ous look. "Search everybody on
board, two or three thousand, quiz a few, that's about all. It'll take a
long time and probably reveal nothing. Family resemblances are all right
when you know both members, Tommy, but out in the big world--Well,
let's look this over again," he added, taking up the letter.

Tom knew that he was not being consulted. He had a feeling that his
suggestion about breed marks and personal resemblances was not being
taken seriously. He was glad that he had not put his foot too far in by
telling of his other precious idea. But he was proud of Mr. Conne's
companionable attitude toward him. He was proud to be the friend of such
a man. He was delighted at the thought of participation in this matter.
He knew Mr. Conne liked him and had at least a good enough opinion of
him to adopt the appearance of conferring with him. Mr. Conne's rather
whimsical attitude toward this conference did not lessen his pride.

"Let's see now," said the detective. "This thing evidently went through
Holland in code. It's a rendering."

It was easy for Tom to believe that Mr. Conne was re-reading the letter
just to himself--or to himself and Tom.

"Let's see now--_but, as you say, everything for the Fatherland. If you
receive this, let them know that I'll have my arms crossed and to be
careful before they shoot_. I wish he'd cross his arms when he comes
ashore. He's evidently planning to get himself captured. _If you don't
get this I'll just have to take my chance. The other way isn't worth
trying._ Hmm! Probably thought of deserting at the wharf and getting
into Holland or Belgium. No, that wouldn't be worth trying. _As for the
code key, that'll be safe enough--they'll never find it._ Hmm! _If it
wasn't for the_--what's all this--_the English swine_. Humph! They fight
pretty good for swine, don't they, Tommy? _As far as I can ascertain,
we'll go on the T. P._ We know that much, anyway, thanks to you, Tommy."
(Tom felt highly elated.) "_There was some inquiry about my close
relationship to you, but nothing serious. All you have to do is to cheer
when they play the S. S. B. over here_. Humph! That's worth knowing. _It
isn't known if Schmitter had the key to this when they caught him_----

"He didn't," said Mr. Conne dryly; "I was the one who caught
him.--_because he died on Ellis Island. But it's being abandoned to be
on the safe side_. Safety first, hey? _I have notice from H. not to use
it after sending this letter. If w