But on the fourth day, just as the evening consultations were beginning and the surgery was filled with waiting patients, Polton appeared with a note, which he insisted, to the indignation of Adolphus, on delivering into my own hands.

It was from Thorndyke, and was to the following effect:---- "I learn from Dr.Norbury that he has recently heard from Herr Lederbogen, of Berlin--a learned authority on Oriental antiquities--who makes some reference to an English Egyptologist whom he met in Vienna about a year ago.

He cannot recall the Englishman's name, but there are certain expressions in the letter which make Dr.Norbury suspect that he is referring to John Bellingham.
"I want you to bring Mr.and Miss Bellingham to my chambers this evening at 8.30, to meet Dr.Norbury and talk over this letter; and in view of the importance of the matter, I look to you not to fail me." A wave of hope and relief swept over me.

It was still possible that this Gordian knot might be cut; that the deliverance might come before it was too late.

I wrote a hasty note in reply to Thorndyke and another to Ruth, making the appointment; and having given them both to the trusty Polton, returned somewhat feverishly to my professional duties.