Elaine approached it. As
they stood about new beads of perspiration, as it were, formed on
it. Elaine touched it, and also quickly withdrew her hand.
"I can't imagine what's the matter," she said. "But--well--
Jennings, you may go--and Marie, also."
When the servants had gone she still regarded the safe with the
same wondering look, then turning out the light, she followed.
She had scarcely disappeared when, from the portiered doorway
nearby, the Clutching Hand appeared, and, after gazing out at
them, took a quick look at the safe.
"Good!" he muttered.
Noiselessly Michael of the sinister face moved in and took a
position in the center of the room, as if on guard, while
Clutching Hand sat before the safe watching it intently.
"Someone at the door--Jennings is answering the bell," Michael
whispered hoarsely.
"Confound it!" muttered Clutching Hand, as both moved again behind
the heavy velour curtains.
. . . . . . . .
"I'm so glad to see you, Mr. Kennedy," greeted Elaine unaffectedly
as Jennings admitted us.
She had heard the bell and was coming downstairs as we entered. We
three moved toward the library and someone switched on the lights.
Craig strode over to the safe. The cold sweat on it had now turned
to icicles. Craig's face clouded with thought as he examined it
more closely.
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