Here it is." Shakingly, Matilda held out a sheet of paper.

Shakingly, but without turning to face her visitors, Mrs.De Peyster took it.

There was enough light to see that the letter was written on heavy paper embossed at the top with a flag and "S.S.

Plutonia," and was dated the evening she had supposedly gone on board.

The note read:-- DEAR MATILDA:-- Just at this late moment I recall something which, in the hurry of getting off, I forgot to tell you about.
This is that I left instructions with Mr.Howard, an expert cabinet-maker, who has previously done things for me under the supervision of the Tiffany Studios, to go over all my furniture while I am abroad and touch up and repair such pieces as may be out of order.