“Oh, Mr. Craig! I could guess--my heart indeed told me that this was my mother. From my father I have never heard the story of the past, but it would be strange if, living to almost twenty, I were unable to discover something of the truth. I have never known a mother’s love, and though she may have sinned like the other one, yet she is my mother. I would see her, _must_ see her. I knew not what to do at first. John was out, my maid sick. I am not easily balked in anything of this nature. There is too much of Samson Cereal’s blood in my veins for that. We have a faithful coachman. I sent for Pat, and, as well as I could, explained that I wanted his company. He would lay down his life for me, and although dreading my father’s wrath, he consented to come. “So we started. The elevated brought us here, and Pat stands just a dozen feet yonder, ready to do anything I tell him, from fight to running away. My heart failed me as the time drew near. I sought shelter here and waited in trembling suspense. Imagine my surprise when I saw my father entering yonder place. While I debated upon my course, and became more and more excited as the minutes flew by, I was suddenly relieved, for you came and stood near by. On several other occasions, Mr. Craig, you have been able to assist me in times of great distress. Forgive me if I am importunate, but I must see this woman who calls out for me. John has found his mother, and strange though it may seem to you, I would look upon the face of the one who once loved me as a babe. “You can help me, will help me, I feel sure, for I am determined to solve this mystery, come what may.” She waits for an answer. Aleck fears that Mr. Cereal may take him to task for it, but he cannot prevent her from going, at any rate, and in his company she will be safer. Besides, once in the presence of those eyes, now tear-dimmed, he is powerless to refuse her anything. There never was a more helpless captive. “Miss Dorothy, your wishes are law to me. I had hoped you would be safe at home while this singular climax of the drama was taking place in Cairo Street, but since you are here, I cannot refuse your request.” “I thank you from my heart, sir. It is this craving to look upon her face, to hear her speak, to call her that dear name--for she is my mother no matter how guilty or how sadly wronged--that has made me dare all. When shall we enter? It is surely nine o’clock.” Her manner is eager; she trembles not with fear, but with the excitement of anticipation. “We will go now,” replies Aleck, for the boom of drums announces the coming of the weird wedding procession. CHAPTER XXIX. THE PASHA CLAPS HIS HANDS. Wycherley has not been able to hear the conversation inside the booth, but he catches the martial music from the streets, and is just about to inform the Canadian that they must delay no longer when he sees Aleck coming out.