National Anthem. It seemed impossible that the hour was close upon
twelve. As to the performance itself, Vera could have said very little.
She had been far too engrossed in her companion to heed what was taking
place upon the stage.

"Come along," Venner said. "It has been a delightful time, but all too
brief. I am going to put you in a cab and send you back to the hotel, as
I have to go and see Gurdon."

Vera made no demur to this arrangement, and presently was being conveyed
back to the hotel, while Venner thoughtfully walked down the street. Late
as it was, the usual crop of hoarse yelling newsboys were ranging the
pavement and forcing their wares on the unwilling passers-by.

"Here you are, sir. 'Late Special.' Startling development of the Bates
Case. The mystery solved."

"I'll take one of those," Venner said. "Here's sixpence for you, and you
can keep the change. Call me that cab there."




CHAPTER XII

THE HOUSE NEXT DOOR


Venner lost no time in reaching the rooms of his friend Gurdon, and was
fortunate enough to find the latter at home. He was hard at work on some