Through the foliage, farther on, they caught the amber gleam of a languid river; and around their feet, as they entered the yard, scores of pigeons fluttered.
"Carriers!" ejaculated Mr.Birnes, as if startled.
With a strange feeling of elation the detective led the way up the steps to the veranda and knocked.

There was no answer.

He glanced at the chief significantly, and tried the door.

It was locked.
"Try the back door," directed Chief Arkwright tersely.

"If that's locked we'll go in anyway." They passed around the house to the rear, and Mr.Birnes laid one hand upon the door-knob.