"Absolutely. I had said nothing of the matter, even to my partner, there
being nothing definite about it before I saw Señora Cervera this
morning. I am sure that none of my clerks had any idea of my
intentions."

Nick was not so sure of it, yet he did not say so. He arose and took
from Venner's desk a block of plain paper, which he laid upon the table.

"Gentlemen," said he, "I want the signature of your firm, in the
handwriting of each of you. Kindly let me have this."

"What's that for?" demanded Venner, abruptly.

"I wish to make a comparison with the forged order which my assistant
will presently bring from Mr. Hafferman," Nick coolly explained. "I
would suggest that you do not delay me."

Venner made no reply, but took a pen and signed the firm's name upon the
blank paper.

"Now yours, Mr. Garside."

"Mine also, Detective Carter?" queried Garside, with a look of surprise.

"If you please."

"Surely," cried Venner, with some resentment, "you do not suspect that
Mr. Garside or myself--"