"And I have also engaged a private detective," added Forrester.
"Who?" queried Humphrey.
"A man named Green—Benjamin F. Green."
"There are detectives—and there are detectives," commented Humphrey. "Green falls in the first class."
"I think I get your meaning," smiled Forrester, "and I am inclined to agree with you. That, in fact, is the great problem which confronts me now—how to get a good detective at work on the case. Any suggestions, Mr. Humphrey?"
"I'm a better knocker than I am a suggester," explained Humphrey. "I can tell you the faults of detectives as easily as I could run over my A-B-Cs. I'll admit, though, that there are some good ones. Sooner or later one of them will get on this case and solve it. I wouldn't care to take the responsibility of recommending anyone."
"I know you came here for an interview, Mr. Humphrey," said Forrester, "and I realize how dangerous it is to tell all your plans to a man who is seeking news. But on the other hand, I have a very high opinion of the ability and cleverness of newspaper men. That is why I am going to take you into my confidence."
"I'm enjoying it," assured Humphrey, selecting and lighting another cigar.
"The fact is," announced Forrester, "I am thinking of becoming a detective in this matter myself. The question is, can I do it—have I the ability to be a detective?"
"Why not?" queried Humphrey.