There was nothing distinctly threatening in his tone, and yet all at once she was afraid. The thought of that black Hercules loitering outside, something in the downward droop of the eyes of this man all the time edging a little nearer to her, seemed suddenly to become terrifying. Nevertheless, she refused to flinch. 'I do not like riddles,' she declared. 'Perhaps you had better think over more definitely what you want to say to me, before Friday night, or send a note up to my room.' 'There is no necessity,' he replied. 'What I have to say to you is already quite clear in my mind.' He moved still nearer, stood over the couch by her side. Then the outside bell rang. He paused to listen. Her heart gave a little jump as a familiar voice asked for Mr. Kessner. 'It is Mr. Lavendale!' she exclaimed under her breath. 'Don't let him find me here!' His features relaxed. He laughed and patted her hand. She could have said nothing to inspire him with more confidence. 'Of course not,' he replied indulgently. 'Don't be afraid. George would tell him that I was engaged. He had my orders to let no one in.' 'But I heard him say that he would wait!' she persisted anxiously. 'Cannot I hide somewhere for a moment while you see him and send him away?' George made a discreet appearance. 'A gentleman inquiring for you, sir,' he said. 'He is waiting outside in the corridor. I told him that you would be a long time.' Mr. Kessner considered for a moment. 'Would you mind stepping into my sleeping apartment?' he asked Suzanne. She sprang up at once. 'You will get rid of him quickly?' she begged. He pressed her hand affectionately. She endured his touch without flinching. He handed her over to George and pointed to the door of his room. 'Give the young lady a chair inside,' he ordered. 'I will see Mr. Lavendale.'