'It was to me--to me you did it! What had I done that you should expose me to the ridicule of those who know no pity, and the anger of one as merciless?
What had I done, sir ?' I shook my head sorrowfully.

'So far, madame,' I answered, 'I allow I owe you reparation, and I will make it should it ever be in my power.
Nay, I will say more,' I continued, for the tone in which she spoke had wrung my heart.

'In one point I strained the case against your husband.
To the best of my belief he abducted the lady who was in my charge, not for the love of her, but for political reasons, and as the agent of another.' She gasped.

'What ?' she cried.

'Say that again!' As I complied she tore off her mask and gazed into my face with straining eyes and parted lips.