"I am here to explain," Mr. Lassen continued, seating himself
opposite to Laverick. "Mademoiselle Idiale is unfortunately
prevented from seeing you. She has a severe nervous headache,
and her only chance of appearing tonight is to remain perfectly
undisturbed. Women of her position, as you may understand, have
to be exceptionally careful. It would be a very serious matter
indeed if she were unable to sing to-night."

"I am exceedingly sorry to hear it," Laverick answered. "In that
case, I will call again when Mademoiselle Idiale has recovered."

"By all means, my dear sir!" Mr. Lassen exclaimed. "Many times,
let us hope. But in the meantime, there is a little affair of a
document which you were going to deliver to Mademoiselle. She is
most anxious that you should hand it to me - most anxious. She
will tender you her thanks personally, tomorrow or the next day,
if she is well enough to receive."

Laverick shook his head firmly.

"Under no circumstances," he declared, "should I think of delivering
the document into any other hands save those of Mademoiselle Idiale.
To tell you the truth, I had not fully decided whether to part with
it even to her. I was simply prepared to hear what she had to say.
But it may save time if I assure you, Mr. Lassen, that nothing would
induce me to part with it to any one else."

There was no trace left of that ingratiating smile upon Mr. Lassen's
face. He had the appearance now of an ugly animal about to show