“Now that I come to think of it, I remember reading that that man had just been released from State’s prison. It was also stated that he was the forger of the Lawrence will. If that be so, then he was a cousin of Simeon and Sally Rich. Mr. Carter!” “What is the matter?” “A thought just occurred to me, and it startled me.” “What was it?” “Do you believe that Simeon Rich and Richard Darwin had a hand in that murder?” “I can’t tell.” “Perhaps Rich was afraid of Lawrence----” “We will not talk any more about this matter. We will start for your flat.” “I will help you.” “I believe you.” They arose from the table. Carter put on his facial disguise, and then they left the restaurant. Dora’s flat was situated on Thirty-ninth Street, next to a theater. It was elaborately furnished in a style that evinced more money than good taste, and Nick almost shuddered at the array of showy furniture, useless bric-a-brac, draperies, and ornaments which crowded the little parlor into which she ushered him. “Mr. Carter, I suppose you do not want to lose any time,” she said, “so, if you will follow me, I will conduct you to Darwin’s room.” Carter followed Dora along a private hall. At last she opened a door, and led him into one of the bedrooms, remarking: “This is the room.” After she had turned on the electric light, she looked around, and then she uttered an exclamation of surprise. The room was in confusion. Carter looked at Dora. “He has been here and carted off all his things!” Dora ejaculated, as soon as she recovered the use of her voice. “I thought you said he had no key?” Carter remarked. “He has none. He must have come here before the servant left.” “What time does she leave?” “Seven o’clock.” “Where does she live?” “On Twenty-seventh Street.” While Carter was asking these questions, his eyes were wandering about the room. On the floor, in a corner, he spied several pieces of paper. He picked them up and smoothed them out. Two were blanks. The third had writing on it. The detective read it. His countenance brightened. Dora noticed the change. “What is it?” she asked. “A note,” replied the detective. “From whom?” “Rich.” “To Darwin?” “Yes.” “When was it written?” “On the afternoon of the day before New Year’s.” “Is it important?” “It may be.” “Will you read it?” Nick examined her face intently. “Do you still doubt me?” Dora asked. “No,” replied Carter, after a pause. Nick was satisfied. “You can rely on me to help you, Mr. Carter.” “I know it now.” “Will you read that note?” “Yes.” “Do so.” “‘December 31. “‘DEAR DICK: I was at the Grand Central this afternoon when he arrived. Followed him downtown in a cab. He went to the safe deposit company’s office. Have placed a party on his trail. Meet me at seven o’clock to-night at the Knickerbocker Cottage. We will dine together. Yours in haste,