I caught him, however, in the act of meddling with papers which are mine only on trust." Lady Angela played for a moment with the dainty trifles which hung from her bracelet.

When she spoke she did not look at me.
"The Prince's explanation," she said, "is plausible, and he is our guest.

I think perhaps it would be wisest to give him the benefit of the doubt." "Doubt!" I exclaimed, bewildered.

"There is no room for doubt in the matter." Then she raised her eyes to mine, and I saw there new things.

I saw trouble and appeal, and behind both the shadow of mystery.
"Have you spoken to my father ?" she asked.
"Yes," I answered.
"Did he accept--your view ?" "He did not," I answered bitterly.