Stopping my engine half-way along the
next road, I jumped out and ran back, hiding in the bushes which grew
beside the gate of a large empty house. I had only a few seconds to
wait.
A big closed car, running almost silently, passed before me ... and
"Le Balafre" was leaning out of the window!
At last I saw my chance of finding the headquarters of "The Scorpion."
Alas! The man of the scar was as swift to recognize that possibility
as I. A moment after he had passed my stationary cab, and found it to
be deserted, his big car was off like the wind, and even before I
could step out from the bushes the roar of the powerful engine was
growing dim in the distance!
I was detected. I had to deal with dangerously clever people.
CHAPTER II
BAITING THE TRAP
The following morning I spent at home, in my modest rooms, reviewing
my position and endeavouring to adjust my plans in accordance with the
latest development. "The Scorpion" had scored a point. What had aroused
the suspicions "Le Balafre," I knew not; but I was inclined to think
that he had been looking from some window or peep-hole in the narrow
street with the wooden houses when I had, injudiciously, followed him
there.
On the other hand, the leakage might be in Paris--or in my
correspondence system. The man of the scar might have been looking for
me as I was looking for him. That he was looking for someone on the
cross-channel boat I had not doubted.
He was aware, then that Charles Malet, cabman, was watching him.
Pages:
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118