He had been to Philadelphia.
And now, what was this mystery which held Mademoiselle Stangerson and Monsieur Robert Darzac in so inexplicable a silence?
After so many years and the publicity given the case by a curious and shameless press; now that Monsieur Stangerson knows all and has forgiven all, all may be told.

In every phase of this remarkable story Mademoiselle Stangerson had always been the sufferer.
The beginning dates from the time when, as a young girl, she was living with her father in Philadelphia.

A visitor at the house, a Frenchman, had succeeded by his wit, grace and persistent attention, in gaining her affections.

He was said to be rich and had asked her of her father.
Monsieur Stangerson, on making inquiries as to Monsieur Jean Roussel, found that the man was a swindler and an adventurer.

Jean Roussel was but another of the many names under which the notorious Ballmeyer, a fugitive from France, tried to hide himself.