"Not with any assurance.--Neither could I recognize the occupants of the
house," she added. "The truth is, though you may doubt, that I scarcely
notice them; but one can't see a to-let-unfurnished sign on a house
opposite for six months, without remarking its sudden disappearance from
the landscape."

"I should say that you wouldn't be normal if you didn't notice--and
comment, too," Ranleigh declared. "And the Department is much indebted
to you for the information, and it appreciates the spirit that moves you
in the matter."

Mrs. Winton arose to go--the Superintendent accompanied her into the
hall, rang the bell for the elevator, and bowed her into it.

"Don't you wish to know the result?" he inquired with a quizzical
smile, as he put her in the car.

"I'm not unduly curious!" she laughed.

When he returned, Harleston was standing in his office lighting a
cigarette.

"It's infernally close, not to mention hot, in that cabinet of yours,"
he observed; "though one can see and hear."

"Ever see her before?" the Superintendent asked.

"I don't recall it!"