ough for our purpose. As
soon as I have convinced myself that our enemy is a mere human being I
shall take such steps as I may think necessary at the time. Then, of
course, I shall acquaint you with the steps that I have taken, and we
shall work together and round up our man, and, figuratively speaking,
make him swallow his hideous green ray."

"What sort of steps do you mean?" I asked.

"Well, that all depends," my friend answered, "on what sort of man we
have to deal with. But it will certainly include providing ourselves
with the necessary means of self-defence, and may run to calling in
the assistance of the authorities."

"I'm not sure that the presence of the police in a quiet spot like
this might not have a disastrous effect on our plans," I pointed out.

"I shouldn't worry about the police," he laughed. "I should make for
the naval chaps. I'm rather pally with them just now; I'm booked up to
do some work of various descriptions for the period of the war, and I
think if I can give them the promise of a little fun and excitement
they would be willing to help."

"Which indeed they could," I agreed readily. "Any attempt our enemy
might make to get away from us would probably mean a bolt for the open
sea, and a few dozen dreadnoughts would be cheerful companionship."

Garnesk laughed, and we strolled up to the house, putting the
finishing touches to our toilet as we went. Shortly after breakfast we
made ready for our trip to Mallaig. Myra was very anxious to come with
us until I explained that we should have to wait there till we had met
Dennis and seen the specialist off. She was naturally sensitive about
appearing in public with the shade on, poor child, so she readily gave
up the idea.

"I'm very sorry you're going, Mr. Garnesk," said Myra, as she shook
hands.

"I shall see you again soon," he replied. "I have by no means finished
with your case, and as soon as you report the effect of the glasses I
shall send you'll see me come tripping in one afternoon, or else I
shall ask you to come down to me."

"It's very good of you to take so much trouble about it," said Myra
gratefully.

"Not at all," he responded lightly. "It is a pleasure, Miss McLeod, I
assure you."

The old general was still more effusive of his gratitude, and as he
waved good-bye from the landing-stage his face was almost comically
eloquent of regret.

"By the way," said Garnesk as we passed Glasnabinnie, "don't tell
Hilderman much a