“Total stranger. I don’t imagine the message amounted to anything. It appeared a bit odd, however, and—ah, here’s our grub,” Belden broke off abruptly. “The Martini is mine, waiter. Here’s luck, Joe.” It was obvious to Nick that the discussion of the telegram was ended. He immediately arose and departed. He sauntered into the hotel office, then out through the adjoining corridor, which just then was deserted, of which he took advantage. He quickly adjusted a simple disguise with which he was provided, and he then passed out of a side door leading to the street. Nick was watching the café when the two men emerged. He followed them until Gordon parted from his companion and entered a large hardware store, where he evidently was employed. Arthur Belden walked on leisurely alone, and Nick judged that he was heading for the main office of the Western Union Company, whose sign projected from a building some fifty yards away. The detective walked more rapidly, and quickly overtook him. “How are you, Belden?” said he, slipping his hand through the young man’s arm. “Don’t appear surprised. Pretend that you know me. I have something to say to you.” Belden was quick-witted, and he immediately nodded and smiled. “I will explain presently,” Nick continued. “We’ll wait until we are under cover. It’s barely possible that we are observed. You work in the telegraph office, don’t you?” “Yes. I’m assistant manager.” “Got a private office?” “Yes. I receive and send most of the important dispatches.” “Good enough. I’m going with you to your office. Carry yourself as if it was nothing unusual. Fine day overhead, isn’t it?” “Yes, great,” laughed Belden, gazing up. “This way. We’ll cross here.” Nick accompanied him across the street into the building. Not until they were seated in his private office, however, did the detective refer to the matter actuating him. “I was in the adjoining booth while you and your friend Gordon were discussing a telegram received here this morning,” Nick then explained. “I wish to talk with you about it.” “For what reason?” questioned Belden, more sharply regarding him. “Have you any authority in the matter?” “Yes.” “How so? Who are you?” Nick saw plainly that the young man was trustworthy. He smiled agreeably, yet said, quite impressively: “This is strictly between us, Belden, so be sure that you don’t betray my confidence under any circumstances. I am in Shelby on very important business. Any indiscretion on your part might prove very costly. You read your local newspaper and must know me by name, at least. I am the New York detective, Nick Carter.” Belden’s frank face underwent a decided change. He quickly extended his hand, saying earnestly: