efore, to my knowledge, been in any physical danger and the
sensation is exceedingly unpleasant. We will drink some strong tea
and then determine our course of action. I confess that I feel a
good deal perturbed."

His words were at variance with his quiet and restrained expression,
but Mr. Redmayne had never told a falsehood in his life and Jenny
knew that he was indeed alarmed.

"You must not stop here to-night," she said. "You must cross to
Bellagio and stay with Signor Poggi until we know more."

"We shall see as to that. Prepare the tea and leave me for half an
hour to reflect."

"But--but--Uncle Albert--he--he might come at any moment!"

"Do not think so. He is now, poor soul, a creature of the night. We
need not fear that he will intrude in honest sunshine upon the
haunts of men. Leave me and tell Ernesto to admit nobody who is not
familiar to him. But I repeat, we need fear nothing until after
dark."

In half an hour Jenny returned with Mr. Redmayne's tea.

"Assunta has just come back. She has seen nothing more of--of Uncle
Robert."

For a time Albert said nothing. He drank, and ate a large macaroon
biscuit. Then he told his niece the plans he was prepared to follow.

"Providence is, I think, upon our side, pretty one," he began, "for
my amazing friend, Peter Ganns, who designed to visit me in
September, has already arrived in England; and when he hears of this
ugly sequel to the story I confided in his ears last winter, I am
bold to believe that he will hasten to me immediately and not
hesitate to modify his plans. He is a methodical creature and hates
to change; but circumstances alter cases and I feel justified in
telling you that he will come as soon as he conveniently can do so.
This I say because he loves me."

"I'm sure he will," declared Jenny.

"Write me two letters," continued Albert. "One to Mr. Mark Brendon,
the young detective from Scotland Yard, of whom I entertained a high
opinion; and also write to your husband. Direct Brendon to approach
Peter Ganns and beg them both to come to me as quickly as their
affairs allow. Also bid Giuseppe to return to you immediately. He
will serve to protect us, for he is fearless and resolute."

But Jenny showed no joy at this suggestion.

"I was to have had a peaceful month with you," she pouted.

"So indeed I hoped; but it can hardly be peaceful now and I confess
that the presence of Doria would go some way to compose my nerves.
He is powerful,