He found him lying on his face.

His arms were spread out, and his dressing-gown was torn, as if he had struggled hard.

His pockets had been turned inside out, his writing-table drawers forced open, the whole room had been ransacked; yet the old man's gold watch had not been touched, and some money in one of the drawers had not been taken.

What on earth is the meaning of it all ?" said young Dickson, below his breath.

"What was the thief after ?" In a moment the truth flashed across my brain.