It did not take him very long to reach the house, which he found darkened and silent, but his ring brought footsteps downstairs and to the door.
As the portal opened Carter caught sight of an old man’s face, and he addressed him.
“I desire to see Mr. Holden, your roomer.”
“He’s sound asleep, sir.”
“I must see him all the same. Which room does he occupy?”
The detective pushed forward, with one hand on the old man’s arm, and the old fellow seemed to suspect the truth.
“Don’t disturb my wife. She’s sick upstairs. You shall see Mr. Holden. I hope he isn’t a fugitive from justice, sir?”
There was no answer by the detective, for the old man opened a door and motioned Nick across another threshold.
As Carter entered the room a human figure sprang from a bed and stood on the carpet before him.
“How are you?” said the detective.