Cleve nodded in agreement.
“There is a reason,” declared Ling Soo, “why I seek the better acquaintance of my American friends who have seen the light of the Wu-Fan.
“Our great order needs the advice of such friends. For, though the Wu-Fan is of China, its purpose lies in America. Great power will come to those who believe with the Wu-Fan. Would you like to share that power?”
The proposition was suggested in a mild, friendly tone. Cleve, thinking keenly, believed that he understood Ling Soo’s inference.
It was a positive fact that Stephen Laird had been an agent of the Wu-Fan. Laird had been slain — and Cleve inclined, from experience, to the theory that the Tiger Tong had been responsible.
Despite the fact that sinister Foy had wielded a knife with which he had sought Cleve’s life, the government agent discounted any murderous intentions on the part of the Wu-Fan.
It was logical that Ling Soo needed someone to take the place that death had caused Stephen Laird to vacate. If so, it would be to Cleve’s advantage to seize the opportunity. He put forward a question, which, if answered, would give him a clew to Ling Soo’s design.
“Does danger accompany that power?” Cleve asked.
“Yes,” responded Ling Soo quietly. “Danger threatens all who learn the inner secrets of the Wu-Fan. One can not expect power without danger.
“We of the Wu-Fan have enemies. We must guard against them. Hence those who are the chosen few of our great number are the ones who know the most cherished secrets.”