"The Lord was on my side," he said presently.
"He was on your side, as you remark; and when the Lord is on a man's side a detective necessarily comes out second best."
"Really, Mr. Taggett," said Richard, smiling, "that is a handsome admission on your part."
"I mean, sir," replied the latter, slightly nettled, "that it sometimes seems as if the Lord himself took charge of a case."
"Certainly you are entitled to the credit of going to the bottom of this one."
"I have skillfully and laboriously damaged my reputation, Mr. Shackford."
Mr. Taggett said this with so heavy an air that Richard felt a stir of sympathy in his bosom.
"I am very sorry," he said good-naturedly.
"No, I beg of you!" exclaimed Mr. Taggett. "Any expression of friendliness from you would finish me! For nearly ten days I have looked upon you as a most cruel and consummate villain."
"I know," said Richard. "I must be quite a disappointment to you, in a small way."