CHAPTER V.
THE SUPERSTITIOUS MAN.
A little man hesitated outside the door when it was opened.

He had a sad, uncertain, mournful drab face, puckered into a peculiar expression about the mouth.

He was dressed in black, but his clothes were not a very good fit or in the latest style.

He fingered his hat nervously.

His voice was faltering when he spoke.
"I--I beg your pardon, gentlemen.