He walked leisurely in the direction of the Rogers mansion.
Chick, who was accustomed to his chief’s wonderful disguises, noticed him approaching and came slowly toward him.
"As soon as I have entered the house I engage Jones, the butler, in conversation," said Nick, hurriedly.
He then entered the lawn of the Rogers villa and approached the front door.
"Can I see Mr. Rogers?" he asked, when Jones answered the bell.
"He is engaged just now, sir. But if you will give me your card——â€�
"Oh, never mind," interrupted Nick. "I shall wait for him."
The colored man showed him into the reception-room.
At that moment the door bell rang again.
It was Chick, and Nick Carter knew well that his clever assistant would keep Jones engaged until he again appeared.