"Naturally," said Miss Toat, doubtfully, "she would be on her guard with you."
"I don't think she was," replied Audrey, with studied simplicity; "besides, she has promised to help me to find the criminal. She is most anxious to do so, because of her business."
"I don't see how discovering the real criminal will improve the business."
"Well"--Audrey looked pensive--"Madame Coralie is rather revengeful."
"And very cunning. What is to be done now? You have failed."
"I have not looked into everything yet, Miss Toat. I intend to call again on Madame Coralie."
"I shall do so also," said Perry Toat, with determination; for she recollected the large reward, and felt anxious to obtain it.
Her visitor did not wish to forbid her calling again at the Pink Shop, as such a request might have awakened Miss Toat's suspicions. So she said nothing, feeling certain that Madame Coralie was perfectly well able to look after herself. Meanwhile, Miss Toat, having gathered all she wished to learn, and feeling a faint suspicion that Audrey had not told her everything, made up her mind to look into things for herself. Then she turned the conversation, so that Miss Branwin should not gather her intentions.
"You made a conquest the other day," said Miss Toat, while Audrey rose to take her leave and smoothed her gloves.
"Really!" The girl blushed. "What do you mean?"