In reply to his queries the girl stated that Mme. Estelle, having occasion to go out of town the day before, had closed up the house because she did not like to leave the maids by themselves. Madame however, she told him, was expected back in the course of the evening; she thought about nine o'clock. The sense of coming action prompted Westerham to dine well. Unlike other men, his senses and capacities were always at their best after dinner. At nine o'clock he went back to Laburnum Road and was told that Madame was at home. As he entered the pretty drawing-room Mme. Estelle came forward to greet him with outstretched hand. But he kept his own behind him. “Pardon me,” he said coldly, “but before I meet you on terms of friendship there are certain things which I want to know.” Madame raised her eyebrows at him and smiled. “Indeed,” she said, “what are they?” “In the first place, who stole my furniture and my belongings from my flat?” demanded Westerham. “Why should you ask me?” answered Madame, evasively. “Because,” said Westerham, “I have not the slightest doubt in the world that Melun was the man who ordered their removal, and if Melun is responsible then you are probably acquainted with the fact.” “Very well,” said Madame, quietly, “and I expect that it will do no harm for me to confirm your suspicions. Melun did order your things to be removed.” “But why?” Madame smiled again. “It was at my suggestion. It is impossible for me to give the reason; but I must ask you to believe that such a step was necessary for the greater security of your life.” Westerham stared at her; the matter was entirely beyond his comprehension. “And the car,” he demanded, “what of that? Was it you also who suggested it should be sent on a bogus mission to Holyhead?” “It was. That step was also necessary in the interests of your safety.” Utterly regardless of Madame's presence, Westerham paced angrily up and down the room for some minutes before he spoke again. Finally he turned upon the woman and asked almost roughly where Melun was to be found. Madame shrugged her shoulders. “Do you decline to tell me?” asked Westerham. Madame shrugged her shoulders again. By this time Westerham had made up his mind as to how he should deal with this woman. There had been ample time since he had left Lady Kathleen to reason out what she meant by the words that, as she preferred death to dishonour, her death-warrant had been sealed. For some strange reason, still to be unearthed, the Czar's emissary had ordered that Kathleen must marry Melun and thereby ensure silence. How did Mme. Estelle stand in this matter? Westerham determined to ascertain for himself at once. “Listen,” he said almost gently. “Let us for a few moments try to talk as friends. It is imperative that I should see Melun at once. You are the only person who can tell me where I can find him. And if you will come to a bargain with me it may be to our mutual advantage.