"That is what I wish to learn," she replied coolly. "It is my chief reason for visiting this vault."
"You will remain in ignorance."
"I shall depart enlightened. Was it not from that coffin, Ivar," she said, turning to him, "that you took the golden vase you gave me some time ago?"
She was drawing a bow at a venture, but the arrow found its mark. The sweat glistened on Ivar's forehead. He betrayed all the confusion of a guilty person. His father eyed him suspiciously.
"A golden vase!" he exclaimed with a bitter smile. "Ivar, I must look into that coffin!"
Thus speaking he made his way to the alcove where the viscount was standing. Moved by curiosity Lorelie also drew near.
"Take the screwdriver, and remove the lid," said Lord Ormsby in a stern voice.
Sullenly and mutely Ivar proceeded to do his father's bidding.
No one spoke, and nothing disturbed the stillness save the crisp revolution of the screwdriver. With folded arms and compressed lips the earl stood looking on, an expression on his face that boded ill for his son should he find his suspicion verified.