[CHAPTER XII.]
GRATTAN'S TRIUMPH.
Motor Matt understood the situation. The full realization came to him with something like a shock. In some way Grattan had secured the aid of the owner and crew of the Iris in carrying out his villainous designs. He had triumphed, for he had only to have Matt searched in order to secure the ruby.
Philo Grattan was an educated fellow, and could be a man of pleasing address when he so desired. In almost any honest line of work he could have distinguished himself, for his ability was high above the average. Yet, like so many others equally gifted, he had been drawn toward a life of crime.
"Motor Matt," said he, in a tone and with a manner that was friendly, "we meet again. The pleasure, on your part, I presume, is unexpected, and perhaps of a doubtful quality, but so far as I am concerned, I assure you that this renewing of our acquaintance leaves nothing to be desired."
"Not a blessed thing," struck in Bunce, contorted with inward mirth, "sink me, if it does!"
Grattan dropped a heavy hand on the mariner's shoulder.
"Keep a still tongue in your head," he ordered sternly. "I'm able to do the talking."
"Then," and Matt turned toward Pardo, "this is simply a plot you have engineered to get me into the hands of Grattan?"