I steadied my nerves by a strong effort.

I controlled the rapid beating of my heart; and fixing my dark glasses more closely over my eyes, I drew myself up erect and waited calmly.

I heard Ferrari ascending the stairs--a light step accompanied his heavier footfall--he spoke to his companion in whispers.

Another instant--and he flung the door of the studio wide open with the haste and reverence due for the entrance of a queen.

There was a soft rustle of silk--a delicate breath of perfume on the air--and then--I stood face to face with my wife!.