"
"Where were you when I was assaulted?"
"I was down at the bay shore."
"What were you doing there?"
"Watching the men whom Garcia brought with him to aid him in
his design."
"This is a strange story you are telling me, young man. How
do I know but you are an enemy?"
"I am not an enemy!"
"But are you an enemy to Garcia?"
"Yes."
"Why?"
"That is a private matter."
"Why is he my enemy?"
The young man was silent, but looked toward Renie.
The old smuggler followed the direction of his glance end
said:
"Come, speak out plainly, do not fear!"
"I fear nothing."
"Then speak."
The young man reached over the bed and whispered in the old
man's ear:
"I do not wish to speak in your daughter's presence."
"Renie, go from the cabin a few moments, this man has
something to tell me."
The detective signaled to the girl to obey, but the latter
showed some hesitancy and said:
"Father, I do not wish to leave you alone with stranger."
"You need not fear, child, and you can remain within call."
"Are you sure this is not the man who assaulted you?"
"Yes, child. I know well enough who assaulted me; go away,
I will call you when I wish you to return."
The girl went from the room, but at the same time exhibited
considerable reluctance.
The detective's admiration for the girl increased. He
recognized that she was playing a part, and really aiding
him in impressing the old man as intended.
When alone, the old smoggier said:
"Now, speak out, young man!"
"Do you suspect Garcia's purpose?"
"We are not talking about what I suspect, whale have you to
tell me?"
"Garcia has designs against your daughter, all his pretensions
about desiring to benefit her are a part of his scheme.
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