"The earlier epistles merely threaten me with death in its least desirable forms if I do not surrender my brief for Robert Floyd. The writer appears to cherish a grievance against your friend. Had he any enemies?"
"Not that I know of."
"Very well. It appears I was to suffer martyrdom for his sake. Today's mail, however, discloses a change of policy. The handwriting is the same, but sloped backward to disguise it."
He passed a letter over so that Emily might read the wretched scrawl.
"Dear Mr. Shagarach: I mean to let you know that I have discovered a important klew which will save your cliant. Pleeze be at the bridge, the Pere leading over to the island Fort, at 8 o'clock (8 P. M.) sharp To-morrow, and I mean to let you know my klew for nothing. If you do not cum, yore life is not worth living. You will be torn into on site."
A rude skull and crossbones was figured in place of a signature.
"Don't you think the writer's brain has a flaw in it?" asked Emily.
"Possibly. There is something not entirely consistent in the promise to rend me in two if I do not accept his assistance."
"Or hers?"
"You do not recognize the handwriting?"