"Look here," he said, "I do not for one moment believe that Laverick
handed over to you the document you were so anxious to obtain. On
the other hand, I imagine that your somewhat battered appearance is
the result of fruitless argument on your part with a view to inducing
him to do so. Nevertheless, I can afford to run no risks. The coat
first, please, Henri. It is necessary that I search it thoroughly."

There was a brief hesitation. Bellamy's hand went reluctantly into
his pocket.

"I hate to seem melodramatic," he declared, "and I never carry
firearms, but I have a little life-preserver here which I have
learned how to use pretty effectively. Come, you know, it isn't a
fair fight. You've had all you want, Lassen, and Henri there hasn't
the muscle of a chicken."

Lassen rose, groaning, to his feet and allowed his coat to be
removed. Bellamy glanced through the pockets, holding one letter
for a moment in his hands as he glanced at the address.

"The writing of our friend Streuss," he remarked, with a smile.
"No, you need not fear, Lassen! I am not going to read it. There
is plenty of proof of your treachery without this."

Lassen's face was livid and his eyes seemed like beads. Bellamy
handed back the coat.

"That's all right," he said. "Nothing there, I am glad to see - or
in the waistcoat," he added, passing his hands over it. "I'll