The chief and Oscar had some further conversation, the nature of which will be explained later on.
Several days passed and our hero devoted himself to one object. He tried to trail down Alphonse Donetti. In the meantime he held an interview with Alice Frewen. He had discovered the extraordinary interest of that fair, innocent, but resolute girl in the young Frenchman, and he sought to prepare her for the terrible revelations that were to come. Oscar was thoroughly convinced that young Donetti was a villain of the worst type and the confederate of villains. He was convinced that the young man had been concerned in the Roman robbery.
One evening he called at the home of Mrs. Frewen. The latter was out, but Alice came down to meet the officer. Her manner was like one under a great mental strain.
"What have you learned?" she asked.
"Miss Frewen," said our hero, "I wish you would let me know just the extent of your interest in this young man."
"My interest in him is kept alive because of my absolute belief in his innocence. I believe he has been wronged from his cradle. I believe that under terrible temptations he has remained honorable and true."
"But has he not to your knowledge led a rather fast life in Paris?"
"I have no proof that he has."
"Answer me one more question: Have you communicated with him since he has been in America?"
The girl started and exclaimed: