"I shall take a room at the Milan Hotel," he said, "and give it to
the cashier. They have a wonderful safe there. It is the best
thing I can think of. Can you suggest anything?"

She considered for a moment.

"Do you know what is inside?" she asked.

He shook his head.

"I have no idea. It is the most mysterious document in the world,
so far as I am concerned."

"Why not open it and read it?" she suggested; "then you will know
exactly what it is all about. You can learn it by heart and tear
it up."

"I must think that over," he said. "One second before we go out."

He took from his pocket the revolver which Lassen had dropped. It
was a perfect little weapon, and fully charged. He replaced it in
his pocket, keeping his finger upon the trigger.

"Now, Zoe, if you are ready," he said, "come along."

They stepped out and entered the taxi, unmolested, and Laverick
ordered:

"To the Milan Hotel."