The Chinese Parrot (Charlie Chan Detective Series) — page 21: what you’re looking at

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

ee, He left them. Eden sank wearily into a chair. "Well, that's that. He rather wears one out. I wanted to stick for a higher figure, but it looked hopeless. Somehow, I knew he always wins." "Yes," said Madame Jordan, "he always wins." "By the way, Sally, I didn't want you to tell that secretary who was bringing the pearls. But you'd better tell me." "Why, of course. Charlie's bringing them." "Charlie?" "Detective-Sergeant Chan, of the Honolulu police. Long ago, in the big house on the beach, he was our number- one boy." "Chan. A Chinese?" "Yes. Charlie left us to join the police force, and he's made a fine record there. He's always wanted to come to the mainland, so I've had it all arranged—his leave of absence, his status as a citizen, everything. And he's coming with the pearls. Where could I have found a better messenger? Why—I'd trust Charlie with my life— no, that isn't very precious any more. I'd trust him with the life of the one I loved dearest in the world." "He's leaving tonight, you said." "Yes—on the President Pierce. It's due late next Thursday afternoon.” 21 comiicboeoe S CO