Under His Thumb — page 111: what you’re looking at

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

102 UNDER HIS THUMB. Croly, the shrewdest young detective in the coun- try, is ‘piping’ the case and he will not allow such a graceless rascal to escape. -And I advise you, Stella, to abandon the wretch to his deserts. You are young and pretty, as well as clever at your work, -andilam willing to do whatI can for you. But if - you persist in aiding you outcast father you will probably be arrested for complicity in his crimes. Now, take my advice, and renounce him forever.’’ Stella’s brain whirled under the pressure of mys- tery, danger, and her loyal resolutions. What did it all mean? Was her father really involved so deeply by circumstances that he must inevitably be ar- rested and convicted? Were that detective’s kind assurances really made to gain her confidence? Whom should she trust? She covered her face with her hands; then she looked into the face of her em- ployer, and firmy said: ‘“‘T shall not forsake my father when he needs me most. Heis innocent, as you will some time be con- vinced.”’ Mr. Blain quietly seized her arm and led her to the street door, which he opened wide and said: ‘“‘Go, and be a vagabond yourself.’”’ Eomicbooks.co i