Ling Soo’s impersonal speech carried a subtlety which was not detected by Cleve Branch. Keen though the investigator was, his urge to learn more overcame his natural reluctance to accept such luring statements as these.
He saw his opportunity. Established as an inner member of the secret order, he could quickly learn the truth concerning the death of Stephen Laird. Not only that; he could gain important information of the Wu-Fan’s secret methods.
“My American friends,” commented Ling Soo sadly, “are all too few. I must have more of them. There is work ahead — great work.
“Think well before you accept my offer, friend Barnes, for I warn you that many duties will be imposed upon you. But if you choose to accept, I can assure you that a great power will be yours.”
Ling Soo’s change of tack — his unwillingness to force Hugo Barnes into the inner circle of the Wu-Fan — was the subtle note that brought Cleve’s prompt decision.
He made a definite reply as he stared squarely into the owl eyes that were large and kindly behind the thick lenses of the spectacles.
“I accept your offer,” said Cleve, in the tone of Hugo Barnes. “What do you wish me to do?”
“You must promise, first,” declared Ling Soo softly. “Promise by your oath in the Wu-Fan to keep your new knowledge a complete secret.”
“I promise,” replied Cleve.
He caught Ling Soo’s gesture, and followed the statement by making the sign of the Wu-Fan, to which Ling Soo solemnly responded.