The Chinese Parrot (Charlie Chan Detective Series) — page 88: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

a. knows the ropes. You can reach your room from the patio. I trust you'll sleep well." "I know I shall," said Eden. "Thank you so much. Good night." He crossed the patio behind the shuffling figure of the Chinese. Above, white and cool, hung the desert stars. The wind blew keener than ever. As he entered the room assigned him he was glad to see that a fire had been laid. He stooped to light it. "Humbly begging pardon,” said Chan. "That are my work.” Eden glanced toward the closed door. "What became of you? I lost you at Barstow.” "Thinking deep about the matter," said Chan softly, "I decide not to await train. On auto truck belonging to one of my countrymen, among many other vegetables, I ride out of Barstow. Much better I arrive on ranch in warm daylight. Not so shady look to it. Iam Ah Kim, the cook. How fortunate I mastered that art in far-away youth." "You're darned good," laughed Eden. Chan shrugged. "All my life,” he complained, "I study to speak fine English words. Now I must strangle all such in my throat, lest suspicion rouse up. Not a happy situation for me." "Well, it won't last long,” replied Eden. "Everything's all right, evidently.” 88 comiicboeoe S CO