The meeting was cordial, and Mr. Selton said:
"I have been waiting for you."
"Well, sir, and here I promised to call and I have kept my
word."
"Now, sir, one word. Have you learned any of the
circumstances surrounding the death of old Tom Pearce?"
"He was murdered."
"And the murderer has been discovered?"
"Yes he has been arrested."
"Will you tell me all the circumstances"
The detective told him the details of Garcia's arrest.
Mr. Selton showed a great deal of agitation as he asked: "And
the girl Renie?"
Vance assumed a grave look as he said:
"Mr. Selton, you must satisfy me that you have an honest right
to inquire about that girl before I answer your question."
"I have a right."
"State the facts, sir."
"First tell me your own interest in the girl."
Vance told the real facts of his meeting with Renie, and when
he had concluded, Mr. Selton said:
"So you are Vance the great Government detective!"
"I am."
"I can confide in you; had you told me who you were, I Should
have been pleased to have told my story, sooner."
"Better late than never."
"My tale is briefly told. Renie is my daughter."
"Your daughter?"
"Yes."
"How came you to place her in the hands of old Tom Pearce?"
"I never did. I supposed the child dead all these years;
listen: Renie's mother died when the child was a week old,
and a year later I married again; business called me to
California, and while I was away I received a letter from my
wife announcing the death of my infant child.
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