It was a small, dull, inconspicuous residence, but John felt acutely its sinister character, many houses having this strange power of revealing the inner life that permeates them.

The man obtained at Scotland Yard was well acquainted with the premises, but at first appeared to be either ignorant or indifferent and only answered John's questions in monosyllables until John said, "If you can take me to my brother, I will give you a pound." Then there was a change.

The word "pound" went straight to his nervous center, and he became intelligent and helpful.
"When the door is opened again," he said, "walk inside.

There is a long passage going backward, and a room at the end of that passage.

The kid you want will be in that room." "You will go with me ?" "Why not?
They all know me." "Tell them my name is John Hatton." "I don't need to say a word.