"A man," echoed Clarice, with a sudden idea, "the assassin may not be a man at all. That box and paper look as though a woman--"
"No," interrupted the doctor, decisively, "the person who dropped this gold box here is a man. And without doubt he is connected with those wretches who used the purple fern to stamp their handiwork. Yes," he spoke half to himself, "there certainly must be a gang."
"Of course," chimed in Ackworth, quickly, "the man who was caught defied the authorities to stamp out the criminals. He admitted that he had three accomplices--"
"Two, I remember now," broke in Clarice, "two."
"Well, then, he admitted that he had two accomplices, but refused to betray their names or hiding places. Also, he warned the Government that they would avenge his death; but for the last twelve months they have not done so. Now," Ackworth pointed to the box and the warning missive with great significance, "we must take steps to save Mr. Horran's life," he ended, decisively.
"Certainly! Certainly," agreed Jerce. "What's to be done?"
"No, I should not do that, Mr. Ackworth. It will be better to come with me to London to-night and report the case at Scotland Yard."
"But in the meantime, Uncle Henry may be killed."
"Chalks can stop with him day and night, until a detective arrives."
"A detective!" echoed Clarice, in dismay, "and in this house."
"Why not?" asked Jerce, quietly. "We must take strong measures. I see no reason why Horran should be killed, as he is not a wealthy man; and this gang always selected their victims, both men and women, from rich people. Perhaps to supply these luxuries." He touched the valuable box and expensive envelope. "But certainly the man in grey means to kill Horran, else why the warning?"
"The man in grey" asked Ackworth, inquiringly.
"Ferdy told me about that," said Clarice, quickly. "I was going to ask you about the man. Why did he search your pockets?"
"I did not know at the time," said the doctor, gravely, "but I know now. Come this way." He walked into the drawing-room through the window. "We must speak softly, so that no one may overhear."
"But we are quite safe here," said Clarice, as Anthony closed the window; "why are you afraid doctor?"
"Walls have ears, my dear Miss Baird, and the remaining man of the triumvirate is clever and cunning."