increased agitation.

"Laura," said he, "Slater says that we may possibly be wanted and
proposes that we stay here all night. I have telephoned Adela and
have made it all right at home. Will you come to your room? This
is no place for you."

Nothing could have pleased me better; to be near and yet not the
direct observer of proceedings in which we took so secret an
interest! I showed my gratitude by following George immediately.
But I could not go without casting another glance at the tragic
scene I was leaving. A stir was perceptible there, and I was just
in time to see its cause. A tall, angular gentleman was approaching
from the direction of the musicians' gallery, and from the manner
of all present, as well as from the whispered comment of my husband,
I recognised in him the special official for whom all had been
waiting.


"Are you going to tell him?" was my question to George as we made
our way down to the lobby.

"That depends. First, I am going to see you settled in a room quite
remote from this business."

"I shall not like that."

"I know, my dear, but it is best."

I could not gainsay this.