May 8, 2023
Toying With Fate; Or Nick Carter's Narrow Shave, Pt 5
In this episode, Detective Carter receives a tip from Dora Ferris that points to Simeon Rich and Dick Darwin as suspects in a crime that took place on New Year's Eve. Dora offers to take Carter to her flat to inspect Darwin's clothing for clues, and they discover that Darwin has already left, taking all his belongings. However, Carter finds some papers on the floor that suggest Rich and Darwin may be implicated in the murder of Lawrence at the Red Dragon Inn. Specifically, a note written the day before New Year's indicates that Rich was at the Grand Central that afternoon, followed Lawrence downtown, and placed a party on his trail.
Carter sees this note as an important piece of evidence, as it shows that Darwin and Rich had dined together at the Knickerbocker Cottage. He also believes that Darwin's hasty removal of his things from the flat could be an indication of guilt. Carter then asks Dora if she knows where Rich and his sister reside, which she does. He follows Darwin to a tenement on the east side of town and discovers that he had been looking for Lena Peters, a singer who had been wrongfully accused of a robbery and murder.
Carter eventually tracks down Lena and clears her name. She reveals that her brother, Edward, had discovered the truth about the plot to falsely accuse Alfred Lawrence, and that he and his friend George Blanchard were both murdered under suspicious circumstances. Lena tells Carter that she had discovered a memorandum that Edward had written about Blanchard's confession and that it was her brother who left the signed documents in a package at the Red Dragon Inn.
To keep Lena safe, Carter instructs her to stay at his mansion and conducts interviews with the waiter at the Knickerbocker Cottage, the messenger boy who delivered a message to two men matching the descriptions of Simeon Rich and Dick Darwin, and the bartender at McKeever's Saloon where Rich and Darwin met up with Brockey Gann, the man hired to murder Nick Carter! This episode is full of twists and turns as new clues are uncovered, and the investigation into Lawrence's murder takes on a new urgency.
Theme written by Bernard Kyer for this podcast. Follow the link for more info. https://www.bardmediamusic.com/
Support the show! Make a one-time donation or be a monthly supporter!
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/jcthevoice
Transcript
WEBVTT
00:00:03.240 --> 00:00:07.889
Hi friends and welcome to another episode of forward into the past.
00:00:08.400 --> 00:00:10.679
I'm JC Rede, your host and narrator.
00:00:10.919 --> 00:00:15.269
And today we're continuing on with the exciting detective story from yesteryear.
00:00:15.570 --> 00:00:24.359
Toying With Fate or Nick Carter's narrow shave, published in 1903 by street and Smith publishing house.
00:00:25.679 --> 00:00:30.660
The golden age of dime novels was a time when reading was the ultimate form of entertainment.
00:00:31.320 --> 00:00:41.250
It was an era when people could escape from their daily struggles, through the pages of thrilling novels and immerse themselves in colorful stories of adventure, romance, and mystery.
00:00:41.750 --> 00:00:49.880
One of the biggest publishers of dime novels during this time was street and Smith a company that helped shape the literary landscape of America.
00:00:50.554 --> 00:00:55.659
Street Smith was founded in 1855 by Francis Smith and Francis street.
00:00:56.350 --> 00:01:04.000
At first, the company focused on publishing religious books, but as the demand for cheap mass produced literature began to grow.
00:01:04.450 --> 00:01:06.670
They shifted their focus to dime novels.
00:01:07.120 --> 00:01:14.609
From the late 18 hundreds to the early 19 hundreds Street and Smith was one of the biggest publishers of these cheaply produced novels.
00:01:14.909 --> 00:01:20.010
And they were responsible for launching the careers of some of the most famous authors of their time.
00:01:20.609 --> 00:01:24.540
Dime novels were small, lightweight, and incredibly cheap.
00:01:25.170 --> 00:01:27.750
They were designed to be affordable for the working class.
00:01:28.019 --> 00:01:32.939
And many of them were written by anonymous authors who were paid next to nothing for their work.
00:01:33.469 --> 00:01:40.819
Despite this,dime novels were incredibly popular and they helped to create a new literary genre that was accessible to everybody.
00:01:41.930 --> 00:01:46.819
Street and Smith specialized in publishing dime novels that were targeted at young men.
00:01:47.480 --> 00:01:50.180
They focused on producing stories that were fast paced.
00:01:50.599 --> 00:01:53.180
Action packed and filled with adventure.
00:01:53.930 --> 00:02:06.299
Some of the most popular titles included the Nick Carter mysteries, the Frank Merriwell stories, which were part sports and part detective story, and the covered wagon, which was a Western serial.
00:02:06.810 --> 00:02:14.819
These novels featured larger than life heroes who battled against villains and faced incredible challenges all while falling in love.
00:02:15.150 --> 00:02:17.669
And winning the hearts of readers everywhere.
00:02:18.689 --> 00:02:23.099
The success of street and Smith's dime novels help to create a new type of reader.
00:02:23.759 --> 00:02:28.409
These novels were designed to be consumed quickly and they were often read on the go.
00:02:29.159 --> 00:02:34.710
Many people would pick up a dime novel while riding the train to work or while waiting in line at the grocery store.
00:02:35.520 --> 00:02:42.590
This made reading more accessible to people who may not have had the time or resources to devote to more serious literature.
00:02:43.050 --> 00:02:46.530
The golden age of dime novels was not without its critics.
00:02:47.129 --> 00:02:52.110
Many people felt that these novels were low brow and lacked literary merit.
00:02:52.680 --> 00:02:59.039
However others recognized the importance of these novels in shaping the literary landscape of America.
00:02:59.759 --> 00:03:07.650
Dime novels help to create a new type of reader and they paved the way for the pulp fiction and comic book industries that would follow.
00:03:08.580 --> 00:03:10.349
And speaking of dime novels.
00:03:10.620 --> 00:03:18.240
Let's get back to the 1903 Nick Carter story toying with pate or Nick Carter's narrow shave.
00:03:20.740 --> 00:03:21.669
Chapter nine.
00:03:22.180 --> 00:03:23.169
More evidence.
00:03:24.169 --> 00:03:27.560
Dora Ferris was the first to speak and break the silence.
00:03:28.639 --> 00:03:29.044
Mr.
00:03:29.044 --> 00:03:29.449
Carter.
00:03:29.509 --> 00:03:30.110
She said.
00:03:30.680 --> 00:03:35.330
I can see that rich and Darwin are implicated in some affair, which you are investigating.
00:03:35.689 --> 00:03:36.800
It may be a crime.
00:03:37.280 --> 00:03:41.449
It was committed on new year's Eve or you would not be so particular about that date.
00:03:41.689 --> 00:03:42.889
I feel sure of that.
00:03:43.310 --> 00:03:46.370
You are a shrewd woman, the detective remarked with a smile.
00:03:46.860 --> 00:03:52.800
I am not very shrewd, but I can read character and I am able to form conclusions by putting two and two together.
00:03:53.229 --> 00:03:55.060
You asked about Dick Darwin's clothing.
00:03:55.389 --> 00:03:59.469
If you desire to examine it, I will take you to my flat and you can inspect it.
00:03:59.949 --> 00:04:01.300
Darwin may be there now.
00:04:01.819 --> 00:04:02.750
No, he is not.
00:04:03.439 --> 00:04:04.550
He can't get in.
00:04:04.759 --> 00:04:05.659
I have the key.
00:04:06.129 --> 00:04:07.389
I will go with you to your flat.
00:04:07.930 --> 00:04:09.759
Tell me first, what case you are working on?
00:04:10.240 --> 00:04:12.069
That must remain a secret for the present.
00:04:13.270 --> 00:04:14.050
I know.
00:04:14.590 --> 00:04:15.400
You know?
00:04:15.789 --> 00:04:16.449
Yes.
00:04:16.939 --> 00:04:18.139
What case am I working on?
00:04:19.009 --> 00:04:21.160
The mystery of the red dragon inn.
00:04:21.680 --> 00:04:26.000
Dora laughed heartily Carter uttered an exclamation of annoyance.
00:04:26.560 --> 00:04:28.269
When you mentioned the name of Lawrence.
00:04:28.569 --> 00:04:33.100
I remember that a man by that name had been murdered on new year's Eve at the red dragon Inn.
00:04:33.459 --> 00:04:37.660
And I also remembered that it was stated that you were working on the case.
00:04:37.839 --> 00:04:38.439
You see.
00:04:38.740 --> 00:04:39.370
I know.
00:04:39.970 --> 00:04:40.269
Hm.
00:04:40.779 --> 00:04:41.980
Now that I come to think of it.
00:04:42.250 --> 00:04:45.699
I remember reading that, that man had just been released from state's prison.
00:04:46.389 --> 00:04:50.050
It was also stated that he was the forger of the Lawrence will.
00:04:50.529 --> 00:04:54.730
If that be so, then he was a cousin of Simeon and Sally rich.
00:04:55.300 --> 00:04:55.689
Mr.
00:04:55.689 --> 00:04:56.079
Carter.
00:04:56.459 --> 00:04:57.149
What is the matter?
00:04:57.649 --> 00:05:00.500
Uh, a thought just occurred to me and it startled me.
00:05:00.980 --> 00:05:01.550
What was it?
00:05:02.240 --> 00:05:06.529
Do you believe that Simeon Rich and Richard Darwin had a hand in that murder?
00:05:07.019 --> 00:05:08.069
That I can't tell.
00:05:08.360 --> 00:05:10.220
Perhaps rich was afraid of Lawrence.
00:05:10.362 --> 00:05:11.983
We will not talk any more about this matter.
00:05:12.343 --> 00:05:13.483
We will start for your flat.
00:05:13.983 --> 00:05:15.083
Oh, but I will help you.
00:05:15.723 --> 00:05:16.112
Hm.
00:05:17.403 --> 00:05:18.392
Yes, I believe you.
00:05:18.952 --> 00:05:20.122
They arose from the table.
00:05:20.752 --> 00:05:24.262
Carter put on his facial disguise and then they left the restaurant.
00:05:24.853 --> 00:05:28.093
Dora's flat was situated on 39th street next to a theater.
00:05:28.572 --> 00:05:43.983
It was elaborately furnished in a style that evinced more money than good taste, and Nick almost shuddered at the array of showy furniture, useless bric-a-brac, draperies, and ornaments, which crowded the little parlor into which she ushered him.
00:05:44.612 --> 00:05:44.987
Mr.
00:05:44.987 --> 00:05:47.673
Carter, I suppose you do not want to lose any time.
00:05:47.822 --> 00:05:48.362
She said.
00:05:48.692 --> 00:05:52.202
So, if you will follow me, I will conduct you to Darwin's room.
00:05:52.843 --> 00:05:55.062
Carter followed Dora along a private hall.
00:05:55.663 --> 00:05:59.442
At last, she opened a door and led him into one of the bedrooms, remarking.
00:05:59.983 --> 00:06:01.093
This is the room.
00:06:02.293 --> 00:06:08.892
After she had turned on the electric light, she looked around and then she uttered an exclamation of surprise.
00:06:09.523 --> 00:06:11.533
The room was in confusion.
00:06:12.112 --> 00:06:13.283
Carter looked at Dora.
00:06:13.752 --> 00:06:16.483
He has been here and carted off all his things.
00:06:16.783 --> 00:06:18.012
Dora ejaculated.
00:06:18.012 --> 00:06:19.992
As soon as she recovered the use of her voice.
00:06:20.473 --> 00:06:23.233
I thought you said he had no key, Carter remarked.
00:06:23.802 --> 00:06:25.033
No, he has none.
00:06:25.392 --> 00:06:27.312
He must have come here before the servant left.
00:06:27.923 --> 00:06:28.223
Hm.
00:06:29.062 --> 00:06:30.202
What time does she leave?
00:06:31.132 --> 00:06:32.632
Uh, seven o'clock.
00:06:33.413 --> 00:06:34.403
And where does she live?
00:06:35.213 --> 00:06:36.682
On 27th street.
00:06:37.182 --> 00:06:39.163
While Carter was asking these questions.
00:06:39.403 --> 00:06:41.382
His eyes were wandering around the room.
00:06:42.103 --> 00:06:45.762
On the floor in a corner, he spied several pieces of paper.
00:06:46.603 --> 00:06:48.552
He picked them up and smooth them out.
00:06:49.333 --> 00:06:50.262
Two were blanks.
00:06:50.653 --> 00:06:52.302
And the third had writing on it.
00:06:52.932 --> 00:06:53.992
The detective read it.
00:06:54.583 --> 00:06:55.692
His countenance brightened.
00:06:56.682 --> 00:06:58.182
Dora noticed the change.
00:06:58.713 --> 00:06:59.312
What is it?
00:06:59.702 --> 00:07:00.362
She asked.
00:07:00.833 --> 00:07:01.283
Uh, note.
00:07:01.492 --> 00:07:02.543
replied the detective.
00:07:03.293 --> 00:07:03.952
From whom.
00:07:04.413 --> 00:07:04.952
Rich.
00:07:05.432 --> 00:07:06.062
To Darwin.
00:07:06.523 --> 00:07:07.062
Yes.
00:07:07.572 --> 00:07:08.473
When was it written?
00:07:08.952 --> 00:07:10.992
On the afternoon of the day before new years.
00:07:11.473 --> 00:07:12.343
Is it important?
00:07:12.833 --> 00:07:13.973
Um, it may be.
00:07:14.492 --> 00:07:15.182
Will you read it?
00:07:15.682 --> 00:07:17.423
Nick examined her face intently.
00:07:18.562 --> 00:07:19.822
Do you still doubt me?
00:07:21.923 --> 00:07:24.262
No replied Carter after a pause.
00:07:24.682 --> 00:07:25.822
Nick was satisfied.
00:07:26.723 --> 00:07:28.463
You can rely on me to help you, Mr.
00:07:28.463 --> 00:07:28.822
Carter.
00:07:29.663 --> 00:07:30.052
Yes.
00:07:30.052 --> 00:07:30.923
I know it now.
00:07:31.642 --> 00:07:32.723
Will you read that note?
00:07:33.442 --> 00:07:33.952
Yes.
00:07:34.463 --> 00:07:35.122
Please do so.
00:07:36.052 --> 00:07:37.103
December 31st.
00:07:37.552 --> 00:07:38.153
Dear Dick.
00:07:38.663 --> 00:07:41.423
I was at the grand central this afternoon when he arrived.
00:07:41.843 --> 00:07:43.523
Followed him downtown in a cab.
00:07:43.973 --> 00:07:46.043
He went to the safe deposit company's office.
00:07:46.043 --> 00:07:48.142
I have placed a party on his trail.
00:07:48.802 --> 00:07:53.362
Meet me at seven o'clock tonight at the Knickerbocker cottage, we will dine together.
00:07:53.692 --> 00:07:54.593
Yours in haste.
00:07:55.132 --> 00:07:55.822
Simeon.
00:07:56.302 --> 00:07:58.312
Then Darwin was with rich that night.
00:07:58.882 --> 00:07:59.963
No doubt about that.
00:08:00.572 --> 00:08:03.992
Carter folded up the paper and placed it carefully away in his pocket book.
00:08:04.742 --> 00:08:08.012
He looked upon this note as an important piece of evidence.
00:08:08.583 --> 00:08:14.612
The, he mentioned in it, he felt confident, referred to the man who had been murdered at the red dragon in.
00:08:15.392 --> 00:08:20.432
According to this note, Rich and Darwin had dined together at the Knickerbocker cottage.
00:08:21.002 --> 00:08:24.273
It would be an easy matter to find out what time they had left that place.
00:08:25.173 --> 00:08:34.592
another thing was clear and that was that Darwin had taken fright about something, or he would have never removed his things from the flat in such haste.
00:08:35.102 --> 00:08:36.993
Was this move an indication of guilt?
00:08:37.552 --> 00:08:39.232
Carter turned to Dora and asked.
00:08:39.822 --> 00:08:41.773
Do you know where rich and his sister reside?
00:08:42.552 --> 00:08:42.852
Hmm.
00:08:42.913 --> 00:08:43.873
No, I do not.
00:08:44.312 --> 00:08:47.493
Did you ever hear Darwin speak of a woman named Isabella Porter?
00:08:47.993 --> 00:08:48.863
I know that woman.
00:08:49.352 --> 00:08:50.192
Where does she live?
00:08:50.702 --> 00:08:51.842
That I do not know.
00:08:52.332 --> 00:08:54.523
Did you know that Darwin and rich were acquainted with her?
00:08:55.052 --> 00:08:57.363
Rich has known her ever since she was a small girl.
00:08:57.852 --> 00:08:58.842
And what about Darwin?
00:08:59.332 --> 00:09:02.062
No, he's only being acquainted with her for a short time.
00:09:02.562 --> 00:09:03.763
And when did you first meet her?
00:09:04.283 --> 00:09:08.003
Uh, she was in Rich's company one night and he introduced her to me.
00:09:08.533 --> 00:09:09.613
And what do you know about her?
00:09:10.143 --> 00:09:12.182
She is the daughter of a rich merchant.
00:09:12.182 --> 00:09:14.673
I believe her mother and father are dead.
00:09:15.092 --> 00:09:16.293
But she has an income.
00:09:16.852 --> 00:09:18.493
Is that all, you know, Hmm.
00:09:18.582 --> 00:09:19.153
It is.
00:09:19.732 --> 00:09:26.482
It was too late to continue the inquiries further that night he concluded and he determined to go home as long as he was uptown.
00:09:27.312 --> 00:09:29.232
Carter was in a very thoughtful mood.
00:09:29.712 --> 00:09:33.253
Many curious events had happened during the past 24 hours.
00:09:34.062 --> 00:09:44.552
He was walking along leisurely with his head bowed, thinking of plans for that day and where he would go to make inquiries when his attention was attracted to two men who were walking ahead of him.
00:09:45.572 --> 00:09:48.513
Instantly, he raised his head and slackened his pace.
00:09:49.202 --> 00:09:51.812
One of the men he recognized as Darwin.
00:09:52.832 --> 00:09:53.822
The man's companion.
00:09:53.852 --> 00:09:55.082
He had never seen before.
00:09:55.923 --> 00:09:58.832
He could not get near enough to the men to hear their conversation.
00:09:59.702 --> 00:10:05.013
At the corner of 52nd street, the men separated and Darwin started in an easterly direction.
00:10:05.613 --> 00:10:07.023
Carter decided to follow him.
00:10:07.293 --> 00:10:09.332
And he gave up the idea of going home.
00:10:09.982 --> 00:10:13.283
Darwin reached the east side of town and turned into second avenue.
00:10:13.913 --> 00:10:15.562
What business has he overhear?
00:10:15.923 --> 00:10:19.102
The detective asked himself as he kept on the trail of his quarry.
00:10:20.153 --> 00:10:24.232
Between 41st and 40th streets, Darwin halted under a streetlamp.
00:10:24.822 --> 00:10:30.432
From his pocket, he took a slip of paper consulted it and then went along, examining the numbers of the houses.
00:10:30.993 --> 00:10:33.842
Carter stopped in the doorway of the corner store and watched him.
00:10:34.243 --> 00:10:36.732
At the same time he changed his disguise.
00:10:37.302 --> 00:10:40.932
He now looked as tough as any of the night prowlers in the questionable neighborhood.
00:10:41.462 --> 00:10:43.352
Darwin entered a tall tenement.
00:10:43.903 --> 00:10:46.332
Carter hurried out of his place of concealment.
00:10:46.722 --> 00:10:49.513
He also went into the house and stood in the lower hall.
00:10:50.052 --> 00:10:52.062
On each floor lights were burning.
00:10:52.602 --> 00:10:58.062
As he looked up, he saw Darwin distinctly on the next floor and he heard him knock on the door of the back room.
00:10:58.572 --> 00:11:01.602
Darwin knocked a number of times and no one opened the door.
00:11:02.133 --> 00:11:08.133
When he started to descend the stairs, Carter walked out and took up a position in a doorway of a house near the corner.
00:11:08.692 --> 00:11:12.322
Darwin came out of the tenement, walk to the corner and halted.
00:11:12.842 --> 00:11:13.623
Back and forth.
00:11:13.653 --> 00:11:15.692
He moved and kept looking at the house.
00:11:16.432 --> 00:11:18.863
The detective saw that he was uneasy.
00:11:19.552 --> 00:11:21.653
He wondered whom Darwin had come to see.
00:11:22.702 --> 00:11:26.873
Darwin after a time, came back to the tenement and entered again.
00:11:27.592 --> 00:11:30.113
Carter did not move from his hiding place.
00:11:30.682 --> 00:11:36.283
His quarry only remained inside a minute or so, and then came out, going back to the corner and halting.
00:11:36.903 --> 00:11:38.312
Carter came out of the doorway.
00:11:38.852 --> 00:11:43.633
He strolled up to the corner and stopped within a few feet of Darwin who saw and eyed him.
00:11:44.822 --> 00:11:48.633
Two or three times the man made a movement as if he were going to address Carter.
00:11:49.023 --> 00:11:50.493
But he hesitated.
00:11:51.393 --> 00:11:53.493
The detective made no attempt to speak.
00:11:54.003 --> 00:11:56.883
He looked up and down the street and appeared unconcerned.
00:11:57.932 --> 00:11:59.972
Carter wanted to see if Darwin would speak to him.
00:12:00.692 --> 00:12:03.873
He judged that if he waited long enough, the man would do so.
00:12:05.102 --> 00:12:08.552
Darwin crossed the street, halted a moment and then came back.
00:12:09.182 --> 00:12:12.153
He glanced sharply suspiciously at Carter.
00:12:12.852 --> 00:12:13.602
Excuse me.
00:12:13.722 --> 00:12:15.342
He said, as he came to a standstill.
00:12:15.802 --> 00:12:16.822
Do you live around here?
00:12:17.873 --> 00:12:19.102
Are you addressing me?
00:12:19.582 --> 00:12:22.393
The detective asked in a disguise tone of voice.
00:12:22.832 --> 00:12:23.432
I am.
00:12:23.873 --> 00:12:27.173
Oh, well, yes, I live in that house down there.
00:12:27.623 --> 00:12:31.163
Said Nick pointing to the tall tenement, which Darwin had twice entered.
00:12:31.643 --> 00:12:32.212
You do.
00:12:32.602 --> 00:12:33.592
What floor do you live on?
00:12:34.062 --> 00:12:35.562
The top, why?
00:12:36.113 --> 00:12:38.033
I want some information about one of the tenants.
00:12:38.557 --> 00:12:38.857
Eh.
00:12:39.258 --> 00:12:41.038
Carter bent forward and looked at Darwin.
00:12:41.498 --> 00:12:43.368
his acting was magnificent.
00:12:43.857 --> 00:12:44.427
Say.
00:12:44.878 --> 00:12:46.197
Are you a fly cop?
00:12:46.557 --> 00:12:48.057
He asked with suspicion.
00:12:48.427 --> 00:12:50.258
No Darwin replied quickly.
00:12:50.347 --> 00:12:51.398
I'm not a detective.
00:12:52.628 --> 00:12:53.738
You haven't got the cut of one.
00:12:54.518 --> 00:12:54.967
No.
00:12:56.437 --> 00:12:56.918
All right.
00:12:56.918 --> 00:12:57.878
What do you want to know?
00:12:59.168 --> 00:13:01.927
Are you acquainted with a woman named Lena Peters?
00:13:02.557 --> 00:13:04.927
You mean the woman who lives in the back room on the second floor.
00:13:05.498 --> 00:13:05.768
Yes.
00:13:05.768 --> 00:13:06.187
Yes.
00:13:06.998 --> 00:13:08.197
I know her by site.
00:13:08.687 --> 00:13:09.738
Well, have you seen her tonight?
00:13:10.278 --> 00:13:10.727
Now.
00:13:12.707 --> 00:13:16.368
I've been to her room now and knocked, but no one seems to be in.
00:13:16.957 --> 00:13:18.488
Did you have an appointment with her?
00:13:18.988 --> 00:13:20.908
Well, no, no, not exactly an appointment.
00:13:21.388 --> 00:13:23.618
Oh, For a time they were silent.
00:13:24.278 --> 00:13:26.258
Then Carter said in an offhand way.
00:13:26.778 --> 00:13:27.227
What does Ms.
00:13:27.227 --> 00:13:27.977
Peters do?
00:13:28.727 --> 00:13:30.888
She sings in a concert hall over on the west side.
00:13:31.227 --> 00:13:32.097
Darwin replied.
00:13:32.638 --> 00:13:36.477
Ah, I often wondered what she worked at to keep her out so late at night.
00:13:36.967 --> 00:13:38.347
Will you see her when she comes in?
00:13:39.288 --> 00:13:40.087
I don't know.
00:13:40.628 --> 00:13:41.918
Are you going to remain here long?
00:13:42.447 --> 00:13:42.717
Yeah.
00:13:42.748 --> 00:13:43.288
All night.
00:13:43.788 --> 00:13:44.447
What for.
00:13:44.937 --> 00:13:46.557
I watch the stores on the block.
00:13:47.008 --> 00:13:50.518
Oh, Why did you ask that question?
00:13:51.008 --> 00:13:53.557
Will you deliver a message to Lena Peters when she comes home?
00:13:54.518 --> 00:13:55.057
Certainly.
00:13:55.557 --> 00:14:00.298
Please tell her that a gentleman named Richard called to see her and that he wants her to come to his room.
00:14:00.298 --> 00:14:01.437
The first thing after noon.
00:14:01.977 --> 00:14:02.998
Where are your rooms?
00:14:03.467 --> 00:14:05.057
Oh, she's familiar with the address.
00:14:05.548 --> 00:14:06.988
And she's called on you before.
00:14:07.518 --> 00:14:08.207
Oh, yes.
00:14:08.717 --> 00:14:09.798
At your rooms.
00:14:10.268 --> 00:14:11.048
Yes.
00:14:11.557 --> 00:14:12.788
Have you been down here before?
00:14:13.207 --> 00:14:13.567
No.
00:14:14.227 --> 00:14:14.707
All right.
00:14:15.278 --> 00:14:16.628
I'll be sure and see Miss Peters.
00:14:17.268 --> 00:14:18.528
Here's a dollar for your trouble.
00:14:19.337 --> 00:14:19.998
Thanks.
00:14:20.548 --> 00:14:21.748
Carter pocketed the money.
00:14:22.398 --> 00:14:23.658
I can depend on you.
00:14:24.317 --> 00:14:25.758
Darwin asked uneasily.
00:14:26.307 --> 00:14:26.998
You can.
00:14:27.258 --> 00:14:30.857
The detective replied and he hardly was able to repress a smile.
00:14:31.548 --> 00:14:32.118
All right then.
00:14:32.238 --> 00:14:32.837
Good night.
00:14:34.038 --> 00:14:35.268
Darwin hurried away.
00:14:35.868 --> 00:14:37.878
Carter did not budge from the corner.
00:14:38.837 --> 00:14:44.388
That he had formed some new plan in his mind was evident, or he would have made a move to keep on the trail of his quarry.
00:14:44.967 --> 00:14:47.128
He said the woman's name was Peters.
00:14:47.548 --> 00:14:48.508
Lena Peters.
00:14:48.817 --> 00:14:52.398
The detective muttered a few minutes after Darwin had disappeared around the corner.
00:14:53.327 --> 00:14:54.998
She has seen him a number of times.
00:14:55.418 --> 00:14:58.988
Can she be any relation to the man who died in Bellevue hospital?
00:14:59.707 --> 00:15:00.638
If she is.
00:15:01.388 --> 00:15:02.467
Carter stopped musing.
00:15:02.618 --> 00:15:06.398
As he saw a woman who had hurried around the corner, enter the tenement.
00:15:07.057 --> 00:15:09.548
Instantly, he started toward the house and went in.
00:15:10.207 --> 00:15:12.457
The woman was halfway up the stairs.
00:15:14.618 --> 00:15:15.368
Chapter 10.
00:15:15.847 --> 00:15:16.748
Lena's story.
00:15:18.307 --> 00:15:21.668
Carter had entered the lower hall of the house without making any noise.
00:15:22.268 --> 00:15:24.548
The woman's attention was not attracted toward him.
00:15:24.727 --> 00:15:27.307
So he stood back in the shadow and watched her.
00:15:27.847 --> 00:15:32.018
She reached the landing and stopping in front of the door of the back room.
00:15:32.258 --> 00:15:35.857
She inserted a key in the lock, opened the door and went in.
00:15:36.817 --> 00:15:38.827
Nick knocked on the door of the room.
00:15:39.638 --> 00:15:41.018
The woman opened the door.
00:15:42.128 --> 00:15:42.937
What do you want?
00:15:43.118 --> 00:15:44.528
She demanded in surprise.
00:15:45.087 --> 00:15:46.528
Is your name Lena Peters?
00:15:46.768 --> 00:15:47.727
The detective asked.
00:15:48.268 --> 00:15:48.807
It is.
00:15:49.337 --> 00:15:50.238
I want to talk with you.
00:15:50.778 --> 00:15:54.317
Carter pushed his way into the room without ceremony and closed the door.
00:15:54.768 --> 00:15:57.168
The woman's face became flushed with anger.
00:15:57.677 --> 00:16:00.587
She stepped back from the detective and her eyes flashed.
00:16:01.107 --> 00:16:02.038
What do you want?
00:16:02.187 --> 00:16:06.378
She demanded with a string of oaths and she pulled out of her pocket, a small pistol.
00:16:06.988 --> 00:16:07.918
Don't get excited.
00:16:08.307 --> 00:16:10.498
Carter quietly said with a scornful smile.
00:16:11.398 --> 00:16:12.518
Put up your pistol Lena.
00:16:12.658 --> 00:16:13.888
I'm not going to harm you.
00:16:14.447 --> 00:16:15.587
Who are you?
00:16:16.107 --> 00:16:17.548
I will tell you in a few moments.
00:16:18.148 --> 00:16:19.408
You are a stranger to me.
00:16:19.998 --> 00:16:20.988
I guess not.
00:16:21.528 --> 00:16:24.018
As Carter said this, he pulled off his disguise.
00:16:24.467 --> 00:16:27.378
Lena uttered a scream and sank down into a chair.
00:16:27.827 --> 00:16:29.118
Nick Carter.
00:16:29.447 --> 00:16:30.227
She gasped.
00:16:30.437 --> 00:16:32.868
And the pistol fell from her grasp into her lap.
00:16:33.427 --> 00:16:42.248
You recognize me now, the detective said with a smile as he sat down, From this, it will be seen that he and the woman had met before.
00:16:43.238 --> 00:16:44.947
After a pause, Carter remarked.
00:16:45.447 --> 00:16:46.317
Let me see Lena.
00:16:46.918 --> 00:16:49.347
It is several years since we've had the pleasure of meeting.
00:16:49.857 --> 00:16:51.807
You haven't changed any, since I last saw you.
00:16:52.618 --> 00:16:53.638
No.
00:16:54.207 --> 00:16:55.048
Lena stammered.
00:16:55.918 --> 00:16:58.707
At that time you were singing at the empire on the Bowery.
00:16:58.707 --> 00:17:00.307
If my memory does not play me false.
00:17:01.018 --> 00:17:01.557
Yes.
00:17:02.368 --> 00:17:05.637
Uh, Western divine was robbed in the place of a large sum of money.
00:17:05.968 --> 00:17:07.587
And you were charged with a theft.
00:17:07.948 --> 00:17:09.627
It was a cowardly charge.
00:17:10.018 --> 00:17:11.367
I investigated the case.
00:17:11.847 --> 00:17:14.067
And you found out that I was innocent.
00:17:14.577 --> 00:17:15.087
Right.
00:17:15.958 --> 00:17:16.738
Only for you.
00:17:16.768 --> 00:17:18.147
I might've been sent to prison.
00:17:18.958 --> 00:17:19.587
Correct.
00:17:20.248 --> 00:17:20.548
Aye.
00:17:23.097 --> 00:17:23.458
Lena.
00:17:24.627 --> 00:17:27.087
Carter paused and looked straight into the woman's eyes.
00:17:27.587 --> 00:17:28.218
What is it?
00:17:28.577 --> 00:17:29.268
She asked.
00:17:30.468 --> 00:17:32.057
I want you to give me some information.
00:17:33.407 --> 00:17:33.813
Mr.
00:17:33.813 --> 00:17:34.218
Carter.
00:17:34.607 --> 00:17:39.917
I have always declared that if I could ever do you a favor for what you did for me, I would do it.
00:17:40.577 --> 00:17:40.968
Well then.
00:17:41.268 --> 00:17:42.137
Now's your chance.
00:17:42.728 --> 00:17:43.607
What do you want to know?
00:17:44.137 --> 00:17:46.748
Are you acquainted with a man named Dick Darwin?
00:17:47.397 --> 00:17:48.478
Oh, yes.
00:17:48.567 --> 00:17:49.077
Why?
00:17:49.387 --> 00:17:51.067
You've called on him a number of times.
00:17:51.728 --> 00:17:52.597
Yes.
00:17:53.107 --> 00:17:53.647
Where.
00:17:54.847 --> 00:17:59.498
Oh, he has a room in the studio building at the corner of 26th street and Broadway.
00:18:00.107 --> 00:18:01.038
How long have you known him?
00:18:01.817 --> 00:18:03.347
Oh, only a few weeks.
00:18:04.038 --> 00:18:04.428
Hmm.
00:18:04.817 --> 00:18:06.377
And how did you become acquainted with him?
00:18:06.978 --> 00:18:07.218
Aye.
00:18:08.451 --> 00:18:09.411
Lena hesitated.
00:18:09.770 --> 00:18:12.171
She looked at the detective and her face turned pale.
00:18:12.891 --> 00:18:15.201
Carter kept his eyes riveted upon her.
00:18:16.310 --> 00:18:16.820
Lena.
00:18:17.121 --> 00:18:17.510
He said.
00:18:18.320 --> 00:18:20.601
You must not try to conceal anything from me.
00:18:21.371 --> 00:18:21.685
Mr.
00:18:21.685 --> 00:18:22.000
Carter.
00:18:22.270 --> 00:18:23.891
Did Darwin employee you?
00:18:24.431 --> 00:18:25.171
Lena asked.
00:18:25.750 --> 00:18:26.171
No.
00:18:26.530 --> 00:18:26.891
Why.
00:18:27.580 --> 00:18:28.840
I just wanted to know.
00:18:30.191 --> 00:18:31.451
What if he had employed me?
00:18:32.351 --> 00:18:33.461
I am unable to say.
00:18:34.510 --> 00:18:36.760
Lena moved about uneasily in her chair.
00:18:37.480 --> 00:18:38.800
Carter kept still.
00:18:39.671 --> 00:18:41.740
He was giving the woman plenty of time to think.
00:18:42.580 --> 00:18:48.580
There was no need to hurry for he was confident that he would get out of her, all the information he desired.
00:18:49.330 --> 00:18:49.661
Mr.
00:18:49.661 --> 00:18:51.911
Carter, what do you know about Dick Darwin?
00:18:52.461 --> 00:18:53.891
Lena finally blurted out.
00:18:54.760 --> 00:18:55.510
Very little.
00:18:55.931 --> 00:18:56.921
The detective replied.
00:18:57.911 --> 00:18:59.711
I want to learn what you know about him.
00:19:00.971 --> 00:19:03.280
You are as Sphinx, like as ever.
00:19:04.211 --> 00:19:05.260
Hm, I have to be.
00:19:06.580 --> 00:19:07.810
Another silence followed.
00:19:08.740 --> 00:19:13.060
Lena arose from her chair and walked back and forth across the room several times.
00:19:13.480 --> 00:19:14.921
She resumed her seat again.
00:19:15.721 --> 00:19:16.891
I will tell you everything.
00:19:17.161 --> 00:19:17.941
She exclaimed.
00:19:18.461 --> 00:19:19.090
That is right.
00:19:19.510 --> 00:19:21.580
The detective said in an encouraging tone.
00:19:22.631 --> 00:19:24.101
Lena leaned back in her chair.
00:19:24.161 --> 00:19:26.651
And for some moments, she sat with her head bowed.
00:19:27.340 --> 00:19:33.760
At length, she looked up at the detective and said, I had a brother whose name was Edward Peters.
00:19:34.211 --> 00:19:35.500
He was employed by a Mrs.
00:19:35.530 --> 00:19:37.391
Porter who lived on fifth avenue.
00:19:38.111 --> 00:19:39.131
About 10 years ago.
00:19:39.401 --> 00:19:42.671
He was stabbed in the back and he died in Bellevue hospital.
00:19:43.330 --> 00:19:48.280
I always believe that someone murdered him, although I could never secure any evidence to prove it.
00:19:49.090 --> 00:19:52.300
He had for a chum, a man named George Blanchard.
00:19:52.750 --> 00:19:55.090
Blanchard also died in the hospital.
00:19:55.901 --> 00:19:56.980
Previous to his death.
00:19:57.161 --> 00:20:01.181
He made some kind of a confession to my brother in regard to a will case.
00:20:01.661 --> 00:20:05.921
I tried to get out of my brother, what the confession was about, but he would not tell me.
00:20:06.701 --> 00:20:11.230
Three months ago, I was looking through a trunk which contained some things belonging to my brother.
00:20:11.530 --> 00:20:14.171
And I found an old memorandum book.
00:20:14.891 --> 00:20:20.590
I opened it and I was surprised to find written in it, a short account of Blanchard's confession.
00:20:21.580 --> 00:20:22.691
I was interested.
00:20:23.320 --> 00:20:25.421
At the end of the confession, I found a note.
00:20:25.951 --> 00:20:26.550
What was it?
00:20:27.161 --> 00:20:28.631
I will get the book and read it to you.
00:20:29.111 --> 00:20:29.770
Please do so.
00:20:30.280 --> 00:20:33.040
Lena got up, walked over to a bureau.
00:20:33.431 --> 00:20:36.911
Opened a drawer, took out a small leather bound book.
00:20:37.211 --> 00:20:38.290
Returned to her seat.
00:20:38.711 --> 00:20:41.111
Open the book and commenced to read.
00:20:41.671 --> 00:20:48.361
This night, I stopped at the red dragon in, I gave the confession of blancher to the proprietor to lock up into a safe.
00:20:49.020 --> 00:20:51.361
I have seen Simeon rich three times.
00:20:51.661 --> 00:20:52.441
I have told him.
00:20:52.770 --> 00:20:58.351
That unless he pays me$10,000, I will take Blanchard's confession to the district attorney.
00:20:58.980 --> 00:21:01.560
I did not let him know where I had put the documents.
00:21:01.980 --> 00:21:05.070
No one knows about the contents of the papers except myself.
00:21:05.611 --> 00:21:05.971
Dr.
00:21:05.971 --> 00:21:10.411
Thompson did not ask to read the confession when he signed his name as a witness.
00:21:10.580 --> 00:21:13.191
Rich has promised to raise the money in a few days.
00:21:13.790 --> 00:21:16.500
Is that all Carter asked when Lena stopped reading?
00:21:17.040 --> 00:21:17.580
It is.
00:21:18.171 --> 00:21:19.340
Please let me have that book.
00:21:19.840 --> 00:21:20.500
Here it is.
00:21:21.050 --> 00:21:24.740
The detective glanced at some of the pages and then place the book in his pocket.
00:21:25.391 --> 00:21:27.250
What did you do after reading that memorandum?
00:21:27.820 --> 00:21:30.171
I knew Simeon rich Lena replied.
00:21:30.800 --> 00:21:32.000
I've met him some years ago.
00:21:32.631 --> 00:21:38.451
As soon as I read that memorandum, I made up my mind that rich would have to pay me well to keep silent.
00:21:38.931 --> 00:21:42.980
The thought came to me that perhaps he might've had a hand in my brother's death.
00:21:43.381 --> 00:21:48.901
I knew that rich was quite sweet on Isabella Porter, the daughter of the woman for whom my brother had worked.
00:21:49.151 --> 00:21:50.201
She is dead now.
00:21:50.471 --> 00:21:52.060
Oh, I mean, Mrs.
00:21:52.090 --> 00:21:52.451
Porter.
00:21:52.911 --> 00:21:53.871
Did you see rich?
00:21:54.361 --> 00:21:54.871
Yes.
00:21:55.020 --> 00:21:55.861
I hunted him up.
00:21:56.330 --> 00:21:57.111
Where was he living?
00:21:57.601 --> 00:22:00.750
In the studio building with Darwin to whom he introduced me.
00:22:01.260 --> 00:22:02.340
How did you find that out?
00:22:02.820 --> 00:22:03.645
I called on Ms.
00:22:03.645 --> 00:22:05.830
Porter, whom I knew was living at the Gerlach.
00:22:06.431 --> 00:22:07.661
What did you say to rich?
00:22:08.121 --> 00:22:11.421
I told him that I knew about the confession and I knew where it was.
00:22:11.921 --> 00:22:12.721
Was he frightened?
00:22:13.230 --> 00:22:13.740
Yes.
00:22:14.040 --> 00:22:19.230
He held a conference with Darwin, and he then told me that they would let me know how much they would pay me.
00:22:19.651 --> 00:22:22.201
I demanded$10,000.
00:22:22.740 --> 00:22:25.560
We have had several conversations about the matter.
00:22:25.861 --> 00:22:31.590
And a few days ago, I called on Darwin and he gave me$5,000 on account.
00:22:32.340 --> 00:22:38.730
I then gave him a copy of the memorandum in regard to the papers having been left with a proprietor of the red dragon in.
00:22:39.191 --> 00:22:40.480
Have you seen him since then?
00:22:40.971 --> 00:22:41.510
Once.
00:22:41.990 --> 00:22:43.371
Did he pay you any more money?
00:22:43.980 --> 00:22:46.290
No, but he promised to do so.
00:22:46.951 --> 00:22:52.921
From what Lena said, Carter knew now how it was that rich had learned of the existence of the Blanchard confession.
00:22:53.641 --> 00:22:56.520
The case was becoming clearer to the detective.
00:22:57.090 --> 00:23:04.320
But still for all that, he had not secured any positive evidence to prove that rich had anything to do with the murder.
00:23:04.941 --> 00:23:05.391
Lena.
00:23:05.631 --> 00:23:06.171
He said.
00:23:06.490 --> 00:23:08.381
You say that you believe your brother was murdered?
00:23:08.901 --> 00:23:09.411
I do.
00:23:09.901 --> 00:23:11.701
Do you think rich had anything to do with it?
00:23:12.461 --> 00:23:13.451
That I'm not sure.
00:23:13.921 --> 00:23:15.030
Will you be guided by me?
00:23:15.540 --> 00:23:16.111
I will.
00:23:16.611 --> 00:23:18.711
Then I want you to put on your things and accompany me.
00:23:19.471 --> 00:23:21.330
Are you going to place me under arrest?
00:23:21.750 --> 00:23:22.141
No.
00:23:22.770 --> 00:23:23.641
Then what?
00:23:24.131 --> 00:23:25.840
I am going to take you to my house.
00:23:26.141 --> 00:23:29.861
I want you to remain there until I have finished the case upon which I am at work.
00:23:30.371 --> 00:23:31.240
And what is that?
00:23:31.641 --> 00:23:33.451
The mystery of the red dragon inn.
00:23:33.961 --> 00:23:35.401
And you suspect rich?
00:23:36.121 --> 00:23:36.570
I do.
00:23:37.441 --> 00:23:38.941
I had been reading about that case.
00:23:39.361 --> 00:23:40.111
You have?
00:23:40.500 --> 00:23:41.131
Yes.
00:23:41.371 --> 00:23:45.181
And it has seemed strange to me that the detectives have not been able to find a clue.
00:23:45.641 --> 00:23:46.570
Will you accompany me?
00:23:46.931 --> 00:23:47.441
Yes.
00:23:47.941 --> 00:23:49.260
I may need your assistance.
00:23:49.760 --> 00:23:50.961
I will help you, Mr.
00:23:50.961 --> 00:23:51.830
Carter, gladly.
00:23:52.671 --> 00:23:53.570
Then, let us start.
00:23:54.211 --> 00:24:00.421
Lena put on her hat and coat, packed a few articles in a valise, and then she and the detective left the tenement.
00:24:01.050 --> 00:24:03.270
Day was dawning when Carter reached his home.
00:24:03.691 --> 00:24:05.161
He conducted Lena to Mrs.
00:24:05.161 --> 00:24:09.181
Peters, the housekeeper who gave her a room in which she promised to remain.
00:24:09.810 --> 00:24:16.681
Nick gave her a few instructions and then he retired to his own room where he threw himself down upon a couch and went to sleep.
00:24:17.520 --> 00:24:19.681
It was late in the morning when Carter awoke.
00:24:20.280 --> 00:24:25.980
He had an interview with Lena and then after partaking of a light breakfast, he went downtown.
00:24:26.580 --> 00:24:36.641
Chick Carter and Patsy Garvin, his two chief assistants were engaged upon another case, in which, by the way, Nick was fated to play a prominent part, so he did not see them that morning.
00:24:37.346 --> 00:24:40.671
Nick stepped into the cosmopolitan hotel and he saw Mr.
00:24:40.671 --> 00:24:44.721
Wright who informed him that his room had been entered during the night by someone.
00:24:45.151 --> 00:24:48.211
I think I knew who it was, the detective remarked.
00:24:48.421 --> 00:24:53.401
And then he departed feeling sure that the person who had entered the room was Brockey Gann.
00:24:53.911 --> 00:24:56.941
It tickled him to think that the rascal had been disappointed.
00:24:57.461 --> 00:25:03.070
Carter called at police headquarters, and there he learned that the other detectives had not made a discovery.
00:25:03.580 --> 00:25:10.540
He informed the chief inspector that he was following a promising clue and that he might be able to render a report in a few days.
00:25:11.141 --> 00:25:14.861
After leaving headquarters, he went uptown to the Knickerbocker cottage.
00:25:15.250 --> 00:25:21.371
There he questioned the waiters and at last he found the man who had served rich and Darwin on new year's Eve.
00:25:21.931 --> 00:25:23.881
Did you hear any of their conversation?
00:25:24.080 --> 00:25:25.490
The detective asked the waiter.
00:25:26.000 --> 00:25:27.800
Only a little, the man answered.
00:25:28.371 --> 00:25:31.131
They talked about some man who had just arrived from the city.
00:25:31.611 --> 00:25:32.631
Was any name mentioned?
00:25:33.101 --> 00:25:33.641
Yes.
00:25:34.121 --> 00:25:34.871
Can you recall it?
00:25:35.320 --> 00:25:36.550
I think it was.
00:25:37.361 --> 00:25:38.681
Uh, Lawrence.
00:25:38.740 --> 00:25:39.161
Yes.
00:25:39.611 --> 00:25:40.000
Hmm.
00:25:40.300 --> 00:25:41.560
And what did they say about him?
00:25:42.040 --> 00:25:43.300
Uh, that I don't know.
00:25:43.721 --> 00:25:44.770
What time did they leave here?
00:25:45.230 --> 00:25:47.451
Oh, well, about a half past 10.
00:25:47.451 --> 00:25:47.840
O'clock.
00:25:48.221 --> 00:25:49.901
Did you hear them mention where they were going?
00:25:50.621 --> 00:25:52.270
A messenger boy brought rich a note.
00:25:52.570 --> 00:25:57.070
He read it and then I heard him remark that they had better hurry down to McKeever's saloon.
00:25:57.560 --> 00:25:58.280
Was that all.
00:25:58.750 --> 00:25:59.260
Yes.
00:25:59.641 --> 00:26:01.290
Did you notice the number of the messenger?
00:26:01.810 --> 00:26:02.471
It was.
00:26:03.490 --> 00:26:05.320
Uh, yeah, 7 21.
00:26:05.861 --> 00:26:06.580
Do you know the boy.
00:26:07.010 --> 00:26:09.951
Oh, he's attached to the office on Broadway and 30th street.
00:26:10.631 --> 00:26:13.810
The waiter was unable to give the detective any more information.
00:26:14.411 --> 00:26:17.141
Carter hurried to the office of the district messenger company.
00:26:17.711 --> 00:26:19.211
There he found the messenger boy.
00:26:19.721 --> 00:26:25.240
Do you remember delivering a note on new year's Eve to a man who was dining at the Knickerbocker cottage?
00:26:25.471 --> 00:26:26.941
The detective asked the messenger.
00:26:27.421 --> 00:26:28.740
Was he a tall man?
00:26:28.941 --> 00:26:29.730
The boy queried.
00:26:30.211 --> 00:26:30.750
Yes.
00:26:31.221 --> 00:26:33.260
He was with a short stout man?
00:26:33.760 --> 00:26:34.300
Yes.
00:26:34.790 --> 00:26:36.171
Yeah, I gave him the note.
00:26:36.641 --> 00:26:37.840
From whom did you receive it?
00:26:38.296 --> 00:26:38.836
A man.
00:26:39.300 --> 00:26:40.320
Did you ever see him before?
00:26:40.760 --> 00:26:41.300
No.
00:26:41.721 --> 00:26:42.590
Can you describe him?
00:26:43.101 --> 00:26:44.780
He was pockmarked.
00:26:45.211 --> 00:26:46.080
Was he a tough?
00:26:46.500 --> 00:26:46.951
Yeah.
00:26:47.300 --> 00:26:48.951
Would you be able to recognize him again?
00:26:49.441 --> 00:26:50.161
Oh, sure.
00:26:50.780 --> 00:26:54.740
Carter gave the boy a bill and told him not to mention their conversation to a soul.
00:26:55.250 --> 00:26:58.451
From the boys' description, he recognized Brockey Gann.
00:26:59.030 --> 00:27:06.201
At McKeever's saloon, the detective was fortunate enough to find the bartender who had been on duty on new year's Eve.
00:27:06.681 --> 00:27:08.300
He was acquainted with this man.
00:27:08.570 --> 00:27:12.471
And as soon as he made himself known to him, he readily answered all his questions.
00:27:13.101 --> 00:27:17.750
They retired into a back room together, and as soon as they were seated, Carter asked.
00:27:17.961 --> 00:27:20.540
Are you acquainted with a man named Simeon rich?
00:27:21.010 --> 00:27:22.090
Yeah, I know who he is.
00:27:22.260 --> 00:27:23.280
The bartender replied.
00:27:23.770 --> 00:27:25.901
Do you remember if he was here on new year's Eve?
00:27:26.391 --> 00:27:27.681
Yeah, he was here with two men.
00:27:28.181 --> 00:27:28.750
At what time?
00:27:29.221 --> 00:27:32.101
Oh, it was about, uh, oh, 11 o'clock.
00:27:32.550 --> 00:27:33.780
Do you know, the men who were with him.
00:27:34.280 --> 00:27:36.661
Uh, one of the men was Brockey Gann.
00:27:37.161 --> 00:27:38.721
The other man, I don't know.
00:27:38.721 --> 00:27:40.461
Although I've seen him several times.
00:27:40.881 --> 00:27:42.260
And how long did they remain here?
00:27:42.651 --> 00:27:43.820
Uh, only a few minutes.
00:27:44.211 --> 00:27:46.820
They held a whispered conversation and then went out.
00:27:47.421 --> 00:27:48.861
Did you hear anything that was said?
00:27:49.421 --> 00:27:50.201
Not a word.
00:27:50.790 --> 00:27:52.951
This information only established one fact.
00:27:53.101 --> 00:27:57.540
And that was that rich Darwin and Brockie were together on new year's Eve.
00:27:58.230 --> 00:27:59.431
Carter left the saloon.
00:27:59.961 --> 00:28:03.711
He stood on the corner sometime trying to determine what he ought to do next.
00:28:04.280 --> 00:28:09.500
He was almost positive that Brockey Gann was the scoundrel who had tracked the murdered man.
00:28:10.221 --> 00:28:12.050
But how was he going to prove that.
00:28:12.770 --> 00:28:14.000
This was a conundrum.
00:28:14.990 --> 00:28:20.601
After a time, carter crossed the street and entered the establishment of a costumer.
00:28:22.000 --> 00:28:25.601
Who is Lena Peters, and how was she involved in this case?
00:28:26.101 --> 00:28:29.250
Can Nick Carter continue to give the slip to Brockey Gann?
00:28:29.711 --> 00:28:32.861
And how will Nick tie everything together in this case?
00:28:33.371 --> 00:28:43.060
Don't miss our next episode, where these questions may be answered in the case titled toying with pate or Nick Carter's narrow shave.
00:28:45.671 --> 00:28:49.451
Well, this case gets more and more interesting with each chapter, doesn't it?
00:28:49.961 --> 00:28:51.851
I can hardly wait to see what happens next.
00:28:52.421 --> 00:28:56.351
And yes, friends it is that time to remind you all that it would be awesome.
00:28:56.381 --> 00:28:58.750
If you could be a regular subscriber to the show.
00:28:59.560 --> 00:29:04.300
Are you passionate about exploring history and eager to keep the podcast thriving?
00:29:04.990 --> 00:29:16.840
By becoming a monthly supporter of the show, you can empower me to continue to create and find more engaging stories from the past and connect with fellow history buffs on the, buy me a coffee web page for the show.
00:29:17.330 --> 00:29:23.270
You can also read and view exclusive content that will not appear on any other social media platform.
00:29:23.721 --> 00:29:32.750
Because buy me a coffee has added so many features to their program that I will use it exclusively to add several bonus and behind the scenes features.
00:29:33.050 --> 00:29:34.911
And you won't want to miss that.
00:29:35.461 --> 00:29:48.760
Remember the link should be available on every major podcast platform under support the show, or just visit the podcast website at forwardintothepastpodcast.com.
00:29:49.770 --> 00:29:54.570
Or just send me a message and I'll be glad to get that direct link out to you.
00:29:55.411 --> 00:29:55.951
Okay.
00:29:56.431 --> 00:29:57.750
I've rambled long enough.
00:29:58.530 --> 00:30:01.770
I hope you enjoyed the show as much as I've enjoyed putting it together.
00:30:02.550 --> 00:30:03.451
As always friends.
00:30:03.871 --> 00:30:04.891
Thanks for listening.
00:30:05.131 --> 00:30:09.181
Keep sharing the stories and be a good human.
00:30:10.050 --> 00:30:11.101
Bye for now.
00:00:03.240 --> 00:00:07.889
Hi friends and welcome to another episode of forward into the past.
00:00:08.400 --> 00:00:10.679
I'm JC Rede, your host and narrator.
00:00:10.919 --> 00:00:15.269
And today we're continuing on with the exciting detective story from yesteryear.
00:00:15.570 --> 00:00:24.359
Toying With Fate or Nick Carter's narrow shave, published in 1903 by street and Smith publishing house.
00:00:25.679 --> 00:00:30.660
The golden age of dime novels was a time when reading was the ultimate form of entertainment.
00:00:31.320 --> 00:00:41.250
It was an era when people could escape from their daily struggles, through the pages of thrilling novels and immerse themselves in colorful stories of adventure, romance, and mystery.
00:00:41.750 --> 00:00:49.880
One of the biggest publishers of dime novels during this time was street and Smith a company that helped shape the literary landscape of America.
00:00:50.554 --> 00:00:55.659
Street Smith was founded in 1855 by Francis Smith and Francis street.
00:00:56.350 --> 00:01:04.000
At first, the company focused on publishing religious books, but as the demand for cheap mass produced literature began to grow.
00:01:04.450 --> 00:01:06.670
They shifted their focus to dime novels.
00:01:07.120 --> 00:01:14.609
From the late 18 hundreds to the early 19 hundreds Street and Smith was one of the biggest publishers of these cheaply produced novels.
00:01:14.909 --> 00:01:20.010
And they were responsible for launching the careers of some of the most famous authors of their time.
00:01:20.609 --> 00:01:24.540
Dime novels were small, lightweight, and incredibly cheap.
00:01:25.170 --> 00:01:27.750
They were designed to be affordable for the working class.
00:01:28.019 --> 00:01:32.939
And many of them were written by anonymous authors who were paid next to nothing for their work.
00:01:33.469 --> 00:01:40.819
Despite this,dime novels were incredibly popular and they helped to create a new literary genre that was accessible to everybody.
00:01:41.930 --> 00:01:46.819
Street and Smith specialized in publishing dime novels that were targeted at young men.
00:01:47.480 --> 00:01:50.180
They focused on producing stories that were fast paced.
00:01:50.599 --> 00:01:53.180
Action packed and filled with adventure.
00:01:53.930 --> 00:02:06.299
Some of the most popular titles included the Nick Carter mysteries, the Frank Merriwell stories, which were part sports and part detective story, and the covered wagon, which was a Western serial.
00:02:06.810 --> 00:02:14.819
These novels featured larger than life heroes who battled against villains and faced incredible challenges all while falling in love.
00:02:15.150 --> 00:02:17.669
And winning the hearts of readers everywhere.
00:02:18.689 --> 00:02:23.099
The success of street and Smith's dime novels help to create a new type of reader.
00:02:23.759 --> 00:02:28.409
These novels were designed to be consumed quickly and they were often read on the go.
00:02:29.159 --> 00:02:34.710
Many people would pick up a dime novel while riding the train to work or while waiting in line at the grocery store.
00:02:35.520 --> 00:02:42.590
This made reading more accessible to people who may not have had the time or resources to devote to more serious literature.
00:02:43.050 --> 00:02:46.530
The golden age of dime novels was not without its critics.
00:02:47.129 --> 00:02:52.110
Many people felt that these novels were low brow and lacked literary merit.
00:02:52.680 --> 00:02:59.039
However others recognized the importance of these novels in shaping the literary landscape of America.
00:02:59.759 --> 00:03:07.650
Dime novels help to create a new type of reader and they paved the way for the pulp fiction and comic book industries that would follow.
00:03:08.580 --> 00:03:10.349
And speaking of dime novels.
00:03:10.620 --> 00:03:18.240
Let's get back to the 1903 Nick Carter story toying with pate or Nick Carter's narrow shave.
00:03:20.740 --> 00:03:21.669
Chapter nine.
00:03:22.180 --> 00:03:23.169
More evidence.
00:03:24.169 --> 00:03:27.560
Dora Ferris was the first to speak and break the silence.
00:03:28.639 --> 00:03:29.044
Mr.
00:03:29.044 --> 00:03:29.449
Carter.
00:03:29.509 --> 00:03:30.110
She said.
00:03:30.680 --> 00:03:35.330
I can see that rich and Darwin are implicated in some affair, which you are investigating.
00:03:35.689 --> 00:03:36.800
It may be a crime.
00:03:37.280 --> 00:03:41.449
It was committed on new year's Eve or you would not be so particular about that date.
00:03:41.689 --> 00:03:42.889
I feel sure of that.
00:03:43.310 --> 00:03:46.370
You are a shrewd woman, the detective remarked with a smile.
00:03:46.860 --> 00:03:52.800
I am not very shrewd, but I can read character and I am able to form conclusions by putting two and two together.
00:03:53.229 --> 00:03:55.060
You asked about Dick Darwin's clothing.
00:03:55.389 --> 00:03:59.469
If you desire to examine it, I will take you to my flat and you can inspect it.
00:03:59.949 --> 00:04:01.300
Darwin may be there now.
00:04:01.819 --> 00:04:02.750
No, he is not.
00:04:03.439 --> 00:04:04.550
He can't get in.
00:04:04.759 --> 00:04:05.659
I have the key.
00:04:06.129 --> 00:04:07.389
I will go with you to your flat.
00:04:07.930 --> 00:04:09.759
Tell me first, what case you are working on?
00:04:10.240 --> 00:04:12.069
That must remain a secret for the present.
00:04:13.270 --> 00:04:14.050
I know.
00:04:14.590 --> 00:04:15.400
You know?
00:04:15.789 --> 00:04:16.449
Yes.
00:04:16.939 --> 00:04:18.139
What case am I working on?
00:04:19.009 --> 00:04:21.160
The mystery of the red dragon inn.
00:04:21.680 --> 00:04:26.000
Dora laughed heartily Carter uttered an exclamation of annoyance.
00:04:26.560 --> 00:04:28.269
When you mentioned the name of Lawrence.
00:04:28.569 --> 00:04:33.100
I remember that a man by that name had been murdered on new year's Eve at the red dragon Inn.
00:04:33.459 --> 00:04:37.660
And I also remembered that it was stated that you were working on the case.
00:04:37.839 --> 00:04:38.439
You see.
00:04:38.740 --> 00:04:39.370
I know.
00:04:39.970 --> 00:04:40.269
Hm.
00:04:40.779 --> 00:04:41.980
Now that I come to think of it.
00:04:42.250 --> 00:04:45.699
I remember reading that, that man had just been released from state's prison.
00:04:46.389 --> 00:04:50.050
It was also stated that he was the forger of the Lawrence will.
00:04:50.529 --> 00:04:54.730
If that be so, then he was a cousin of Simeon and Sally rich.
00:04:55.300 --> 00:04:55.689
Mr.
00:04:55.689 --> 00:04:56.079
Carter.
00:04:56.459 --> 00:04:57.149
What is the matter?
00:04:57.649 --> 00:05:00.500
Uh, a thought just occurred to me and it startled me.
00:05:00.980 --> 00:05:01.550
What was it?
00:05:02.240 --> 00:05:06.529
Do you believe that Simeon Rich and Richard Darwin had a hand in that murder?
00:05:07.019 --> 00:05:08.069
That I can't tell.
00:05:08.360 --> 00:05:10.220
Perhaps rich was afraid of Lawrence.
00:05:10.362 --> 00:05:11.983
We will not talk any more about this matter.
00:05:12.343 --> 00:05:13.483
We will start for your flat.
00:05:13.983 --> 00:05:15.083
Oh, but I will help you.
00:05:15.723 --> 00:05:16.112
Hm.
00:05:17.403 --> 00:05:18.392
Yes, I believe you.
00:05:18.952 --> 00:05:20.122
They arose from the table.
00:05:20.752 --> 00:05:24.262
Carter put on his facial disguise and then they left the restaurant.
00:05:24.853 --> 00:05:28.093
Dora's flat was situated on 39th street next to a theater.
00:05:28.572 --> 00:05:43.983
It was elaborately furnished in a style that evinced more money than good taste, and Nick almost shuddered at the array of showy furniture, useless bric-a-brac, draperies, and ornaments, which crowded the little parlor into which she ushered him.
00:05:44.612 --> 00:05:44.987
Mr.
00:05:44.987 --> 00:05:47.673
Carter, I suppose you do not want to lose any time.
00:05:47.822 --> 00:05:48.362
She said.
00:05:48.692 --> 00:05:52.202
So, if you will follow me, I will conduct you to Darwin's room.
00:05:52.843 --> 00:05:55.062
Carter followed Dora along a private hall.
00:05:55.663 --> 00:05:59.442
At last, she opened a door and led him into one of the bedrooms, remarking.
00:05:59.983 --> 00:06:01.093
This is the room.
00:06:02.293 --> 00:06:08.892
After she had turned on the electric light, she looked around and then she uttered an exclamation of surprise.
00:06:09.523 --> 00:06:11.533
The room was in confusion.
00:06:12.112 --> 00:06:13.283
Carter looked at Dora.
00:06:13.752 --> 00:06:16.483
He has been here and carted off all his things.
00:06:16.783 --> 00:06:18.012
Dora ejaculated.
00:06:18.012 --> 00:06:19.992
As soon as she recovered the use of her voice.
00:06:20.473 --> 00:06:23.233
I thought you said he had no key, Carter remarked.
00:06:23.802 --> 00:06:25.033
No, he has none.
00:06:25.392 --> 00:06:27.312
He must have come here before the servant left.
00:06:27.923 --> 00:06:28.223
Hm.
00:06:29.062 --> 00:06:30.202
What time does she leave?
00:06:31.132 --> 00:06:32.632
Uh, seven o'clock.
00:06:33.413 --> 00:06:34.403
And where does she live?
00:06:35.213 --> 00:06:36.682
On 27th street.
00:06:37.182 --> 00:06:39.163
While Carter was asking these questions.
00:06:39.403 --> 00:06:41.382
His eyes were wandering around the room.
00:06:42.103 --> 00:06:45.762
On the floor in a corner, he spied several pieces of paper.
00:06:46.603 --> 00:06:48.552
He picked them up and smooth them out.
00:06:49.333 --> 00:06:50.262
Two were blanks.
00:06:50.653 --> 00:06:52.302
And the third had writing on it.
00:06:52.932 --> 00:06:53.992
The detective read it.
00:06:54.583 --> 00:06:55.692
His countenance brightened.
00:06:56.682 --> 00:06:58.182
Dora noticed the change.
00:06:58.713 --> 00:06:59.312
What is it?
00:06:59.702 --> 00:07:00.362
She asked.
00:07:00.833 --> 00:07:01.283
Uh, note.
00:07:01.492 --> 00:07:02.543
replied the detective.
00:07:03.293 --> 00:07:03.952
From whom.
00:07:04.413 --> 00:07:04.952
Rich.
00:07:05.432 --> 00:07:06.062
To Darwin.
00:07:06.523 --> 00:07:07.062
Yes.
00:07:07.572 --> 00:07:08.473
When was it written?
00:07:08.952 --> 00:07:10.992
On the afternoon of the day before new years.
00:07:11.473 --> 00:07:12.343
Is it important?
00:07:12.833 --> 00:07:13.973
Um, it may be.
00:07:14.492 --> 00:07:15.182
Will you read it?
00:07:15.682 --> 00:07:17.423
Nick examined her face intently.
00:07:18.562 --> 00:07:19.822
Do you still doubt me?
00:07:21.923 --> 00:07:24.262
No replied Carter after a pause.
00:07:24.682 --> 00:07:25.822
Nick was satisfied.
00:07:26.723 --> 00:07:28.463
You can rely on me to help you, Mr.
00:07:28.463 --> 00:07:28.822
Carter.
00:07:29.663 --> 00:07:30.052
Yes.
00:07:30.052 --> 00:07:30.923
I know it now.
00:07:31.642 --> 00:07:32.723
Will you read that note?
00:07:33.442 --> 00:07:33.952
Yes.
00:07:34.463 --> 00:07:35.122
Please do so.
00:07:36.052 --> 00:07:37.103
December 31st.
00:07:37.552 --> 00:07:38.153
Dear Dick.
00:07:38.663 --> 00:07:41.423
I was at the grand central this afternoon when he arrived.
00:07:41.843 --> 00:07:43.523
Followed him downtown in a cab.
00:07:43.973 --> 00:07:46.043
He went to the safe deposit company's office.
00:07:46.043 --> 00:07:48.142
I have placed a party on his trail.
00:07:48.802 --> 00:07:53.362
Meet me at seven o'clock tonight at the Knickerbocker cottage, we will dine together.
00:07:53.692 --> 00:07:54.593
Yours in haste.
00:07:55.132 --> 00:07:55.822
Simeon.
00:07:56.302 --> 00:07:58.312
Then Darwin was with rich that night.
00:07:58.882 --> 00:07:59.963
No doubt about that.
00:08:00.572 --> 00:08:03.992
Carter folded up the paper and placed it carefully away in his pocket book.
00:08:04.742 --> 00:08:08.012
He looked upon this note as an important piece of evidence.
00:08:08.583 --> 00:08:14.612
The, he mentioned in it, he felt confident, referred to the man who had been murdered at the red dragon in.
00:08:15.392 --> 00:08:20.432
According to this note, Rich and Darwin had dined together at the Knickerbocker cottage.
00:08:21.002 --> 00:08:24.273
It would be an easy matter to find out what time they had left that place.
00:08:25.173 --> 00:08:34.592
another thing was clear and that was that Darwin had taken fright about something, or he would have never removed his things from the flat in such haste.
00:08:35.102 --> 00:08:36.993
Was this move an indication of guilt?
00:08:37.552 --> 00:08:39.232
Carter turned to Dora and asked.
00:08:39.822 --> 00:08:41.773
Do you know where rich and his sister reside?
00:08:42.552 --> 00:08:42.852
Hmm.
00:08:42.913 --> 00:08:43.873
No, I do not.
00:08:44.312 --> 00:08:47.493
Did you ever hear Darwin speak of a woman named Isabella Porter?
00:08:47.993 --> 00:08:48.863
I know that woman.
00:08:49.352 --> 00:08:50.192
Where does she live?
00:08:50.702 --> 00:08:51.842
That I do not know.
00:08:52.332 --> 00:08:54.523
Did you know that Darwin and rich were acquainted with her?
00:08:55.052 --> 00:08:57.363
Rich has known her ever since she was a small girl.
00:08:57.852 --> 00:08:58.842
And what about Darwin?
00:08:59.332 --> 00:09:02.062
No, he's only being acquainted with her for a short time.
00:09:02.562 --> 00:09:03.763
And when did you first meet her?
00:09:04.283 --> 00:09:08.003
Uh, she was in Rich's company one night and he introduced her to me.
00:09:08.533 --> 00:09:09.613
And what do you know about her?
00:09:10.143 --> 00:09:12.182
She is the daughter of a rich merchant.
00:09:12.182 --> 00:09:14.673
I believe her mother and father are dead.
00:09:15.092 --> 00:09:16.293
But she has an income.
00:09:16.852 --> 00:09:18.493
Is that all, you know, Hmm.
00:09:18.582 --> 00:09:19.153
It is.
00:09:19.732 --> 00:09:26.482
It was too late to continue the inquiries further that night he concluded and he determined to go home as long as he was uptown.
00:09:27.312 --> 00:09:29.232
Carter was in a very thoughtful mood.
00:09:29.712 --> 00:09:33.253
Many curious events had happened during the past 24 hours.
00:09:34.062 --> 00:09:44.552
He was walking along leisurely with his head bowed, thinking of plans for that day and where he would go to make inquiries when his attention was attracted to two men who were walking ahead of him.
00:09:45.572 --> 00:09:48.513
Instantly, he raised his head and slackened his pace.
00:09:49.202 --> 00:09:51.812
One of the men he recognized as Darwin.
00:09:52.832 --> 00:09:53.822
The man's companion.
00:09:53.852 --> 00:09:55.082
He had never seen before.
00:09:55.923 --> 00:09:58.832
He could not get near enough to the men to hear their conversation.
00:09:59.702 --> 00:10:05.013
At the corner of 52nd street, the men separated and Darwin started in an easterly direction.
00:10:05.613 --> 00:10:07.023
Carter decided to follow him.
00:10:07.293 --> 00:10:09.332
And he gave up the idea of going home.
00:10:09.982 --> 00:10:13.283
Darwin reached the east side of town and turned into second avenue.
00:10:13.913 --> 00:10:15.562
What business has he overhear?
00:10:15.923 --> 00:10:19.102
The detective asked himself as he kept on the trail of his quarry.
00:10:20.153 --> 00:10:24.232
Between 41st and 40th streets, Darwin halted under a streetlamp.
00:10:24.822 --> 00:10:30.432
From his pocket, he took a slip of paper consulted it and then went along, examining the numbers of the houses.
00:10:30.993 --> 00:10:33.842
Carter stopped in the doorway of the corner store and watched him.
00:10:34.243 --> 00:10:36.732
At the same time he changed his disguise.
00:10:37.302 --> 00:10:40.932
He now looked as tough as any of the night prowlers in the questionable neighborhood.
00:10:41.462 --> 00:10:43.352
Darwin entered a tall tenement.
00:10:43.903 --> 00:10:46.332
Carter hurried out of his place of concealment.
00:10:46.722 --> 00:10:49.513
He also went into the house and stood in the lower hall.
00:10:50.052 --> 00:10:52.062
On each floor lights were burning.
00:10:52.602 --> 00:10:58.062
As he looked up, he saw Darwin distinctly on the next floor and he heard him knock on the door of the back room.
00:10:58.572 --> 00:11:01.602
Darwin knocked a number of times and no one opened the door.
00:11:02.133 --> 00:11:08.133
When he started to descend the stairs, Carter walked out and took up a position in a doorway of a house near the corner.
00:11:08.692 --> 00:11:12.322
Darwin came out of the tenement, walk to the corner and halted.
00:11:12.842 --> 00:11:13.623
Back and forth.
00:11:13.653 --> 00:11:15.692
He moved and kept looking at the house.
00:11:16.432 --> 00:11:18.863
The detective saw that he was uneasy.
00:11:19.552 --> 00:11:21.653
He wondered whom Darwin had come to see.
00:11:22.702 --> 00:11:26.873
Darwin after a time, came back to the tenement and entered again.
00:11:27.592 --> 00:11:30.113
Carter did not move from his hiding place.
00:11:30.682 --> 00:11:36.283
His quarry only remained inside a minute or so, and then came out, going back to the corner and halting.
00:11:36.903 --> 00:11:38.312
Carter came out of the doorway.
00:11:38.852 --> 00:11:43.633
He strolled up to the corner and stopped within a few feet of Darwin who saw and eyed him.
00:11:44.822 --> 00:11:48.633
Two or three times the man made a movement as if he were going to address Carter.
00:11:49.023 --> 00:11:50.493
But he hesitated.
00:11:51.393 --> 00:11:53.493
The detective made no attempt to speak.
00:11:54.003 --> 00:11:56.883
He looked up and down the street and appeared unconcerned.
00:11:57.932 --> 00:11:59.972
Carter wanted to see if Darwin would speak to him.
00:12:00.692 --> 00:12:03.873
He judged that if he waited long enough, the man would do so.
00:12:05.102 --> 00:12:08.552
Darwin crossed the street, halted a moment and then came back.
00:12:09.182 --> 00:12:12.153
He glanced sharply suspiciously at Carter.
00:12:12.852 --> 00:12:13.602
Excuse me.
00:12:13.722 --> 00:12:15.342
He said, as he came to a standstill.
00:12:15.802 --> 00:12:16.822
Do you live around here?
00:12:17.873 --> 00:12:19.102
Are you addressing me?
00:12:19.582 --> 00:12:22.393
The detective asked in a disguise tone of voice.
00:12:22.832 --> 00:12:23.432
I am.
00:12:23.873 --> 00:12:27.173
Oh, well, yes, I live in that house down there.
00:12:27.623 --> 00:12:31.163
Said Nick pointing to the tall tenement, which Darwin had twice entered.
00:12:31.643 --> 00:12:32.212
You do.
00:12:32.602 --> 00:12:33.592
What floor do you live on?
00:12:34.062 --> 00:12:35.562
The top, why?
00:12:36.113 --> 00:12:38.033
I want some information about one of the tenants.
00:12:38.557 --> 00:12:38.857
Eh.
00:12:39.258 --> 00:12:41.038
Carter bent forward and looked at Darwin.
00:12:41.498 --> 00:12:43.368
his acting was magnificent.
00:12:43.857 --> 00:12:44.427
Say.
00:12:44.878 --> 00:12:46.197
Are you a fly cop?
00:12:46.557 --> 00:12:48.057
He asked with suspicion.
00:12:48.427 --> 00:12:50.258
No Darwin replied quickly.
00:12:50.347 --> 00:12:51.398
I'm not a detective.
00:12:52.628 --> 00:12:53.738
You haven't got the cut of one.
00:12:54.518 --> 00:12:54.967
No.
00:12:56.437 --> 00:12:56.918
All right.
00:12:56.918 --> 00:12:57.878
What do you want to know?
00:12:59.168 --> 00:13:01.927
Are you acquainted with a woman named Lena Peters?
00:13:02.557 --> 00:13:04.927
You mean the woman who lives in the back room on the second floor.
00:13:05.498 --> 00:13:05.768
Yes.
00:13:05.768 --> 00:13:06.187
Yes.
00:13:06.998 --> 00:13:08.197
I know her by site.
00:13:08.687 --> 00:13:09.738
Well, have you seen her tonight?
00:13:10.278 --> 00:13:10.727
Now.
00:13:12.707 --> 00:13:16.368
I've been to her room now and knocked, but no one seems to be in.
00:13:16.957 --> 00:13:18.488
Did you have an appointment with her?
00:13:18.988 --> 00:13:20.908
Well, no, no, not exactly an appointment.
00:13:21.388 --> 00:13:23.618
Oh, For a time they were silent.
00:13:24.278 --> 00:13:26.258
Then Carter said in an offhand way.
00:13:26.778 --> 00:13:27.227
What does Ms.
00:13:27.227 --> 00:13:27.977
Peters do?
00:13:28.727 --> 00:13:30.888
She sings in a concert hall over on the west side.
00:13:31.227 --> 00:13:32.097
Darwin replied.
00:13:32.638 --> 00:13:36.477
Ah, I often wondered what she worked at to keep her out so late at night.
00:13:36.967 --> 00:13:38.347
Will you see her when she comes in?
00:13:39.288 --> 00:13:40.087
I don't know.
00:13:40.628 --> 00:13:41.918
Are you going to remain here long?
00:13:42.447 --> 00:13:42.717
Yeah.
00:13:42.748 --> 00:13:43.288
All night.
00:13:43.788 --> 00:13:44.447
What for.
00:13:44.937 --> 00:13:46.557
I watch the stores on the block.
00:13:47.008 --> 00:13:50.518
Oh, Why did you ask that question?
00:13:51.008 --> 00:13:53.557
Will you deliver a message to Lena Peters when she comes home?
00:13:54.518 --> 00:13:55.057
Certainly.
00:13:55.557 --> 00:14:00.298
Please tell her that a gentleman named Richard called to see her and that he wants her to come to his room.
00:14:00.298 --> 00:14:01.437
The first thing after noon.
00:14:01.977 --> 00:14:02.998
Where are your rooms?
00:14:03.467 --> 00:14:05.057
Oh, she's familiar with the address.
00:14:05.548 --> 00:14:06.988
And she's called on you before.
00:14:07.518 --> 00:14:08.207
Oh, yes.
00:14:08.717 --> 00:14:09.798
At your rooms.
00:14:10.268 --> 00:14:11.048
Yes.
00:14:11.557 --> 00:14:12.788
Have you been down here before?
00:14:13.207 --> 00:14:13.567
No.
00:14:14.227 --> 00:14:14.707
All right.
00:14:15.278 --> 00:14:16.628
I'll be sure and see Miss Peters.
00:14:17.268 --> 00:14:18.528
Here's a dollar for your trouble.
00:14:19.337 --> 00:14:19.998
Thanks.
00:14:20.548 --> 00:14:21.748
Carter pocketed the money.
00:14:22.398 --> 00:14:23.658
I can depend on you.
00:14:24.317 --> 00:14:25.758
Darwin asked uneasily.
00:14:26.307 --> 00:14:26.998
You can.
00:14:27.258 --> 00:14:30.857
The detective replied and he hardly was able to repress a smile.
00:14:31.548 --> 00:14:32.118
All right then.
00:14:32.238 --> 00:14:32.837
Good night.
00:14:34.038 --> 00:14:35.268
Darwin hurried away.
00:14:35.868 --> 00:14:37.878
Carter did not budge from the corner.
00:14:38.837 --> 00:14:44.388
That he had formed some new plan in his mind was evident, or he would have made a move to keep on the trail of his quarry.
00:14:44.967 --> 00:14:47.128
He said the woman's name was Peters.
00:14:47.548 --> 00:14:48.508
Lena Peters.
00:14:48.817 --> 00:14:52.398
The detective muttered a few minutes after Darwin had disappeared around the corner.
00:14:53.327 --> 00:14:54.998
She has seen him a number of times.
00:14:55.418 --> 00:14:58.988
Can she be any relation to the man who died in Bellevue hospital?
00:14:59.707 --> 00:15:00.638
If she is.
00:15:01.388 --> 00:15:02.467
Carter stopped musing.
00:15:02.618 --> 00:15:06.398
As he saw a woman who had hurried around the corner, enter the tenement.
00:15:07.057 --> 00:15:09.548
Instantly, he started toward the house and went in.
00:15:10.207 --> 00:15:12.457
The woman was halfway up the stairs.
00:15:14.618 --> 00:15:15.368
Chapter 10.
00:15:15.847 --> 00:15:16.748
Lena's story.
00:15:18.307 --> 00:15:21.668
Carter had entered the lower hall of the house without making any noise.
00:15:22.268 --> 00:15:24.548
The woman's attention was not attracted toward him.
00:15:24.727 --> 00:15:27.307
So he stood back in the shadow and watched her.
00:15:27.847 --> 00:15:32.018
She reached the landing and stopping in front of the door of the back room.
00:15:32.258 --> 00:15:35.857
She inserted a key in the lock, opened the door and went in.
00:15:36.817 --> 00:15:38.827
Nick knocked on the door of the room.
00:15:39.638 --> 00:15:41.018
The woman opened the door.
00:15:42.128 --> 00:15:42.937
What do you want?
00:15:43.118 --> 00:15:44.528
She demanded in surprise.
00:15:45.087 --> 00:15:46.528
Is your name Lena Peters?
00:15:46.768 --> 00:15:47.727
The detective asked.
00:15:48.268 --> 00:15:48.807
It is.
00:15:49.337 --> 00:15:50.238
I want to talk with you.
00:15:50.778 --> 00:15:54.317
Carter pushed his way into the room without ceremony and closed the door.
00:15:54.768 --> 00:15:57.168
The woman's face became flushed with anger.
00:15:57.677 --> 00:16:00.587
She stepped back from the detective and her eyes flashed.
00:16:01.107 --> 00:16:02.038
What do you want?
00:16:02.187 --> 00:16:06.378
She demanded with a string of oaths and she pulled out of her pocket, a small pistol.
00:16:06.988 --> 00:16:07.918
Don't get excited.
00:16:08.307 --> 00:16:10.498
Carter quietly said with a scornful smile.
00:16:11.398 --> 00:16:12.518
Put up your pistol Lena.
00:16:12.658 --> 00:16:13.888
I'm not going to harm you.
00:16:14.447 --> 00:16:15.587
Who are you?
00:16:16.107 --> 00:16:17.548
I will tell you in a few moments.
00:16:18.148 --> 00:16:19.408
You are a stranger to me.
00:16:19.998 --> 00:16:20.988
I guess not.
00:16:21.528 --> 00:16:24.018
As Carter said this, he pulled off his disguise.
00:16:24.467 --> 00:16:27.378
Lena uttered a scream and sank down into a chair.
00:16:27.827 --> 00:16:29.118
Nick Carter.
00:16:29.447 --> 00:16:30.227
She gasped.
00:16:30.437 --> 00:16:32.868
And the pistol fell from her grasp into her lap.
00:16:33.427 --> 00:16:42.248
You recognize me now, the detective said with a smile as he sat down, From this, it will be seen that he and the woman had met before.
00:16:43.238 --> 00:16:44.947
After a pause, Carter remarked.
00:16:45.447 --> 00:16:46.317
Let me see Lena.
00:16:46.918 --> 00:16:49.347
It is several years since we've had the pleasure of meeting.
00:16:49.857 --> 00:16:51.807
You haven't changed any, since I last saw you.
00:16:52.618 --> 00:16:53.638
No.
00:16:54.207 --> 00:16:55.048
Lena stammered.
00:16:55.918 --> 00:16:58.707
At that time you were singing at the empire on the Bowery.
00:16:58.707 --> 00:17:00.307
If my memory does not play me false.
00:17:01.018 --> 00:17:01.557
Yes.
00:17:02.368 --> 00:17:05.637
Uh, Western divine was robbed in the place of a large sum of money.
00:17:05.968 --> 00:17:07.587
And you were charged with a theft.
00:17:07.948 --> 00:17:09.627
It was a cowardly charge.
00:17:10.018 --> 00:17:11.367
I investigated the case.
00:17:11.847 --> 00:17:14.067
And you found out that I was innocent.
00:17:14.577 --> 00:17:15.087
Right.
00:17:15.958 --> 00:17:16.738
Only for you.
00:17:16.768 --> 00:17:18.147
I might've been sent to prison.
00:17:18.958 --> 00:17:19.587
Correct.
00:17:20.248 --> 00:17:20.548
Aye.
00:17:23.097 --> 00:17:23.458
Lena.
00:17:24.627 --> 00:17:27.087
Carter paused and looked straight into the woman's eyes.
00:17:27.587 --> 00:17:28.218
What is it?
00:17:28.577 --> 00:17:29.268
She asked.
00:17:30.468 --> 00:17:32.057
I want you to give me some information.
00:17:33.407 --> 00:17:33.813
Mr.
00:17:33.813 --> 00:17:34.218
Carter.
00:17:34.607 --> 00:17:39.917
I have always declared that if I could ever do you a favor for what you did for me, I would do it.
00:17:40.577 --> 00:17:40.968
Well then.
00:17:41.268 --> 00:17:42.137
Now's your chance.
00:17:42.728 --> 00:17:43.607
What do you want to know?
00:17:44.137 --> 00:17:46.748
Are you acquainted with a man named Dick Darwin?
00:17:47.397 --> 00:17:48.478
Oh, yes.
00:17:48.567 --> 00:17:49.077
Why?
00:17:49.387 --> 00:17:51.067
You've called on him a number of times.
00:17:51.728 --> 00:17:52.597
Yes.
00:17:53.107 --> 00:17:53.647
Where.
00:17:54.847 --> 00:17:59.498
Oh, he has a room in the studio building at the corner of 26th street and Broadway.
00:18:00.107 --> 00:18:01.038
How long have you known him?
00:18:01.817 --> 00:18:03.347
Oh, only a few weeks.
00:18:04.038 --> 00:18:04.428
Hmm.
00:18:04.817 --> 00:18:06.377
And how did you become acquainted with him?
00:18:06.978 --> 00:18:07.218
Aye.
00:18:08.451 --> 00:18:09.411
Lena hesitated.
00:18:09.770 --> 00:18:12.171
She looked at the detective and her face turned pale.
00:18:12.891 --> 00:18:15.201
Carter kept his eyes riveted upon her.
00:18:16.310 --> 00:18:16.820
Lena.
00:18:17.121 --> 00:18:17.510
He said.
00:18:18.320 --> 00:18:20.601
You must not try to conceal anything from me.
00:18:21.371 --> 00:18:21.685
Mr.
00:18:21.685 --> 00:18:22.000
Carter.
00:18:22.270 --> 00:18:23.891
Did Darwin employee you?
00:18:24.431 --> 00:18:25.171
Lena asked.
00:18:25.750 --> 00:18:26.171
No.
00:18:26.530 --> 00:18:26.891
Why.
00:18:27.580 --> 00:18:28.840
I just wanted to know.
00:18:30.191 --> 00:18:31.451
What if he had employed me?
00:18:32.351 --> 00:18:33.461
I am unable to say.
00:18:34.510 --> 00:18:36.760
Lena moved about uneasily in her chair.
00:18:37.480 --> 00:18:38.800
Carter kept still.
00:18:39.671 --> 00:18:41.740
He was giving the woman plenty of time to think.
00:18:42.580 --> 00:18:48.580
There was no need to hurry for he was confident that he would get out of her, all the information he desired.
00:18:49.330 --> 00:18:49.661
Mr.
00:18:49.661 --> 00:18:51.911
Carter, what do you know about Dick Darwin?
00:18:52.461 --> 00:18:53.891
Lena finally blurted out.
00:18:54.760 --> 00:18:55.510
Very little.
00:18:55.931 --> 00:18:56.921
The detective replied.
00:18:57.911 --> 00:18:59.711
I want to learn what you know about him.
00:19:00.971 --> 00:19:03.280
You are as Sphinx, like as ever.
00:19:04.211 --> 00:19:05.260
Hm, I have to be.
00:19:06.580 --> 00:19:07.810
Another silence followed.
00:19:08.740 --> 00:19:13.060
Lena arose from her chair and walked back and forth across the room several times.
00:19:13.480 --> 00:19:14.921
She resumed her seat again.
00:19:15.721 --> 00:19:16.891
I will tell you everything.
00:19:17.161 --> 00:19:17.941
She exclaimed.
00:19:18.461 --> 00:19:19.090
That is right.
00:19:19.510 --> 00:19:21.580
The detective said in an encouraging tone.
00:19:22.631 --> 00:19:24.101
Lena leaned back in her chair.
00:19:24.161 --> 00:19:26.651
And for some moments, she sat with her head bowed.
00:19:27.340 --> 00:19:33.760
At length, she looked up at the detective and said, I had a brother whose name was Edward Peters.
00:19:34.211 --> 00:19:35.500
He was employed by a Mrs.
00:19:35.530 --> 00:19:37.391
Porter who lived on fifth avenue.
00:19:38.111 --> 00:19:39.131
About 10 years ago.
00:19:39.401 --> 00:19:42.671
He was stabbed in the back and he died in Bellevue hospital.
00:19:43.330 --> 00:19:48.280
I always believe that someone murdered him, although I could never secure any evidence to prove it.
00:19:49.090 --> 00:19:52.300
He had for a chum, a man named George Blanchard.
00:19:52.750 --> 00:19:55.090
Blanchard also died in the hospital.
00:19:55.901 --> 00:19:56.980
Previous to his death.
00:19:57.161 --> 00:20:01.181
He made some kind of a confession to my brother in regard to a will case.
00:20:01.661 --> 00:20:05.921
I tried to get out of my brother, what the confession was about, but he would not tell me.
00:20:06.701 --> 00:20:11.230
Three months ago, I was looking through a trunk which contained some things belonging to my brother.
00:20:11.530 --> 00:20:14.171
And I found an old memorandum book.
00:20:14.891 --> 00:20:20.590
I opened it and I was surprised to find written in it, a short account of Blanchard's confession.
00:20:21.580 --> 00:20:22.691
I was interested.
00:20:23.320 --> 00:20:25.421
At the end of the confession, I found a note.
00:20:25.951 --> 00:20:26.550
What was it?
00:20:27.161 --> 00:20:28.631
I will get the book and read it to you.
00:20:29.111 --> 00:20:29.770
Please do so.
00:20:30.280 --> 00:20:33.040
Lena got up, walked over to a bureau.
00:20:33.431 --> 00:20:36.911
Opened a drawer, took out a small leather bound book.
00:20:37.211 --> 00:20:38.290
Returned to her seat.
00:20:38.711 --> 00:20:41.111
Open the book and commenced to read.
00:20:41.671 --> 00:20:48.361
This night, I stopped at the red dragon in, I gave the confession of blancher to the proprietor to lock up into a safe.
00:20:49.020 --> 00:20:51.361
I have seen Simeon rich three times.
00:20:51.661 --> 00:20:52.441
I have told him.
00:20:52.770 --> 00:20:58.351
That unless he pays me$10,000, I will take Blanchard's confession to the district attorney.
00:20:58.980 --> 00:21:01.560
I did not let him know where I had put the documents.
00:21:01.980 --> 00:21:05.070
No one knows about the contents of the papers except myself.
00:21:05.611 --> 00:21:05.971
Dr.
00:21:05.971 --> 00:21:10.411
Thompson did not ask to read the confession when he signed his name as a witness.
00:21:10.580 --> 00:21:13.191
Rich has promised to raise the money in a few days.
00:21:13.790 --> 00:21:16.500
Is that all Carter asked when Lena stopped reading?
00:21:17.040 --> 00:21:17.580
It is.
00:21:18.171 --> 00:21:19.340
Please let me have that book.
00:21:19.840 --> 00:21:20.500
Here it is.
00:21:21.050 --> 00:21:24.740
The detective glanced at some of the pages and then place the book in his pocket.
00:21:25.391 --> 00:21:27.250
What did you do after reading that memorandum?
00:21:27.820 --> 00:21:30.171
I knew Simeon rich Lena replied.
00:21:30.800 --> 00:21:32.000
I've met him some years ago.
00:21:32.631 --> 00:21:38.451
As soon as I read that memorandum, I made up my mind that rich would have to pay me well to keep silent.
00:21:38.931 --> 00:21:42.980
The thought came to me that perhaps he might've had a hand in my brother's death.
00:21:43.381 --> 00:21:48.901
I knew that rich was quite sweet on Isabella Porter, the daughter of the woman for whom my brother had worked.
00:21:49.151 --> 00:21:50.201
She is dead now.
00:21:50.471 --> 00:21:52.060
Oh, I mean, Mrs.
00:21:52.090 --> 00:21:52.451
Porter.
00:21:52.911 --> 00:21:53.871
Did you see rich?
00:21:54.361 --> 00:21:54.871
Yes.
00:21:55.020 --> 00:21:55.861
I hunted him up.
00:21:56.330 --> 00:21:57.111
Where was he living?
00:21:57.601 --> 00:22:00.750
In the studio building with Darwin to whom he introduced me.
00:22:01.260 --> 00:22:02.340
How did you find that out?
00:22:02.820 --> 00:22:03.645
I called on Ms.
00:22:03.645 --> 00:22:05.830
Porter, whom I knew was living at the Gerlach.
00:22:06.431 --> 00:22:07.661
What did you say to rich?
00:22:08.121 --> 00:22:11.421
I told him that I knew about the confession and I knew where it was.
00:22:11.921 --> 00:22:12.721
Was he frightened?
00:22:13.230 --> 00:22:13.740
Yes.
00:22:14.040 --> 00:22:19.230
He held a conference with Darwin, and he then told me that they would let me know how much they would pay me.
00:22:19.651 --> 00:22:22.201
I demanded$10,000.
00:22:22.740 --> 00:22:25.560
We have had several conversations about the matter.
00:22:25.861 --> 00:22:31.590
And a few days ago, I called on Darwin and he gave me$5,000 on account.
00:22:32.340 --> 00:22:38.730
I then gave him a copy of the memorandum in regard to the papers having been left with a proprietor of the red dragon in.
00:22:39.191 --> 00:22:40.480
Have you seen him since then?
00:22:40.971 --> 00:22:41.510
Once.
00:22:41.990 --> 00:22:43.371
Did he pay you any more money?
00:22:43.980 --> 00:22:46.290
No, but he promised to do so.
00:22:46.951 --> 00:22:52.921
From what Lena said, Carter knew now how it was that rich had learned of the existence of the Blanchard confession.
00:22:53.641 --> 00:22:56.520
The case was becoming clearer to the detective.
00:22:57.090 --> 00:23:04.320
But still for all that, he had not secured any positive evidence to prove that rich had anything to do with the murder.
00:23:04.941 --> 00:23:05.391
Lena.
00:23:05.631 --> 00:23:06.171
He said.
00:23:06.490 --> 00:23:08.381
You say that you believe your brother was murdered?
00:23:08.901 --> 00:23:09.411
I do.
00:23:09.901 --> 00:23:11.701
Do you think rich had anything to do with it?
00:23:12.461 --> 00:23:13.451
That I'm not sure.
00:23:13.921 --> 00:23:15.030
Will you be guided by me?
00:23:15.540 --> 00:23:16.111
I will.
00:23:16.611 --> 00:23:18.711
Then I want you to put on your things and accompany me.
00:23:19.471 --> 00:23:21.330
Are you going to place me under arrest?
00:23:21.750 --> 00:23:22.141
No.
00:23:22.770 --> 00:23:23.641
Then what?
00:23:24.131 --> 00:23:25.840
I am going to take you to my house.
00:23:26.141 --> 00:23:29.861
I want you to remain there until I have finished the case upon which I am at work.
00:23:30.371 --> 00:23:31.240
And what is that?
00:23:31.641 --> 00:23:33.451
The mystery of the red dragon inn.
00:23:33.961 --> 00:23:35.401
And you suspect rich?
00:23:36.121 --> 00:23:36.570
I do.
00:23:37.441 --> 00:23:38.941
I had been reading about that case.
00:23:39.361 --> 00:23:40.111
You have?
00:23:40.500 --> 00:23:41.131
Yes.
00:23:41.371 --> 00:23:45.181
And it has seemed strange to me that the detectives have not been able to find a clue.
00:23:45.641 --> 00:23:46.570
Will you accompany me?
00:23:46.931 --> 00:23:47.441
Yes.
00:23:47.941 --> 00:23:49.260
I may need your assistance.
00:23:49.760 --> 00:23:50.961
I will help you, Mr.
00:23:50.961 --> 00:23:51.830
Carter, gladly.
00:23:52.671 --> 00:23:53.570
Then, let us start.
00:23:54.211 --> 00:24:00.421
Lena put on her hat and coat, packed a few articles in a valise, and then she and the detective left the tenement.
00:24:01.050 --> 00:24:03.270
Day was dawning when Carter reached his home.
00:24:03.691 --> 00:24:05.161
He conducted Lena to Mrs.
00:24:05.161 --> 00:24:09.181
Peters, the housekeeper who gave her a room in which she promised to remain.
00:24:09.810 --> 00:24:16.681
Nick gave her a few instructions and then he retired to his own room where he threw himself down upon a couch and went to sleep.
00:24:17.520 --> 00:24:19.681
It was late in the morning when Carter awoke.
00:24:20.280 --> 00:24:25.980
He had an interview with Lena and then after partaking of a light breakfast, he went downtown.
00:24:26.580 --> 00:24:36.641
Chick Carter and Patsy Garvin, his two chief assistants were engaged upon another case, in which, by the way, Nick was fated to play a prominent part, so he did not see them that morning.
00:24:37.346 --> 00:24:40.671
Nick stepped into the cosmopolitan hotel and he saw Mr.
00:24:40.671 --> 00:24:44.721
Wright who informed him that his room had been entered during the night by someone.
00:24:45.151 --> 00:24:48.211
I think I knew who it was, the detective remarked.
00:24:48.421 --> 00:24:53.401
And then he departed feeling sure that the person who had entered the room was Brockey Gann.
00:24:53.911 --> 00:24:56.941
It tickled him to think that the rascal had been disappointed.
00:24:57.461 --> 00:25:03.070
Carter called at police headquarters, and there he learned that the other detectives had not made a discovery.
00:25:03.580 --> 00:25:10.540
He informed the chief inspector that he was following a promising clue and that he might be able to render a report in a few days.
00:25:11.141 --> 00:25:14.861
After leaving headquarters, he went uptown to the Knickerbocker cottage.
00:25:15.250 --> 00:25:21.371
There he questioned the waiters and at last he found the man who had served rich and Darwin on new year's Eve.
00:25:21.931 --> 00:25:23.881
Did you hear any of their conversation?
00:25:24.080 --> 00:25:25.490
The detective asked the waiter.
00:25:26.000 --> 00:25:27.800
Only a little, the man answered.
00:25:28.371 --> 00:25:31.131
They talked about some man who had just arrived from the city.
00:25:31.611 --> 00:25:32.631
Was any name mentioned?
00:25:33.101 --> 00:25:33.641
Yes.
00:25:34.121 --> 00:25:34.871
Can you recall it?
00:25:35.320 --> 00:25:36.550
I think it was.
00:25:37.361 --> 00:25:38.681
Uh, Lawrence.
00:25:38.740 --> 00:25:39.161
Yes.
00:25:39.611 --> 00:25:40.000
Hmm.
00:25:40.300 --> 00:25:41.560
And what did they say about him?
00:25:42.040 --> 00:25:43.300
Uh, that I don't know.
00:25:43.721 --> 00:25:44.770
What time did they leave here?
00:25:45.230 --> 00:25:47.451
Oh, well, about a half past 10.
00:25:47.451 --> 00:25:47.840
O'clock.
00:25:48.221 --> 00:25:49.901
Did you hear them mention where they were going?
00:25:50.621 --> 00:25:52.270
A messenger boy brought rich a note.
00:25:52.570 --> 00:25:57.070
He read it and then I heard him remark that they had better hurry down to McKeever's saloon.
00:25:57.560 --> 00:25:58.280
Was that all.
00:25:58.750 --> 00:25:59.260
Yes.
00:25:59.641 --> 00:26:01.290
Did you notice the number of the messenger?
00:26:01.810 --> 00:26:02.471
It was.
00:26:03.490 --> 00:26:05.320
Uh, yeah, 7 21.
00:26:05.861 --> 00:26:06.580
Do you know the boy.
00:26:07.010 --> 00:26:09.951
Oh, he's attached to the office on Broadway and 30th street.
00:26:10.631 --> 00:26:13.810
The waiter was unable to give the detective any more information.
00:26:14.411 --> 00:26:17.141
Carter hurried to the office of the district messenger company.
00:26:17.711 --> 00:26:19.211
There he found the messenger boy.
00:26:19.721 --> 00:26:25.240
Do you remember delivering a note on new year's Eve to a man who was dining at the Knickerbocker cottage?
00:26:25.471 --> 00:26:26.941
The detective asked the messenger.
00:26:27.421 --> 00:26:28.740
Was he a tall man?
00:26:28.941 --> 00:26:29.730
The boy queried.
00:26:30.211 --> 00:26:30.750
Yes.
00:26:31.221 --> 00:26:33.260
He was with a short stout man?
00:26:33.760 --> 00:26:34.300
Yes.
00:26:34.790 --> 00:26:36.171
Yeah, I gave him the note.
00:26:36.641 --> 00:26:37.840
From whom did you receive it?
00:26:38.296 --> 00:26:38.836
A man.
00:26:39.300 --> 00:26:40.320
Did you ever see him before?
00:26:40.760 --> 00:26:41.300
No.
00:26:41.721 --> 00:26:42.590
Can you describe him?
00:26:43.101 --> 00:26:44.780
He was pockmarked.
00:26:45.211 --> 00:26:46.080
Was he a tough?
00:26:46.500 --> 00:26:46.951
Yeah.
00:26:47.300 --> 00:26:48.951
Would you be able to recognize him again?
00:26:49.441 --> 00:26:50.161
Oh, sure.
00:26:50.780 --> 00:26:54.740
Carter gave the boy a bill and told him not to mention their conversation to a soul.
00:26:55.250 --> 00:26:58.451
From the boys' description, he recognized Brockey Gann.
00:26:59.030 --> 00:27:06.201
At McKeever's saloon, the detective was fortunate enough to find the bartender who had been on duty on new year's Eve.
00:27:06.681 --> 00:27:08.300
He was acquainted with this man.
00:27:08.570 --> 00:27:12.471
And as soon as he made himself known to him, he readily answered all his questions.
00:27:13.101 --> 00:27:17.750
They retired into a back room together, and as soon as they were seated, Carter asked.
00:27:17.961 --> 00:27:20.540
Are you acquainted with a man named Simeon rich?
00:27:21.010 --> 00:27:22.090
Yeah, I know who he is.
00:27:22.260 --> 00:27:23.280
The bartender replied.
00:27:23.770 --> 00:27:25.901
Do you remember if he was here on new year's Eve?
00:27:26.391 --> 00:27:27.681
Yeah, he was here with two men.
00:27:28.181 --> 00:27:28.750
At what time?
00:27:29.221 --> 00:27:32.101
Oh, it was about, uh, oh, 11 o'clock.
00:27:32.550 --> 00:27:33.780
Do you know, the men who were with him.
00:27:34.280 --> 00:27:36.661
Uh, one of the men was Brockey Gann.
00:27:37.161 --> 00:27:38.721
The other man, I don't know.
00:27:38.721 --> 00:27:40.461
Although I've seen him several times.
00:27:40.881 --> 00:27:42.260
And how long did they remain here?
00:27:42.651 --> 00:27:43.820
Uh, only a few minutes.
00:27:44.211 --> 00:27:46.820
They held a whispered conversation and then went out.
00:27:47.421 --> 00:27:48.861
Did you hear anything that was said?
00:27:49.421 --> 00:27:50.201
Not a word.
00:27:50.790 --> 00:27:52.951
This information only established one fact.
00:27:53.101 --> 00:27:57.540
And that was that rich Darwin and Brockie were together on new year's Eve.
00:27:58.230 --> 00:27:59.431
Carter left the saloon.
00:27:59.961 --> 00:28:03.711
He stood on the corner sometime trying to determine what he ought to do next.
00:28:04.280 --> 00:28:09.500
He was almost positive that Brockey Gann was the scoundrel who had tracked the murdered man.
00:28:10.221 --> 00:28:12.050
But how was he going to prove that.
00:28:12.770 --> 00:28:14.000
This was a conundrum.
00:28:14.990 --> 00:28:20.601
After a time, carter crossed the street and entered the establishment of a costumer.
00:28:22.000 --> 00:28:25.601
Who is Lena Peters, and how was she involved in this case?
00:28:26.101 --> 00:28:29.250
Can Nick Carter continue to give the slip to Brockey Gann?
00:28:29.711 --> 00:28:32.861
And how will Nick tie everything together in this case?
00:28:33.371 --> 00:28:43.060
Don't miss our next episode, where these questions may be answered in the case titled toying with pate or Nick Carter's narrow shave.
00:28:45.671 --> 00:28:49.451
Well, this case gets more and more interesting with each chapter, doesn't it?
00:28:49.961 --> 00:28:51.851
I can hardly wait to see what happens next.
00:28:52.421 --> 00:28:56.351
And yes, friends it is that time to remind you all that it would be awesome.
00:28:56.381 --> 00:28:58.750
If you could be a regular subscriber to the show.
00:28:59.560 --> 00:29:04.300
Are you passionate about exploring history and eager to keep the podcast thriving?
00:29:04.990 --> 00:29:16.840
By becoming a monthly supporter of the show, you can empower me to continue to create and find more engaging stories from the past and connect with fellow history buffs on the, buy me a coffee web page for the show.
00:29:17.330 --> 00:29:23.270
You can also read and view exclusive content that will not appear on any other social media platform.
00:29:23.721 --> 00:29:32.750
Because buy me a coffee has added so many features to their program that I will use it exclusively to add several bonus and behind the scenes features.
00:29:33.050 --> 00:29:34.911
And you won't want to miss that.
00:29:35.461 --> 00:29:48.760
Remember the link should be available on every major podcast platform under support the show, or just visit the podcast website at forwardintothepastpodcast.com.
00:29:49.770 --> 00:29:54.570
Or just send me a message and I'll be glad to get that direct link out to you.
00:29:55.411 --> 00:29:55.951
Okay.
00:29:56.431 --> 00:29:57.750
I've rambled long enough.
00:29:58.530 --> 00:30:01.770
I hope you enjoyed the show as much as I've enjoyed putting it together.
00:30:02.550 --> 00:30:03.451
As always friends.
00:30:03.871 --> 00:30:04.891
Thanks for listening.
00:30:05.131 --> 00:30:09.181
Keep sharing the stories and be a good human.
00:30:10.050 --> 00:30:11.101
Bye for now.
Keep up to date with upcoming details about new stories!
Listen On
Support On
Recommended
Oct. 19, 2022
The Tell-Tale Heart
Send us a Text Message. Just in time for the halloween season, I present to you - Edgar Allan Poe's classic gothic nightmare: The Tell-Tale Heart Theme written by Bernard Kyer for this podcast. Follow the link for more info. …