firmly believe that the same woman is at the bottom of all three thefts."

He would not take anything from Mr. Cutler for what he had done or tried
to do, although the gentleman offered to remunerate him handsomely for
his labor.

"I've earned nothing, for I've accomplished nothing," he said,
dejectedly. "I feel, rather, as if I ought to pay your expenses on
from the West, for it's been only a wild-goose chase."

"I had other business, aside from this, which called me to New York, so
don't feel down at the mouth about the trip," Mr. Cutler kindly replied.
"I am going to remain in the city for a few weeks, then I go to Havana to
meet my sister, who has been spending the winter in Cuba for her health."

The same week Mrs. Vanderheck appeared at a select ball, wearing more
diamonds than any one had ever before seen upon her at once; but after
that one brilliant appearance it was remarked that she was becoming more
subdued in her tastes, for she was never again seen in New York with such
an expensive display of gems.




CHAPTER II.

A STORMY INTERVIEW.


After their return from Hazeldean, Mrs. Montague seemed to forget her