H.P.A., _alias_ Preston," he continued. "I
pretended I was a person of some importance. I hinted I was rich. My
object," Kinney added hastily, "was to encourage him to try some of his
tricks on _me_; to try to rob _me_; so that I could obtain evidence.
I also," he went on, with some embarrassment, "told him that you, too,
were wealthy and of some importance."
I thought of the lovely lady, and I felt myself blushing indignantly.
"You did very wrong," I cried; "you had no right! You may involve us
both most unpleasantly."
"You are not involved in any way," protested Kinney. "As soon as we
reach New Bedford you can slip on shore and wait for me at the hotel.
When I've finished with these gentlemen, I'll join you."
"Finished with them!" I exclaimed. "What do you mean to do to them?"
"Arrest them!" cried Kinney sternly, "as soon as they step upon the
wharf!"
"You can't do it!" I gasped.
"I _have_ done it!" answered Kinney. "It's good as done. I have notified
the chief of police at New Bedford," he declared proudly, "to meet me at
the wharf. I used the wireless. Here is my message."
From his pocket he produced a paper and, with great importance, read
aloud: "Meet me at wharf on arrival steamer _Patience_.
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