THE silence did not last for long. Four raps sounded at the door. Big Tom answered the demand for admittance.
The man who entered was tall and well built. He had the manner of a gentleman. While the others looked prosperous, even wealthy — yet common — this man formed a contrast, because of his aristocratic bearing.
He was attired in a perfectly fitting dress suit, which he wore with the easy air of a man of the world. His clean-shaven face was handsome. Even the three who awaited him were impressed by his guise.
This man had an air of superiority that was not an affectation. He did not introduce himself as Hooks Borglund had done. He seemed to take all for granted as he sat in the chair, paying little attention to those about him.
Big Tom, seeing that the newcomer intended to make no statement, decided to supply the introduction himself. He did it in the form of a question.
“You’re Herbert Carpenter?” he asked.
The newcomer nodded.
“My name’s Bagshawe,” declared Big Tom. “This is Shifter Reeves, and this is Hooks Borglund. We’re the three that you were supposed to meet.”
“Glad to know you,” answered Carpenter.
Before any one could add further comment, there were five slow raps at the door of the suite. Big Tom cast an anxious eye about him to make sure all the others were properly seated.