"You came here yesterday. Knowing what I do of you, I realized by your actions that you are springing the deal tonight. Those road maps that you were consulting — "
Harry's voice drifted away. Powell turned to look at the speaker. He saw that Harry Vincent was smiling. Wallace Powell realized that this man had the goods.
"Just one point more," said Harry. "Whatever you are doing must necessarily depend upon what you received from Herbert Brockley.
"If I were a detective, I could arrest you now, and find out all you know. I could have obtained the articles by theft. But I preferred to deal with you direct."
"Why?"
"Because I am anxious to know all about the persons with whom you are dealing!"
"All right," declared Powell suddenly. "I'll think this over. Let's say you're right." He grinned as he spoke.
"There's no witnesses here, and I can deny anything later.
"I'm out for dough. Your offer sounds good. I'm going somewhere. I'd like to have a pal.
If you'll put up fifty per cent of what I'm getting, I'll consider it."