GONE The grim face of Madame Cerise relaxed to allow a quaint smile to flit across it.

She returned Fogerty's bow with a deep curtsy.
Mershone, after one brief exclamation of dismay, wrested from him by surprise, threw himself into the chair again and stared at the fire.
For a few moments there was intense stillness in the little room.
"How easy it is," said Fogerty, in soft, musing tones, "to read one's thoughts--under certain circumstances.

You are thinking, Mr.Mershone, that I'm a boy, and not very strong, while you are an athlete and can easily overpower me.

I have come at a disagreeable time, and all your plans depend on your ability to get rid of me.

But I've four good men within call, who are just now guarding the approaches to this house.
They'd like to come in, I know, because it's very cold and disagreeable outside; but suppose we allow them to freeze for a time?
Ah, I thought you'd agree with me, sir--I overheard you say you were about to visit Miss Merrick, who is confined in a room upstairs, but I'd like you to postpone that while we indulge in a little confidential chat together.
You see--" The door-bell rang violently.