the others. But to me the outstanding fact was that her apartment had been within a stone's throw of the
address Ricori had given me as that of Peters. Furthermore, Martin was of the same world, if Dr. Y's
impressions were correct. Here was conceivably a link between two of the cases-missing in the others. I
determined to call in Ricori, to lay all the cards before him, and enlist his aid if possible.
My investigation had consumed about two weeks. During that time I had become well acquainted with
Ricori. For one thing he interested me immensely as a product of present-day conditions; for another I
liked him, despite his reputation. He was remarkably well read, of a high grade of totally unmoral
intelligence, subtle and superstitious-in olden time he would probably have been a Captain of
Condettieri, his wits and sword for hire. I wondered what were his antecedents. He had paid me several
visits since the death of Peters, and quite plainly my liking was reciprocated. On these visits he was