“Haven’t laid eyes on her.” Mitchell looked over toward the staircase. “Isn’t that she?” and he and Hayden stared at a heavily cloaked woman standing with her back toward them. She was peering intently at the floor when Hayden’s approaching footsteps caused her to look around and he recognized Marian Van Ness.
“Good evening,” he exclaimed, raising his hat. “Have you lost anything?”
“Yes—I, that is, no——” Marian laughed to hide her embarrassment. “Have you seen Evelyn?”
“No. I am searching myself for that elusive damsel,” laughed Hayden. “Her mother is waiting to take her home.”
“Oh!” Marian looked blank. “Then in that case I’ll run along. Good-night; don’t trouble to come with me,” and she hurried down the circular staircase.
Mitchell, who had listened unobtrusively in the background, stepped up to Hayden. “She’s a beauty and no mistake!” he remarked admiringly. “Gee, don’t fall!” Seeing her stumble on the last step he sprang forward, tripped over one of the iron uprights of the stair railing, and went sprawling. His out-flung hand closed over a small object to which he clung instinctively as Hayden helped him somewhat shakily to his feet.
“Thanks,” he muttered, as the physician brushed off some of the dust, accumulated in his fall. Unclosing his fingers he looked at the object in his hand; his breath entirely left him, and he pointed with his right hand to the decoration.
“Look, doctor!” he gasped and Hayden bent nearer, then his glance traveled upward and he and Mitchell contemplated each other in silence. A hand on Mitchell’s shoulder caused him to start violently.
“What have you there?” asked Maynard.
For answer the detective raised his hand until the nearest electric light fell full upon it.