“My daughter has been kidnapped,” replied Griscom, in a far-away voice. “She says that I must tell no one. That she will be released if I do as I am expected to do.
“She warned me to keep the news from the public. Otherwise, it will mean — her death — without delay!”
“I can scarcely believe it, Mr. Griscom,” said Belden sympathetically. “Yet there is hope. She says if you do what you are expected to do—”
“What am I expected to do?”
“I expect you to place your signature here!”
Belden drew a paper from his pocket. He laid it on the desk. It was a contract of the Theater Owners Cooperative Association.
Griscom’s eyes became suddenly defiant as he read the title.
“So that’s the game!” he cried angrily. “I understand it now! If I sign—”
“I believe your daughter would be safe,” interposed Belden suavely. “There are many criminals who fear our organization because of the work it is doing to aid our clients. If you were known as a member of the Cooperative Association, with all your theaters in line, I doubt that any one would dare to harm your daughter.”
“She would be returned to me?” Griscom was almost pleading.