"It is incredible!" said Herrick, and even Joyce looked amazed. "It is true," replied the Mexican. "Of course if you will not believe me I really cannot help it. I know that Corn is guilty. He told me so himself, and I took from him the pistol by way of proof. Being thus in my power, I forced him to do my bidding. You can see now, how he declared that I had not left him on the night Señor Marsh was assaulted. It was I who struck him, and Corn by my directions proved the alibi. That is the whole story Señor. Is there anything else you want to know?" "The whereabouts of Frisco?" "Ah I can't tell you that. Frisco trusts no one, not even me. When Joyce or myself want to see him, we have to put a cipher into the 'Telegraph.'" "Then you must do so now; I want to see the man." "Why? He is innocent." "So you say. But I have yet to be convinced of Pentland Corn's guilt." Joyce jumped to his feet. "I am sure my father is innocent," he cried, "but I will get him to see you if you like." "I think it would be better," said Herrick dryly and took up his hat. "One moment, Señor," said Santiago quietly, "how do we stand?" "I shall do nothing until I see Corn, and learn if he really killed Carr as you say. In the meantime Joyce can go back to his flat, and you can remain here Don Manuel. You are perfectly safe from the police." "But you will have us watched?" "Certainly," said Herrick with a nod, "you see I cannot trust you. Besides I want you to write down all you have told me, and sign it. I have Joyce's confession. I want yours." "I will do so with pleasure," replied the Mexican after a pause, "I have done nothing against your law." "Nothing, except try to kill Marsh." "Oh! you have promised to hold me guiltless of that." "True enough. You are safe so far as that is concerned. There is honour amongst thieves, Señor Manuel. I have come lately so much into contact with people like you and Joyce, that I feel rather a bad lot myself." The Mexican drew himself up and his eyes glittered. "Señor, you shall answer me for those words. I am a gentleman, and I challenge you to a duel. You dare not refuse." "We'll see about that, when this matter of Carr's death is settled, Don Manuel. Meantime, remember that every move you make, I shall know of and baffle." Santiago shrugged his shoulders. "The fine scheme is ended," he said, "this little fool has spoilt all. I will do what you wish Señor, since you are too strong for me." "Very good. And Joyce, you must get your father to see me." "If I can," muttered Robin with a glance of hatred. "You must," answered Herrick going to the door. "Good-bye gentlemen, I shall leave you to settle your own affairs now." And he went out laughing. CHAPTER XX THE REVD. PENTLAND CORN