The clock struck eleven.
"I cannot endure this frightful suspense one moment longer! I never heard of such a case in all the days of my life! A bride to vanish away on her bridal day! Duke of Hereward you are her husband! WHAT IS TO BE DONE ?" exclaimed Lady Belgrade, starting up from her seat and giving full sway to all the repressed excitement of the last few hours.
"My dear lady," said the duke, controlling his own emotions by a strong effort of will, and speaking with a calmness he did not feel--"My dear lady, the first thing you should do, should be to command yourself.
Listen to me, dear Lady Belgrade.

I have waited here in constrained quietness, hoping for our Salome's return from moment to moment, and fearing to expose her to gossip by any indiscreet haste in seeking her abroad.

But I can wait no longer.

I must commence the search abroad at once.

I shall go immediately to a skillful detective, whom I know from reputation, and put the case in his hands.