"And the ring?"

He consulted his watch.

"We have only a short time left. We must map our action. We have
three things to work on--the ring, the house, Bertha Holcomb. It's
all up to you, Harry. Find out all that is possible; but go slow.
Trace down that ring; find out everything that you can. Go and see
Bertha Holcomb. Perhaps she can give you some data. Watson said
no; but perhaps you may uncover it. Take the ring to a lapidary;
but don't let him cut it. Last of all, and most important, buy the
house of the Blind Spot. Draw on me. Let me pay half, anyway."

"I shall move into it," I answered.

He hesitated a bit.

"I am afraid of that," he answered. "Well, if you wish. Only be
careful. Remember I shall return just as soon as I can get loose.
If you feel yourself slipping or anything happens, send me a
cable."

The hours passed all too quickly. When day came we had our
breakfast and hurried down to the pier. It was hard to have him
go. His last words were like Hobart Fenton. He repeated the
warning.

"Watch your step, Harry; watch your step. Take things easy; be
cautious. Get the house. Trace down the ring. Be sure of yourself.