Inspector Val was here interrupted by Matzai, who said in excuse that the note he bore was marked "important."
"Open it," observed Inspector Val. "Once in one thousand times a letter marked 'important' is important."
Richard cut the envelope with a paper knife and, after silently running the missive up and down, remarked:
"This note works into our conversation as though timed to find us together. I'll read it to you. It's in French, and if you aren't familiar with that language I'll translate."
Inspector Val said that he preferred a translation, and Richard gave him the following. The address and the entire note were in typewriting:
Mr. Storms:
Count Storri's hold on Mr. Harley consists in this: Mr. Harley wrote Count Storri's name on five stock certificates aggregating two hundred shares of the Company Provence of Paris, France. It was done to borrow money, but with honest intentions and at Count Storri's request. Now Count Storri, who has the shares in his possession, threatens Mr. Harley with a charge of forgery. In that way he compels him to do his bidding. The man who writes you this does not do it for your interest, but for
His Own.
"This did not come through the mails," said Inspector Val. "Ask your man who handed it in."
Matzai said that the note was not handed in, but thrust beneath the door. The bell had been rung; when the door was opened no one appeared. The note was lying in the entry.