"I wonder how much Heaton really does know?" observed her visitor reflectively at last. "Too much, I fear," she answered. No doubt she recollected how I had expressed my determination to go to Scotland Yard. Again there was a prolonged pause. "Roesch has arrived in London. I must see him," exclaimed the man. "In London? I thought he was still at his post in the Ministry at Sofia," she said in a tone of surprise. "He was fortunate enough to obtain early intimation of Oustromoff's intentions, and after warning me, escaped the same evening. He took steamer, I heard, from Trieste to London." "Why associate yourself further with that man?" she urged. "Surely it will only add to the danger." "What concerns myself likewise concerns him," he answered rather ambiguously. "You have apparently of late become closer friends. For what reason?" "You will see later." "With some distinctly evil purpose, I have no doubt," she observed, "but remember that I have no further interest in any of your future schemes." He grunted dubiously. "Now that you think our fortunes have changed you contemplate deserting us, eh?" he snapped. "A single word to the Prince and you would conclude your career rather abruptly, I'm thinking." "Is that intended as a threat?" she inquired in a calm voice. "Take it as such, if you wish," the man responded angrily. "Through your confounded bungling you've brought exposure upon us. We have only you to thank for it. You know me quite well enough to be aware that when I make threats they are never idle ones." "And you are sufficiently well acquainted with me to know that I never run unnecessary risks." "I know you to be a devilishly clever woman," he said. "But in your dealings with that man Heaton you showed weakness--a coward's weakness. All that he knows is through your own folly. You attempted to mislead him by your actions and letters, but he has, it seems, been a little too shrewd for you." "And if he does know the truth--even, indeed, if he dared to inform the police--what direct evidence can he give, pray?" she queried. "He was blind, and therefore saw nothing. He is now mad, and nobody will believe him." "Even though he may be an idiot his mouth is better closed," her companion growled. His words startled me. This unseen man's intention was apparently to make a further attempt upon my life. But I chuckled within myself. Forewarned is forearmed. Just at that moment I heard the waiter tap at the door, and opening it, announce the arrival of another visitor--a Mr Roesch. "Why, I wonder, has he sought you here?" exclaimed the man when the waiter had gone. "He must have some important news!" Next moment the door was again thrown open, and the new arrival entered.