With a soft, melodious laugh she came forward.
"Why didn't you say you were a trooper?" she said. "I thought——"
"I am Sub-Inspector Durham," he said quickly.
"Oh, indeed," she replied.
She met his glance without a suggestion of recognition in her own.
"I have ridden out to ask you one or two questions in regard to the robbery at the bank, of which I understand you have heard," he said.
"Ask me questions? And pray what have I to do with the robbery, save that I am an unfortunate victim of the dishonesty of men you and the rest of the police ought to be chasing at this very moment? Ask me questions? It's me who has need to ask them of you. Where are my stolen papers? Where——"
"If you will give me your assistance by answering the few questions I wish to ask you, I have no doubt that your papers, and all the rest of the stolen property, will very soon be recovered," Durham said. "I understand you saw Mr. Eustace this forenoon. Will you tell me——"
"Ask Mr. Eustace himself," she retorted. "He can tell you what I said."
She stood in front of him, with her hands hanging down hidden in the folds of her dress.