r_ ROBLEDO--_crosses to_ JARVIS) Don
Robledo, Senor.

JARVIS. Don Robledo--sounds dangerous, but doesn't mean much to me.

DOLORES. It may mean much before you reach the castle. Let me tell you
something. Quick, your hand, Senor! No, the other one. (_Grasps his
hand._) I'll pretend to read your palm. Every one of those breaks in
your life-line means a moment when you stood face to face with death,
and yet, see those little squares of protection around each break! Senor
American, there is one break which you have not yet reached, and the
protecting square is not perfect like the others.

JARVIS. I reckon that square will take care of itself when the time
comes.

DOLORES. But the time is now, Senor.

JARVIS. So--and are the senorita's eyes so sharp that she can tell the
day and the hour?

DOLORES. Not my eyes, Senor American, but my ears. (DUKE _comes
downstairs_.) In all my experience I have seen but one hand like
yours--it speaks of danger, and that hand belongs to Don Robledo.

DUKE. (_Still on stairs_) Well, Mr. Warren!

DOLORES. Pardon, Senor! (_Curtsies to_ JARVIS _and steps back from
him_.)

JARVIS. Good-bye, Senorita. Many thanks for your occult wisdom. I'll
take good care of that little square. (DOLORES _crosses, bows to_
DUKE, _exits_ R., _closing door_.)

[Illustration: "THE GHOST BREAKER" _See Page 46_]

DUKE. (_Coming down_) Well, Mr. Warren, looking into the future? (_Lays
coat on table_ C. JARVIS L.C.)

JARVIS. Yes, Duke. The immediate future promises to be very interesting.
A dark man is to cross my path.

DUKE. (R.C.) Do you believe in such foolery?

JARVIS. I like to, on this occasion, for I hope it means someone I very
much want to meet.

DUKE. Mr. Warren, I feel a certain responsibility for Her Highness'
actions, and the prospect of your death tonight is most uncomfortable.

JARVIS. You think I won't come back?

DUKE. I think if you go to that castle tonight you take your life in
your hands.

JARVIS. I've got a pretty good grip.

DUKE. Look here. You Americans are shrewd traders. You get dollar for
dollar when you bargain. You are not giving away your life for nothing.
Now, what was the price?

JARVIS. Oh, not very much. The deal was made on bargain day. My life
happened to be a little below par.

DUKE. Very well, I will release you from your end of the bargain.

JARVIS. Your Excellency, I am overwhelmed, but the price is paid and
we're on the job, aren't we, Rusty?

RUS