One more question I must ask you. Is it known to your
clerks that you have not the number of the note?"
"Yes, it is."
"Then I fear you stand little chance of ever seeing it again. That fact
known, no time would be lost in parting with it; they'd make haste to
get it safe off."
Not an instant did Mr. Butterby take for consideration upon quitting
Mr. Galloway. With a sharp, unhesitating step, as though his mind had
been made up for a month past as to what his course must be, he took
his way to the house of Mr. Joe Jenkins. That gentleman, his head still
tied up, was just leaving for the office, and Mr. Butterby encountered
him coming through the shop.
"Good morning, Jenkins. I want a word with you alone."
Jenkins bowed, in his civil, humble fashion; but "a word alone" was
more easily asked than had, Mrs. Jenkins being all-powerful, and
burning with curiosity. The officer had to exert some authority before
he could get rid of her, and be left at peace with Jenkins.
"What sources of expense has Arthur Channing?" demanded he, so abruptly
as to startle and confuse Jenkins.
"Sources of expense, sir?" he repeated.
"What are his habits? Does he squander money? Does he go out in an
evening into expensive company?"
"I'm sure, sir, I cannot tell you anything about it," Jenkins was
mildly beginning. He was imperatively interrupted by the detective.
"I ask _to know_. You are aware that I possess authority to compel you
to speak; therefore, answer me without excuse or circumlocution; it
will save trouble.
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