an artist? A musician, or something like that? My memory is so
miserable."

"I'm just a 'something like that,' not even an actor," was the answer,
as the tiniest of nudges registered Helene's appreciation. "What is your
favorite poison?"

Warren gave him a startled look, and then laughed: "Oh, you mean to
drink? Now you must join me for I am the intruder." He drew out a roll
of money; more nice, new hundred dollar bills. Shirley remembered that
old Van Cleft had drawn several thousand dollars from his office the
night of the murder. Even his trained stoicism rebelled at thought of
drinking a cocktail bought with this bloody currency!

"You didn't tell me about Grimsby?" persisted Warren, turning to Helene,
with an admiring scrutiny of the girl's charms. "I'm rather interested."

"You'll have to ask him, not me. After we took a taxi from the
Winter-Garden we had a ride in the Park. So stupid, I thought, at
this time of the year. When I woke up, Grimmie was helping me into the
entrance of the hotel. He was very cross with the chauffeur and with me,
too. Then he took the taxi and went home, still angry."

"So!" after a moment's silence, Warren continued, a puzzled look on his
face. "What was the trouble? I don't see how any one could be cross with
a nice little girl like you. But to-night, I'm to have another little
party up at my house. Bring some one up, who won't be cross. You come,
Mr. Shirley?"

Helene hesitated, but Monty acquiesced.

"That would be splendid. What time?"

"About eleven. I'll expect you--I must run along now, as I'm ordering
some fancy dishes."

Shirley had paid his waiter, and he rose with Helene.

"We must be leaving, too. I'll accept your invitation."

"And I'll be there, too, Mr. Shirley," put in Pinkie Marlowe. "I'll
teach you some new steps. Reggie has a wonderful phonograph for dancing,
with all the new tunes. See you later, girlie."

They were accompanied to the door by Shine and Warren. At the
check-room, Shirley was interested to note that Shine Taylor took out
his green velour hat. His feet were adorned with white spats. After the
door of their taxi had slammed he confided to Helene that he had located
the gentleman who had caused his wreck that morning. Still, however, the
clues were too weak for action. The car went first to the club, where
Shirley sent in for any possible letters or messages. The servant
brought out a note. It was another surprise. He gave an address to the