“Here is my plan, then,” continued Shirley, his lips twitching with sub-strata amusement, “I want to impersonate you, when you leave, so that this man tries to send me after the other three.  Don’t interrupt, let me finish—­You will say that it is impossible to deceive any one at close range.  Surely, it does sound melodramatic, like a lurid tale of a paper back novel.  But I have studied the photographs of your friends.  You and I bear the closest resemblance of any in the group.  Your weight is about the same as mine—­your shoulders are a trifle stooped and you walk with a curious drag of your left foot.  Your hair is white but thick:  the contour of our faces is quite similar, and so with dry cosmetics, some physical mimicry, and the use of a pair of horn-rimmed glasses like yours I can make a comparatively good double.  The only exposure to the sharp eyes of your enemies will be, first, when I substitute myself for you and take your automobile back home; second, when I go down to the theatrical district, to visit a well-known tearoom where I learn you are a frequent guest.  There the wall tables are shrouded by decorations, and I shall keep in the shadow and talk as little as possible.  Behind those dark glasses, and entering the place with your peculiarly spotted fur coat, I will resemble you more than you believe.  If to add to the illusion, I show hospitable prodigality with drinks for the others, it is probable that their observation will be less analytical.  Then, third in the line of activities, I will go to the theatre, sit in a darkened box, and let them take me where they will in whatever automobile turns up.  Thus you see my campaign.”

“How much do I have to pay you?”

“I might have expected that,” was the laughing retort.  “You are noted for the fortunes you waste on stupid show girls, while times are hard with you in your offices where young and old men struggle along to support honest families.  Have no fear, Mr. Grimsby, my income is enough for my simple wants.  I am entering this hunt for big game, just as I have gone to India and East Africa, for jungle trophies.  It will not cost you a nickel.”

“I had better contribute a little,” began Grimsby, embarrassed, as he drew out a check-book.  But Shirley negatived with emphasis.

“How about your servants?  Can you trust them with the secret?”

“They have been with me for twenty-five years or more.  My wife is in California, and the rest of the servants, except two maids and a butler, up at my country home on the Hudson.”

“Fine:  then, in two hours from now, meet me at the Hotel Astor, where I have rooms, in the name of Madden.  Bring down an extra suit of clothes, and an extra overcoat, for I want to wear your fur one, which I see there on the davenport.  On the downward trip instruct your chauffeur to drive your car up to your country place, as soon as he has made the return trip from the hotel.  You will be there before he gets up, on the country roads and he will be none the wiser.  Goodbye, Mr. Grimsby.”