"Yes; it is a club of about twenty young fellows. I am a member. We have a reading-room, and another for all kinds of games."
Norris did not take the trouble to add that "all kinds of games" had narrowed down to simply card playing, and that for money, too.
"Just come up for a moment," he went on. "I wish to get a book I left there a few nights ago."
"I'll wait for you here," replied Richard.
"No, no; I want to show you the rooms. We have some fine pictures and all that up there."
Somewhat against his will Richard consented. Norris led the way up three flights of stairs and then down a side hall.
Stopping at a certain door he gave two distinct knocks, followed by a single one.
There was a hurried movement within, and then the door, which had been securely locked, was cautiously opened.
"Hello, Springer!" exclaimed Norris to the tall young man who had admitted them. "You're locked up as if this was a sub-treasury. This is a friend of mine. Mr. Dare, Mr. Springer, our worthy secretary."
"Glad to know you, Mr. Dare!" said the other, and he gave Richard's hand a tight grip, but at the same time cast a sidelong, inquiring glance at Norris.