There is a certain fascination in forgery; it is so beautifully easy; you have but to write another's man's name, copying that man's handwriting, and the trick is done.

Percy had tried his hand at the game already, and they say that a horse that once stumbles is certain to fall again.

He had intended forging an order on the bank for the delivery of the jewels: and now they were not in the bank but here in the house.

Within a few yards of him were diamonds and other precious stones, the possession of which would save him from ruin.

The sweat broke out on his face, his lips grew parched, and he tried to moisten them with a tongue that was almost as dry.