Mrs. Ladew looked helplessly about, as if not knowing what to do, but Nick read her thoughts.
“It is useless to attempt to call assistance,” said Nick. “Such an act would only bring you into trouble. Come with me to the other side of the room.”
Mrs. Ladew, as if not knowing what else to do, followed him to the place indicated.
Nick placed a chair for her and she sat down, frightened.
“Mrs. Ladew,” said Nick, as he drew a chair, placing himself in front of her, “I am disguised, and no one will know that you are talking to Nick Carter, the detective. I want to say to you that you are a very foolish woman and in a very serious and dangerous position. Do you know the man with whom you just talked in this room?”
Mrs. Ladew nodded her head, but did not speak.
“You are a woman who has a good position in the world, a devoted husband, all that wealth can give you, and you are endangering everything by your association with this man. I doubt if you really know who and what he is. I have no wish nor intention of exposing you to your husband, or to the world.”
By this time Mrs. Ladew had had time to think, and she made an effort to master the situation. With no little haughtiness, she said:
“Your words are very singular, sir, as addressed to me. Exposure? I am a woman of position, sir.”
Nick stopped her sternly. He said: