First, Kilgore had shrewdly reasoned that Nick's first move, after the
disclosures made by Pylotte, would be that of thus getting positive
evidence against Venner; and the crafty diamond swindler had warned
Venner to be on the watch for the detective, and to handle him in a way
to serve their own designs.
Furthermore, when visiting the theater with Cervera, Venner frequently
had heard Pandu Singe talking with his interpreter; and before Nick
fairly had begun speaking, Venner penetrated his disguise and saw that
he was up against the two detectives.
Yet, despite the unexpected characters in which he now beheld them, the
nerve of the polished knave did not weaken, nor his countenance in any
way betray him. He at once proceeded to follow Kilgore's instructions.
"Ah! yes, I recognize both you and your interpreter," said he, in reply
to Nick's dignified greeting. "I have frequently seen Pandu Singe at the
theater, where I am admitted to the stage with Senora Cervera, the
famous Spanish dancer. Perhaps Pandu Singe may have seen me there."
Nick gravely bowed, then pretended to interpret the remarks to Chick;
who immediately began to bow and smile, at the same time glibly
responding in a jargon that would have staggered a Chinese laundryman,
yet which sounded as much like Hindoo as anything.
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