Jennings quite expected this information, and
assured Hale, who gave it to him, that it was the best thing
Maraquito could do. "Sooner or later the police will pounce
down on this place," he said.
"As you are a detective, I wonder you haven't stopped it
before," said Hale, with an unpleasant smile.
"I had my reasons," said Jennings calmly, "besides, Maraquito
has conducted the place quite respectably. I suppose," he
added idly, "you will go abroad also?"
"What do you mean by that?" demanded Hale in silky tones.
"Mrs. Herne has gone to the Continent," said Jennings quietly,
"and if Senora Gredos gives up this very dangerous business,
she may go also. As you will be deprived of two of your
friends, Mr. Hale, doubtless you will go also."
"I might. One never knows," replied Hale coolly.
"By the way?" asked Jennings, looking round, "I was admitted
by a parlor-maid this evening. Where is Gibber?"
"I believe Senora Gredos has dismissed him for dishonesty."
"Ah, really," replied the detective, who had his own opinion.
"So it seems Senora Gredos is getting rid of her household
already."
Hale winced under the eye of Jennings and turned away with a
shrug. He was apparently glad to get away. Jennings looked
after him with a smile. "I'll catch the whole gang," he
murmured, and took his departure, having learned what he
wished to know--to wit, that Gibber had disappeared.
"Without doubt he was the boy who poisoned Tyke," said
Jennings, as he walked home with a cigar for company.
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