"I am much obliged," said Ainsleigh, "but--"
"Well if you're obliged, let me go along with you and see you through this game. I don't know what it is, but I'm on for larks."
Ainsleigh reflected, and on the impulse of the moment trusted the man. Clarence had undoubtedly saved his life, and it would be just as well to take him. Also Clarence could do no harm, as Tung-yu and Hwei would see to that. "Very good," said Ainsleigh, "come along. I'm going to where that Chinese lantern is."
Clarence gave a long whistle and smote his leg, "Gad," said he between his teeth, "you're on the Chinese racket again."
"Oh, behalf of Major Tidman," and Rupert rapidly gave details.
Burgh whistled again, "Ho," he laughed, "so they think Tidman's the strangler. Well I guess not. Forge for my money. Let's heave ahead Ainsleigh, and see what the Chinkeys have to say."
The two moved on and stopped under the lantern. A sharp knock at a closed door brought forth a Chinese boy, who was dressed--queerly enough--all in red. Rupert recalled Tidman's adventure at Canton, and did not like the look of things. But Clarence pushed past him and addressed the boy.
"We've come to see Tung-yu," said he, "give this brat the letter, Ainsleigh."
The boy took the letter and instead of looking at it by the light of the lantern, smelt it carefully. Then Ainsleigh remembered that it was strongly perfumed with some queer scent. Clarence cackled.
"Rummy coves these Chinese beasts," said he politely.