"I would hardly call it by that name, unless you prefer it." "But I am innocent." "That question we will pass for the present. There is one link wanting in the chain of evidence against you. I shall supply that link, and then we will see what comes of it." With a hasty movement, Dr. Jarvis took a little vial from his pocket, and raised it toward his lips. But Nick had been watching. He struck the vial from the doctor's hand, and it went flying through the window. "If you will give me your word of honor not to attempt suicide again," said Nick, calmly, "I will not handcuff you." Jarvis hung his head. "Your word will bind you for three days, no more," said Nick. "I promise," said the doctor. "Remove your dressing-gown and cap," said Nick. Jarvis complied with the request, and Nick received the articles from his hands. Leaving the care of the prisoner to Chick, he carried the dressing-gown to the window. "Ah!" said he, "you have torn the dressing-gown." "Where?" asked the doctor. "It is ripped under the arms," Nick replied, "and the cloth is strained beside each shoulder seam on the back." "I was not aware of it," said Jarvis. "Put it on again," said Nick, and the doctor obeyed. Nick studied his figure carefully. He made Jarvis assume a number of positions, and at last seemed satisfied. Chick was not possessed of the information to fully understand these maneuvers, but he knew by his chief's manner that the subject was of the first importance. After the doctor had been clothed properly for the street he was taken to Nick's home in a closed carriage. Then Nick and Chick had a few words in private. "That last link which I spoke of," said Nick, "must be supplied by you." Chick nodded. "The land back of St. Agnes' Hospital, as you know is a sort of lovers' walk," Nick continued. "It is." "If the body of Patrick Deever was hidden there, and was removed to the garden by night, somebody may have seen it done." "And that somebody," said Chick, "may not come forward without being urged." "Right." "I think I can manage it, if there is any witness. Of course, there may be none." "I will bet you a dollar to a doughnut that such a witness appears whether you get him or not." Chick looked hurt for a minute, and then he caught a gleam in Nick's eye. "I begin to understand you," said he. "Your plan," Nick went on, "is to circulate among the young men who whisper their love in the paths of that particular region. Find who was there on Monday night. It is not easy, but you can do it." "I will get about it at once," said Chick. After this conversation, Nick went to see Lawrence Deever. "Poor Pat's body is in the house," said he, meeting Nick at the door; "but I have kept my promise to you." "Nobody knows of it, then?" "Not from me or any of my friends." "That is as it should be."