Sir Charles was excited and angry. He was in bitter revolt against circumstances.

“Do you intend to show this letter to Lady Dyke’s relatives?” asked Bruce, at a loss for the time to discuss the situation coherently.

“I do not know. What would you advise? I trust fully to your judgment. But is it not better to obey her wishes?—to forget, as she puts it?”

“We must decide nothing hastily. I am perplexed beyond endurance by this business. There is so much that is wildly impossible in its irreconcilable features. I must have time. Will you give me a copy of the letter?”

“Certainly, keep it yourself. We have all seen it.”

“Thank you.” Bruce placed the envelope and its contents in his pocket-book. Then, turning to the detective, he said:

“Now, Mr. White, do me a favor. Do not worry Mrs. Hillmer until you hear from me.”

“By all means, Mr. Bruce. But am I to report to the Commissioner that Lady Dyke has been found, or has, at any rate, explained that she is not dead?”

“There is no immediate necessity why a report of any kind should be made.”