Madge Scarlet crossed the floor and admitted a visitor, a tall man with fire-red hair and beard, who was well clad and wore blue glasses. A plug hat, rather the worse for wear, was lifted and caressed tenderly with one arm as the gentleman bowed before Mrs. Scarlet.
"I am pleased to find you at home, Mrs. Scarlet."
"I seldom go out, Mr. Ruggles, or Professor Darlington Ruggles, I suppose."
"Never mind the handle, madam. I see you have company." The Professor turned a keen glance on Nick Brower as he spoke.
CHAPTER IV.
SCALPED.
"The gentleman is a friend," said Mrs. Scarlet. "You need not fear to speak before him."
"I hain't no wish to hear any private talk," said Nick Brower, and with that he cast a keen, knowing look into the visitor's face, and passed from the room.
"We're alone, Professor."