The night was silently serene; the clouds were breaking, and two or three big stars peered down.

There was a moon, and having advantage of a rift in the clouds, a ray struck white on Arlington.

Over across, one might make out the tall dark Maryland hills.

Far away on the river burned the lights of the _Zulu Queen_; she was holding her best speed down-stream, having reason to think her recent anchorage a perilous one.
"Their hearts will be in their mouths until they clear Point Comfort," said Inspector Val, pointing to the retreating _Zulu Queen_.

Then turning to Mr.Duff, who, with Mr.England, had faithfully met him and Richard when they emerged from the drain, and giving him a pasteboard from his case, he continued: "Mr.Duff, present my card to the Chief of the Secret Service, and tell him with my compliments that he and what men lie handy to his call are wanted at this drain.