negotiation was no more than a matter of routine. Often, before, he had handled large affairs as
representative for John Hendrix.
There was only one point that caused doubt in Cody's mind. That was the lateness of Legira's arrival.
The clock on the desk showed half past nine.
“I expected you before nine o'clock, Mr. Legira,” said Cody. “I thought you were not coming.”
“I was unavoidably delayed,” returned Legira. “My man here”—he indicated Francisco—“did not meet
me as I had intended. I was forced to wait for him a half hour.”
“Ah, yes,” said Cody. “I see. However, it does not matter greatly, Mr. Legira. My instructions are to
deliver to you a box which is in my possession. Owing to the nature of its contents, I was also told to
have at your disposal a suitable method of transportation—namely an armored car—”
“That is unnecessary, Mr Cody,” declared Legira, in a suave tone. “I am fully prepared to take care of
the box in question. That has all been arranged with Mr. Hendrix.
“It also accounts for my delay. I could not well come here without Francisco, as he is my trusted man
who will help me with the transportation.”
Roger Cody felt uneasy. He knew the general nature of this transaction. At the same time, he was used to
obeying orders received from Hendrix.
The financier had told him specifically that he should deliver the funds to Legira unless he heard to the
contrary before nine o'clock. Cody had received no word from Hendrix, though he had supposed that
the financier would call to let him know that the deal should proceed.
Cody wondered whether or not he should call back to Hendrix, and was on the point of reaching for the
telephone when he noticed the clock.
It was half an hour after the stipulated time. Surely, Hendrix would have called if any change in plans had
been made. The financier was a man who demanded obedience to the letter when he gave his orders.
Legira sensed Cody's indecision. He spoke in a suave, easy tone that served to relieve the man's doubts.
“I am late, Mr. Cody,” he said. “Suppose we complete this transaction as quickly as possible. I believe
that Mr. Hendrix gave instructions to that effect?”
“Very well,” said Cody.
HE went to a safe in the corner of the room and opened the combination. Waving through the glass
partition, he summoned the watchman.
The bank attendant, aided by Francisco, drew forth a metal box, which was both bulky and heavy.
“You will sign here, Mr. Legira,” said Cody, extending a paper.
“I signed a paper for Mr. Hendrix before—”
“Yes, of course. This is simply my record.”
Legira signed the paper. Cody produced a letter that bore the consul's signature and compared both in a
methodical manner. He nodded and looked inquiringly toward Legira.
“Where do you wish the box to go?” he asked.
“I have a car outside,” declared Legira. “I shall attend to it. Thank you, Mr. Cody.”
The men shook hands and the South American led the way through the side door of the bank where
another watchman stared at the short procession.
A sedan was parked on the side street, with a driver at the wheel. Legira opened the rear door.
Francisco and the watchman hoisted the box into the back of the car Legira entered and sat down.
Francisco joined the driver. The watchman went back into the bank.
As he neared the office where Legira had conferred with Cody, the watchman noted that Cody
