"What do you mean, sir?" asked the other, softly.

"I will speak plainly. I mean that you know more about the nature of
this danger than you have ever communicated to me. Allow me to proceed,
if you please, Colonel Menendez. For your delightful hospitality I
thank you. As your guest I could be happy, but as a professional
investigator whose services have been called upon under most unusual
circumstances, I cannot be happy and I do not thank you."

Their glances met. Both were angry, wilful, and self-confident.
Following a few moments of silence:

"Perhaps, Mr. Harley," said the Colonel, "you have something further to
say?"

"I have this to say," was the answer: "I esteem your friendship, but I
fear I must return to town without delay."

The Colonel's jaws were clenched so tightly that I could see the
muscles protruding. He was fighting an inward battle; then:

"What!" he said, "you would desert me?"

"I never deserted any man who sought my aid."

"I have sought your aid."

"Then accept it!" cried Harley. "This, or allow me to retire from the
case. You ask me to find an enemy who threatens you, and you withhold
every clue which could aid me in my search."