“Yes. I have been told that she prides herself on never disappointing the public, and that she has never failed once since her first appearance to perform on the nights for which she is announced. Her health is excellent, and she is passionately devoted to her art.” “Then, if I find she refuses to see me at her house----By the way, where does she live?” “She did live in Porchester Square; but may change on her return, by way of giving a little trouble to those who may want to see her when it does not suit her to be visited. But here is the address.” He scribbled down the number and name of the square on the back of one of his own cards. “Have you--did you--that is to say--I mean, has any explanation passed between you and Miss Turquand?” inquired Frank Amberley, with some embarrassment. “I wished to speak to her--to tell her how unhappily I am situated,” replied Paul Desfrayne hesitatingly. “Did you give her any notion of the nature of this barrier?” asked Frank Amberley. “I scarcely know what I said; but I should imagine she could readily guess to what I must allude. I accidentally traveled in her company this morning.” “Indeed! Has she returned to London?” “Lady Quaintree received a telegram stating that her husband was unwell----” “Good heavens! Unwell? I must go to Lowndes Square this evening,” exclaimed Frank, in great concern. “Do you know what is the matter with him?” Paul shook his head. “Lady Quaintree was my informant, and she said that the telegram stated simply the fact, without entering into detail.” “I will go there directly office-hours are over. In case I see Miss Turquand, and have any opportunity of speaking to her, is it still your wish that I should enlighten her as to the state of your affairs?” “It is essential that she should not be left in ignorance,” said Paul. “It is my duty to inform her without delay, as my silence may be injurious to her.” But he sighed heavily as he spoke. “I will use my own discretion,” said Frank Amberley. “But I could not take any important step without your special sanction. You will send this Italian valet to me?” “At once--early to-morrow morning.” “We will set him to work directly he can make his own personal arrangements. I will make a point of seeing madam. If I do not succeed in obtaining an interview with her at her residence, I will endeavor to surprise her at the opera-house. I think it best to defer engaging a detective to accompany Gilardoni until I see him. You will not be able to come up to-morrow?” “I fear not. Besides, I could not endure to be present when you inform him of my position.”