'It is the usual hour.

For the matter of that, however, I have business with him.' The man still looked at me for a moment in seeming embarrassment.

Then he stood aside and signed to the door-keeper to open the door.

I passed in, uncovering; with an assured face and steadfast mien, ready to meet all eyes.

In a moment, on the threshold, the mystery was explained.
The room was empty..