publicity." Mimi looked at him inquiringly. "Certainly, my dear, in the
present circumstances publicity is a part of safety. Do not be surprised
if, whilst we are at Diana's Grove, occasional messages come for you--for
all or any of us."

"I see!" said Mrs. Salton. "You are taking no chances."

"None, my dear. All I have learned at foreign courts, and amongst
civilised and uncivilised people, is going to be utilised within the next
couple of hours."

Sir Nathaniel's voice was full of seriousness, and it brought to Mimi in
a convincing way the awful gravity of the occasion.

In due course, they set out in a carriage drawn by a fine pair of horses,
who soon devoured the few miles of their journey. Before they came to
the gate, Sir Nathaniel turned to Mimi.

"I have arranged with Adam certain signals which may be necessary if
certain eventualities occur. These need be nothing to do with you
directly. But bear in mind that if I ask you or Adam to do anything, do
not lose a second in the doing of it. We must try to pass off such
moments with an appearance of unconcern. In all probability, nothing
requiring such care will occur. The White Worm will not try force,
though she has so much of it to spare. Whatever she may attempt to-day,
of harm to any of us, will be in the way of secret plot. Some other time
she may try force, but--if I am able to judge such a thing--not to-day.
The messengers who may ask for any of us will not be witnesses only, they
may help to stave off danger." Seeing query in her face, he went on: "Of
what kind the danger may be, I know not, and cannot guess. It will