For instance, perhaps it could be arranged that the real Prescott be kidnapped or otherwise kept out of the way, while Joe dressed himself up to resemble the other.
Then he could carry off his own wife, and at the proper time reveal his identity, and teach her a terrible lesson.
That would all be decidedly picturesque and highly dramatic, but there were a number of obstacles to it that would have to be overcome ere they could accomplish the best result.
These difficulties were of such a nature that it seemed as though they could not be overcome.
Darrell cast around him to see whether there was not some other means handy.
How would it do to have the artist arrested on some charge when on the way to the place of meeting?
He decided against this on the spot, for it was very apt to make the whole affair public gossip for the newspapers, something Joe would rather cut off his right hand than have occur.
Next in order he thought that Lillian might be given something to make her sleepy or have such a headache that she could never carry out her part of the arrangement; but this was offensive to his official taste—he felt as though it was retreating before the attack, and it was not his intention to do this.
Finally he decided to see Joe—perhaps the other would suggest something that might open up a plausible scheme—some little hint dropped in conversation would give Eric the clew he was looking for.
Joe was still in his office.