above the splendor she had bought with her charms, and I was saved a
humiliation I might never have risen above.
"At last, one day I saw a girl--no, it was not she, but her hair was similar to hers in
hue, and the impulse to follow her was irresistible. I did more than that, I spoke to
her. I asked her if she could tell me anything of one whose locks were golden red
like hers--But I need not tell you what I said nor what she replied with a gentle
delicacy that was almost a shock to me as showing from what heights to what
depths a woman can fall. Enough that nothing passed between us beyond what I
have intimated, and that in all she said she gave me no news of Luttra.
"Next day I started for the rambling old house in Vermont, if haply in the spot
where I first saw her, I might come upon some clue to her present whereabouts.
But the old inn was deserted, and whatever hope I may have had in that
direction, perished with the rest.
"Concerning the contents of that bureau-drawer above, I can say nothing. If, as I
scarcely dare to hope, they should prove to have been indeed brought here by
the girl who has since disappeared so strangely, who knows but what in those
folded garments a clue is given which will lead me at last to the knowledge for
which I would now barter all I possess. My wife--But I can mention her name no
more till the question that now assails us is set at rest. Mrs. Daniels must--"
But at that moment the door opened and Mrs. Daniels came in.
