stery was of secondary
consideration.

"Such a thing is possible, although not probable, unless the two had a
bitter quarrel between themselves. Every crime must have a motive.
People do not commit murder unless there is a reason for it or unless
they are insane. Motives may be divided into three classes--jealousy,
revenge, or gain. In this instance I think we can throw out
jealousy--"

"Mrs. Langmore was jealous of Margaret."

"And wasn't the young lady jealous of her stepmother in a way?"

"But she is not guilty--I'll stake my life on her innocence."

"Then let us come down to revenge or gain. You say nothing was stolen.
Was there a safe in the house?"

"Yes, and it is closed, and will remain so until the experts open it."

"Nobody knew the combination but Mr. Langmore?"

"That's it. Margaret did know, but her stepmother had her father
change the combination and keep it to himself."

"Had he much money in the house?"

"I think not. Margaret says her father was in the habit of depositing
cash in the bank as soon as he received it."

"What sort of promoting did he do?"

"He organized companies to manufacture his patents. He also speculated
in real estate and in mortgages. He owned two buildings in this city
and several in the country."

"Who are the other members of the family?"

"Margaret's married sister, Mrs. Andrew Wetherby, of Sanhope, and Mrs.
Langmore's two sons, Tom and Dick Ostrello."

"Where are these people located?"

"Mrs. Wetherby is traveling with her husband in South America. The
Ostrello brothers are commercial travelers and somewhere on the road."

"Then the Ostrellos are not rich?"

"No, they are poor, and Mrs. Ostrello was poor, too, before she married
Mr. Langmore."

There was another pause.

"Can you tell me anything else?" asked Adam Adams.

"Nothing of much importance. It's a deep mystery, isn't it?"

"Yes, it's very simplicity makes it deep." The detective drew a long
breath. "I was thinking of taking a vacation. My doctor says I need
it."

"Oh!" There was a world of disappointment in the word. "Don't say
that! You must take hold of this. I planned it all out as I came to
town. I know you can clear Margaret if you will only try. Think of
her position--the disgrace--my position-- Oh, you can't refuse me,
Mr. Adams!" The young man came closer and caught the detective by the
shoulder. "If it's money, set your price."

"If I take hold, I'll charge