The Black Patch

by Fergus Hume

"I know that she accuses my mother of the crime--of the murder of my father, Colonel Hall."

"That is a lie," said Durban between his teeth. "But she would not stick at a lie to harm your mother."

"How can she harm the dead?"

"She might harm the memory of the dead," said Durban evasively. "And what else have you heard?"

"From Mr. Jerry Snow, I have just heard that there is a gang of thieves in London called the Black Patch Gang."

"Augh!" groaned Durban, casting down his eyes. "Go on."

"Mr. Alpenny is connected with them. Mr. Snow says that he was a fence who disposed of stolen goods."

"Where did Mr. Snow hear this story?"

"From various people in Whitechapel."

"Rumours only," said Durban, striving to appear calm; "there is not a word of truth in it. Mr. Alpenny was wicked, but not so bad as that, missy. I swear it."