"Besides, this case was what you did not wish us to find. You are a
great actress, but you could not control the dew which sprang out on
your forehead, or the beating of your heart when I touched the sofa, so
I knew: I had been watching you for that. There has been an error, and I
can only apologise."

"I don't blame you, but those who sent you," said Maxine, letting me
lead her to a chair, into which she sank, limply. "I am thankful you do
not tell me these diamonds are contraband in some way. I was not sure
but it would end in that."

"Not at all, Mademoiselle. I wish you joy of them. It is you who will
adorn the jewels, not they you. Again I apologise for myself and my
companions. We have but done our duty."

"I have an enemy, who must have contrived this plot against me,"
exclaimed Maxine, as if on a sudden thought. "It is said that 'Hell hath
no fury like a woman scorned.' But what of a man who has been
scorned--by a woman? He knew I wanted all my strength for to-night--the
night of the new play--and he will be hoping that this has broken me.
But I will not be broken. If you would atone, Messieurs, for your part
in this scene, you will go to the theatre this evening and encourage me
by your applause."

All three bowed. The Commissary of Police, lately so relentless,
murmured compliments. It was all very French, and after what had passed,
gave me the sensation that I was in a dream.

CHAPTER VI

IVOR HEARS THE STORY

They were gone. They had closed the door behind them. I looked at
Maxine, but she did not speak. With her finger to her lips she got up,
trembling still; and walking to the door, she opened it suddenly to look
out. Nobody was there.

"They may have gone into your bedroom to listen at that door," she
whispered.

I took the hint, and going quickly into the room adjoining, turned on
the light. Emptiness there: but I left the door open, and the
electricity switched on. They might change their minds, or be more
subtle than they wished to seem.

Maxine threw herself on the sofa, gathering up the necklace from the
cushion where it had fallen, and lifting it in both hands pressed the
glittering mass against her lips and cheeks.

"Thank God, thank God--and thank you, Ivor, best of friends!" she said
brokenly, in so low a voice that no ear could have caught her words,
even if pressed against the keyhole. Then, letting the diamonds drop
into her lap, she flung back her head and laughed and