As for the peaceful monotony of the last nine weeks, doubtless I may attribute that to the constant companionship of Wherry, the fact that you were much too unpopular with the Carmodys as a foreigner to find an opportunity of poisoning my food, and that I've fallen into the discreet and careful habit of always drinking from a fresh bottle, properly sealed.

There was a chance even there, but you were not clever enough to take it.

You're overcautious and a coward.

But how busy you must have been before that," he purred solicitously, "bolting about in various disguises after me.

How very patient! Dear, dear, if Nature had only given you brains enough to match your lack of scruples--" The insolent purr of his musical voice whipped color into Kronberg's cheeks.