“Read it aloud,” replied Nick.
“'Gregory, Jasper,'“read the inspector; “'mem. May 1, 1887. Age, 46. Height, 6 feet 1 inch. Dark, muscular, smooth face, big hands, walks like a soldier, rich. Made his money in Nevada, mining. Worth a million or more. Hails from Nye County. Once a cowboy, prospector and miner. Struck it rich. Came to New York to settle down, April, 1887. (Above, his story.)'
“That's straight enough, Nick.”
“Yes, read on.”
“'Mem. from Nevada. Known as “Jap” Gregory and “Big Jap.” Known here ten years or more. Quiet and mysterious; feared somewhat. Super of mine in Smoky Valley; bought interest in the mine. Partners quit suddenly in '85. Big Jap operated the mine. Early in '87 said he had made his pile, sold out and left. But little known concerning him.
“'There is a rumor concerning him as follows, which, however, has not been substantiated. Said to be an ex-convict who came to America from Australia. Rumor comes from a half-crazy fellow who worked in the mine. Note:The only suspicious thing concerning J. L. G. is the mystery which surrounded him. T.B.'
“That's all,” added the inspector, looking up. “Thanks! I'll just copy that, if you will permit me.”
“Can't do that, Nick. Learn it by heart, if you like. Here,” and he passed the book to the detective.
Nick spent three or four minutes in reading over the memoranda, and then returned the book to the inspector.
“Got it?” asked the chief. “Yes,” and then Nick repeated the notes word for word, just as they had been ready to him.