I went slowly back to Porter's store, glancing in at various windows as I passed, but saw not the missing man.
How had he eluded me? Where should I look for him?
Returning to the hotel, I sat down in the seat lately occupied by the vanished crook, and pondered.
Was Dimber about to strike? Had he strolled out thus early to reconnoiter his territory? If so, he would return anon to equip himself for the work; he could not well carry a burglar's kit in the light suit he wore.
Suddenly I arose and hurried up the stairs, resolved upon a bold measure.
Hastily unlocking my trunk, I removed a tray, and from a skillfully concealed compartment, took a pair of nippers, some skeleton keys, and a small tin case, shaped like the candle it contained. Next, I removed my hat, coat, and boots; and, in another moment, was standing before the door of the room occupied by Dimber Joe. I knocked lightly and the silence within convinced me that the room was unoccupied.
The Trafton House was not plentifully supplied with bolts, as I knew; and my nippers assured me that there was no key in the lock.
Thus emboldened, I fitted one of the skeleton keys, and was soon within the room, making a hasty survey of Dimber Joe's effects.
