“The estate is a very large one,� remarked the detective, taking no notice of the tone the lawyer had used.
“Very large, larger than people generally suppose. It will figure up to a dozen millions, probably.�
“Well, I came down here not only to tell you about the verdict in the Babbington case, but also to offer you my services in the search for Carleton Lynne. I arrive here and discover that the man is here. My offer is still open if you find that you require any assistance in establishing the identity of this young man who is outside, waiting to interview you.�
“Good. I thank you. But the fellow would scarcely venture here unless——â€�
“Unless he were well provided with the necessary proofs. I grant you that. But, Oaks, I sometimes have strange ‘hunches’ in the practice of my profession, and one of them tells me—told me the moment I entered your outer office—that this man may not be all that he will represent himself. That is all. I will give way to him now.â€�
“What do you mean—that the man is a fraud?â€�
“No; I mean that he may be one. I mean that the woman who has just been acquitted of the charge of murder is not one to relinquish without a struggle all that she has fought so hard to obtain. I mean that the effect of the tiger eye, as practiced upon the jury, and upon you, too, might well have been directed in other channels. I mean that if the matter of establishing his identity were in my hands, I would subject every proof that is offered to a minute inspection under a microscope. I have a feeling that we have not heard the last of Madge Babbington, Mr. Oaks.�
CHAPTER XVII.
DANGEROUS EYES.
Nick Carter was astounded when he arrived at his own home to find that Madge Babbington was there awaiting him.
It was Joseph who told him of the fact as he entered the house, and so, casting aside his hat he went at once to the reception room.