"Her name is Alice Webster."
Raising his hand appealingly, the stranger beckons Sir Donald to follow. They enter a room at the extreme rear of the building. It connects with one adjoining. This door is quickly closed. Offering Sir Donald a seat at the farther side, the stranger asks him to speak in low tones.
Comprehending that the woman is in the other room and that her companion desires her not to hear their talk, Sir Donald does as requested.
"I am overjoyed that Alice is alive."
"Why?" is the brief response.
Sir Donald hesitates; then cautiously replies:
"For many reasons."
Realizing that this man is craftily fencing against some hazard, Sir Donald will await more definite disclosures.
The stranger perceives this. He must confide in Sir Donald, and thereby secure his aid.
"Suppose it should prove that you are right, what then?"