Dean briefly recounted the robberies of which he was himself cognizant, adding that he gave this information in strict confidence. "I thought I ought to put you on your guard," he concluded.
"Thank you, Mr. Dunham," said Dr. Thorp, warmly. "You have done me a great service. I happen to have a considerable sum in money and bonds at my house. I shall look out for Mr. Kirby," he added, with a grim nod.
CHAPTER XXVI.
DR. THORP'S CABINET.
Dr. Thorp had been pleased with Peter Kirby, who had laid himself out to be agreeable, and the doctor was far from suspecting his real character. When this was revealed to him by Dean, he quickly decided to test it for himself.
Some men, inclined to be nervous and timid, would have had their apprehensions excited, and dreaded an encounter with a professional criminal. But Dr. Thorp was cool, resolute and determined. He proposed to facilitate Kirby's designs, and catch him in a trap.
When he reached home he found Kirby smoking on the piazza.
"Have you been taking a walk, Doctor?" he asked.
"Yes," answered Dr. Thorp. "I made a call on a neighbor. I hope you have not been lonesome."