safe, but perhaps you don't feel equal to the task?"

"On the contrary," said T. X., calmly, and rising from the chair,
"I am going to put your good faith to the test."

For answer Kara walked to the door and opened it.

"Let me show you the way," he said politely.

He passed along the corridor and entered the apartment at the end.
The room was a large one and lighted by one big square window
which was protected by steel bars. In the grate which was broad
and high a huge fire was burning and the temperature of the room
was unpleasantly close despite the coldness of the day.

"That is one of the eccentricities which you, as an Englishman,
will never excuse in me," said Kara.

Near the foot of the bed, let into, and flush with, the wall, was
a big green door of the safe.

"Here you are, Mr. Meredith," said Kara. "All the precious
secrets of Remington Kara are yours for the seeking."

"I am afraid I've had my trouble for nothing," said T. X., making
no attempt to use the key.

"That is an opinion which I share," said Kara, with a smile.

"Curiously enough," said T. X. "I mean just what you mean."