Danevitch went for two days, but his visit was extended to a week. When he was taking his departure, the Prince asked him if he was any wiser than when he went.
‘A little,’ answered Danevitch.
‘But is there anybody in my household whom you suspect?’ asked the Prince with some anxiety.
‘Frankly there is,’ said the detective.
‘Who is it?’ the Minister demanded in a peremptory tone.
‘Pardon me,’ said Danevitch, ‘for declining to answer you now. But unless I am very much mistaken, I shall be able to give you some valuable information before many days have passed.’
In less than a week Danevitch sought another interview with the Prince.
‘I have a request to prefer this time,’ said Danevitch after some preliminary remarks.
‘What is it?’ asked the Minister quickly, and possibly reading in his visitor’s face that he had made a discovery.
‘You have a daughter?’