By working it, however, I discovered that it was impeded by some obstacle that had slipped to the upper part of the drawer, and held it firmly fast.

Inserting my hand, I pulled out the impeding object.

It was the missing cigar case! I turned to him with a cry of joy.
But I was appalled at his expression.

A look of contempt was now added to his acute, penetrating gaze.

"I have been mistaken," he said slowly; "I had not allowed for your weakness and cowardice! I thought too highly of you even in your guilt! But I see now why you tampered with that drawer the other night.