"My dear," she said, taking his arm, "what do you think of Lydia's accusation ?" "Against your father ?" said Lucian.

"Why, I don't believe it!" "Nor do I; but it will be as well to set the trap she suggests; for if my father does not fall into it--and as he is not Wrent, I don't believe he will--the real man may keep the appointment with Mrs.Clear." "Whosoever Wrent is, I don't think he'll come again to the Silent House," replied the barrister, shaking his head.

"It would be thrusting his head into the lion's jaws.

If he is in London he'll see the death of Ferruci described in the papers, and no doubt will guess that the game is up; so he'll keep away." "Nevertheless, we'll do as Lydia suggests," said Diana obstinately.

"You see Mr.Link and Mrs.Clear, and arrange about the cypher.