All were neatly typed, without any heading to the paper.

Sometimes a printed address in the Boulevard des Capucines, Paris, would appear on letters accompanying the enclosures.

But all were very formal, and to Gabrielle extremely puzzling.
Sir Henry always took the greatest precaution that no one should obtain sight of these confidential reports or overhear them read by his daughter.

Before she sat down to read, she always shot the small brass bolt on the door to prevent Hill or any other intruder from entering.
More than once the Baronet's wife had wanted to come in while the reading was in progress, whereupon Sir Henry always excused himself, saying that he locked his door against his guests when he wished to be alone, an explanation which her ladyship accepted.
These strangely worded reports in French always puzzled the Baronet's daughter.

Sometimes she became seized by a vague suspicion that her father was carrying on some business which was not altogether honourable.