ough several
eastern states.

This Monsieur Caspian wisely refused to do, realizing no doubt that if
the jewel returned to his possession a further pretext might be found
why it should remain there. There was a lively discussion outside the
door of Mademoiselle where Monsieur had pursued her, I being stationed
inside. Finally it was agreed that Monsieur Moore should place the ring
in a safe. And from this discussion all the trouble in ridding himself
of Madame Shuster has resulted.

Now I arrive at the conversation overheard by me, after the short tour
of three days from which I had hoped much for the unselfish interests of
Madame la Marquise. I was in the wardrobe of Mademoiselle on the night
of the return--one of the strange wardrobes which in this country they
dig into the wall instead of placing against it. I was engaged in
hanging up the dresses which Mademoiselle had taken with her (shockingly
wrinkled!) when she came--I might say bounced like a young panther--into
the room with Monsieur her father. The wardrobe door was open, but
rather than interrupt them at such a crisis, by showing myself, I very
discreetly and without sound closed it to a certain extent.

This poor Monsieur was in great trouble. Money is for him but something
to be exchanged for pleasures of one kind or another. He is not a man to
study mean economies, and it is for that he is of an attraction so great
for all the world, especially for women. What more could be asked of
him for the good of his child than to consent that so beautiful an old
property should be vulgarized as an hotel? Money comes in, much money, I
believe, but there are great debts. Monsieur had become bankrupt. A
percentage must, in honour, be paid to those who trusted him. Alas!
however, that was not quite all. Madame la Marquise will remember the
last visit of Monsieur Moore to France, and how he persuaded her by
telegram to go with friends and see him win great sums at Monte Carlo.
Unfortunately after she obeyed, the winnings ceased, and there was
nothing agreeable to see. On the contrary! Well, it appears that in New
York there are several of these establishments. Monsieur had very good
luck before our arrival from France. He tested it too often, however. At
these places are men who watch the tables and lend money to players.
They demand outrageous interest, and they must be paid soon, or there
are anxieties. Knowing the good income from the scheme of the hotel, one
of t