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stiff sheets of paper, a large coloured plan, a greater portion of

which was taken up by the River Thalance

He knew that blue stood for water, and, twisting his neck, he read

"Thaathered that this was the plan of a property

adjacent to the London river

"You're a busy man; and I'm a busy ht this property, and if it doesn't

interest you I'll eat my hat! My motto is small profits and quick

returns Keep your money at work, and you won't have to Do you see

what I mean?"

"Dear old hurricane," said Bones feebly, "this is awfully interesting,

and all that sort of thing, but would you be so kind as to explain why

and where--why you caainst

all the rules ofyou a bit You are sure you aren't hurt?" he asked

"Not a bit, not a bit!" bellowed the intruder "Honest John, I

am--John Staines You have heard of me?"

"I have," said Bones, and the visitor was so surprised that he showed

it

"You have?" he said, not without a hint of incredulity