“What!” chorused his listeners, and Hayden’s stare of unbelief became one of baffled fury.
“I will make my explanations as brief as possible,” began Maynard. “While in Europe I have been of some assistance working for the Intelligence Service of our Allies, my ability to disguise myself and my experience as an actor being valuable aids in my work.” He glanced at Marian, but her eyes were downcast. “While in Switzerland my suspicions were aroused by the great frequency with which chess problems were going and coming from Germany—they have been allowed through the mails from every country since the outbreak of the world war.”
“Of course,” broke in Burnham impatiently. “Chess problems are always interesting and help the study of tactical problems by officers in war time.”
“And chess has proved a valuable aid to Germany in more ways than one,” remarked Maynard dryly. “Realizing the use that might be made of problem diagrams to a nation which excels in cipher codes, I decided to look into the matter—and from this end.”
“When was that?” asked Palmer, leaving his place at the foot of the bed. “Can’t we have the light switched on?” he added. “The storm is making the room fearfully dark.”
Marian stepped back and pressed the wall button and the room was flooded with light.
“Go on, Mr. Maynard,” directed Chief Connor.
“My suspicions were aroused a month ago and I came to this country ostensibly to take part in training camp activities. I remembered your interest in chess, Burnham, and decided to ask your aid; in fact sent a wireless when off New York telling you I was coming to Washington.” Maynard paused to sip a glass of water, carefully avoiding the medicine glass standing next it on the bed stand. “I reached Washington Monday afternoon.”
Chief Connor nodded. “So I was informed by the taxi-driver, Sam,” he said. “Sam had called to lay information against you, Maynard, just before your telephone came asking me to come here. Sam is now under arrest.”
A piercing scream from Mrs. Ward drew all eyes to the housekeeper, and Chief Connor addressed her sternly.