house was indeed occupied, I felt my way forward until I came to some
stone steps, and a door. I rapped on the wood three times, my nerves
tingling from excitement. There was a moment's delay, so that I lifted
my hand again, and then the door opened silently. Within was like the
black mouth of a cave, and I involuntarily took a step backward.

"This you, Craig?"

"Yes," I answered, half recognizing the cautious voice.

"All right then--come in. There is nothing to fear, the floor is
level."

I stepped within, seeing nothing of the man, and the door was closed
behind me. The sharp click of the latch convinced me it was secured by
a spring lock.

"Turn on the light," said the voice at my side sharply. Instantly an
electric bulb glowed dazzling overhead, and I blinked, about half
blinded by the sudden change.




CHAPTER II

THE CASE OF PHILIP HENLEY

It was a rather narrow hallway and, with the exception of a thick
carpet underfoot, unfurnished. Neale, appearing somewhat more slender