"May I ask the motive of this rather untimely visit?"
"We will come to that in good time, my dear sir," replied Pauline, laughing; "perhaps there are several motives. Suppose then, that we begin with motive number one."
The lawyer writhed beneath her calm assurance.
"I must tell you, mademoiselle," he said, "that these ain't my business hours, and that if you've anything particular to say to me, you'd better call another time. Though I should think," he added insolently, "that the governess of Don Juan Moraquitos can't have much business with lawyers."
"But the wife of Don Juan Moraquitos may, Mr. Craig."
"The wife."
"Yes, I see your client does not give you his entire confidence. I am to become Pauline Moraquitos before twelve o'clock to-morrow."
The lawyer's cheek once more grew ashy pale. Again a sudden terror seized him. He felt that there was some mystery shrouded beneath this business, of which he now heard for the first time.
"I know the question which very naturally rises to your lips," said Pauline, with quiet deliberation. "You would ask what motive can have induced Don Juan Moraquitos to take such a step. I reply to that question before it is asked: The motive is a most powerful one."
Silas quailed beneath the look which accompanied these emphatic words.