“For what purpose?”
“As new recruits for the Tiger Tong’s warlike campaign against the Wu-Fan. At least, that is Ling Soo’s theory.”
“Have you investigated it?”
“I am investigating tonight. I expect to go aboard the junk in behalf of the Civilian Committee. There I shall conduct a search.
“If I see any signs of Tiger Tong men, I shall report it to the authorities. The Pung-Shoon will not receive clearance papers from this port until I give it my approval.”
“A very good idea.”
“I should be glad to have you accompany me,” said Darley. “Not as a government agent — for this matter is no more than a civil affair as yet — but as a friend.”
“What time are you going there?” asked Cleve.
“At ten-o’clock,” answered Darley. “I have a dinner engagement, now; after that I shall meet other members of the Civilian Committee. We cannot get started until after ten.”
“I don’t think I can make it,” said, Cleve, knowing that the time Darley mentioned was identical with the hour of the Wu-Fan meeting. “I am very tired tonight. Came in from Denver on the Canyon Special, and I expect to turn in early. But I would like to talk with you tomorrow — to learn what you may have found.”