The Vestibule Limited Mystery — page 167: what you’re looking at

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

158 THE VESTIBULE LIMITED MYSTERY. “You promised that we would not be brought under suspicion for Robert’s death.” “Well?” “Do you mean to stick to that?” 1 do,” “And you have the power to accomplish it—you can allow the—affair to remain as it is, a mystery?” “Certainly. You will never be tried for his mur- der,” I reply, confidently. “Who are you, if not Billings?” . “A New York detective.” “What! Hired by his family?” I nod in reply. | “But see here—I don’t understand. If you are in their employ, it must be to your interest to know the truth.” “I do know it; but it does not put a dollar in my pocket whether I keep the secret or let them know the truth. AsIhave given you my word on that score I shall keep it.” “Good. You spoke of other business—what does that mean?” “T said I was here to make new terms with you, Colonel Andrews.” As I speak, I rub my side with my right hand, which then falls on my knee; in this position I have found it easier to get my hand in the side-pocket of my sack coat, and grasp the revolver snugly lying there. The emergency that may require some such sudden move as this is near at hand, and I believe in being prepared. “Terms—on what basis, sir?” ie demands. “Silence, again.” My answer confuses him. “You talk in riddles, Weare face to face—there ~ - comicbooks art, ai v7 4 a S/; ii | | iE ok sey, - \ ‘ { co