“You have talked this way before,” said the girl tersely. “But at that time there were others in the meeting room. I see your purpose to-night.
“We are alone; but I do not fear you. Again, I tell you that I am not interested in any plan which you may make.”
“Be careful what you say,” warned Prokop. “Remember, my word is law. You cannot oppose my will.”
“Your word is not law,” replied Arlette. “You have no power of your own. The real power belongs with the one who directs you. You cannot deceive me with false promises.”
She turned to leave the room. Prokop stepped forward and seized her wrist. The girl turned; her eyes were furious as she stared at the mask which covered the man’s face.
“Listen to me,” said Prokop grimly. “I have chosen you to be mine. You cannot oppose me.”
With his free hand, he lifted the cloth that hung over his face. The girl recoiled as she saw, for the first time, the evil look on Prokop’s features.
The man quickly dropped the mask, and gripped Arlette’s wrist more tightly, as she struggled to free herself. He clutched her other arm, and drew her toward him. The girl did not attempt to scream. She fought fiercely in her efforts to escape.
PROKOP’S strength was overpowering her. Then, suddenly, his grip relaxed. Gasping from exertion, Arlette staggered to the wall, and leaned there. For a few seconds she could not understand why the man had released her.
Prokop was standing motionless, facing directly toward the door. Arlette looked in the direction of his gaze. She gasped in astonishment.