But instead of hanging weights and a swinging pendulum, the opening revealed another open door beyond, through which stepped a young man,--Benjamin Vajdar.
"So you've come at last ?" the marchioness exclaimed.
"Yes, and I have the key to the cipher despatches, too!" All smiles and caresses, the siren led her visitor to the table on which lay the mysterious correspondence.

But before the two begin their clandestine work, let us say a few words concerning the relations between them.
Months before, at a court ball to which Prince Cagliari's influence had procured the Marchioness Caldariva a much-coveted invitation, Benjamin Vajdar, who then occupied a subordinate government position, was also present.

Struck with the beauty of the marchioness, he sought an introduction, and, to make a long story short, was soon enrolled among her willing slaves.

Not long after this first meeting he threw up his modest position and became Prince Cagliari's private secretary.

A day had already been set for his marriage with Anna Adorjan, but he had the hardihood to write and beg to be released from the engagement.