“I want a small one,” said the other. “I would like a second-hand Chubb if you have one.” “I think I have got the very thing. I suppose you want it for your office?” Gilbert shook his head. “No, I want it for my house,” he said shortly, “and I would like it delivered almost at once.” He made an inspection of the various receptacles for valuables, and finally made a choice. He was on his way out, when he saw the great safe which stood at the end of the store. It was rather out of the ordinary, being about eight feet in height and about that width. It looked for all the world like a great steel wardrobe. Three sets of locks guarded the interior, and there was in addition a small combination lock. “That is a very handsome safe,” said Gilbert. “Isn’t it?” said the other carelessly. “What is the value of that?” “It is sold,” said the proprietor a little brusquely. “Sold? I should like to see the interior,” said Gilbert. The man smiled at him and stroked his upturned moustache thoughtfully. “I am sorry I can’t oblige you,” he said. “The fact is, the new proprietor took the keys when he completed the purchase.” “That is very unfortunate,” said Gilbert, “for this is one of the most interesting safes I have ever seen.” “It is quite usual,” said the other briefly. He tapped the sides with his knuckles in a reflective mood. “It is rather an expensive piece of property.” “It looks as if you had it here permanently.” “It does, doesn’t it?” said the other absently. “I had to make it comfortable.” He smiled, then he led the way to another part of the store. Gilbert would have paid by cheque, but something prevented him. He searched his pockets, and found the fifteen pounds which had been asked for the safe. With a pleasant good-night he was ushered out of the shop, and the door was closed behind him. “Where have I seen your face before?” said the proprietor to himself. Though he was a very clever man in more ways than one, it is a curious fact that he never placed his customer until many months afterwards. CHAPTER VII. THE BANK SMASHER Three men sat in the inner room of a City office. The outer door was locked, the door communicating between the outer office and the sanctum was wide open. The men sat at a table, discussing a frugal lunch which had been brought in from a restaurant near by, and talking together in low tones.