"It is odd how the history of Rufus Stevens' Sons attracts you," said he.
"Not all of it," said Anthony. "But those things which I find of sharp importance I set down in a little book of my own."
The greedy look in Mr. Sparhawk's face increased.
"That, too, is here, I suppose," said he, and he looked about.
Anthony's coat lay upon a chair beside his bed; he reached out and thrust a hand into the breast pocket; but it came out empty. Mr. Sparhawk saw his expression change.
"You carried it there?" said he.
"Yes," said Anthony, "and it's gone!"
Mr. Sparhawk smiled, and nodded.
"Are you surprised?" he asked. "What else was there to expect? Have you not been on board Le Mousquet?"
Anthony lay looking at the ceiling; Mr. Sparhawk stood with his hand on the door-latch.