upper story. While he was thus occupied the fortune-teller had finished
her incantations, and, taking from a drawer a small amulet sewed in oil
skin, handed it to the detective.

"Take this, my son--the stars are auspicious. It will bring you and keep
near you good luck and high fortune. Now, depart in peace, for I am
weary and would fain seek rest."

His answer surprised her, for, rising abruptly, he struck a match, and,
lighting the gas jet, pushed aside the curtains.

With a scream of rage, Nance sprang forward.

"Go but another step, and I'll tear your heart out!"

Disregarding her, the detective pushed forward and threw open the door
leading to the ascending stairs.

In a trice he had mounted them and turning to the right, entered a room.
His astonishment was so great that he half stopped, for the apartment
was furnished in almost regal style; richly-upholstered furniture and
oil paintings contrasted so vividly with the squalor and misery of the
lower part of the house that the audacious detective could scarcely
believe his senses.

A smothered cry of rage and terror behind him warned him, and turning
swiftly he beheld Nance, with wild eyes and disheveled hair, springing
toward him. In her uplifted hand gleamed the glittering blade of a
stilletto, and like a fury she rushed upon the bold intruder.