It was Somerset's momentary impulse to thank Dare for the information given as to Paula's whereabouts, information which had now proved true.

But Dare did not seem to appreciate his friendliness, and after a few words of studied civility the young man moved on.
And well he might.

Five minutes before that time he had thrown open a gulf of treachery between himself and the architect which nothing in life could ever close.

Before leaving the telegraph-office Dare had despatched the following message to Paula direct, as a set-off against what he called Somerset's ingratitude for valuable information, though it was really the fruit of many passions, motives, and desires:-- 'G.

Somerset, Nice, to Miss Power, Grand Hotel, Genoa.
'Have lost all at Monte Carlo.