And he rose and opened the door.

He was just going through it when Guerchard said sharply: "Your Grace--" The Duke paid no attention to him.

He shut the door quickly behind him and sprang swiftly up the stairs.

He met the inspector coming down with Sonia.

Barring their way for a moment he said, in his kindliest voice: "Now you mustn't be frightened, Mademoiselle Sonia.