and the wash of the sewers grew stronger, and the masts of vessels
could just be seen in the darkness outlined against the sky, Dicky
suddenly stopped and drew me into a doorway. Our retainer disappeared
at the same instant, and the street was apparently deserted. Then out
of the night the shape of a man approached with silent steps.

"Five-sixteen," croaked Dicky.

The man gave a visible start.

"Sixteen-five," he croaked in return.

"Any signs?" whispered Dicky.

"Six men went up stairs across the street. Every one of them did the
sailor-drunk act."

"Sure they weren't sailors?"

"Well, when six coves goes up the same stairs trying the same dodge,
all inside of ten minutes, I has a right to my suspicions. And Darby
Meeker ain't been to sea yet that I knows on."

"Darby Meeker!" exclaimed Dicky in a whisper. And he drew a whistle
under his breath. "What do you think of that, Wilton? I had no idea he
was back from that wild-goose chase you sent him on."

"It looks bad," I admitted cautiously. "I dare say he isn't in good
temper."