The four men in the room looked at him in astonishment.

"This simple-looking individual is the man that every one is afraid
of?" thought the Count, as he walked forward and held out his hand
to the stranger.

"I sent for you, Mr. Muller," said the magnate, conscious of his
stately size and appearance, as well as of his importance in the
presence of a personage who so little looked what his great fame
might have led one to expect.

"Then you are Count ---- ?" answered Muller gently. "I was in
Budapest, having just finished a difficult case which took me there.
They told me that a mysterious crime had happened in your
neighbourhood, and sent me here to take charge of it. You will
pardon any ignorance I may show as a stranger to this locality.
I will do my best and it may be possible that I can help you."

The Count introduced the other gentlemen in order and they sat down
again at the table.

"And now what is it you want me for, Count?" asked Muller.

"There was a murder committed in this house," answered the Count.

"When?"

"Last night."