"What a pity," thought the detective, "that walls do not have tongues as well as ears." A week later Mr. Barnes was more fortunate. He [Pg 74] called at the Quadrant mansion, expecting to once more hear the servant say coldly, "Not at home," in answer to his inquiry for Mr. Quadrant, when, to his surprise and pleasure, Mr. Quadrant himself stepped out of the house as he approached it. The detective went up to him boldly, and said: [Pg 74] "Mr. Quadrant, I must have a few words with you." "Must?" said Mr. Quadrant with an angry inflection. "I think not. Move out of my way, and let me pass." "Not until you have given me an interview," said Mr. Barnes firmly, without moving. "You are impertinent, sir. If you interfere with me further, I will have you arrested," said Mr. Quadrant, now thoroughly aroused. "If you call a policeman," said Mr. Barnes, calmly, "I will have you arrested." "And upon what charge, pray?" said Mr. Quadrant, contemptuously. "I will accuse you of instigating the removal of your brother's body from the coffin." "You are mad." "There are others who hold this view, so it would be wise for you to move carefully in this matter." "Would you object to telling me what others share your extraordinary opinion?" "I did not say that it is my opinion. More than that, I will say that it is not my opinion, not at present at all events. But it is the view which is receiving close attention at police headquarters." [Pg 75] "Are you one of the detectives?" [Pg 75] "I am a detective, but not connected with the city force." "Then by what right do you intrude yourself into this affair?" Mr. Barnes knew that he must play his best card now, to gain his point with this man. He watched him closely as he answered:
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