"
I agreed at once, and started off.
Thus a second time my plans were interrupted, for my expedition
that night ultimately led me to Bow Street, whence, after certain
formalities had been observed, I departed for my chambers, the
mysterious pigtail in my pocket. Failing the presence of Durham,
the pigtail must have been retained as evidence, but:
"We shall know where to find it if it's wanted, Mr. Knox," said
the Yard man, "and I can trust you to look after your own
property."
The clock of St. Paul's was chiming the hour of two when I locked
the door of my chambers and prepared to turn in. The clangour of
the final strokes yet vibrated through the night's silence when
someone set my own door bell loudly ringing.
With an exclamation of annoyance I shot back the bolts and threw
open the door.
A Chinaman stood outside upon the mat!
IV
HOW IT ALL ENDED
"Me wishee see you," said the apparition, smiling blandly; "me
comee in?"
"Come in, by all means," I said without enthusiasm, and,
switching on the light in my study, I admitted the Chinaman and
stood facing him with an expression upon my face which I doubt
not was the reverse of agreeable.
My visitor, who wore a slop-shop suit, also wore a wide-brimmed
bowler hat; now, the set bland smile still upon his yellow face,
he removed the bowler and pointed significantly to his skull.
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