proceeded with a string of wonderfully
conceived questions that must have covered my life from birth to the
present time."

"The police have about the same method for each case--a sort of
bullying insistence that breaks down denial by sheer weight."

"I have read of it, frequently, in complaining articles in both
magazines and newspapers. I think I have even seen it very earnestly
compared to the Inquisition." The smile was still upon the girl's lip,
but as she continued, her voice shook a little. "However, I never
thought to go through even a part of it myself."

"What the police _say_ may be embarrassing and mortifying," said
Ashton-Kirk gravely, "but it is nothing at all, compared with what
they might _do_."

Miss Vale drew in her breath in a little gasp of terror; but she made
an effort to conceal it with a laugh.

"I know what you mean," she said, lightly. "You think that they might
go so far as to take me into custody as an accessory to the crime, or
even as the actual criminal."

"Mr. Osborne told me that such was their intention, if you do not
explain clearly your connection with the case. I don't think that the
Department is at all anxious to draw you into the matter; but some of
the newspapers, as you no doubt have noted, have grown very insistent.
They say that a poor musician is jailed instantly, while the woman of
fashion, who is perhaps equally guilty, is allowed to go free. Such
ways of putting things have a great effect upon public opinion; the
politicians who conduct the municipal departments know this, and
always move to protect themselves, no matter in what direction the
movement takes them."

"Then," said Miss Vale, "you really think they will do as Mr. Osborne
said?"

"I have no doubt of it--if the matter is not cleared up before the
time arrives for them to act."

The girl arose and went to a window as though to look out; the
investigator saw her hand pressed to her heart, and noted the
trembling that had seized her. Yet, when she faced him once more, a
moment or two later, she made a brave attempt to smile as before.

"I think this is too bad of you," she said. "Your point of view is
almost as pessimistic as the detectives', or the newspapers'. I had
expected comfort and encouragement."

"And I came to give it--if you'll allow me," said Ashton-Kirk,
quietly.

She looked at him for a moment, then both hands went out in a mock
despairing gesture, and she laughed. But the laugh was