Money was sent and letters written. Her husband unavoidably was detained for a long time in Bombay, but expected to get the London business finished through negotiations with parties there. It took a long time to hear from Bombay. He gave her money before leaving for London, and she received an additional one hundred pounds. The family lived well, but not extravagantly, on this. She helped a needy woman who had several small children. Her husband wrote that he soon would be home and have more money. About the time he was expected back a friend came and shocked her with the news that influential persons opposed to Pierre Lanier had conspired to procure his arrest along with that of William Dodge. To outwit these enemies both of the Laniers and her husband must disappear. Their tricky foes would watch the mails and harass the Dodge family. For the present all writing must cease, and the Dodge family move. This removal must be prompt, and nothing was to be said about it. She did as advised. Her surprise was great at being conveyed in a roundabout way for several hours, and unloaded with the children, after midnight, in a narrow street. This friend said not to be frightened, as all would soon be fixed, and conducted them through the winding lanes to the cabin. The family had lived there ever since and never heard from William Dodge.
Another pause. Mrs. Dodge hesitates to proceed further. Sir Donald inquires:
"What time did Pierre Lanier call last night?"
Looking straight at Mary Dodge, answer could not be evaded.
"At about ten o'clock."
"Was Paul with him?"
"Yes," is the startled reply.
"Why did they come disguised?"
"Please do not ask me any more!" pleads the poor woman.
"Mrs. Dodge, you and your husband are in danger from these two villains. Tell me everything!"