“Two minutes afterward I had ascended to madam’s chamber, opened the door, and entered.”
XXII. — WHILE WAITING FOR MIDNIGHT.
“I did not arrive a moment too soon—in fact I came in the nick of time.
“Madam had hastily collected watches, chains, breastpins, necklaces, and all the money she could find; had thrust the whole into a jewel casket; thrown her rich furs around her shoulders; and was hurrying toward the door, in rear of the apartment which opened on the private staircase.
“She had not locked the main door of the apartment, doubtless fearing to excite suspicion, or knowing I could easily break the hasp with a single blow of my foot. She had plainly counted on my stupor of astonishment and horror at her crime, and was now trying to escape.
“That did not suit my view, however. In two steps, I reached the private door, turned the key, drew it from the lock, and placed it in my pocket.
“‘Sit down, madam,’ I said, ‘and do not be in such a hurry to desert your dear husband. Let us talk for a few moments, at least, before you depart.’
“She glared at me and sat down. She looked regal in her costly furs, holding the casket, heaped with rich jewels.