“‘Were you ever acquainted with a woman by the name of Victoria Totten?’
“If an adder had stung Mr. Bowles in a vital part, he could not have changed color as quickly as he did when the name of Victoria Totten was mentioned. His face, which was actually florid, turned as pale as death, and his white hands trembled as he put a glass of water to his lips. His agitation, however, was only temporary, for he was a bold villain, who could command himself under adverse circumstances.
“‘What name was it you asked me about, madame?’
“‘I asked you if you ever knew a woman named Victoria Totten?’
“‘I declare, I don’t remember; the names, however, seem familiar to me, but I can’t exactly call to mind any acquaintance of that name.’
“‘Perhaps I can assist your memory a little. Did you know the widow Totten, who resided three or four miles from Vicksburg, Mississippi, who had a daughter named Victoria?’
“‘I don’t think I did.’
“That answer was made by Bowles in a tremulous tone, while he showed signs of great uneasiness.
“‘Have you ever been married, Mr. Bowles?’
“‘No.’