When at last he looked up, it was with a dazed air and an almost humble mien: "Providence has me this time," he muttered.

"I don't understand these mysteries.

You will have to deal with them as you think best." His eyes, still glued to the jewel, dilated and filled with fierce light as he said this.

"Damn the ring, and damn the man who gave it to her! However it came into her casket, he's at the bottom of the business, just as he was at the bottom of her death.

If you think anything else, you will think a lie." Turning away, he made for the door.