I

"DIAMOND FRED"



In the saloon bar of a public-house, situated only a few hundred
yards from the official frontier of Chinatown, two men sat at a
small table in a corner, engaged in earnest conversation. They
afforded a sharp contrast. One was a thick-set and rather
ruffianly looking fellow, not too cleanly in either person or
clothing, and, amongst other evidences that at one time he had
known the prize ring, possessing a badly broken nose. His
companion was dressed with that spruceness which belongs to the
successful East End Jew; he was cleanly shaven, of slight build,
and alert in manner and address.

Having ordered and paid for two whiskies and sodas, the Jew,
raising his glass, nodded to his companion and took a drink. The
glitter of a magnificent diamond which he wore seemed to attract
the other's attention almost hypnotically.

"Cheerio, Freddy!" said the thick-set man. "Any news?"

"Nothing much," returned the one addressed as Freddy, setting his