She was trembling a little. "She asked me to let her know," she faltered. "She is holding the 'phone now."
"She will recognize my voice over the wire. I will save you the trouble. A very serious mistake has been made"; and when we reached the hall, I went to the instrument at once. "Are you there?"
"Who is that?" came the reply in Hagar's voice.
"Mr. Bastable. I am just leaving the house here--Frau Steiner's. I must see you at once. I have just learnt that you have been deceived in regard to me, and I can tell you the whole truth about your father's death, and can put the proofs of what I have to say into your hands. I do not blame you for what you have done; but before you do any more, please see me."
"What have you to say? It is too late now."
"It will be too late if you do not see me at once. It is about Herr von Felsen. You will repent it all your life if you do not see me."
"Wait a moment." I heard the faint echo of a conversation; and then she asked: "Will you come here?"
"Who is with you?"
There was another pause. "Herr von Felsen," she replied then to my infinite surprise and relief.
"Yes. I will come at once."