There was some one in the shadows who meant harm, more harm than was already accomplished.

There was malevolence at work.

The discovery of the key in that position far from Stella's window assured him of it.

The aspect of the key itself as it lay upon the table made the assurance still more sure.

But whom was this malevolence to hurt?
And how?
At what moment would the hand behind the curtain strike?
And whose hand would it be?
These were questions which locked his lips tight.