"Yes, madame," he returned, gravely; "I have reason to believe that it can be deciphered. I promise you in a few hours' time to restore to you the contents of the letter."
"Very well." Her eyes were blazing. "I will leave them now and call later in the day. Restore the contents of that letter so that it can be easily read, and I will pay you handsomely."
And drawing her veil closely over her face, she left the office, her evil work well done.
[CHAPTER XVIII.]
HOW THE SECRET IS TOLD.
When Serena had left the house, Beatrix went straight to old Bernard Dane's room and rapped at the door.
"Come in!" cried a harsh voice; and Beatrix pushed the door open and entered the room. Bernard Dane was standing before a window, gazing out into the grounds, his wrinkled face looking grave and thoughtful. At sound of the girl's footsteps he turned slowly, and as his eyes fell upon her pale, troubled face, something like pity flashed into his own—but only for a moment.
"Well?" he demanded, sharply, as she paused before him.