The letter was passed to him and pocketing it he turned to the witness-box.

He was dressed exactly as on the day he left me even to the ulster over his arm.

Turning to the President, he said: "I beg your pardon, Monsieur President, but I have only just arrived from America.

The steamer was late.

My name is Joseph Rouletabille!" The silence which followed his stepping into the witness-box was broken by laughter when his words were heard.