"That might explain it," answered Father Murray; "but I think she desires a passport without the visé. I have reason to believe that Your Excellency knows something of her—rather—unexpected departure from her home in Sihasset. In fact, my information on that point is quite clear. I am informed that she was mistaken for another, a visitor in her home. Possibly she is here now. The passport desired is your permission for her to return to her friends."
The Minister's face expressed blankness.
"You have been misinformed," he answered. "I know nothing of Miss Atheson. Would you kindly give me some of the facts? That is, if you think it necessary to do so. It is possible I might be able to be of service to you; if so, do not hesitate to command me."
"The facts are very easily stated," said the priest. "First, the young lady is my niece."
It was the Minister's boast—privately, understand—that he could always tell when a man believed himself to be telling the truth, and now—past master in the art of diplomacy though he was—he found it hard to conceal his shocked surprise at this confirmation of the girl's story.
"You say she left her home unexpectedly?"
"She was seized by two men and hurried to a waiting auto, Your Excellency."
"And this happened where?"
"At Sihasset. Your Excellency passed through there quite recently, and will probably remember it."
The half-closed eyes almost smiled.