In fact, our arrangements are perfect; they make as complete a deadfall as ever waited for its prey." Richard and Inspector Val returned to Washington, Richard to write Dorothy a letter freighted of promise and hope and love.

In it he told her that soon he would have canceled the last element of Storri's power, removed the last fear of Mr.Harley, and, in loving brief, destroyed the last bar which separated them and kept them apart.
Dorothy read the letter again and again, and then kissed it pending the advent of something more kissable.

Richard's promise was like the smell of flowers to refresh her jaded, fear-wearied heart.

The one regret was, since Richard had forbidden it, that she could not share the blessed promise with her father.
Richard wrote nothing of the note of warning; nor did he speak of Inspector Val and his deductions as to Storri's visits to the Harley house.

His only thought had been to cheer the drooping soul of Dorothy with the glad nearness of happier days.