The Chinese Parrot (Charlie Chan Detective Series) — page 125: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

oe —— "Well—some incidents in my life I really should keep to myself. On such short acquaintance." "As you wish," agreed Eden. The car sped on. "Lady," he said presently, "I've known this desert country, man and boy, going on twenty-four hours. And believe me when I tell you, miss, it's a cruel land—a cruel land." They climbed the road that lay between the two piles of brown rock pretending to be mountains, and before them lay Eldorado, huddled about the little red station. The town looked tiny and helpless and forlorn. As they alighted before the Desert Edge Hotel, Eden said: "When shall I see you again?" "Thursday, perhaps." "Nonsense. I shall probably be gone by then; I must see you soon." "T'll be out your way in the morning. If you like, I'll pick you up.” "That's kind of you—but morning's a long way off," he said. "I'll think of you tonight, eating at the Oasis. Give my love to that steak, if you see it. Until tomorrow, then —and can't I buy you an alarm clock?" "I shan't oversleep—much," she laughed. "Good-bye." "Good-bye," answered Eden. "Thanks for the buggy ride." 125 comiicboeoe S CO