Vail blotted it carefully, folded the paper, and placed it in a drawer
of the table. Then he handed me two bills.

"There is a thousand dollars there, Craig, and I will send you a
typewritten memoranda of instructions, covering all points in the game.
Where can I be sure of finding you at three o'clock tomorrow?"

"At 407 Green Street."

"All right; as soon as you read those instructions call me up by
'phone, and let me know what you have done regarding a woman, and ask
any questions you may desire. That will be all now. Neale, you might
show Craig the way out."

He put out his arm, and we shook hands, although he did not arise from
the chair. It had all been accomplished so suddenly that I felt
confused, uncertain as to what I had best do. Only the feel of those
bills in my pocket seemed real, and made me fully aware that I was
pledged to the service. Neale stepped into the hall, and I followed
him. The entry way was in darkness, and the man went to the side door
without switching on the light.

"Is this Mr. Vail's house?" I questioned, and he drew the latch.

"Yes, and, by the way, it will be as well for you to go out cautiously,
and not be seen. We want to play safe, you know."

The door opened and closed, leaving me outside in the house shadow.