Ignoring the doubtful compliment, and taking up the note afresh, I observed that I should soon be able to tell who wrote it. "It is possible," he agreed, "quite possible." He had regained his composure, and, indeed, seemed rather pleased than otherwise at the turn events were taking. Still he did not quite know what to make of me, and now and then a shadow of anxiety flitted across his face. As we sat staring at each other it dawned upon me that I had a new problem to solve. What was to be done with this unwelcome visitor? I had made up my mind to meet D'Arcy, and the sound of a neighbouring clock striking nine warned me there was short time left for decision. "Suppose I let you go?" I asked, half amused at the comical situation. "That would be agreeable to me." "Would you promise to say nothing about this affair till the morning?" "Readily, monsieur." "And break your promise at the first opportunity?" "That is probable, monsieur. You see, I have a very bad memory," and he laughed. "Then you must be kept here. I am sorry; I have no wish to hurt you, but there is no other way." "As you please," he replied, and submitted quietly to be bound with strips torn from the bedclothes. I fastened the knots securely, yet so as to cause him the least suffering, and then proceeded to improvise a gag. At this point his calmness disappeared, and for a short time he looked both surprised and angry. [Transcriber's note: illustration missing from book] However, he soon recovered his spirits, and said admiringly, "Surely monsieur must be a gaoler by profession; he knows all the tricks of the trade." "Ah," said I, laughing, "you did not expect this?" He shook his head disconsolately. "But it is necessary." "It may be for you." "Let us say for both, since you will be prevented from getting into mischief. But come; I will make you comfortable." The man's eyes twinkled, and any one outside hearing him laugh would have thought we were engaged in a humorous game. "_Ma foi!_" he exclaimed, "you are politeness itself. First I am to be bound and gagged, and then made comfortable. But there is just one thing which troubles me." "Speak out; I may be able to set your mind at ease." "It is just possible that some one, not knowing your good points, may cut off your head." "Well?" "In that case, with a gag in my mouth, I shall be unable to express my sorrow." "Have no fear," I replied, catching his meaning. "Whatever happens to me, and the venture is certainly risky, I promise you shall be released in the morning." "Thanks, monsieur," he said, looking considerably relieved, "you certainly play the game like a gentleman."