"Please notice how I close it again," was her next request.
She pushed back the displaced square of the wall paper pattern, which was simply the door of a cupboard. It closed with a snap and fitted so exactly into the pattern of the paper that it was impossible to detect it.
Then with a glance towards me to see that I was paying attention, she touched a carved rose on the frame of the over-mantel on the opposite side to that which had caused the looking-glass to move, and at once the latter slowly slid down again into its place.
I stood gazing at her as this was accomplished, and she noted the look of inquiry on my face.
"There is only one thing now I have to ask you," she said, "and then I will detain you no longer. Will you oblige me by coming to see me here at five o'clock to-morrow?"
I considered for a moment or two, and then recollected that there was nothing in my engagements for the next day to prevent my complying with the old lady's request. My life for the last week had been occupied in taking the baths and the waters at regular intervals, with the daily diversion of the Pump Room concert at three.
"Yes," I answered, "I shall be very pleased to come and see you again at five to-morrow."
Although up to now I looked upon her proceedings as simply the whims of an eccentric old lady, yet I felt some considerable interest in them.
"Then let me fill your glass again with liqueur?" she suggested.
Alluring as the offer was I declined it.
I buttoned up my overcoat and prepared to depart, accepting, however, the offer of another cigarette.