"
Nick was not so sure of it, yet he did not say so. He arose and took
from Venner's desk a block of plain paper, which he laid upon the table.
"Gentlemen," said he, "I want the signature of your firm, in the
handwriting of each of you. Kindly let me have this."
"What's that for?" demanded Venner, abruptly.
"I wish to make a comparison with the forged order which my assistant
will presently bring from Mr. Hafferman," Nick coolly explained. "I
would suggest that you do not delay me."
Venner made no reply, but took a pen and signed the firm's name upon the
blank paper.
"Now yours, Mr. Garside."
"Mine also, Detective Carter?" queried Garside, with a look of surprise.
"If you please."
"Surely," cried Venner, with some resentment, "you do not suspect that
Mr. Garside or myself--"
"Pardon me!" Nick bluntly interrupted. "I am not in the habit of
discussing my suspicions. That I should suspect either of you, however,
is utterly absurd."
"I should say so!"
"Therefore do not argue with me over an absurdity. If I am to continue
this investigation, gentlemen, I must do it in my own way. Either that,
or I shall drop the case at once. Your signature, Mr. Garside."
Garside hastened to take the pen, and dashed off the firm's signature
below that of his partner.
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