coat passed them, carrying under one arm a square case, that bore some
resemblance to the slide in which photographers slip their negatives
after taking a photograph. The man in the frock coat placed his burden on
a chair, and then, apparently, hurried back for something he had
forgotten.

"Here is our chance," Gurdon whispered. "Let's see what is in that case.
There may be an important clue here."

The thing was done rapidly and neatly. Inside the case, between layers of
cotton wool, lay a great number of gold coins, obviously sovereigns. They
appeared to be in a fine state of preservation, for they glistened in the
light like new gold.

"Put one in your pocket," whispered Venner.

"I'm afraid we are going to have our journey for our pains; but still,
you can't tell. Better take two while you are about it."

Gurdon slipped the coins into his pocket, then turned away in the
direction of the door as the man in the frock coat came back,
thoughtfully whistling, as if to give the intruders a chance of escape.
Before he appeared in sight the outer door closed softly, and Venner and
Gurdon were in the corridor once more.




CHAPTER VI