Success

"According to our latest reports," Mr. Challoner stated, "the new book has sold seven thousand copies before publication. I am arranging for serial rights for the next three or four books. The terms look very promising."

"And they say crime doesn't pay," murmured Harriet.

"I'm sorry, Miss Vane," the agent said, in his abrupt manner. "I realize this is distasteful, under the—"

"No," Harriet interrupted. "No, it's all right. I quite understand."

There was, nonetheless, a tinge of irony in her voice. She glanced around the bare room with the guard posted at the door.

So this was success.