[Shaking his head.] No, no one.—Satow? It sounds Russian—or in all events Slavonic. [To the INSPECTOR.] What language does she speak?

When the two ladies talk to each other, it is in a language I cannot make out at all. But at other times she speaks Norwegian like a native.

[Exclaims with a start.] Norwegian? You are sure you are not mistaken?

No, how could I be mistaken in that?

[Looks at him with eager interest.] You have heard her yourself?

Yes. I myself have spoken to her—several times.—Only a few words, however; she is far from communicative. But—

But Norwegian it was?

Thoroughly good Norwegian—perhaps with a little north-country accent.

[Gazing straight before him in amazement, whispers.] That too?

[A little hurt and jarred.] Perhaps this lady has been one of your models, Rubek? Search your memory.