“Even in dramatic clubs,” said Nick.
“Even in dramatic clubs,” repeated the other, with a smile. “We really enjoyed the chase after the Maynard diamonds.”
“You seem to be enjoying the present situation,” said Nick. “How long are you to keep me in this uncomfortable position?”
“Why, the fact is,” said the other, “that we are waiting for a report from a man who was sent to your residence two hours ago. You see, you have a collection of gems which is listed at half a million in the office of the Great Diamond Syndicate in London. You have put us to so much trouble and expense that we thought best to acquire this collection, and a man has gone up after it. He is to search the steel vault off your sleeping room and all available parts of the house. If he can do so, he will accomplish his work without bloodshed, but you have trained your people to resist coercion, and there may be a fight. I sincerely hope that no member of your family will be injured.
“We are doing this thing for two reasons,” continued the other. “In the first place, you were sentenced to death in London not long ago, and cannot long enjoy the possession of the diamonds. In the second place, we thought best to demonstrate to you, previous to your death, that you detectives are, on the whole, rather cheap people. You go about with your picklock and your electric torch, and think you are the whole thing. Now you see how hopeless you are in the hands of a syndicate of brainy and determined men.”
“And if the man at my house does not find the diamonds?” asked Nick dryly.
“Then you will be required to write an order for their delivery to this place.”
Nick shut his teeth with a snap.
“You won’t, eh?” said the other. “Pardon me, but I think you will. We have means of persuasion here. What do you think of our methods by this time?”
“Of course you have planned my death?” asked Nick.