Then there came the closing of the door, and the sound of heavy footsteps in the hall.

Forrest grasped the table with both hands, and his face was bloodless.

The Princess leaned towards him.
"For God's sake, Nigel," she whispered in his ear, "pull yourself together! One look into your face is enough to give the whole show away.

Even Jeanne there is watching you." The man made an effort.

Even as the footsteps drew near he dashed some brandy into a tumbler and drank it off.