If that was the case, an investigation would only result in a waste of precious time. Consequently, Nick decided to take the bull by the horns.
First, he would call on Grantley himself and put him through a rigid cross-examination, in an effort to worm his secret out of him, if possible.
Second, no matter whether he was successful in this first interview or not, he intended to see the financier and add his influence to Doctor Vanderpool’s, in a final attempt to dissuade Baldwin from submitting to the proposed operation.
CHAPTER XIV.
A BOLD MOVE.
The first part of Nick’s plan involved a certain amount of risk.
It takes courage to beard a man of Doctor Grantley’s type in his own lair, especially after a narrow escape from annihilation by acid in that same lair. Nick Carter never allowed such considerations to weigh with him, however, and the most he consented to do was to take his first assistant, Chick, with him when he set out for the Bronx.
Hoff opened the door a crack, in accordance with his usual suspicious attitude toward visitors. The detective promptly put his foot into the opening.
“Is Doctor Grantley in, Hoff?” Nick asked.
The servant’s face was a study. Amazement at the detective’s daring and hatred of him for the part he had played were both written there.
“I see he is,” Nick went on, without waiting for the belated reply. “Kindly let us in and inform the doctor that I wish to see him at once on important business.”