When he got home that evening the same detective who had searched the rooms called to see him, and requested him to say nothing about the affair to any one for the present.
The reason he gave was that there was no knowing who belonged to the gang, and if it once got about that the police were on the track the others would keep out of the way.
In the hope of making a complete haul, the police for the present would take no steps to arrest the fugitive. If he was left alone, and not allowed to know that he was suspected, he would probably join some other members of the gang.
Jabez listened to this explanation and promised to hold his peace, and also to allow the things found in the room occupied by George to be taken to Scotland Yard.
The officer who had charge of the case was Sergeant Iveson, a well-favoured, middle-aged man, who looked like a country gentleman, and Jabez had every confidence in him. The officer also went to Grigg and Limpet, and received from them the forged cheque. They also agreed to take no steps which would clash with those arranged by Sergeant Iveson, who had sole charge of the case.
Late that evening Sergeant Iveson and Mr. Seth Preene met by accident, and what more natural than that they should have a little conversation?
‘Found out who he is yet?’ asked the sergeant.
‘No,’ said Preene; ‘but I’m sure he’s a swell, and he’s making quietly for his home, wherever it is. I suppose it’s sure to be pretty straight against him?’
‘I’ll take care of that,’ answered the sergeant. ‘But this case won’t pay, you know. There’s no reward. Won’t it be worth your governor’s while to pay a good one? You see if this chap’s convicted there’s an end to all inquiries about the forged cheques. You get him out of the way for a year or two and wipe the slate clean. I suppose the principal in the affair’s right, ain’t he?’
‘Right? I should think so,’ answered Mr. Preene. ‘Look here, governor, you nab this fellow, and make him safe for a year or two, and I’ll promise you a hundred on my own hook. Never mind about the woman; she’s never seen any of us, and can do no harm. She might complicate the case. I’ll say a hundred and fifty—there!’