May 15, 2025 • 27 mins
Experience an enthralling journey through time and geography with this captivating series by Guy Newell Boothby, an Australian writer who gained fame during his years in London. Embark on the first of five books that delve into the mysterious world of Dr. Nikola, a criminal mastermind with an intriguing touch of occult. The narrative isnt just about Dr. Nikola, but about the characters who find themselves ensnared in his intricate web. This tale of adventure and romance takes you from Australia to the Middle East, the South Seas, and rural Hampshire, as the protagonist battles against Dr. Nikola and his accomplices. Boothbys vivid portrayal of exotic locations and the underlying sense of mystery transports you back to the era of hardened empire builders and imperialists, offering a nostalgic appeal.
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Speaker 1 (00:01):
Part two, Chapter two of A Bid for Fortune by
Guy Boothby. This is a LibriVox recording. All libervox recordings
are in the public domain. Chapter two on the trail.
As soon as Weatherall was able to speak again, he said,
as feebly as an old man of ninety, take me home,
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mister Hatteras, take me home, and let us think up
together what is best to be done to rescue my
poor child. The governor rose to his feet and gave
him his arm. I think you're right, mister Weatherall, he said.
It is, of course just probable that you will find
your daughter at home when you arrive. God grant that
she may be. But in case she is not, I
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will communicate all I know to the police Commissioner on
his arrival, and send him and his officers on to you.
We must lose no time if we wish to catch
these scoundrels. Then, turning to me, he continued, mister Hatteras,
it is owing to your promptness that we are able
to take such early steps. I should depend upon your
further assistance in this matter. You may do so with
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perfect confidence, I answered. If you knew all, you would
understand that I am more anxious perhaps than anyone, to
discover the whereabouts of the young lady and my unfortunate friend.
Next moment we were being whirled down the drive at
a pace which at any other time I should have
thought dangerous. Throughout the journey we sat almost silent, wrapped
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in our anxieties and forebodings, hoping, almost against hope, that
when we arrived at Pop's point we should find Phyllis awaiting.
As there at last we turned into the grounds. On
reaching the house, I sprang out and rang the bell,
and I went down to help my companion to a light.
The butler opened the door and descended the steps to
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take the rugs. Whether Or stopped him, almost angrily, crying,
where is your mistress as you come home? The expression
of surprise on the man's face told me before he
had time to utter a word, and our hopes were
not to be realized. Miss Phyllis, sir, the man said,
why she's at the ball. Weather Or turned from him
with a deep sigh, and taking my arm, went heavily
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up the steps into the hall. Come to my study,
mister hatteras he said, let me confer with you. For
God's sake, don't desert me in my hour of need.
You have no fear of that, I answered. If it
is bad for you, think of what it is for me.
And then we went upstairs together. On reaching his study,
mister Weatherall led the way in and sat down. I
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went across to the hearth rug and stood before him. Now,
I said, we must think this out from the very beginning,
and to do that properly, you must consider every detail.
Have you any objection to answering my questions? Any questions
you like? He replied, and I will answer them in
the first place. Then how soon after his arrival in
the colony did your daughter get to know that sham beckonem?
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Three days? He answered, at a dance, dinner, party, picnic
or what that? None of these sings. A young man
had appears, had seen my daughter in the street, and,
having been struck with her beauty, asked one of the
aids to camp at Government House, with whom we are
on intimate terms, to bring him to call. At the time,
I remember, I thought it'd a particularly friendly action on
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his part. I don't doubt it. I answered, well, that
I think should tell us one thing, and what's that?
And his instructions were to get to know your daughter
without delay. But what could his reason have been? Ah
that I cannot tell you just yet. Now you must
pardon what I'm going to say. Do you think he
was serious in his intentions regarding Phyllis? I mean your
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daughter perfectly? As far as I could tell. His desire,
he said, was if she would have him to be
allowed to marry her on his twenty first birthday, which
would be next week. And in proof of permission he
showed me a cablegram from his father, a forgery, I
don't doubt. Well. Then, The only construction I can put
upon it is that the arrival of the real Beckenham
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in Sidney must have frightened him, thus compelling the gang
to resort to other means of obtaining possession of her
at once. Now our next business must be to find
out how that dastardly act was accomplished. May I ring
the bell and have up the coachman who drove your
daughter to the ball. By all means, please act in
every way in this matter as if this house were
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your own. I rang the bell, and when the butler
appeared to answer it, mister Weatherill instructed him to find
the man. I wanted and send him up. The servant
left the room again, and for five minutes we awaited
as a reappearance in silence. When he did come back,
he said, Thompson has not come home yet, Sir, not
come home yet? What it's in eleven o'clock? Send him
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in directly, he arrives. AHK, what bell is that front door? Sir,
go down and answer it. Then, if it should be
the Commissioner of Police, show him up here. At once
it turned out it was not the Commissioner of Police,
but an inspector. Good evening, said mister Weather. You've come
from Government House, I presume exactly, so, sir, replied the inspector.
He's excellent. He gave us some particulars and then sent
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us on. You know the nature of the case, his
excellency informed us himself. And what steps have you taken? Well, sir?
To begin with, we have given orders for a thorough
search throughout the city and suburbs for the tutor and
the sham nobleman. At the same time, more men are
out looking for the real Lord Beckenham. We're also trying
to find your coachman, who was supposed to have driven
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miss weatherall away. From Government House, and also the carriage,
which is certain to be found before very long. He
had hardly finished speaking before there was another loud ring
at the bell. Presently, the butler entered once more. Crossing
to mister Weatherall, he said, two policemen are at the
front door, and they've brought Thompson home. Sir ah, we
are like to have a little light thrown upon the matter.
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Now let them bring him up here. He's not in
a very nice state, sir. Never mind that, bring him
up here instantly. Again the butler departed, and a few
moments later heavy footsteps ascended the stairs and approached the stone.
Then two stalwart policemen entered the room, supporting between them
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a miserable figure in coachman's livery. His hat and coat
were gone, his breeches were staying with mud, while a
large bruise totally obscured his left eye. Stand him over
there opposite me, said mister Weatherall, pointing to the side
of the room furthest from the door. The policemen did
as they were ordered, while a man looked more dead
than alive. Now Thompson Weatherill said, looking sternly at him,
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what have you got to say for yourself. But the
man only groaned. Seeing that in his present state he
could say nothing, I went across to the table and
mixed him a glass of crog and I gave it
to him. He drank it eagerly. It seemed to sharpen
his wits. It wasn't my fault, sir, for I've known
what the game was. I'd have been killed before I'd
have let him do anything hurt me and a young lady.
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But there's two cunning for me, sir. Be more explicit, sir,
said weather or sternly. Don't stand there whining, but tell
your story straightforwardly. At once Paul Wretch pulled himself together
and did his best. It was this way, sir, he began.
Last week I was introduced by a friend of mine
to a nicer spoken man as ever. I saw. He
was for England and said, having a little money, thought
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he'd got to try his handed a bit of racing
and Australia like he was on the lookout for a
smart man, he said, who'd be able to put him
up at wrink or two, maybe train for him. Later on,
he went on to say that he'd heard a lot
about me and thought I was just a man for
his money. Well, we got more and more friendly to
the other night Monday when he said as how he'd
settled on a farm bit out in the country and
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was going to sign the agreement as they called it,
for the rent in it. The next day he was
going to start a stud farm and training establishment combined.
And would I take the billet of manager at three
hundred a year anyway, as he said, don't be an
hurry to decide, Take your time and think it over.
Meet me at Canary Bird Hotel on Thursday night as tonight, sir,
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and give me your decision. Well, sir, I drove miss
Weather at the government our sir, according to orders, and
coming out and went by an airy bird, and you
give him my answer? Think you no arm could ever
come of it. When I drove up, he was standing
at the door smoking his cigar and being an affable
sort of fellow, invited me inside to take a drink.
I don't like to leave the box, I said, Oh
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never mind, you're all says he. He is a man
who's will stand by it for five minutes. He gave
a respectable looking chap alongside the lamp post for sixpence,
and he held her all, so I went in. When
we got inside, I was for going to the bar,
but he says, no, this is an important business matter
and we don't want to be overheard. With that. He
leads the wait into a private room at the end
of the passage and shuts the door. What Shaw says
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He A number of a rum, says I. Then he
orders a number of rum for me and a number
of whiskey for himself. And when it was brought, he
sat talking in the place he thought of taking, and
he all says he was going to buy. Then he says, oho,
somebody listening at the door. I heard a step jump
up and look. I got up and ran to the door,
but there's nobody there. So I sat down again and
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we went on talking. Then he says, taking up his
glass to your elf, mister Thompson, and success at a farm.
We both drank it and went on talking till I
felt sleepy. I didn't know what to do, and I
dropped off. After that, I don't remember nothing or what
happened till I woke up in the DeMay when aut
Manhattan coat and found a policeman shaking me by the shoulder.
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The whole thing is as plain as daylight, Clyde weather
or bitterly. It is a thoroughly organized conspiracy, having me
for its victim. Ah, my poor little girlie, what was
my obstinacy brought you to? Seeing the old man in
this state? Very nearly broke me down? But I mastered
myself with an effort and addressed a question to the
unfortunate coachman. Pull yourself together, Thomson, and tell me as
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correctly as you can, what this friend of yours was like.
I fully expected to hear him give an exact description
of the man who had followed us from Melbourne. But
I was mistaken. I don't know, sir, said Thompson, as
I could rightly tell you. My mind is still being
a bit dizzy like it was tall, but not by
any manner of means big maid in a very the'small
wands and feet, and sort of what they call a
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deaf zed complexion. His air was black as soot, and
so was his eyes, and they sparkled like two diamonds.
Do you remember noticing if you had a curious gold
ring on his little finger like a snake he had, Sir,
with two eyes made from some black stone. That's just
as true as you were born. And it was Niccola,
I cried in an outburst of astonishment. And he followed
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us to Australia after all, weather Or gave a deep
sigh that was more like a groan than anything. Then
he became suddenly a new man, mister inspector. He cried
to the police officer that man, or traces of him,
must be found before daylight. I know him, and he
is as slippery as an eel. If you lose a minute,
he'll be through your fingers one moment. First, I cried,
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tell me this, Thompson. When you drove up to the
Canary Bird Hotel, where did you say? This man was
standing in the verandah, sir? Had he his hat on? Yes, sir.
And then you went towards the bar, but it was crowded,
so he took it to a private room, yes, sir.
And at once he began giving you the details of
this farm he proposed starting. Did he work out any
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figures on paper, yes, sir, on what on a letter
or an envelope? Not certain which which, of course he
took from his pocket. Yes, sir, very good, I said,
and turning to the police officer. Now, mister inspector, shall
we be off to the Canary Bird if you wish it, sir.
In the meantime, I'll send instructions back by these men
to the different stations. Before breakfast time. We must have
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the man who held the horse. You don't know him,
I suppose, I asked Thompson. No, sir, but I've sit
him before. He answered he's a Sydney fellow. Then, oh, yes, sir,
Then there should be no difficulty in catching him. Now
let's be going. Mister Weatherill rose to accompany us, But
hard though it was to stop him, I eventually succeeded
in dissuading him from such a course. But you will
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let me know directly you discover anything, won't you, mister
hatteras he cried as we were about to leave the room,
think of my anxiety. I gave my promise, and then,
accompanied by the inspector, left the house. Hailing a passing cab,
we jumped into it, told the driver to proceed as
fast as he could to the hotel in question. Just
as we started, a clock in the neighborhood struck twelve.
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Phyllis had been in Nicholas's hands for three hours. Pulling
up opposite the Canary Bird, the place where the coachman
had been drugged, we jumped out and bade the cabman wait.
The hotel was in complete darkness, and it was not
until we had pealed the bell twice that we succeeded
in producing any sign of life. Then the landlord, half dressed,
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carrying a candle in his hand, came downstairs and called
out to know who it was there and what we wanted.
My companion immediately said police, And in answer to that
magic word, the door was unbarred. Good evening, mister Bartell,
said the inspector. May we go in for a moment
on business? Certainly, mister inspector, said the landlord, who evidently
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knew my companion. But isn't this rather late for a call?
I hope there's nothing the matter. Nothing much, returned the inspector.
Only we want to make a few inquiries about a
man who was here to night and for whom we
are looking. If that is so, I must call my barman.
I was not in the bar this evening. If you
will excuse me, I'll go and bring him down. In
the meantime, make yourselves comfortable. He left us to kick
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our heels in the hall while he went upstairs again.
In about ten minutes, and just as my all consuming
impatience was well nigh getting the better of me, he returned,
bringing the sleepy barman. These gentlemen wants some information about
a man who was here to night, the landlords said,
by way of introduction, perhaps you can give it. What
was he like, sir, asked the barman of the inspector.
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The latter overturned to me, tall, slim, with a sow complexion.
I said, black hair, very dark, restless eyes. He came
here with the Honorable Sylvester Weatherill's coachman. The man seemed
to recollect him at once. I remember him, he said.
They sat in number five down the passage there, and
the man you mentioned ordered a nobbler of rum and
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a whiskey. That's the fellow we want, said the inspector.
Now tell me this. Have you ever seen him in
here before? Never once, said the barman. And that's a
solemn fact. As if I had, I couldn't have forgotten it.
His figure ed wouldn't let you do that, No, sir,
to night was the first night he's ever been in
the Canary Bird. Did anyone else visit them while they
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were in the room together, Not as I know of,
But stay I'm not certain. Yes, I remember seeing a tall,
good looking chap come down the passage and go in there,
But it was some time, half an hour, maybe after
I took in the drinks. Did you see him come
out again? No? But I know the coachman got very
drunk and yet to be carried out to the carriage.
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How do you know that because I saw the other
two doing it? Inspector turned to me. Not very satisfactory,
is it? No, I answered, but do you mind us
looking into number five, the room they occupied. I'd talk,
said the landlord. Come with me, so saying, he led
the way down the passage to a little room on
the right hand side of the door of which he
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threw open with a theatrical flourish. It was in pitch darkness,
but a few seconds later the gas was lit and
we could see all that it contained. A small table
stood in the center of the room. Round the walls
were ranged two or three wooden chairs. A small window
was at the further end, and a fireplace opposite the door.
On the table was a half smoked cigar and a
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torn copy of the Evening Mercury. But that was not
what I wanted, so I went down on my hands
and knees and looked about upon the floor. Presently I
descried a small ball of paper near the grate. Picking
it up, I seated myself at the table and turned
to the barman, who was watching my movements attentively. Was
this room used by any other people after the party
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we are looking for left? No, sir, there was nobody
in either of these two bottom rooms. You're quite certain
of that, perfectly certain. I took up the ball, unrolled it,
and spread it out upon the table. To my disgust,
it was only the back half of an envelope, and
though it had a few figures dotted about upon it,
it was of no possible use to us. Nothing there,
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asked the inspector, Nothing at all, I answered, bitterly, saved
a few incomprehensible figures. Well, in that case, we'd better
be getting up to the station asee if they discovered
anything yet, come along, then, I answered, We must be
quick enough, for we've lost precious time, and every minute counts.
I took up the evening Mercury and followed him out
to the cab. After having sincerely thanked the hotel proprietor
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and the barman for their courtesy, Inspector cave the driver's
orders and we set off. As we went we discussed
our next movements, and while we were doing so, I idly
glanced at the paper I held in my hand. There
was a lamp in the cab, and a light showed
me on the bottom right hand corner a round blue
India rubber Stampmr W. E. Maxwell, Stationer and Newsagent twenty
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three Ipswell Street MULARA stop the cab, I almost shouted,
tell the man to drive us back to the Canary Bird.
Quickly the order was given, the cab faced round, and
in less than a minute we were on our way back.
What's up now, asked the astonished inspector. Only that I
believe I've got a clue, I cried. I did not
explain any further, and in five minutes we had brought
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the landlord downstairs again. I'm sorry to trouble you in
this fashion, I cried, But life and death depend upon it.
I want you to let me see number five again.
He conducted this to the room, and once more the
gas was lit. The small strip of envelope lay upon
the table just as I had thrown it down. I
seated myself and the game looked closely at it, and
I sprang to my feet. I thought, so, I cried, excitedly,
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pointing to the paper. I told you I had a clue. No,
mister inspector, who wrote those figures? The man you call Nikola,
I suppose that's right now, who would have bought this newspaper.
You must remember that Thomson only left his box to
come in here, Nicola, I suppose. Then. Very good, then,
according to your own showing, Nicola owned this piece of
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envelope and this Evening Mercury. If that is certain? Look here.
He came round and looked over my shoulder. I pointed
to what was evidently part of the gumed hedge. At
the top of the envelope. On it were these three
important words swell Street Wullahara. Well, he said, what about it? Why?
Look here, I said, as I opened the Evening to
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Mercury and pointed to the stamp mark at the bottom.
The man who bought this newspaper at mister Maxwell's shop
also bought this envelope. There the letters Swell before the
street constitute the last half of Ipswell, the name of
the street. If that man be nicolar, as we suspect,
the person who served him is certain to remember him,
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and it is just within the bands of possibility he
may know his address. That's so, said the inspector, struck
with a force of my argument. I know mister Maxwell's shop,
and our best plan will be to go there as
fast as we can. Again, thanking the landlord for his civility,
we returned to our cab and once more set off,
this time for mister Maxwell's shop in Ipswell Street. By
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the time we had reached it, it was nearly three
o'clock and gradually growing light. As the cab drew up
alongside the curb, inspector jumped out and rang the bell
at the side door. It was opened after a while
by a shockheaded youth who stared at us in sleepy astonishment.
Does mister Maxwell live at the shop? Asked the inspector, No, sir,
Where then Ponson Street, third house on the left hand side.
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Thank you. Once more, we jumped into the cab and
rattled off. It seemed to me so anxious and terrified.
Was so for my darling safety that we were fated
never to get the information we wanted. The whole thing
was like some nightmare in which try how I would
to move, every step was clogged. A few minutes drive
brought us to Ponson Street, and we drew up at
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the third house on the left hand side. It was
a pretty little villa with a nice front garden and
a creeper covered verandah, we rang the bell and waited. Presently,
we heard someone coming down the passage, and a moment
later the door was unlocked. Who's there, cried a voice
from with him, Please, said my companion as before. The
door was immediately opened, and a very small, sandy complexioned
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man dressed in a flaring suit of striped pajamas stood
before us. Is there anything wrong, gentlemen, he asked nervously.
Nothing to affect you, mister Maxwell, My companion replied, we
only want a little important information if you can give
it us, And we are anxious to discover a man's
whereabouts before daylight, and we've been led to believe that
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the only person who can give us the necessary clue.
But gracious, but I should be happy to serve you
if I can, the little man answered, leading the way
into his dining room with an air of importance. His
appearance rather belied. Well, it's this, I replied, producing the
piece of envelope in the evening mercury. You see these
letters on the top of this paper, don't you? Did?
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His attention at once secured by seeing his own name. Well,
that envelope was evidently purchased in your shop, So was
this newspaper. How can you tell that in the case
of the envelope by these letters, and in that of
the paper by your rubber stamp on the bottom. Ah? Well, now,
and in what way can I help you? We want
to know the address of the man who bought them.
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That will surely be difficult. Can you give me any
idea of what he was like? Tall, slightly foreign in appearance,
distinctly handsome, sallow complexion, very dark eyes, black hair, small
hands and feet. As my description progressed, the little man's
face brightened. Then he cried with evident triumph. Another man
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came into the shop yesterday afternoon, and his address is
His face fell again. His information was not quite as
helpful as he had expected it would be. There I
can't help you. I'm sorry to say. He brought a
packet of paper and envelopes the evening Mercury, and then
left the shop. I was so struck by his appearance.
I went to the door and watched him cross the road.
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And in which direction did he go over to Podg's
chemist shop across the way? That was the last I
saw of him. I'm obliged to you, mister Maxwell, I said,
shaking him by the hand. But I'm sorry you can't
tell us something more definite about him. Then, turning to
the inspector, I suppose we'd better go off and find Podges.
But if we had to spend much more time in
rushing about like this, we shall be certain to lose
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them altogether. Let's be off to Podgers then, as fast
as we can go, bidding mister Maxwell goodbye, we set
off again, and in ten minutes had arrived at the
shop and of mister Podgers downstairs. We explained our errand briefly,
and gave a minute description of the man we wanted.
I remember him perfectly, said the sedate Podges. He came
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into my shop last night and purchased a bottle of chloroform.
He made him sign the poison book. Of course, naturally
I did, mister inspector, would you like to see his
signature very much? We both answered at once. In the
book was accordingly produced. Podgers ran his finger down the
list Brown Williams Davis. Ah, here it is Chloroform j
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Venniarde twenty two Calipee Street, Wullahara Venniarge. I cried, why
that's not his name, Very likely, not, replied Podges. But
it's the name he gave me. Never mind, will try
twenty two Calliope Street on the chance, said the inspector,
as we drove off. This time had increased pace. In
less than fifteen minutes, we had turned into the street
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we wanted and pulled up about one hundred yards from
the junction. It was a small thoroughfare with a long
line of second class of villa residences on either side.
The policeman was sauntering along on the opposite side of
the way, and the inspector called him over. He saluted
respectfully and waited to be addressed. What do you know
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of number twenty two, asked the inspector briefly. The constable
considered for a few moments and then said, well, tell
you truth, sir, I didn't know until yesterday it was occupied.
You seen anybody about there? I saw three men go
in just as I came on the beat to night
or they like, Well, I don't know that I look
much at them. They're all pretty big, and they seem
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to be laughing and enjoying themselves. Did they Well, we
must go in there and have a look at them.
You'd better come with us. We walked on down the
street till we arrived at number twenty two. Then, opening
the gate, we went up the stairs to the hall door.
It was quite light enough by this time to enable
us to see everything distinctly. The inspector gave the bell
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a good pull, and a peal re echoed inside the house.
Not a sound of any living creature came from within.
In answer, Again the bell was pulled, and once more
we waited patiently, but with the same result. Either there's
nobody at home, will they refuse to hear? Said the inspector. Constable,
you remain where you are and collar the first man
you see, mister hatteras we will go round to the
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back and try to effect an entrance from there. We
left the front door, and finding a path reached the yard.
The house was only a small one, with a little
veranda at the rear, onto which the back door opened.
On either side of the door were two fair sized windows,
and by some good fortune it chanced that the catch
on one of these was broken. Lifting up the sash,
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the Inspector jumped into the room, and as soon as
he was through I followed him. We looked about us.
The room, however, was destitute of furniture or occupants. I
don't hear anybody about, my companion said, opening the door
that led into the hall. Just at that moment I
heard a sound, and, touching his arms, signed him to listen.
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We both did so, and surely enough to came a
faint muttering of a human voice in the half dark
of the hall. It sounded most uncanny. Somebody in one
of the front rooms, said the inspector. I'll slip along
and open the front door, bringing the man from outside,
and then we'll burst into the room and take our
chance of capturing them. He did as he proposed, and
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when the constable had joined us, we moved towards the
room on the left. Again, the mutterings came from the inside,
and the inspector turned the handle of the door. It
was locked. However, let me burst it, I whispered. He nodded,
and accordingly I put my shoulder against it, and, bringing
my strength to bear, sent it flying in. We rushed
into the room to find it at first glance empty.
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Just at that moment, however, the muttering began again, and
we looked towards the darkest corner. Somebody was lying there
on the ground. I rushed across and knelt down to look.
It was Beckenham, his mouth gagged, his hands and feet bound.
The noise we had heard was that made by him
trying to call us to his assistance. In less time
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than it takes to tell, I'd cut his bonds and
helped him to sit up. Then I explained to the
inspector who he was. Thank God, you're found, I cried,
But what does it all mean? How long have you
been like this? Where is Nichola? I don't know how
long I've been here, he answered. And I don't know
where Nicholer is, but you must know something about him,
I cried. For Heaven's sake, tell me all you can.
I'm in awful trouble, and your story may give you
(27:04):
the means of saving a life that is dearer to
me than my own. Give me something to drink first,
then he replied, I am nearly dying of thirst. After that,
I can tell you. Fortunately, I had the foresight to
put a flask of brandy into my pocket, and I
now took it out and gave him a stiff nobbler.
It revived him somewhat, and he prepared to begin his tale,
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but the inspector interrupted, for you commence, my lord. I
must send word to the Commissioner that you have been found.
He wrote a message on a piece of paper and
dispatched the constable with it. Having done so, he turned
to Beckenham and said, now, my lord, pray let us
hear your story. Beckenham. Forthwith commenced and of Part two,
(27:49):
Chapter two
Part two, Chapter two of A Bid for Fortune by
Guy Boothby. This is a LibriVox recording. All libervox recordings
are in the public domain. Chapter two on the trail.
As soon as Weatherall was able to speak again, he said,
as feebly as an old man of ninety, take me home,
(00:23):
mister Hatteras, take me home, and let us think up
together what is best to be done to rescue my
poor child. The governor rose to his feet and gave
him his arm. I think you're right, mister Weatherall, he said.
It is, of course just probable that you will find
your daughter at home when you arrive. God grant that
she may be. But in case she is not, I
(00:44):
will communicate all I know to the police Commissioner on
his arrival, and send him and his officers on to you.
We must lose no time if we wish to catch
these scoundrels. Then, turning to me, he continued, mister Hatteras,
it is owing to your promptness that we are able
to take such early steps. I should depend upon your
further assistance in this matter. You may do so with
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perfect confidence, I answered. If you knew all, you would
understand that I am more anxious perhaps than anyone, to
discover the whereabouts of the young lady and my unfortunate friend.
Next moment we were being whirled down the drive at
a pace which at any other time I should have
thought dangerous. Throughout the journey we sat almost silent, wrapped
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in our anxieties and forebodings, hoping, almost against hope, that
when we arrived at Pop's point we should find Phyllis awaiting.
As there at last we turned into the grounds. On
reaching the house, I sprang out and rang the bell,
and I went down to help my companion to a light.
The butler opened the door and descended the steps to
(01:48):
take the rugs. Whether Or stopped him, almost angrily, crying,
where is your mistress as you come home? The expression
of surprise on the man's face told me before he
had time to utter a word, and our hopes were
not to be realized. Miss Phyllis, sir, the man said,
why she's at the ball. Weather Or turned from him
with a deep sigh, and taking my arm, went heavily
(02:10):
up the steps into the hall. Come to my study,
mister hatteras he said, let me confer with you. For
God's sake, don't desert me in my hour of need.
You have no fear of that, I answered. If it
is bad for you, think of what it is for me.
And then we went upstairs together. On reaching his study,
mister Weatherall led the way in and sat down. I
(02:31):
went across to the hearth rug and stood before him. Now,
I said, we must think this out from the very beginning,
and to do that properly, you must consider every detail.
Have you any objection to answering my questions? Any questions
you like? He replied, and I will answer them in
the first place. Then how soon after his arrival in
the colony did your daughter get to know that sham beckonem?
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Three days? He answered, at a dance, dinner, party, picnic
or what that? None of these sings. A young man
had appears, had seen my daughter in the street, and,
having been struck with her beauty, asked one of the
aids to camp at Government House, with whom we are
on intimate terms, to bring him to call. At the time,
I remember, I thought it'd a particularly friendly action on
(03:14):
his part. I don't doubt it. I answered, well, that
I think should tell us one thing, and what's that?
And his instructions were to get to know your daughter
without delay. But what could his reason have been? Ah
that I cannot tell you just yet. Now you must
pardon what I'm going to say. Do you think he
was serious in his intentions regarding Phyllis? I mean your
(03:35):
daughter perfectly? As far as I could tell. His desire,
he said, was if she would have him to be
allowed to marry her on his twenty first birthday, which
would be next week. And in proof of permission he
showed me a cablegram from his father, a forgery, I
don't doubt. Well. Then, The only construction I can put
upon it is that the arrival of the real Beckenham
(03:57):
in Sidney must have frightened him, thus compelling the gang
to resort to other means of obtaining possession of her
at once. Now our next business must be to find
out how that dastardly act was accomplished. May I ring
the bell and have up the coachman who drove your
daughter to the ball. By all means, please act in
every way in this matter as if this house were
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your own. I rang the bell, and when the butler
appeared to answer it, mister Weatherill instructed him to find
the man. I wanted and send him up. The servant
left the room again, and for five minutes we awaited
as a reappearance in silence. When he did come back,
he said, Thompson has not come home yet, Sir, not
come home yet? What it's in eleven o'clock? Send him
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in directly, he arrives. AHK, what bell is that front door? Sir,
go down and answer it. Then, if it should be
the Commissioner of Police, show him up here. At once
it turned out it was not the Commissioner of Police,
but an inspector. Good evening, said mister Weather. You've come
from Government House, I presume exactly, so, sir, replied the inspector.
He's excellent. He gave us some particulars and then sent
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us on. You know the nature of the case, his
excellency informed us himself. And what steps have you taken? Well, sir?
To begin with, we have given orders for a thorough
search throughout the city and suburbs for the tutor and
the sham nobleman. At the same time, more men are
out looking for the real Lord Beckenham. We're also trying
to find your coachman, who was supposed to have driven
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miss weatherall away. From Government House, and also the carriage,
which is certain to be found before very long. He
had hardly finished speaking before there was another loud ring
at the bell. Presently, the butler entered once more. Crossing
to mister Weatherall, he said, two policemen are at the
front door, and they've brought Thompson home. Sir ah, we
are like to have a little light thrown upon the matter.
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Now let them bring him up here. He's not in
a very nice state, sir. Never mind that, bring him
up here instantly. Again the butler departed, and a few
moments later heavy footsteps ascended the stairs and approached the stone.
Then two stalwart policemen entered the room, supporting between them
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a miserable figure in coachman's livery. His hat and coat
were gone, his breeches were staying with mud, while a
large bruise totally obscured his left eye. Stand him over
there opposite me, said mister Weatherall, pointing to the side
of the room furthest from the door. The policemen did
as they were ordered, while a man looked more dead
than alive. Now Thompson Weatherill said, looking sternly at him,
(06:29):
what have you got to say for yourself. But the
man only groaned. Seeing that in his present state he
could say nothing, I went across to the table and
mixed him a glass of crog and I gave it
to him. He drank it eagerly. It seemed to sharpen
his wits. It wasn't my fault, sir, for I've known
what the game was. I'd have been killed before I'd
have let him do anything hurt me and a young lady.
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But there's two cunning for me, sir. Be more explicit, sir,
said weather or sternly. Don't stand there whining, but tell
your story straightforwardly. At once Paul Wretch pulled himself together
and did his best. It was this way, sir, he began.
Last week I was introduced by a friend of mine
to a nicer spoken man as ever. I saw. He
was for England and said, having a little money, thought
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he'd got to try his handed a bit of racing
and Australia like he was on the lookout for a
smart man, he said, who'd be able to put him
up at wrink or two, maybe train for him. Later on,
he went on to say that he'd heard a lot
about me and thought I was just a man for
his money. Well, we got more and more friendly to
the other night Monday when he said as how he'd
settled on a farm bit out in the country and
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was going to sign the agreement as they called it,
for the rent in it. The next day he was
going to start a stud farm and training establishment combined.
And would I take the billet of manager at three
hundred a year anyway, as he said, don't be an
hurry to decide, Take your time and think it over.
Meet me at Canary Bird Hotel on Thursday night as tonight, sir,
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and give me your decision. Well, sir, I drove miss
Weather at the government our sir, according to orders, and
coming out and went by an airy bird, and you
give him my answer? Think you no arm could ever
come of it. When I drove up, he was standing
at the door smoking his cigar and being an affable
sort of fellow, invited me inside to take a drink.
I don't like to leave the box, I said, Oh
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never mind, you're all says he. He is a man
who's will stand by it for five minutes. He gave
a respectable looking chap alongside the lamp post for sixpence,
and he held her all, so I went in. When
we got inside, I was for going to the bar,
but he says, no, this is an important business matter
and we don't want to be overheard. With that. He
leads the wait into a private room at the end
of the passage and shuts the door. What Shaw says
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He A number of a rum, says I. Then he
orders a number of rum for me and a number
of whiskey for himself. And when it was brought, he
sat talking in the place he thought of taking, and
he all says he was going to buy. Then he says, oho,
somebody listening at the door. I heard a step jump
up and look. I got up and ran to the door,
but there's nobody there. So I sat down again and
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we went on talking. Then he says, taking up his
glass to your elf, mister Thompson, and success at a farm.
We both drank it and went on talking till I
felt sleepy. I didn't know what to do, and I
dropped off. After that, I don't remember nothing or what
happened till I woke up in the DeMay when aut
Manhattan coat and found a policeman shaking me by the shoulder.
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The whole thing is as plain as daylight, Clyde weather
or bitterly. It is a thoroughly organized conspiracy, having me
for its victim. Ah, my poor little girlie, what was
my obstinacy brought you to? Seeing the old man in
this state? Very nearly broke me down? But I mastered
myself with an effort and addressed a question to the
unfortunate coachman. Pull yourself together, Thomson, and tell me as
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correctly as you can, what this friend of yours was like.
I fully expected to hear him give an exact description
of the man who had followed us from Melbourne. But
I was mistaken. I don't know, sir, said Thompson, as
I could rightly tell you. My mind is still being
a bit dizzy like it was tall, but not by
any manner of means big maid in a very the'small
wands and feet, and sort of what they call a
(10:02):
deaf zed complexion. His air was black as soot, and
so was his eyes, and they sparkled like two diamonds.
Do you remember noticing if you had a curious gold
ring on his little finger like a snake he had, Sir,
with two eyes made from some black stone. That's just
as true as you were born. And it was Niccola,
I cried in an outburst of astonishment. And he followed
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us to Australia after all, weather Or gave a deep
sigh that was more like a groan than anything. Then
he became suddenly a new man, mister inspector. He cried
to the police officer that man, or traces of him,
must be found before daylight. I know him, and he
is as slippery as an eel. If you lose a minute,
he'll be through your fingers one moment. First, I cried,
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tell me this, Thompson. When you drove up to the
Canary Bird Hotel, where did you say? This man was
standing in the verandah, sir? Had he his hat on? Yes, sir.
And then you went towards the bar, but it was crowded,
so he took it to a private room, yes, sir.
And at once he began giving you the details of
this farm he proposed starting. Did he work out any
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figures on paper, yes, sir, on what on a letter
or an envelope? Not certain which which, of course he
took from his pocket. Yes, sir, very good, I said,
and turning to the police officer. Now, mister inspector, shall
we be off to the Canary Bird if you wish it, sir.
In the meantime, I'll send instructions back by these men
to the different stations. Before breakfast time. We must have
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the man who held the horse. You don't know him,
I suppose, I asked Thompson. No, sir, but I've sit
him before. He answered he's a Sydney fellow. Then, oh, yes, sir,
Then there should be no difficulty in catching him. Now
let's be going. Mister Weatherill rose to accompany us, But
hard though it was to stop him, I eventually succeeded
in dissuading him from such a course. But you will
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let me know directly you discover anything, won't you, mister
hatteras he cried as we were about to leave the room,
think of my anxiety. I gave my promise, and then,
accompanied by the inspector, left the house. Hailing a passing cab,
we jumped into it, told the driver to proceed as
fast as he could to the hotel in question. Just
as we started, a clock in the neighborhood struck twelve.
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Phyllis had been in Nicholas's hands for three hours. Pulling
up opposite the Canary Bird, the place where the coachman
had been drugged, we jumped out and bade the cabman wait.
The hotel was in complete darkness, and it was not
until we had pealed the bell twice that we succeeded
in producing any sign of life. Then the landlord, half dressed,
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carrying a candle in his hand, came downstairs and called
out to know who it was there and what we wanted.
My companion immediately said police, And in answer to that
magic word, the door was unbarred. Good evening, mister Bartell,
said the inspector. May we go in for a moment
on business? Certainly, mister inspector, said the landlord, who evidently
(12:58):
knew my companion. But isn't this rather late for a call?
I hope there's nothing the matter. Nothing much, returned the inspector.
Only we want to make a few inquiries about a
man who was here to night and for whom we
are looking. If that is so, I must call my barman.
I was not in the bar this evening. If you
will excuse me, I'll go and bring him down. In
the meantime, make yourselves comfortable. He left us to kick
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our heels in the hall while he went upstairs again.
In about ten minutes, and just as my all consuming
impatience was well nigh getting the better of me, he returned,
bringing the sleepy barman. These gentlemen wants some information about
a man who was here to night, the landlords said,
by way of introduction, perhaps you can give it. What
was he like, sir, asked the barman of the inspector.
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The latter overturned to me, tall, slim, with a sow complexion.
I said, black hair, very dark, restless eyes. He came
here with the Honorable Sylvester Weatherill's coachman. The man seemed
to recollect him at once. I remember him, he said.
They sat in number five down the passage there, and
the man you mentioned ordered a nobbler of rum and
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a whiskey. That's the fellow we want, said the inspector.
Now tell me this. Have you ever seen him in
here before? Never once, said the barman. And that's a
solemn fact. As if I had, I couldn't have forgotten it.
His figure ed wouldn't let you do that, No, sir,
to night was the first night he's ever been in
the Canary Bird. Did anyone else visit them while they
(14:24):
were in the room together, Not as I know of,
But stay I'm not certain. Yes, I remember seeing a tall,
good looking chap come down the passage and go in there,
But it was some time, half an hour, maybe after
I took in the drinks. Did you see him come
out again? No? But I know the coachman got very
drunk and yet to be carried out to the carriage.
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How do you know that because I saw the other
two doing it? Inspector turned to me. Not very satisfactory,
is it? No, I answered, but do you mind us
looking into number five, the room they occupied. I'd talk,
said the landlord. Come with me, so saying, he led
the way down the passage to a little room on
the right hand side of the door of which he
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threw open with a theatrical flourish. It was in pitch darkness,
but a few seconds later the gas was lit and
we could see all that it contained. A small table
stood in the center of the room. Round the walls
were ranged two or three wooden chairs. A small window
was at the further end, and a fireplace opposite the door.
On the table was a half smoked cigar and a
(15:28):
torn copy of the Evening Mercury. But that was not
what I wanted, so I went down on my hands
and knees and looked about upon the floor. Presently I
descried a small ball of paper near the grate. Picking
it up, I seated myself at the table and turned
to the barman, who was watching my movements attentively. Was
this room used by any other people after the party
(15:50):
we are looking for left? No, sir, there was nobody
in either of these two bottom rooms. You're quite certain
of that, perfectly certain. I took up the ball, unrolled it,
and spread it out upon the table. To my disgust,
it was only the back half of an envelope, and
though it had a few figures dotted about upon it,
it was of no possible use to us. Nothing there,
(16:13):
asked the inspector, Nothing at all, I answered, bitterly, saved
a few incomprehensible figures. Well, in that case, we'd better
be getting up to the station asee if they discovered
anything yet, come along, then, I answered, We must be
quick enough, for we've lost precious time, and every minute counts.
I took up the evening Mercury and followed him out
to the cab. After having sincerely thanked the hotel proprietor
(16:36):
and the barman for their courtesy, Inspector cave the driver's
orders and we set off. As we went we discussed
our next movements, and while we were doing so, I idly
glanced at the paper I held in my hand. There
was a lamp in the cab, and a light showed
me on the bottom right hand corner a round blue
India rubber Stampmr W. E. Maxwell, Stationer and Newsagent twenty
(17:00):
three Ipswell Street MULARA stop the cab, I almost shouted,
tell the man to drive us back to the Canary Bird.
Quickly the order was given, the cab faced round, and
in less than a minute we were on our way back.
What's up now, asked the astonished inspector. Only that I
believe I've got a clue, I cried. I did not
explain any further, and in five minutes we had brought
(17:22):
the landlord downstairs again. I'm sorry to trouble you in
this fashion, I cried, But life and death depend upon it.
I want you to let me see number five again.
He conducted this to the room, and once more the
gas was lit. The small strip of envelope lay upon
the table just as I had thrown it down. I
seated myself and the game looked closely at it, and
I sprang to my feet. I thought, so, I cried, excitedly,
(17:45):
pointing to the paper. I told you I had a clue. No,
mister inspector, who wrote those figures? The man you call Nikola,
I suppose that's right now, who would have bought this newspaper.
You must remember that Thomson only left his box to
come in here, Nicola, I suppose. Then. Very good, then,
according to your own showing, Nicola owned this piece of
(18:07):
envelope and this Evening Mercury. If that is certain? Look here.
He came round and looked over my shoulder. I pointed
to what was evidently part of the gumed hedge. At
the top of the envelope. On it were these three
important words swell Street Wullahara. Well, he said, what about it? Why?
Look here, I said, as I opened the Evening to
(18:28):
Mercury and pointed to the stamp mark at the bottom.
The man who bought this newspaper at mister Maxwell's shop
also bought this envelope. There the letters Swell before the
street constitute the last half of Ipswell, the name of
the street. If that man be nicolar, as we suspect,
the person who served him is certain to remember him,
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and it is just within the bands of possibility he
may know his address. That's so, said the inspector, struck
with a force of my argument. I know mister Maxwell's shop,
and our best plan will be to go there as
fast as we can. Again, thanking the landlord for his civility,
we returned to our cab and once more set off,
this time for mister Maxwell's shop in Ipswell Street. By
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the time we had reached it, it was nearly three
o'clock and gradually growing light. As the cab drew up
alongside the curb, inspector jumped out and rang the bell
at the side door. It was opened after a while
by a shockheaded youth who stared at us in sleepy astonishment.
Does mister Maxwell live at the shop? Asked the inspector, No, sir,
Where then Ponson Street, third house on the left hand side.
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Thank you. Once more, we jumped into the cab and
rattled off. It seemed to me so anxious and terrified.
Was so for my darling safety that we were fated
never to get the information we wanted. The whole thing
was like some nightmare in which try how I would
to move, every step was clogged. A few minutes drive
brought us to Ponson Street, and we drew up at
(19:56):
the third house on the left hand side. It was
a pretty little villa with a nice front garden and
a creeper covered verandah, we rang the bell and waited. Presently,
we heard someone coming down the passage, and a moment
later the door was unlocked. Who's there, cried a voice
from with him, Please, said my companion as before. The
door was immediately opened, and a very small, sandy complexioned
(20:19):
man dressed in a flaring suit of striped pajamas stood
before us. Is there anything wrong, gentlemen, he asked nervously.
Nothing to affect you, mister Maxwell, My companion replied, we
only want a little important information if you can give
it us, And we are anxious to discover a man's
whereabouts before daylight, and we've been led to believe that
(20:39):
the only person who can give us the necessary clue.
But gracious, but I should be happy to serve you
if I can, the little man answered, leading the way
into his dining room with an air of importance. His
appearance rather belied. Well, it's this, I replied, producing the
piece of envelope in the evening mercury. You see these
letters on the top of this paper, don't you? Did?
(21:00):
His attention at once secured by seeing his own name. Well,
that envelope was evidently purchased in your shop, So was
this newspaper. How can you tell that in the case
of the envelope by these letters, and in that of
the paper by your rubber stamp on the bottom. Ah? Well, now,
and in what way can I help you? We want
to know the address of the man who bought them.
(21:22):
That will surely be difficult. Can you give me any
idea of what he was like? Tall, slightly foreign in appearance,
distinctly handsome, sallow complexion, very dark eyes, black hair, small
hands and feet. As my description progressed, the little man's
face brightened. Then he cried with evident triumph. Another man
(21:42):
came into the shop yesterday afternoon, and his address is
His face fell again. His information was not quite as
helpful as he had expected it would be. There I
can't help you. I'm sorry to say. He brought a
packet of paper and envelopes the evening Mercury, and then
left the shop. I was so struck by his appearance.
I went to the door and watched him cross the road.
(22:04):
And in which direction did he go over to Podg's
chemist shop across the way? That was the last I
saw of him. I'm obliged to you, mister Maxwell, I said,
shaking him by the hand. But I'm sorry you can't
tell us something more definite about him. Then, turning to
the inspector, I suppose we'd better go off and find Podges.
But if we had to spend much more time in
rushing about like this, we shall be certain to lose
(22:26):
them altogether. Let's be off to Podgers then, as fast
as we can go, bidding mister Maxwell goodbye, we set
off again, and in ten minutes had arrived at the
shop and of mister Podgers downstairs. We explained our errand briefly,
and gave a minute description of the man we wanted.
I remember him perfectly, said the sedate Podges. He came
(22:47):
into my shop last night and purchased a bottle of chloroform.
He made him sign the poison book. Of course, naturally
I did, mister inspector, would you like to see his
signature very much? We both answered at once. In the
book was accordingly produced. Podgers ran his finger down the
list Brown Williams Davis. Ah, here it is Chloroform j
(23:08):
Venniarde twenty two Calipee Street, Wullahara Venniarge. I cried, why
that's not his name, Very likely, not, replied Podges. But
it's the name he gave me. Never mind, will try
twenty two Calliope Street on the chance, said the inspector,
as we drove off. This time had increased pace. In
less than fifteen minutes, we had turned into the street
(23:30):
we wanted and pulled up about one hundred yards from
the junction. It was a small thoroughfare with a long
line of second class of villa residences on either side.
The policeman was sauntering along on the opposite side of
the way, and the inspector called him over. He saluted
respectfully and waited to be addressed. What do you know
(23:51):
of number twenty two, asked the inspector briefly. The constable
considered for a few moments and then said, well, tell
you truth, sir, I didn't know until yesterday it was occupied.
You seen anybody about there? I saw three men go
in just as I came on the beat to night
or they like, Well, I don't know that I look
much at them. They're all pretty big, and they seem
(24:12):
to be laughing and enjoying themselves. Did they Well, we
must go in there and have a look at them.
You'd better come with us. We walked on down the
street till we arrived at number twenty two. Then, opening
the gate, we went up the stairs to the hall door.
It was quite light enough by this time to enable
us to see everything distinctly. The inspector gave the bell
(24:32):
a good pull, and a peal re echoed inside the house.
Not a sound of any living creature came from within.
In answer, Again the bell was pulled, and once more
we waited patiently, but with the same result. Either there's
nobody at home, will they refuse to hear? Said the inspector. Constable,
you remain where you are and collar the first man
you see, mister hatteras we will go round to the
(24:54):
back and try to effect an entrance from there. We
left the front door, and finding a path reached the yard.
The house was only a small one, with a little
veranda at the rear, onto which the back door opened.
On either side of the door were two fair sized windows,
and by some good fortune it chanced that the catch
on one of these was broken. Lifting up the sash,
(25:17):
the Inspector jumped into the room, and as soon as
he was through I followed him. We looked about us.
The room, however, was destitute of furniture or occupants. I
don't hear anybody about, my companion said, opening the door
that led into the hall. Just at that moment I
heard a sound, and, touching his arms, signed him to listen.
(25:37):
We both did so, and surely enough to came a
faint muttering of a human voice in the half dark
of the hall. It sounded most uncanny. Somebody in one
of the front rooms, said the inspector. I'll slip along
and open the front door, bringing the man from outside,
and then we'll burst into the room and take our
chance of capturing them. He did as he proposed, and
(25:58):
when the constable had joined us, we moved towards the
room on the left. Again, the mutterings came from the inside,
and the inspector turned the handle of the door. It
was locked. However, let me burst it, I whispered. He nodded,
and accordingly I put my shoulder against it, and, bringing
my strength to bear, sent it flying in. We rushed
into the room to find it at first glance empty.
(26:21):
Just at that moment, however, the muttering began again, and
we looked towards the darkest corner. Somebody was lying there
on the ground. I rushed across and knelt down to look.
It was Beckenham, his mouth gagged, his hands and feet bound.
The noise we had heard was that made by him
trying to call us to his assistance. In less time
(26:42):
than it takes to tell, I'd cut his bonds and
helped him to sit up. Then I explained to the
inspector who he was. Thank God, you're found, I cried,
But what does it all mean? How long have you
been like this? Where is Nichola? I don't know how
long I've been here, he answered. And I don't know
where Nicholer is, but you must know something about him,
I cried. For Heaven's sake, tell me all you can.
I'm in awful trouble, and your story may give you
(27:04):
the means of saving a life that is dearer to
me than my own. Give me something to drink first,
then he replied, I am nearly dying of thirst. After that,
I can tell you. Fortunately, I had the foresight to
put a flask of brandy into my pocket, and I
now took it out and gave him a stiff nobbler.
It revived him somewhat, and he prepared to begin his tale,
(27:26):
but the inspector interrupted, for you commence, my lord. I
must send word to the Commissioner that you have been found.
He wrote a message on a piece of paper and
dispatched the constable with it. Having done so, he turned
to Beckenham and said, now, my lord, pray let us
hear your story. Beckenham. Forthwith commenced and of Part two,
(27:49):
Chapter two
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