Voices came to Herbert Carpenter’s ears as the old man tottered away. The blackmailer listened intently. Two people were speaking close beside him.
“Nice old fellow — that man Twambley.”
“Yes — a smile for everybody.”
“Worth a lot of money—”
“Carries plenty with him. Look! He’s tipping the boy five dollars!”
Herbert Carpenter was thoughtful. What soft pickings that man would be!
The escaped convict grated his teeth. Crime again! His mind reverted constantly to it.
There was a reason. It was his one alternative. If he had money, he could be secure enough to fight those double-crossers!
THROUGH the chaos of thoughts, Carpenter realized his mission. He fingered the card that was in his pocket. He had the entree to Big Tom’s. He must go there tonight — go to demand a show-down.
Rising, he walked inconspicuously through the lobby, and waited at the row of elevators. A car arrived and discharged its passengers. Carpenter entered. The operator was waiting for another passenger, looking along the lobby. A few moments later, Phineas Twambley hobbled into the car.