"But what do you intend doing about this case?" demanded Venner, as Nick
abruptly rose to go.

"All that can be done, sir," the famous detective bluntly rejoined. "I
accept the case, Mr. Venner, and will do my best with it. When I have
anything to report, you shall hear from me."

"But--"

"There really is nothing more to be said, gentlemen, and the sooner I
get to work the better," Nick gravely interposed.

"But will you advise me of any steps that you may take?" persisted
Venner, briefly detaining him by the arm.

"Very probably," nodded Nick, though really he probably would do nothing
of the kind. "And now good-day, gentlemen. If reporters call upon you,
you may give them all of the facts, and state that Nick Carter is at
work on the case. I want this Kilgore diamond gang to know at the outset
that I am after them--and fully resolved to land them where they
belong."

"Behind prison bars, eh?" inquired Venner, with an odd smile.

"Yes, sir! Behind prison bars!" declared Nick, forcibly. "Again,
gentlemen, good-day. You will hear from me later."

Mr. Rufus Venner, with his partner at his elbow, stood in the office
door and silently watched the two celebrated detectives as they strode
quickly through the elegant store, from which they presently vanished