There was absolutely no sign of life in any of the houses; save for the raiders and the stolid Orientals, the street itself was deserted.

Many eyes, no doubt, were peering through darkened windows, but the denizens of Charlotte Street as a rule attend strictly to their own personal affairs when the police are in evidence.
* * * * * "What do you advise, sire," said Winter, addressing the commissioner.
"Mr.Li Chang wants us to make no move until one o'clock.

It is only a matter of six or seven minutes." "And what then?
Are we to enter these other houses, and not No.

412 ?" "Yes," said the Chinaman.
"Have you left the doors open ?" "No.

They must be forced.