But down the broad stairs and across the hall of Dorset House he passed with weary steps, leaning heavily upon his stick.

It was a heavy blow which had fallen upon him.

As yet he scarcely realised it.
His carriage was delayed for a few moments, and just as he was entering it a young woman, plainly dressed in black, came hurrying out and slipped a note into his hand.
"Pardon, monsieur," she exclaimed, with a smile.

"I feared that I was too late." Mr.Sabin's fingers closed over the note, and he stepped blithely into the carriage.

But when he tore it open and saw the handwriting he permitted himself a little groan of disappointment.