"Here's the key," he said, and gave it her. "It's dated October the thirtieth or thirty-first. But it's all humbug. I've reason to believe that money was never invested at all. It's all debts. She hasn't a leg to stand on. Not a leg."
"Not a stump," said Barbara. "Leave her to me."
She went back to the library. Mrs. Levitt's face lifted itself in excited questioning.
"One moment, Mrs. Levitt."
After a slightly prolonged search in Mr. Waddington's private drawer she found the letter of October tie thirty-first, and returned with it to the office. It was very short and clear:
"MY DEAR ELISE:
"I cannot promise anything—it depends on circumstances. But if you sent me the name and address of your solicitors it might help."
"Take it," he said, "and show it her."
3
Barbara went back again to the library and her final battle with Elise.