Chapter 32

“Something black should be put under the paper,” he said breathlessly, “so the letters will show up better.” Fin fetched a book for the purpose. “Should I put a match to it?” he asked. “A spark is better. Blow the ashes off your cigarette and touch the lighted cone to the dot.” Fin started to obey, but his hand hung suspended. “I hate to do it,” he said. “Suppose we destroy it.” “If we are wrong it will only scorch a little hole in the paper.” Fin touched the point of his lighted cigarette to the dot. Instantly the…