He was a handsome, jolly, quick-witted and intelligent young fellow, who had been with me for a long time.

Entering my employment as an office boy, and evincing a decided task and talent for the profession of a detective, he had continued in my service, until at this time he was quite an adept in his particular line, and many a successful operation had been largely due to his intelligent efforts, while far removed from the directing eye of myself or my superintending assistants.

His manners were frank and easy, and among the ladies he was a general favorite, therefore, I concluded to intrust him with the task of obtaining admission into the residence of the sister of Edwards, on Logan Place.
Our operatives had reported that at this house there was employed, in the capacity of domestic, a young and handsome girl, whose conduct as far as could be judged was exemplary in the highest degree, and informing Vinton of this fact, William inquired if he thought he could manage it successfully.
A merry twinkle shone in Vinton's eyes for a moment and then he answered: "I think I can, sir; and I am willing to make the attempt." "Very well," replied William, laughing.

"Only look out for yourself.

I hear she is a very charming young girl, and you may find yourself in earnest before you are aware of it." "Perhaps I may," said Vinton, "and perhaps I might not do better than that if I tried." "All right," said William; "I will not burden you with instructions at present, and you will proceed according to your own judgment, only remember what we want to discover, and succeed if you can." With these words Vinton took his departure.
A few days passed uneventfully by and no report came from Vinton.