last night and gave me information which had only just reached the
Commissioner. I'll ask you to lock it away until it's wanted, doctor."

"Certainly, if you wish it," replied Stuart. "Come into the study and
you shall see me do as you direct. I may add that the object to be
served is not apparent to me."

Entering the study, he took an envelope, enclosed the piece of paper,
sealed the lapel and locked the envelope in the same drawer of the
bureau which once had contained that marked 30.

"Mlle. Dorian has a duplicate key to this drawer." he said. "Are you
prepared to take the chance?"

"Quite," replied Dunbar, smiling; "although my information is worth
more than that which she risked so much to steal."

"It's most astounding. At every step the darkness increases. Why
should _anyone_ have asked me to lock up a blank piece of cardboard?"

"Why, indeed," murmured Dunbar. "Well, I may as well get back. I am
expecting a report from Sowerby. Look after yourself, sir. I'm
inclined to think your pretty patient was talking square when she told
you there might be danger."

Stuart met the glance of the tawny eyes.

"What d'you mean, Inspector? Why should _I_ be in danger?"

"Because," replied Inspector Dunbar, "if 'The Scorpion' is a poisoner,