“Were you alone at that time?”
“I was.”
“Did you see others like it in the store?”
“Yes. There were several of the same kind.”
“Now, Mr. Garland, about the plans,” said Nick. “Are they so marked that the thief, or thieves, can definitely determine what they are and to precisely what part of the government work they relate?”
“No, not immediately,” said Garland. “They are marked in cipher. It would take an expert, even, some little time to thoroughly understand them and to what they refer. In that, Mr. Carter, lies our only hope. If the plans could be recovered before the rascals learn just what they are——”
“They know what they are, Garland, or they would not[{10}] have framed up so crafty a job to get them,” Nick interrupted. “We may be able, nevertheless, to recover them before they can be deciphered and definitely understood. In that, as you have said, lies our only hope. I will lose no time in getting in my work.”
“What are your plans, Nick?” Chief Welden inquired. “If I can aid you in any way——”
“I will let you know, Welden, in that case,” Nick interposed, rising to go. “I have no plans at present, nor do I know just how I shall proceed. I must consider the circumstances thoroughly. I will note your home address, Mr. Garland, in case I want to reach you out of business hours. That is all I require of you at present.”