"Well, you have come to the wrong parties to get information about Mr.
Bloodgood," said Frank. "But, if you are so particular about your
company, it might be well to learn something concerning the other
members of your party."

"Oh--er--I know all about them," asserted Mr. Slush.

"Indeed?"

"Yes. Hugh Hazleton is the younger son of an English nobleman, and he
is--is all--right."

"Who told you this?"

"He did."

"Then it must be true," grunted Browning, with a grin on his broad face.

"Yes," nodded the little man, innocently, "that is--ah--settled. M.
Rouen Montfort is a--a great French journalist and--er--writer of
books."

"Is that so?" smiled Merry. "Queer, I never heard of him. I suppose he
told you this?"

"Oh, yes. He is a very fine--gentleman. Ah--did Mr. Bloodgood
invite--er--any of you to come into the--ah--game?"

Frank fancied he saw a sudden light. Was it possible Mr. Slush was