"And, sir," continued Atherton, "since Tassh is so keen on concealing his movements, I must say that his downright bluff in denying his identity confirms our suspicions. More than once some one has visited the Tea Caves by night. One man only, and one wearing large boots and taking very small footsteps. On one occasion he came by boat and took some of our thole-pins. How he managed on other occasions we cannot yet make out."
"I think there is enough circumstantial evidence to warrant his arrest," declared the baronet. "You know the local police station, I suppose, lads? Ah, that's good. Will one of you slip out quietly and see if Sergeant Coombes is still there. If not, bring Gregory, the policeman."
"I say, Atherton, you are making a most grave statement against the man," cautioned Mr Buckley. "If there is a mistake the result will be serious, you know."
"There is quite enough cause, since Tassh has deliberately told me falsehoods concerning his visit to Seal Island," said the baronet. "I'll take all responsibility should there be any question of illegal arrest, Mr Buckley."
A quarter of an hour later Polglaze, the plain-clothes officer, cycled up to the house.
"Sergeant Coombes is following, sir," he announced. "Have you discovered any clue, Sir Silas?"
"Yes," replied the baronet, grimly. "Thanks to these Scouts. I want you to arrest Paul Tassh on a charge of theft."
In a few words Sir Silas explained the situation, and in spite of professional jealousy the detective was bound to admit that Atherton's deductions were quite sufficient to justify the step the baronet was about to take.
Sir Silas touched the bell communicating with the butler's private room. He waited a full minute and rang again. There was no reply.
"Strikes me very forcibly that I've given the fellow a chance and he's taken it, by Jove!" remarked Sir Silas, as he touched an electric push that rang a bell in the servants' hall.