Now that he was alone I was determined to speak to him.

The longer I had studied his features the more resemblance I had found in them to those of my superior friend Joseph.
"He was leaning across the bar, clamouring for two of gin, when I tapped him on the shoulder.

He turned his head, and the moment he saw me, his face went livid.
"'Mr.Joseph Smythe, I believe,' I said with a smile.
"'Who's Mr.Joseph Smythe ?' he answered hoarsely; 'my name's Smith, I ain't no bloomin' Smythe.

Who are you?
I don't know yer.' "As he spoke, my eyes rested upon a curious gold ring of Indian workmanship which he wore upon his left hand.

There was no mistaking the ring, at all events: it had been passed round the club on more than one occasion as a unique curiosity.