It seemed doubtful, therefore, whether robbery, after all, was the motive of the crime, especially as it took place in a neighborhood which was by no means infested with criminals.

There was a suggestion of political motive, a reference to the "Black Hand," concerning whose doings the papers had been full since the murder of a well-known detective a few weeks ago.

But apart from this there was nothing fresh.
Laverick folded up the paper and leaned back in his chair.

The strain of the last twenty-four hours was beginning to tell even upon his robust constitution.

The atmosphere of the room, too, was close.
He leaned back in his chair and was suddenly weary.