But the circumstances convince me that there has been a deliberate plot; and I am waiting--in no spirit of Christian patience, I can tell you--to lay my hand on the wretch who has done this." "What are you waiting for ?" I asked.
"I am waiting for the inevitable," he replied; "for the false move that the most artful criminal invariably makes.

At present he is lying low; but presently he must make a move, and then I shall have him." "But he may go on lying low.

What will you do then ?" "Yes, that is the danger.

We may have to deal with the perfect villain who knows when to leave well alone.

I have never met him, but he may exist, nevertheless." "And then we should have to stand by and see our friends go under." "Perhaps," said Thorndyke; and we both subsided into gloomy and silent reflection.
The place was peaceful and quiet, as only a backwater of London can be.
Occasional hoots from far-away tugs and steamers told of the busy life down below in the crowded Pool.