She suddenly bowed her head and tried to set her teeth in Patsy's neck.
00:12:44.649 --> 00:12:46.330
Patsy had expected no less.
00:12:46.539 --> 00:12:56.159
He forced her quickly away then swung her around to crowd her against a wall, rendered a bit impatient by her fury and now determined to handcuff her and end her struggles.
00:12:56.659 --> 00:13:04.909
Instead of forcing her against the wall however, Patsy forced her against the only door in the narrow side entry, the rear door of her own suite.
00:13:05.360 --> 00:13:07.639
It was an unfortunate move on his part.
00:13:07.970 --> 00:13:09.919
The struggle was now heard from within.
00:13:10.250 --> 00:13:15.799
The door was suddenly opened by the man whom Danny had seen with Kate Crandall that afternoon.
00:13:16.299 --> 00:13:18.909
All of this proved disastrous for Patsy Garvin.
00:13:19.179 --> 00:13:23.379
He partly lost his balance when the door opened and he fell against the casing.
00:13:24.220 --> 00:13:27.940
A gasp of relief came from the woman and then a fierce cry.
00:13:28.440 --> 00:13:30.899
Down him down him, Jim, for God's sake.
00:13:31.399 --> 00:13:33.090
Dacey needed no bidding.
00:13:33.320 --> 00:13:36.110
He had guessed the truth upon hearing the noise of the struggle.
00:13:36.470 --> 00:13:38.750
He had drawn a weapon while approaching the door.
00:13:38.899 --> 00:13:42.799
The same weapon that felled Nick Carter a quarter hour later.
00:13:43.399 --> 00:13:49.789
It fell like a flash when Patsy reeled against the casing and while the frantic appeal was still on the woman's lips.
00:13:50.419 --> 00:13:55.879
The sandbag caught Patsy squarely on the head, dropping him as it dropped Nick a little later.
00:13:56.539 --> 00:14:01.940
Without a groan even, he sank in a crimped and senseless heap on the threshold of the door.
00:14:02.590 --> 00:14:06.159
It was a brutal blow, dealt by the hand of a brutal man.
00:14:06.610 --> 00:14:18.690
It was this man who had been smoking a cigarette in Kate Crandall's suite just before the arrival of Nick Carter, but who had stolen into the rear entry before the detective entered, returning after his departure.
00:14:19.259 --> 00:14:24.600
Safely enough indeed, the woman had given Nick permission to search her apartments.
00:14:25.250 --> 00:14:25.759
Quick.
00:14:25.970 --> 00:14:28.490
She now said curtly, drag him in here, Jim.
00:14:28.990 --> 00:14:29.769
Do you know him?
00:14:30.019 --> 00:14:31.980
questioned Dacey, hastening to obey.
00:14:32.480 --> 00:14:32.990
Know him?
00:14:33.179 --> 00:14:34.350
I should say so.
00:14:34.559 --> 00:14:35.250
snapped Kate.
00:14:35.549 --> 00:14:37.110
He's one of Carter's assistants.
00:14:37.320 --> 00:14:38.610
His name is Garvin.
00:14:39.110 --> 00:14:39.980
The devil.
00:14:39.980 --> 00:14:40.940
Dacey exclaimed.
00:14:41.269 --> 00:14:42.500
Things are looking bad.
00:14:43.000 --> 00:14:45.610
We can right them or get what's coming to us at least.
00:14:46.000 --> 00:14:47.440
Kate hurriedly replied.
00:14:47.980 --> 00:14:50.980
Come what may Jim, these dicks have nothing on us.
00:14:51.220 --> 00:14:54.549
We must stave off arrest and exposure however, if possible.
00:14:55.190 --> 00:14:58.009
Cut one of the window cords and bind this whelp.
00:14:58.509 --> 00:15:02.639
Dacey hastened to do so asking in the meantime, How did you run foul of him?
00:15:03.289 --> 00:15:04.250
We met in the entry.
00:15:04.789 --> 00:15:05.990
What was he doing there?
00:15:06.240 --> 00:15:06.750
Give it up.
00:15:06.889 --> 00:15:08.059
Said Kate tersely.
00:15:08.309 --> 00:15:10.409
There must be more doing than we have suspected.
00:15:10.649 --> 00:15:13.799
There is only one course for us, Jim, until we can land the coin.
00:15:14.299 --> 00:15:14.990
What's that?
00:15:15.490 --> 00:15:20.289
We must get Nick Carter also, if he has gone to Sheldon's suite, as I suspect.
00:15:20.539 --> 00:15:21.860
Kate hurriedly explained.
00:15:22.669 --> 00:15:28.429
We must get away with both of these dicks and hold them at your place until we can bring Sheldon to our terms.
00:15:28.850 --> 00:15:30.019
There's nothing else to it.
00:15:30.519 --> 00:15:31.360
Can it be done?
00:15:31.610 --> 00:15:33.000
questioned Dacey doubtfully.
00:15:33.690 --> 00:15:35.009
It must be done.
00:15:35.179 --> 00:15:35.899
Kate insisted.
00:15:36.399 --> 00:15:38.710
Is Moran on the side street with your limousine?
00:15:39.210 --> 00:15:39.720
Yes.
00:15:40.220 --> 00:15:41.960
Open the window, whistle him up here.
00:15:42.019 --> 00:15:43.159
He will aid us.
00:15:43.659 --> 00:15:46.570
Surest thing you know! cried Dacey darting to the window.
00:15:47.070 --> 00:15:50.250
Note me Jim, and follow my instructions, Kate quickly added.
00:15:50.669 --> 00:15:55.049
I'll go at once to Sheldon's suite as planned and find out whether Carter is there.
00:15:55.549 --> 00:15:56.120
I get ya.
00:15:56.620 --> 00:16:02.620
If he is and appears likely to give us further trouble, I'll hold him up with a gun in about 10 minutes.
00:16:03.009 --> 00:16:11.210
In the meantime with Martin Moran to aid, gag this whelp and tie his hands together, then steal into Sheldon's suite through the rear door.
00:16:11.450 --> 00:16:13.039
He left it unlocked for me.
00:16:13.539 --> 00:16:14.080
I'm on it.
00:16:14.216 --> 00:16:15.147
Dacey nodded.
00:16:15.647 --> 00:16:19.456
Come quietly, mind you and be ready to lend me a hand, Kate directed.
00:16:19.706 --> 00:16:27.956
If we can get away with Carter and this fellow and confine them in your crib, we'll jump this house and remain at your place until we can bring Sheldon to his milk.
00:16:28.346 --> 00:16:32.636
He'll be so rattled up by this turn of affairs that I think he will weaken.
00:16:33.136 --> 00:16:33.917
But how...
00:16:34.086 --> 00:16:35.076
I'll explain later.
00:16:35.326 --> 00:16:36.197
Kate interrupted.
00:16:36.496 --> 00:16:37.787
There's no time at present.
00:16:38.086 --> 00:16:41.476
I must hike to Sheldon's suite in case Carter is already there.
00:16:41.976 --> 00:16:44.017
Follow me with Moran as soon as possibly.
00:16:44.346 --> 00:16:45.397
The rear door, mind you.
00:16:45.517 --> 00:16:46.866
I must go around the front.
00:16:47.366 --> 00:16:48.267
I understand.
00:16:48.517 --> 00:16:49.326
Dacey replied.
00:16:49.576 --> 00:16:51.466
But how can we get them out of the house?
00:16:51.966 --> 00:16:57.037
There's a lift for trunks and merchandise just beyond the backstairs, Kate hurriedly explained.
00:16:57.407 --> 00:16:59.177
We can use it without being detected.
00:16:59.626 --> 00:17:02.716
We'll lower them both down and get away with them in your car.
00:17:03.136 --> 00:17:04.307
It can be done all right.
00:17:04.457 --> 00:17:05.567
Take my word for that.
00:17:06.067 --> 00:17:07.567
Your word goes with me, Kate.
00:17:07.817 --> 00:17:09.346
Dacey declared significantly.
00:17:09.826 --> 00:17:11.297
Be off then to Sheldon's suite.
00:17:11.656 --> 00:17:14.297
I'll be on hand with Moran in less than 10 minutes.
00:17:15.567 --> 00:17:16.826
As has already appeared.
00:17:17.156 --> 00:17:20.126
Jim Dacey proved to be as good as his word.
00:17:21.626 --> 00:17:22.436
Chapter eight.
00:17:22.856 --> 00:17:23.876
The third string.
00:17:24.977 --> 00:17:30.136
Chick Carter was not idle while Nick Carter and Patsy Garvin were engaged as described.
00:17:30.826 --> 00:17:36.527
Chick had of course, a very good description of the man whose identity he had undertaken to discover.
00:17:36.717 --> 00:17:39.116
And it soon proved sufficient for his need.
00:17:39.507 --> 00:17:50.366
For the man had been a frequent visitor to the apartments of Kate Crandall and he was quite well known by Tom Carson, the clerk with whom Chick had a confidential interview soon after entering the house.
00:17:50.866 --> 00:17:51.366
Know him?
00:17:51.416 --> 00:17:51.926
Sure.
00:17:52.176 --> 00:17:56.057
Carson declared after Chick had introduced himself and stated his mission.
00:17:56.846 --> 00:17:59.547
That description fits just one man to a nicety.
00:17:59.997 --> 00:18:01.826
His name is Jim Dacey.
00:18:02.326 --> 00:18:04.166
Capital! Said Chick earnestly.
00:18:04.497 --> 00:18:05.336
Jim Dacey, eh?
00:18:05.586 --> 00:18:06.666
What do you know about him Mr.
00:18:06.696 --> 00:18:07.086
Carson?
00:18:07.586 --> 00:18:09.596
Well, nothing very bad, Mr.
00:18:09.596 --> 00:18:09.987
Carter.
00:18:10.227 --> 00:18:13.856
Nor so good that he'll be sought out for a Sunday school superintendent.
00:18:14.287 --> 00:18:14.987
laughed the clerk.
00:18:15.237 --> 00:18:17.906
He's a man about town and a good deal of a rounder.
00:18:18.406 --> 00:18:19.366
Is he in business?
00:18:19.866 --> 00:18:20.767
I don't think so.
00:18:21.267 --> 00:18:22.317
What does he do for a living?
00:18:22.817 --> 00:18:25.366
Anything that comes his way, I guess, or anybody.
00:18:25.616 --> 00:18:28.257
He must have means enough to sport on, in a quiet way.
00:18:28.527 --> 00:18:31.616
And I think he gambles frequently when he finds an easy game.
00:18:32.126 --> 00:18:33.777
I can't put you wise to much more.
00:18:34.277 --> 00:18:36.346
Is he quite friendly with the Crandall woman?
00:18:36.807 --> 00:18:37.586
Chick enquired.
00:18:38.086 --> 00:18:39.227
Oh, he certainly is.
00:18:39.477 --> 00:18:40.106
Said Carson.
00:18:40.656 --> 00:18:42.067
How long has she been living here?
00:18:42.567 --> 00:18:44.007
Oh, about two months.
00:18:44.507 --> 00:18:45.676
And what's her reputation.
00:18:46.176 --> 00:18:47.106
None too good.
00:18:47.267 --> 00:18:48.346
She's pretty fly.
00:18:48.346 --> 00:18:48.826
I reckon.
00:18:49.017 --> 00:18:50.396
If the whole truth were told.
00:18:51.007 --> 00:18:53.257
We have been thinking of asking her to move out.
00:18:53.737 --> 00:18:54.846
That tells the story.
00:18:55.346 --> 00:18:56.366
Hmm, quite right.
00:18:56.757 --> 00:18:57.477
Chick replied.
00:18:57.727 --> 00:18:59.797
Do you know where Jim Dacey lives?
00:19:00.297 --> 00:19:01.376
Not exactly.
00:19:01.626 --> 00:19:02.346
Said Carson.
00:19:02.707 --> 00:19:04.356
But you can easily find out.
00:19:04.856 --> 00:19:05.396
How so.
00:19:05.896 --> 00:19:08.027
Go out and question Tony Hogan.
00:19:08.307 --> 00:19:10.317
He has a taxi cab stand around the corner.
00:19:10.676 --> 00:19:12.866
He has frequently taken Dacey home from here.
00:19:13.227 --> 00:19:15.987
He can tell you more about the man and just where he lives.
00:19:16.916 --> 00:19:18.866
Thanks! said Chick approvingly.
00:19:19.376 --> 00:19:20.757
Not a word about this to others.
00:19:20.757 --> 00:19:21.207
Mind you.
00:19:21.707 --> 00:19:22.576
Trust me, Carter.
00:19:22.666 --> 00:19:23.237
I'm dumb.
00:19:23.737 --> 00:19:25.446
You haven't seen Dacey this evening.
00:19:25.946 --> 00:19:27.807
No, not since yesterday.
00:19:28.457 --> 00:19:30.106
There was a very good reason for it.
00:19:30.606 --> 00:19:37.267
Leaving his limousine and the side street in the charge of his chauffeur Martin Moran, who was a bird of the same shady feather.
00:19:37.626 --> 00:19:42.757
Jim Dacey had entered the side door of the house when he went up to Kate Crandall's apartments.
00:19:43.477 --> 00:19:46.416
Chick, thanked Carson again, and repaired to the street.
00:19:47.047 --> 00:19:53.817
He soon found the man he was seeking: a shrewd keen-eyed Irishman who already knew Chick by sight and reputation.
00:19:54.547 --> 00:20:00.457
Hogan needed only a hint from the detective, moreover, to cut loose and tell all that he knew about Dacey.
00:20:01.416 --> 00:20:11.356
But Chick soon found that Hogan could add, but little definite information to that already obtained, which of itself was quite sufficient to convince Chick that he was on the right track.
00:20:12.027 --> 00:20:20.636
This was further confirmed by the fact that Dacey dwelt in a somewhat isolated place that was less than a mile from the Darling residence.
00:20:20.886 --> 00:20:25.176
Where he employed only a deaf housekeeper and the chauffer already mentioned.
00:20:25.676 --> 00:20:29.047
Chick paused only briefly to determine what course he would take.
00:20:29.547 --> 00:20:31.527
Nick and Patsy can look after things here.
00:20:31.616 --> 00:20:32.487
He said to himself.
00:20:33.267 --> 00:20:34.376
They will not need me.
00:20:34.707 --> 00:20:41.037
There is a bare possibility on the other hand, that Darling is in the clutches of this bunch of blacklegs as Nick suspects.
00:20:41.366 --> 00:20:43.557
And that he is confined to the Dacey place.
00:20:44.057 --> 00:20:47.997
I'll go out there and look it over at all events and communicate later with Nick.
00:20:48.497 --> 00:20:50.957
Then turning to the cabman he said, abruptly.
00:20:51.207 --> 00:20:54.686
Take me out there Hogan and drop me a couple of hundred yards from the place.
00:20:55.076 --> 00:20:57.356
I'll decide later whether I have further use for you.
00:20:57.856 --> 00:20:58.997
That's good enough for me, Mr.
00:20:58.997 --> 00:21:00.737
Carter, Hogan said readily.
00:21:00.946 --> 00:21:01.696
Tumble in, sir.
00:21:02.346 --> 00:21:04.866
Less than half an hour, brought them to their destination.
00:21:05.196 --> 00:21:13.567
A crossroad from which could be seen in the near distance, quite an old wooden dwelling, half hidden among the trees flanking one side of the narrower road.
00:21:14.067 --> 00:21:20.977
It could be discerned only dimly in the star light though some lighted lower windows could be plainly seen through the trees.
00:21:21.396 --> 00:21:26.436
It was the only dwelling in the immediate locality and Chick came to a quick conclusion.
00:21:27.076 --> 00:21:30.916
Drive on about a quarter mile, Hogan and wait till I come, he directed.
00:21:31.547 --> 00:21:33.616
I cannot say just how long you may have to wait.
00:21:34.116 --> 00:21:35.287
My time is yours Mr.
00:21:35.317 --> 00:21:35.767
Carter.
00:21:36.017 --> 00:21:36.557
Said Hogan.
00:21:36.866 --> 00:21:38.307
You'll find me there when you come.
00:21:38.807 --> 00:21:39.406
Good enough.
00:21:39.686 --> 00:21:40.186
said Chick.
00:21:40.696 --> 00:21:41.926
You'll get all that's coming to you.
00:21:42.426 --> 00:21:43.866
I know I can bank on that, sir.
00:21:44.366 --> 00:21:48.057
Chick waited until the taxi cab had disappeared around a curve in the main road.
00:21:48.507 --> 00:21:59.166
He then followed the other for a short distance, presently vaulting a low wall and crossing a strip of rough land from which he could steal into the grounds at one side of the Dacey dwelling.
00:22:00.007 --> 00:22:05.616
They were unattractive in appearance denoting that the owner was far from being a man of means.
00:22:06.336 --> 00:22:16.176
Chick sized them up correctly and was about to steal nearer the house to peer through one of the windows, when the side door was opened and a woman appeared in the lighted hall.
00:22:16.676 --> 00:22:22.017
She lingered briefly gazing out toward the road, and then closed the door and vanished.
00:22:22.666 --> 00:22:23.807
The deaf housekeeper.
00:22:24.057 --> 00:22:27.237
Thought Chick who had easily seen her tall gaunt figure.
00:22:27.886 --> 00:22:31.497
She is evidently expecting someone, probably Dacey himself.
00:22:31.747 --> 00:22:35.136
There would be lights in more than that one room if he were at home.
00:22:35.866 --> 00:22:40.336
By Jove, if she is as deaf as Hogan stated and also is alone there.
00:22:40.676 --> 00:22:45.987
I can easily enter unheard through one of the doors and search the house from cellar to roof.
00:22:46.287 --> 00:22:49.676
I could find Darling, all right, if he is confined in there.
00:22:50.326 --> 00:23:01.707
Not yet convinced that Dacey was absent however, Chick still proceeded cautiously, approaching one of the lighted windows on all fours, then stealthily rising to peer between the curtain and the casing.
00:23:02.356 --> 00:23:04.936
He could see part of a cheaply furnished sitting room.
00:23:05.426 --> 00:23:07.406
An oil lamp burned on the table.
00:23:07.886 --> 00:23:11.606
The housekeeper was seated nearby absorbed in reading a newspaper.
00:23:12.116 --> 00:23:16.106
It was half past nine by a small oak clock on the mantle.
00:23:16.757 --> 00:23:21.346
Chick watched the woman for a few moments, then gently tapped once on the window pane.
00:23:22.067 --> 00:23:23.596
The woman did not stir.
00:23:24.477 --> 00:23:30.487
Chick tapped louder, then knocked quite sharply, but the sounds brought no sign from the reading woman.
00:23:31.136 --> 00:23:32.757
As deaf as a hitching post.
00:23:33.007 --> 00:23:33.636
Thought Chick.
00:23:34.136 --> 00:23:39.836
I'll force a window in the opposite side of the house, she might detect the chill of the night air if I were to open a door.
00:23:40.487 --> 00:23:46.307
Stealing around the house, Chick selected the side window of a front room, then shrouded in darkness.
00:23:46.936 --> 00:23:55.436
Thrusting his knife blade between the sashes he easily forced the lock aside and it was about to lift the lower section when a flash of light deterred him.
00:23:55.936 --> 00:23:57.317
He saw it again in a moment.
00:23:57.777 --> 00:23:59.936
It flashed between the trees in the distance.
00:24:00.656 --> 00:24:04.346
It came from the lamps of an automobile running at high speed over the main road.
00:24:04.686 --> 00:24:09.666
Suddenly it diverged and a steady glare fell upon the road, approaching Dacey's place.
00:24:10.317 --> 00:24:12.156
By Jove, it may be coming here.
00:24:12.426 --> 00:24:13.567
Chick muttered, watching.
00:24:14.067 --> 00:24:17.557
Dacey's returning perhaps, just in time to prevent my search.
00:24:18.307 --> 00:24:20.557
Oh, Yes by thunder.
00:24:20.557 --> 00:24:21.307
I am right.
00:24:21.336 --> 00:24:22.477
It is coming here.
00:24:22.977 --> 00:24:24.537
The car was slowing down.
00:24:24.896 --> 00:24:27.446
The outlines of a limousine could now be seen.
00:24:28.076 --> 00:24:37.047
It's worked into a driveway, approaching the house and Chick dropped flat on the ground, close to the foundation wall, lest he might be seen in the glare of the headlights.
00:24:37.626 --> 00:24:42.727
He now saw that there were several men in the car, but he could not distinguish their faces.
00:24:43.297 --> 00:24:44.406
The number of surprised him.
00:24:44.906 --> 00:24:45.807
Great Scott.
00:24:46.287 --> 00:24:51.787
There are six at least, he said to himself, I'm up against more of a gang than I expected.
00:24:52.356 --> 00:24:53.737
Where the deuce are they going?
00:24:54.237 --> 00:24:58.047
The car had passed the side door and was rounding a rear corner of the house.
00:24:58.547 --> 00:25:04.277
Chick crept out from his concealment far enough to see that it had stopped directly back of the dwelling.
00:25:05.037 --> 00:25:08.007
Presently too, he saw four of the men alighting.
00:25:08.666 --> 00:25:11.846
For he naturally supposed that all of them were men.
00:25:12.346 --> 00:25:16.217
One of them hastened to open a bulkhead door, leading into the cellar.
00:25:16.717 --> 00:25:18.967
The chauffer extinguished the lights of the car.
00:25:19.467 --> 00:25:23.267
Then a cry came from Dacey as he returned from the cellar with a lighted lantern.
00:25:23.767 --> 00:25:26.106
All ready for them, Martin he said, curtly.
00:25:26.537 --> 00:25:27.497
Lend a hand Sheldon.
00:25:27.797 --> 00:25:30.227
You stand aside, Floyd and hold this lantern.
00:25:30.616 --> 00:25:32.836
We can lift them out and lug them into the cellar.
00:25:33.146 --> 00:25:36.057
We'll lock them in the laundry till we have settled this business.
00:25:36.666 --> 00:25:37.926
I'll send Sarah to bed.
00:25:38.076 --> 00:25:39.606
Though she's as deaf as an adder.
00:25:40.106 --> 00:25:41.777
Would she squeal, Jim, if she knew.
00:25:41.940 --> 00:25:43.109
Questioned Kate Crandall.
00:25:43.609 --> 00:25:44.720
Never a squeal.
00:25:44.886 --> 00:25:48.339
Dacey declared, but she's best out of the way for all that.
00:25:48.839 --> 00:25:52.029
By Jove, that was a woman's voice, as sure as I'm over seven.
00:25:52.202 --> 00:25:54.393
Thought Chick, when he heard Kate's question.
00:25:54.752 --> 00:25:56.603
A woman in male attire, eh?
00:25:57.153 --> 00:26:00.603
Great guns! I begin to scent the rat in the meal.
00:26:01.002 --> 00:26:04.272
This bunch of Rascals have in some way, got the best of Nick and Patsy.
00:26:04.932 --> 00:26:07.962
But there is still a third string to the chief's bow.
00:26:08.502 --> 00:26:10.512
It's always safe to bank on one of us.
00:26:11.012 --> 00:26:13.982
Chick had not long to wait for his suspicion to be confirmed.
00:26:14.313 --> 00:26:25.053
He saw Nick and Patsy lifted from the limousine and carried into the cellar, both conscious then, but gagged and securely bound and Chick stole quickly back to the window he had unlocked.
00:26:25.553 --> 00:26:36.303
I'll get into the house while the coast is clear, he said to himself, I'll find out what business is to be settled by these Rascals, then I'll settle them and their business, or at least know the reason why.
00:26:36.803 --> 00:26:42.143
Noiselessly lifting the window Chick crept over the sill and stood in a gloomy front parlor.
00:26:42.323 --> 00:26:44.633
Reclosing the window and locking it.
00:26:45.323 --> 00:26:47.212
There he paused for a moment listening.
00:26:47.712 --> 00:26:52.992
He could hear the men outside, the muffled sound of their voices and the bang of a closed door.
00:26:53.492 --> 00:26:56.323
The bulkhead door or that of the laundry, he muttered.
00:26:56.573 --> 00:26:57.843
Got Nick and Patsy eh?
00:26:58.462 --> 00:27:00.143
I must contrive to liberate them.
00:27:00.462 --> 00:27:02.232
I'll try to locate the cellar stairs.
00:27:02.732 --> 00:27:04.653
Chick did not find it difficult to do so.
00:27:05.153 --> 00:27:10.472
He tiptoed to the door, leading into the hall, which ran straight through the house to a rear door and the kitchen.
00:27:11.133 --> 00:27:17.163
It was lighted only by a feeble oil lamp and the glow that came through the open door of the sitting room.
00:27:17.663 --> 00:27:22.282
Pausing, Chick peered cautiously in that direction then quickly drew back.
00:27:22.782 --> 00:27:25.603
A door near the main stairway was suddenly opened.
00:27:26.103 --> 00:27:30.482
Jim Dacey had come up from the cellar and was striding through the dimly lighted hall.
00:27:31.982 --> 00:27:32.792
Chapter nine.
00:27:33.212 --> 00:27:34.202
The inner wheel.
00:27:35.702 --> 00:27:42.722
Chick Carter stepped back of the parlor door and peered between it and the casing, shifting a revolver to his side pocket.
00:27:43.222 --> 00:27:46.492
Jim Dacey turned abruptly, however, and entered the sitting room.
00:27:46.992 --> 00:27:50.623
Chick heard him shout to the deaf housekeeper and order her to go to bed.
00:27:51.313 --> 00:27:55.903
She came out with a lamp in a few moments and Chick saw her disappear up a back stairway.
00:27:56.403 --> 00:28:07.272
She scarce had vanished when Floyd, or Kate Crandall still in male attire, came through the cellar doorway and was joined in the hall by Dacey who asked abruptly with a look of grim misgivings.
00:28:07.772 --> 00:28:08.512
Where's Sheldon?
00:28:08.873 --> 00:28:10.373
What's turned him so sour and...
00:28:10.469 --> 00:28:10.888
Cut it.
00:28:11.073 --> 00:28:13.262
Kate sharply whispered audible to Chick.
00:28:13.893 --> 00:28:15.333
He must not hear us.
00:28:15.843 --> 00:28:17.133
I have something to say to you.
00:28:17.583 --> 00:28:21.272
I have ordered him to watch the laundry doors till Moran returns.
00:28:21.772 --> 00:28:22.522
Where's he gone?
00:28:23.022 --> 00:28:24.073
To house the car.
00:28:24.462 --> 00:28:26.022
He'll not show up for several minutes.
00:28:26.353 --> 00:28:27.942
That will give me time to explain.
00:28:28.442 --> 00:28:29.313
Explain what?
00:28:29.813 --> 00:28:30.863
Come into the sitting room.
00:28:31.133 --> 00:28:32.182
I'll soon tell you.
00:28:32.682 --> 00:28:41.843
You'll tell me also you Jade and I'll wager I'll make the most of it, thought Chick, watching the couple enter the room and noting that they only partly closed the door.
00:28:42.343 --> 00:28:44.232
Unless I am much mistaken by Jove.
00:28:44.413 --> 00:28:46.813
I shall now get the key to the whole mystery.
00:28:47.415 --> 00:28:53.746
Chick lingered only a moment then stole into the hall and found concealment under the rise of the main stairway.
00:28:54.246 --> 00:29:01.596
That brought him within 10 feet of the sitting room door and with an easy view of that opening upon the landing at the head of the cellar stairs.
00:29:02.096 --> 00:29:08.155
He scarce had concealed himself in the dark corner he had selected, when he made, another discovery.
00:29:09.145 --> 00:29:11.955
The cellar door was slowly swinging open.
00:29:12.455 --> 00:29:14.965
A stealthy hand was cautiously moving it.
00:29:15.465 --> 00:29:19.635
Presently, not only the hand, but the spy himself could be seen.
00:29:20.135 --> 00:29:28.506
He was crutching on the landing, his head thrust forward, his ears strained his eyes glowing, like those of a cornered Wolf.
00:29:29.006 --> 00:29:29.695
Sheldon.
00:29:29.945 --> 00:29:33.316
Thought Chick, startled by the terrible look on the man's face.
00:29:34.006 --> 00:29:35.566
By Jove, I'm not alone.
00:29:35.986 --> 00:29:38.836
He too, wants to learn what this vixen has up her sleeve.
00:29:39.336 --> 00:29:45.276
Sheldon having reached the vantage point desired, did not stir from his crouching posture on the landing.
00:29:46.086 --> 00:29:47.556
Chick waited and listened.
00:29:48.056 --> 00:29:53.096
Kate Crandall's voice, though somewhat subdued could be distinctly heard by both.
00:29:53.596 --> 00:29:57.826
I can tell you, in a nutshell, Jim, just where we stand and what must be done.
00:29:58.155 --> 00:29:59.296
She was saying earnestly.
00:29:59.986 --> 00:30:03.316
Our easy mark has ceased to be an easy mark.
00:30:03.675 --> 00:30:05.175
He has become suspicious.
00:30:05.715 --> 00:30:11.715
He begins to feel sure that I am in love with you instead of with him and that I intend to throw him down.
00:30:12.236 --> 00:30:18.596
That's why he has balked at making over half of his fortune to me and at putting it in my hands before I marry him.
00:30:19.076 --> 00:30:24.935
That's what has kept us hung up in the Ashburton chambers for a whole week, since the supposed suicide.
00:30:25.435 --> 00:30:27.836
By thunder! Chick mentally exclaimed.
00:30:28.135 --> 00:30:29.455
Supposed suicide.
00:30:29.816 --> 00:30:30.746
Easy mark, eh?
00:30:31.355 --> 00:30:36.036
This man, Sheldon must be Cyrus Darling then, as sure as there is juice in a lemon.
00:30:36.536 --> 00:30:41.395
Chick needed only one glance at the face of the crouching man to convince him that he was right.
00:30:41.895 --> 00:30:43.066
I know all that Kate.
00:30:43.239 --> 00:30:44.739
Dacey responded with a growl.
00:30:45.398 --> 00:30:46.509
But what's the answer?
00:30:46.628 --> 00:30:47.528
What's to be done?
00:30:48.028 --> 00:30:51.689
We must blind him still farther and contrive to get his coin.
00:30:52.259 --> 00:30:52.979
That done.
00:30:53.278 --> 00:30:55.798
We must get rid of him and bolt for Europe.
00:30:56.298 --> 00:30:57.048
Get rid of him.
00:30:57.548 --> 00:30:58.328
Exactly.
00:30:58.828 --> 00:30:59.489
What do you mean?
00:30:59.989 --> 00:31:00.439
Listen.
00:31:00.689 --> 00:31:03.749
Kate Crandall's voice took on more vicious accents.
00:31:04.148 --> 00:31:10.338
He has turned all of his fortune into cash and has it in a deposit drawer downtown.
00:31:10.838 --> 00:31:11.409
Well?
00:31:11.909 --> 00:31:20.159
Providing I will marry him and go with him to live in Europe, he will get the bundle of money from the safety deposit in order to take it with us.
00:31:20.659 --> 00:31:22.903
Well, Dacey repeated grimly.
00:31:23.403 --> 00:31:25.502
Here now is the point.
00:31:25.685 --> 00:31:26.346
Kate went on.
00:31:26.976 --> 00:31:34.326
The Carters have us hard pressed, but they do not yet suspect that Sheldon and Cyrus Darling are one and the same.
00:31:34.826 --> 00:31:35.726
Surely not.
00:31:36.226 --> 00:31:40.935
They are the only persons on earth who really believe that Darling is alive.
00:31:41.236 --> 00:31:43.096
No one else suspects it even.
00:31:43.596 --> 00:31:44.645
Surely not.
00:31:44.945 --> 00:31:46.205
Dacey again, repeated.
00:31:46.705 --> 00:31:47.306
But.
00:31:47.806 --> 00:31:49.306
If we were to kill him, then.
00:31:49.665 --> 00:31:54.046
And get rid of his body who the devil would ever suspect the crime.
00:31:54.556 --> 00:31:55.695
Only the Carters.
00:31:56.056 --> 00:31:57.796
But they could not prove anything.
00:31:58.336 --> 00:32:01.935
They could not even show that Darling did not kill himself.
00:32:02.566 --> 00:32:12.976
He's as good as dead already, as far as that goes, and they can never learn where Moran got the body that was substitute for Darling at the time of the supposed suicide.
00:32:13.476 --> 00:32:16.986
By heaven Kate, you have got all the makings of a devil in you.
00:32:17.236 --> 00:32:18.635
Said Dacey with a growl.
00:32:19.155 --> 00:32:22.561
I'm only showing you the way, Kate Crandall replied.
00:32:22.981 --> 00:32:25.021
It can be done easily enough.
00:32:25.481 --> 00:32:28.902
It's the only way by which we can make Darling produce the coin.
00:32:29.402 --> 00:32:30.362
So what's your plan.
00:32:30.862 --> 00:32:34.432
We will keep Carter and Garvin here until the trick is turned.
00:32:34.761 --> 00:32:37.041
We'll fake a marriage ceremony with Darling.
00:32:37.412 --> 00:32:43.031
That done and his money on his person we'll end him forever and bolt with the coin.
00:32:43.531 --> 00:32:44.372
I see.
00:32:44.622 --> 00:32:45.432
Dacey nodded.
00:32:45.932 --> 00:32:51.019
When Carter and Garvin are liberated, they'll have only a guess coming to them, Kate added.
00:32:51.469 --> 00:32:53.989
They cannot prove that Floyd and I were one.
00:32:54.409 --> 00:32:56.959
They cannot show that Sheldon and Darling were one.
00:32:57.409 --> 00:33:02.628
All they can do Jim, will be to look wise and guess at the whole business.
00:33:02.959 --> 00:33:05.538
It can be done like breaking sticks.
00:33:06.169 --> 00:33:06.979
What do you say?
00:33:07.479 --> 00:33:08.739
Kill Darling, eh?.
00:33:08.989 --> 00:33:09.858
queried Dacey.
00:33:10.358 --> 00:33:11.019
Why not.
00:33:11.348 --> 00:33:12.548
There is no risk.
00:33:12.669 --> 00:33:14.828
He's dead already in the eye of the law.
00:33:15.328 --> 00:33:16.229
Well, that's true.
00:33:16.729 --> 00:33:20.479
We surely can turn the trick and get away without serious suspicion.
00:33:20.979 --> 00:33:23.048
It does look so Kate I'll admit.
00:33:23.222 --> 00:33:24.573
Dacey thoughtfully agreed.
00:33:25.073 --> 00:33:32.603
How this enterprising colloquy would have ended and at what final conclusion, the plotters would have arrived will never be known in this world.
00:33:33.292 --> 00:33:40.803
Chick Carter, glancing at the crouching man, saw him withdraw from his position and cautiously descend the cellar stairs.
00:33:41.303 --> 00:33:47.843
Chick suspected a genuine suicide and he stole quickly from his concealment and noiselessly followed.
00:33:48.343 --> 00:33:52.098
When partway down the stairs, he again, discovered his man.
00:33:52.598 --> 00:33:59.138
Sheldon was tearing the disguise from his face in frantic haste and was casting it fiercely upon the floor.
00:33:59.638 --> 00:34:01.378
Chick waited and watched him.
00:34:01.878 --> 00:34:05.479
The disguise now removed, revealing a weak featured man of 40.
00:34:05.989 --> 00:34:10.159
Darling hastened to open the door of the laundry, into which he vanished.
00:34:10.659 --> 00:34:13.389
Chick crept down the stairs and to the open door.
00:34:13.889 --> 00:34:21.659
Darling was hurriedly cutting the bonds from Nick and Patsy, at the same time crying in nervous, frantic, agonized whispers.
00:34:22.159 --> 00:34:27.079
Enough of this, enough of it! I am going to confess, going to tell the whole truth.
00:34:27.440 --> 00:34:33.590
I've been a blinded cursed fool an infernal madman, crazy with love for an unscrupulous woman.
00:34:34.039 --> 00:34:36.920
I am Cyrus Darling, Cyrus Darling himself.
00:34:37.280 --> 00:34:39.949
I'll tell the whole truth and take my medicine.
00:34:40.519 --> 00:34:41.329
Come with me, Mr.
00:34:41.329 --> 00:34:47.630
Carter, come with me for God's sake and arrest that she devil and her knavish confederate! Come with me, and.
00:34:47.880 --> 00:34:48.480
Hush.
00:34:48.730 --> 00:34:50.139
Nick calmly interrupted him.
00:34:50.639 --> 00:34:53.730
He was then free and on his feet as was Patsy.
00:34:54.099 --> 00:35:05.889
He saw Chick entering the room also, and he knew that the case was precisely what he had asserted: that of a man with a lost head and that the finish was, but the work of moments.
00:35:06.389 --> 00:35:08.789
Nick waited only to hear Chick's statement.
00:35:09.159 --> 00:35:12.489
Half a minute later, still engaged in discussing their devilish plot.
00:35:12.849 --> 00:35:18.280
Dacey and Kate Crandall beheld, the three detectives and the undisguised man enter the sitting room.
00:35:18.789 --> 00:35:20.559
Both instantly guessed the truth.
00:35:20.840 --> 00:35:26.210
And while Dacey weakened perceptibly, only a loud laugh came from the woman.
00:35:27.230 --> 00:35:32.780
Oh, it's all off then! She cried with mingled, disgust and defiance.
00:35:33.380 --> 00:35:35.630
You have called the turn on us Carter, have you?
00:35:36.130 --> 00:35:37.179
You'll find that I have.
00:35:37.429 --> 00:35:38.119
Nick replied.
00:35:38.809 --> 00:35:41.119
Oh, well that don't rattle me any.
00:35:41.369 --> 00:35:42.539
Kate sharply asserted.
00:35:43.199 --> 00:35:44.940
You have got nothing on us, Carter.
00:35:45.179 --> 00:35:48.030
I told you I never would lay myself liable.
00:35:48.449 --> 00:35:53.969
Any man may pretend to commit suicide if he wants to and turn all of his fortune into cash.
00:35:54.519 --> 00:35:58.630
The more fool, he, in that case, and he's the one who must pay the price.
00:35:59.019 --> 00:36:05.360
You've got nothing on us, Carter and well you know it, otherwise you'd have had us in iron's at this time.
00:36:05.860 --> 00:36:10.539
Nick Carter knew that there was some truth in this, yet he said, sternly.
00:36:11.039 --> 00:36:13.059
Don't you be so sure of it, Kate Crandall.
00:36:13.480 --> 00:36:19.480
I can send you up for a term of years for conspiracy, abduction and opposing officers of the law.
00:36:20.059 --> 00:36:23.329
If I don't do so, there will be but one reason.
00:36:23.579 --> 00:36:24.750
He added pointedly.
00:36:25.250 --> 00:36:26.929
And what reason is that?
00:36:27.440 --> 00:36:29.300
Kate demanded with color fading.
00:36:29.800 --> 00:36:33.760
You have made an infernal fool of this man, and he knows it now.
00:36:34.300 --> 00:36:38.170
I think he will behave himself in the future and I'm going to give him a chance.
00:36:38.809 --> 00:36:44.960
I shall do so for the sake of his wife, who is as fine a woman as you are the reverse.
00:36:45.500 --> 00:36:51.710
I shall invent a story to account for all that has occurred and shall send Cyrus Darling home to his wife.
00:36:52.210 --> 00:36:55.090
Neither she nor the public must know the truth.
00:36:55.599 --> 00:37:02.059
Your only hope Kate Crandall and that of your confederates, lies in your permanent secrecy.
00:37:02.559 --> 00:37:04.960
I agree to that Carter! Cried Kate quickly.
00:37:05.170 --> 00:37:06.880
The truth shall never be told.
00:37:07.380 --> 00:37:08.679
Does that go with you Dacey?
00:37:08.889 --> 00:37:10.059
Nick sternly demanded.
00:37:10.559 --> 00:37:12.842
You bet! Dacey eagerly cried.
00:37:13.393 --> 00:37:14.963
And you will silence Moran?
00:37:15.463 --> 00:37:16.302
Silence him.
00:37:16.603 --> 00:37:17.202
You bet.
00:37:17.202 --> 00:37:17.833
I'll silence him.
00:37:17.862 --> 00:37:19.213
If I have to cut his tongue out.
00:37:19.762 --> 00:37:25.432
Nick turned to Cyrus Darling who had sunk upon the nearest chair with his head bowed in his hands.
00:37:25.932 --> 00:37:29.862
What Nick said to the erring man is of minor importance.
00:37:30.353 --> 00:37:39.862
It is enough to add that he adjusted the matter in the manner suggested, that Cyrus Darling returned home a few days later with a story that Nick had invented for him.
00:37:40.132 --> 00:37:44.273
And that the real truth was indeed never disclosed.
00:37:45.202 --> 00:37:46.333
The End.
00:37:47.833 --> 00:37:52.902
Well there, you have it folks, another thrilling tale from the pages of yesteryear.
00:37:53.382 --> 00:37:59.413
We hope you enjoyed: The Suicide or Nick Carter and the Lost Head from 1915.
00:37:59.913 --> 00:38:03.722
Those classic stories sure know how to keep you on the edge of your seat, don't they?
00:38:04.623 --> 00:38:10.353
If you're enjoying Forward Into The Past, there are a couple of ways you can help us keep these timeless tales alive.
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00:38:35.362 --> 00:38:38.032
Thanks again for joining us on this journey through time.
00:38:38.543 --> 00:38:39.862
Until next time folks.
00:38:40.313 --> 00:38:41.273
Thanks for listening.
00:38:41.632 --> 00:38:45.983
Keep sharing the stories and be a good human.
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Bye for now.
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