The wait was a long one.
When Nick presented his name, Mr. Cary came forward in such excitement that Nick thought he would betray himself to every one within hearing.
“I am glad to see you, Mr. Carter,” he said. “My business is most important, yet I have been warned——”
“I know,” said Nick, calmly, “the Brown Robin. You have been told not to dare to talk to me.”
“Why,” exclaimed Mr. Cary, “how do you know that?”
“I guessed it,” said Nick, with a smile. “But take me somewhere where we can talk aloud and unheard.”
Mr. Cary led the way into an inner room, closing the door after him.
“Now,” said Nick, “there are certain things I know of this case, but I want you to tell me everything, concealing nothing, not even when it tells against yourself. I shall regard it as a confidential communication. Make neither excuses, nor apologies, but tell the plain truth.”
“But I have been warned not to talk to you at all.”
“By whom?” asked Nick.