"My poor darling," I said hoarsely. "I'd have given anything in the world----" With a brave effort she raised her head and brushed away the tears which were running down her cheeks. "I know," she said, "I know how you feel. I can't help crying, it's all so sad and terrible, but even if it were possible I don't think I would wish him to be alive. It nearly broke my heart to see him as he was. Now at least he is at peace." She turned to Bobby. "Don't bother about me," she added. "Just tell him the rest before the doctor comes." "There isn't much more to tell," said Bobby quietly. "We towed the launch to Pen Mill, and Campbell went ashore and rang up the police. The Head Constable came over at once and brought the doctor with him. There was the devil of a fuss, as you can imagine. Fortunately, however, the old boy knew all about Campbell, and after a lot of jaw we were allowed to bring you back here and put you to bed. It was nearly midnight by then, and we've been taking turns sitting up with you ever since." "What's the time now?" I demanded. Bobby glanced at his watch. "Close on twelve." "And where's Campbell?" I asked. "He stopped ashore with the police. There's going to be an inquest on Manning this afternoon, and----" He was interrupted by a loud ring at the front door bell. Christine rose quickly. "It's probably the doctor," she said. "He promised to come over as soon as he was free." She motioned Bobby to remain where he was, and, crossing the room, disappeared into the passage. "We got the diamonds all right," added Bobby cheerfully. "Campbell had a squint at them, and he says there are only about a third missing. He reckons you ought to get at least twenty thousand out of the Brazilian Government." "I've had my share," I said. "You and he and Christine can split it up between you." "I'll do nothing of the sort," began Bobby indignantly. "If you like to give Campbell--" He stopped short at the sound of returning footsteps, and a moment later Christine entered the room. "A man has called with a message from Mr. Campbell," she said. "He wants you to go over to the hotel at once." Bobby got up from the bed. "Something to do with this infernal inquest I suppose." He reached for his cap, which was lying on the dressing-table, and, having patted Christine paternally on the shoulder, walked to the doorway, where he turned round and surveyed us both. "So long, my children," he observed. "Settle it for when you like, but don't forget that I'm to be best man." * * * * * For just a second after he had gone we both remained silent. "I suppose we must let him have his way," I said. "We can't very well refuse after all he's done for us." Christine stood looking down at me with a world of love and tenderness in her eyes. "I don't know why it is," she said helplessly, "I feel as if I wanted to laugh and cry at the same time." I stretched out my hand and drew her down on to the bed beside me.