"I thought you might be able to suggest some plan."
"Well, I reckon that is possible. First thing is to get hold of Russell—and it'll have to be a tight hold, you bet."
"Of course. I admit I don't see what to do; but it seems to me I remember reading of a case the Pinkertons had, in which they had the criminal seized—it was also a case of embezzlement—and kept in a room till he disgorged. They did not put him into prison; they kept him a prisoner in a room in a house of their own."
"I guess something of the kind has happened," remarked Hankey; "but it sounds rather like a bit out of a dime novel. You suggest I should attempt the same game with James Russell, is that it?"
"It is just an idea; I don't say you should act upon it. Is there any plan in your mind?"
"Not at the moment. I'll sleep on it, and come round in the morning."
"Very well. But of course you understand I wish the business concluded as speedily as possible."
"Quite so. I'll be here early in the morning."
Gilbert could not get to sleep easily that night. He was possessed by a feeling of intense excitement; but at last he fell into a restless slumber. It seemed to him that he had just closed his eyes when he was awakened by a loud knocking at his door.
"What is it?" he cried.