"I have practised no deception in common with M.de Chauxville." "The Charity League is quite enough for you, my friend," put in the Frenchman hurriedly.
"You know no more of the Charity League than you did before--than the whole world knew before--except this lady's share in the disposal of the papers," said Steinmetz.
"And this lady's share in the disposal of the papers will not be welcome news to the prince," answered De Chauxville.
"Welcome or unwelcome, he shall be told of it to-night." Etta looked round sharply, her lips apart and trembling.
"By whom ?" asked De Chauxville.
"By me," replied Steinmetz.
There was a momentary pause.

De Chauxville and Etta exchanged a glance.
Etta felt that she was lost.

This Frenchman was not one to spare either man or woman from any motive of charity or chivalry.
"Even if that is so," he said, "the princess is not relieved from the embarrassment of her situation." "No ?" "No, my astute friend.

There is a little matter connected with Sydney Bamborough which has come to my knowledge." Etta moved, but she said nothing.

The sound of her breathing was startlingly loud.
"Ah! Sydney Bamborough," said Steinmetz slowly.