I did not take it. There was something uncanny about it all.
"Do not hesitate, or we may be observed," he said. "Take it quickly. Do not open it until you return to your hotel."
With these words he thrust it into my hand.
"Remember what I have said," he exclaimed, rising quickly. "I must be gone, for I see that suspicion is aroused by those who are watching. Act with prudence, and the disaster against which I have warned you will not occur. Above all, keep the appointment in London on the 2nd of June."
"But why?"
"Because for your own safety it is imperative," he responded, and with a low bow he opened the door of the box.
The next instant I was alone with the little packet the stranger had given me resting in my hand.
CHAPTER IX
SHOWS THE BIRD'S TALONS
For some little time after my mysterious companion had left I sat forward in the box, gazing down at the wild revelry below, and hoping that one or other of the party would recognise me.