morning. What arrangements have been made about refreshments?"
"A caterer is to serve them. Two of the waiters are our men."
"Good! Anything special regarding possible loot?"
"Since it is such an affair, all the women are likely to wear their most expensive jewels," wrote Number Two. "Social rivalry that exists at present will tend toward this."
"That is all for the present. Retire!"
Number Two erased what was written, bowed, and backed through the door. The Black Star glanced at a little clock that stood on the table before him.
"I have a few minutes before the next man reports, Muggs," he said, "and so I'll be glad to explain in part. I presume you have heard of our fair city's society leader, Mrs. Richard Branniton?"
"Sure!" said Muggs.
"She is giving quite an affair to-morrow evening at her palatial residence, Muggs. Her husband, if you happen to remember, was the district attorney who prosecuted me when I was on trial recently. At this reception and ball, she is to entertain two prominent diplomats who are visiting in the city. The cream of the city's wealth and society will be present, Muggs. It will be some party!"
"Well, what about it? I ain't invited," Muggs growled.
"You may be a guest at that, Muggs; I may take you with me."
"Oh! You're invited, are you?" Muggs asked sarcastically.
"No; but I am going. It isn't quite the thing to go to an affair to which you have received no invita-
