Earl Derr Biggers

“ Ah, the impetuosity of youth!"
"Well—this is no time to discuss that," replied Minot. "We've got to act, and act quickly!"
"Yes?" Mr. Wall drawled. "What would you suggest? Shall we drown him? I've come to like George mighty well, but if you say the word—"
"My plan is this," said Minot, annoyed by Wall's pleasantries. "Turn George over to us. We'll bundle him into our launch and run off out of sight behind Tarragona Island. Then, let Trimmer search to his heart's content. When he gets tired and quits, signal us by hanging a red lantern in the bow."
Martin Wall smiled broadly. ”

“ MR. PADDOCK knew of a man on the water-front who had a gasoline launch to rent, and fortunately it happened to be in commission. The two young men leaped into it, Paddock started the engine, and they zipped with reassuring speed over the dark waters toward the lights of the Lileth.
The accommodation ladder of the yacht was down, and leaving a member of the crew to make fast the launch, Minot and Paddock climbed hurriedly to the deck. Mr. Martin Wall was at the moment in the main cabin engaged in a game of German whist, and his opponent was no less a person than George Harrowby of the peerage. ”

“ When I've finished—"
"No, you're not," said Minot. "I've heard all that once."
"And you weren't convinced? Why, everybody in San Marco is convinced. The mayor, the chief of police, the—"
"My dear George," said Minot with feeling. "It doesn't make the slightest difference who you are. You and Trimmer stay separated until after next Tuesday."
"Yes. And rank injustice it is, too. We'll have the law on you for this. We'll send you all to prison."
"Pleasant thought," commented Paddock. "Mrs. Bruce would have to develop lockjaw at the height of the social season. ”