The set teeth, the scowling grin of the gaunt jawbones, the dull menace of the empty eye sockets, were equally convincing, equally disconcerting.
Lighting a cigarette, Theydon scrutinized the address and postmarks.

In a sense, it was ludicrous to find "Francis B.Theydon, Esq., 18 Innesmore Mansions, W.C.," typed in plain script on the wrapper.

What an unholy alliance of modern science and medievalism! The mind almost refused to focus itself on the tragic aspect of the affair, yet the hour at which the package was posted, 5:30 p.m.in the West Strand, showed conclusively that Wong Li Fu, at any rate, had not sent the death's head by his own hand, but had entrusted it to a confederate.

The notion brought in its train the departure of Miss Beale from her hotel, "because she had seen a Chinaman there." "Every little helps," mused Theydon, "I must let Scotland Yard know." He went straight to the telephone, and was pleased to hear that Mr.
Winter had reached headquarters.

The chief inspector was feeling grateful, and said so.
"It was very thoughtful on your part to deal so promptly with the message received by Mr.Forbes," he said.