It had failed him earlier in the evening when, secretly, he had
watched from the office window Sir Charles's car proceeding
toward the Strand. That odd, sudden chill, as of an abrupt
lowering of the temperature, which often advised him of the
nearness of malignant activity, had not been experienced.

Now, standing before Sir Charles's house, he "sensed" the
atmosphere keenly--seeking for the note of danger.

There had been a thunder shower just before he had set out, and
now, although rain had ceased, the sky remained blackly overcast
and a curious, dull stillness was come. The air had a welcome
freshness and the glistening pavements looked delightfully cool
after the parching heat of the day. In the quiet square, no
doubt, it was always restful in contrast with the more busy
highroads, and in the murmur of distant traffic he found
something very soothing. About him then were peace, prosperity,
and security.

Yet, as he stood there, waiting--it came to him: the note of
danger. Swiftly he looked to right and left, trying to penetrate
the premature dusk. The whole complexion of the matter changed.
Some menace intangible now, but which at any moment might become
evident--lay near him. It was sheer intuition, no doubt, but it
convinced him.

A moment later he had rung the bell; and as a man opened the
door, showing a easy and well-lighted lobby within, the fear aura
no longer touched Paul Harley. Out from the doorway came hominess
and that air of security and peace which had seemed to