"Certainly," Oakes replied. "It is most important. Did we not study the workings of a criminal's mind, for instance, we would often be baffled. You see, the determination of the probable condition of such a one's mind is often paramount, especially in such a case as this. In other words, was the _motive_ one that would naturally sway an ordinary healthy individual under the conditions appertaining to the crime--the so-called _sane_ motive? Or was it in any way dependent upon peculiarities of the criminal's reasoning--a motive built up of something unreal, a _delusion_ in the mind of one not in his right senses?" I myself had frequently had cause to study such mental processes in the practice of my profession, but I was amazed at the knowledge shown by Oakes, and stated in such a broad, untechnical manner. The man was no ordinary one, to be sure, but I had scarcely expected him to show such education in these matters. I now recalled what Moore had once told me of Oakes's all-round attainments. Dr. Moore broke the silence. "You are a lalapazooza, Oakes." Oakes did not notice the remark, but said: "I don't know what other men do, but I have tried to bear in mind such things." "Yes," said Hallen, "and consequently there is only _one_ Quintus Oakes." "It seems to me," continued Hallen, "that your work here at the Mansion will soon lead to results, and I trust that you will find time to consider the murder also." "Gentlemen," said Oakes very seriously, "from what I saw after the Mark murder in town and from what you report, I feel that Mona is in a very serious plight. I shall make time, Hallen, to do what little I can." And thus Quintus Oakes became the leader in the unravelling of the Mark murder mystery. After a few remarks of no particular consequence and a more or less general conversation, he resumed: "Suppose, Chief, that we now smuggle the negro into Mona as soon as possible, and bring him here. I believe that if Mr. Elliott goes back with Martin and they explain things to the boy, he will come without much trouble. It must be impressed upon him that he is regarded in the light of a _hero_: appeal to the innate weakness of the race--desire for flattery." "I believe we can bring him here easily," said Elliott, "for he has confidence in me." "If he refuses to come," said Hallen, "we can get him here in plenty of ways." "Yes," said Oakes, "Martin knows how; leave it to him. Only, we must have him soon, and he must come here by way of another station, incognito, lest the people become too excited."