A connection was made in disconcertingly short time and Mary, after talking with a person who was evidently the butler, held the wire, the receiver trembling in her fingers. And then a clear, cool voice——
"Well? Who is it?"
"This—this is Miss Norcross talking," and then Mary held her breath.
"Miss who?"
"Norcross. Miss Norcross."
"Do I know you? Have I met you?" said the voice on the wire.
"This is Nell Norcross." Mary was raising her voice.
"Yes; I hear the name. But I don't place you."
"Miss Norcross—formerly your secretary."
There was an instant's pause. Then the cool voice again: