The Chinese Parrot (Charlie Chan Detective Series) — page 144: what you’re looking at

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

a —— the black beard whom the girl saw in the yard. Chan listened with interest. "Now you talk," he commented. "Here is one fine new clue for us. He may be most important, that black- bearded one. A desert rat, I think. The young woman goes much about this country? Am I correct?” "Yes, she does.” "She can retain secrets, maybe?" "You bet—this girl can." "Don't trust her. We talk all over place we may get sorry, after while. However, venture so far as to ask please that she keep her pretty eyes open for that black-bearded rat. Who knows. Maybe he is vital link in our chain." They were approaching the little oasis Madden had set on the desert's dusty face. "Go in now," Chan continued, "and act innocent like very new baby. When you talk with father over telephone, you will find he is prepared. I have sent him telegraph.” "You have?" said Eden. "So did I. I sent him a couple of them." "Then he is all prepared. Among other matters, I presumed to remind him voice coming over wire is often grasped by others in room as well as him who reclines at telephone.” "Say—that's a good idea. I guess you think of everything, Charlie." 144 comiicboeoe S CO