tions, was that
the stolen property should be returned to its rightful owners. In
wondering how best to do that, she evolved the crazy scheme of
appearing in the monk's costume some time when I was with you. She
could leave the notebook for you to find and at the same time provide
me with a perfect and impervious alibi in case suspicion was ever
directed my way!

"You know how it worked out. It's a miracle she didn't kill poor Mr.
Krech! He looked very cunning in his bandage this evening!

"Of course, Janet gave herself away to me! When she came home late
that night I had it out with her--and sent her away! I admired her
loyalty and spirit, but she was entirely too dangerous to have around!
I think Scotch consciences jump at odd angles like cats and detectives!

"That brings the story to date, Mr. Creighton. You know everything
else, and the next move is yours." She leaned back and regarded him
quietly, her little mocking smile on her lips. "What is the usual
procedure? Do you make the arrest yourself? Or do you call the
police? What a triumph you will enjoy over Norvallis!"

He did not reply in words. The answer lay on the floor beside his
foot, where he had dropped the note to Jason Bolt which he had brought
with him in his hurried dash to her side. He picked it up and gave it
to her.

When she had read it, she let it drop in her lap. There was no mockery
in her expression at that moment, though she could not forego a
whimsical little taunt.

"That isn't practicing what you preach, Mr. Creighton!"

"I--I could not find the strength," he muttered hoarsely.

She made no verbal response to that, but her eyes blessed him. After a
moment she forced one uncertain question from trembling lips.

"Will you tell me wh-why?"

"Yes. I've a confession to make, too, Miss Ocky." He nerved himself
to this ordeal. "I--I searched your room last evening while you were
at the Bolts. Looking for proof against Janet. Will you forgive me?"
He waited for her quick nod. "I found nothing, but I did see your
diary on that desk--and glanced at it."

"Ah!" said Miss Ocky, her cheeks stained a deep crimson.

"I found something there that interested me--made me--happy! A line
wishing we had met twenty years ago. Will you tell me what you meant
by that? I'm afraid to trust my own interpretation." He paused, but
she remained silent. "Anyway, I echo the wish! But twenty years is
not a lifetime. If you tell m