you'll get yours good and plenty!" Muggs warned him.
"I fear no government, Muggs! I tell you, our plans are perfect. The ransom will be paid within three days."
The Black Star went to the table, opened a drawer, and consulted a memorandum book. Again the little bell on the wall tinkled. Once more the Black Star pressed a button and a robed and masked man entered and stepped up to the blackboard.
"Number Four," he wrote.
"Countersign?"
"Delaware."
"Report," wrote the Black Star.
"Lord Sambery and Sir Burton Banks will arrive to-morrow morning at ten o'clock and be taken at once to the Branniton residence. They will have luncheon there, and then be taken for a drive through the city."
"How many will be in the party?"
"Just the luncheon party—perhaps fifteen."
"What else?" the Black Star wrote.
"Diplomats will return to the Branniton residence and remain for the reception. Arrangements you ordered have been made."
"Good!" the Black Star wrote. "Report at usual time to-morrow for additional orders. Retire!"
The man bowed and backed through the door. The Black Star turned toward Muggs again.
"Oh, it is a wonderful organization, my dear Muggs!" he said. "It is far more wonderful than the one I had before."
"I ain't carin' much about it!" Muggs said. "These
