Page 432 of 657

He would put it through this ventilator at the hour that he

thought best, with the certainty that it would crawl down the

rope and land on the bed. It might or might not bite the

occupant, perhaps she might escape every night for a week, but

sooner or later she must fall a victim.

"I had come to these conclusions before ever I had entered his

room. An inspection of his chair showed me that he had been in

the habit of standing on it, which of course would be necessary

in order that he should reach the ventilator. The sight of the

safe, the saucer of milk, and the loop of whipcord were enough to

finally dispel any doubts which may have remained. The metallic

clang heard by Miss Stoner was obviously caused by her stepfather

hastily closing the door of his safe upon its terrible occupant.

Having once made up my mind, you know the steps which I took in

order to put the matter to the proof. I heard the creature hiss

as I have no doubt that you did also, and I instantly lit the

light and attacked it."