Her first thought was to search elsewhere, although she immediately realised the uselessness of any such attempt.

The message had been in her pocket as she recalled distinctly; she had fully intended destroying it at the same time she had torn up the letter of instruction, but failed to do so.

Now it was in the hands of the La Rue woman, and would be shown to the others.

Stella blew out the light and sat down by the open window endeavouring to figure out what all this would mean.

It was some time before she could recall to memory the exact wording of the telegram, but finally it came to her bit by bit: If any clues, advise immediately.