“‘Now what is your important business, Everest?’
“‘Have you seen Conway to-day?’ he asked, abruptly.
“‘Conway? Yes. He came to say good-by; he starts for Monte Carlo to-night. Nothing wrong with him, I hope?’
“‘Not with his health.’
“I turned and looked at Everest; he was deadly pale and greatly agitated.
“‘If you have anything to tell me,’ I said, firmly, ‘do so at once. I cannot stand suspense.’
“‘Then prepare for the worst. Conway has gone to Monte Carlo alone, but he will be joined in Paris by a woman to-morrow night. That woman is your wife.’
“My hand flew to his throat, but he was prepared, and pushed me with almost superhuman strength against some railings close by. We were at the corner of Pall Mall, and, suddenly putting his arm through mine, he dragged me toward the steps of St. James’ Park. Here it was quiet. I loosened myself from his grasp.
“‘You are a coward and a villain!’ I exclaimed. ‘Your words maddened me at first, but I am sane now. Great heavens, that you should have dared to utter such a lie and be alive!’
“He grasped my hand with his.