The door of the strategic cabinet was ajar, but the tottering visitor had no fears of an ambush.

For Madame Alixe Delavigne calmly said: "Jules, you may remain within call, in the hall." The old nabob's heart leaped up in a welcome relief at this command.

His wrinkled face was of the hue of yellowed ivory, and his cold blue eyes were weak and watery, as he heavily lurched into a chair facing his hostess.

Courage and craft had not failed him, for already Douglas Fraser was speeding on to Delhi from Calcutta, the sole occupant of a special train.

In the long vigil of the night, Hugh Johnstone had evolved a plan to ward off the blow of the sword of Fate! But watchfully silent he awaited his enemy's conversational attack.
"Damn her! I will outwit her yet!" he silently swore.
"Before you give me your answer, Hugh Fraser," said the calm-voiced woman, "I wish to tell you again what, in your mad jealousy, you would not believe.