"'That appears to establish the fact that this desk--which probably was brought from India, Mrs. Middlemore--contained M. Felix's private papers?'
"'It do, sir,' said Mrs. Middlemore, admiringly.
"'And, therefore, papers of importance. The desk was inlaid with silver, Mrs. Middlemore.'
"'Lor', sir!' exclaimed Mrs. Middlemore, doubtless regarding our reporter as a man who dealt in enchantments. 'How did you find out that?'
"'It was, was it not?'
"'Yes, sir, it was.'
"'When M. Felix had visitors, was this desk ever allowed to lie carelessly about?'
"'No, sir. At them times he used to keep it in 'is bedroom, on a little table by the side of 'is bed.'
"'Let us look through the bedroom, and see if it is there.'
"They searched the bedroom thoroughly, without finding it.