Instead of immediately doing so, however, Nick abruptly changed his mind. He turned to Chick and said: “I first must see Gordon and see what he has to say. His statements may be of aid in making an investigation. I can run down to headquarters with my car and be back here in half an hour.” “Easily.” “Let nothing be disturbed until I return. Admit no one, Phelan, nor give out anything for publication. Gordon is in a position to be ruined politically by this affair. I know he is the last man in the world, however, to have committed such a crime as this.” “I agree with you, Nick, to that extent.” “And that leads me to think it may be a frame-up, that some one is out to turn him down. I want his side of the story. I will return within an hour.” “We’ll wait,” nodded Phelan. “In the meantime, Chick, have a look at the back door and windows, also those in the basement, as well as the basement stairs,” Nick then directed. “Seek evidence, aside from that left by Gilroy, denoting that others were here last night and that the flat was stealthily entered.” “I understand,” said Chick, removing his overcoat. “You go ahead and see Gordon. I’ll make sure that nothing is tampered with before you return.” Nick hastened out by the way he had entered. The reporter, Hawley, still was waiting in the vestibule. “Well, Mr. Carter, what may I----” he began eagerly. “Nothing doing,” Nick interrupted, pausing only for a moment. “The less you publish at present, the better I shall like it.” “You mean----” “That’s all I mean, and all I can remain to say. Bear it in mind, Mr. Hawley, and be governed accordingly.” Nick did not wait for an answer, nor to note the effect of his somewhat curt remarks. He at once ran down the steps and entered his touring car. “To police headquarters, Danny, at top speed,” he directed. “We have a rapid-fire case on our hands.” Hawley came out on the steps and gazed after the speeding car. He now was frowning darkly. There was an anxious gleam and glitter deep down in the narrowed eyes back of his gold-bowed spectacles. His pointed beard twitched and quivered perceptibly while he bit his lower lip. After a moment, nevertheless, he turned calmly to the policeman and asked, with curious coolness: “Where has he gone?” “Give it up,” said Gilroy tersely. “He never tells where he’s going, nor what he has up his sleeve. Nick Carter isn’t that kind.” “He might have said, at least, whether I could enter the flat and----” “Rats!” Gilroy growled. “Did you want it written down with a slate and pencil? He as much as said you couldn’t enter. There’s nothing for you in waiting.” Hawley waited, nevertheless. CHAPTER III. NICK TAKES A CHANCE. Nick Carter found Gordon seated in a detention room at police headquarters, accompanied by Regan, Kennedy, and the police commissioner.