"There is an explanation," said Nick; "but I prefer not to give it now."
"As you please," responded the lady, haughtily. "I can only say that I trust you will find this thief speedily, and end this annoyance to which we are being subjected."
"I don't think it ought to be hard for a person of your abilities," said Miss Stevens. "I have already solved the puzzle."
"And who is the guilty person?" asked Nick, with a smile.
"Colonel Richmond, of course."
"Why should he do this?"
"Because he's crazy. That's reason enough."
"I'd like to hear you explain your theory a little further."
"Why, Mr. Carter, I'm surprised at you. Is there any motive for this so-called crime? No. Then it must be a crazy person's work. Is there more than one lunatic among us? Certainly not. So, as two and two make four, and the sun doesn't rise in the west, Colonel Richmond is the man. What kind of a detective do you think I'd make?"
"There isn't any one alive who could compare with you," said Nick.