I have been concerned in some curious transactions in my time, and in some dangerous ones, but now I felt that I was fairly out of my depth. I knew that I was nothing to Thérèse Humbert; and if it suited her convenience to use me as a cat’s-paw in the game she was playing with the authorities I might very well find myself in an ugly situation.
What, for example, could be easier than for this accomplished intriguer to set a trap for me; have me arrested, perhaps, in the attempt to break into an empty safe, and thus establish a defence for herself? She would be able to pose as the victim of a robbery; and I should be held responsible for the disappearance of these millions whose existence was in dispute.
I felt my companion’s eyes fixed on my face in watchful scrutiny as these reflections passed through my mind. My decision was taken swiftly.
‘You shall hear from me in the morning, madame,’ I said sharply, rising from my seat. ‘Till then, au revoir.’
And I went out of the room, and out of the house, without giving her an opportunity to press me further.
When the morning came I was seated in my office as usual, engaged in deciphering a confidential cable from the President of Colombia, when my secretary entered the room and informed me that a veiled lady, who declined to give her name, wished to see me in private.
‘Show Madame Humbert in,’ I said, emphasising the name.
“My visitor started as she heard her name, and threw up her veil with a gesture of astonishment and indignation.”
The secretary, who understood what was required of him, went out, and immediately returned with the visitor.