nterest, soon
left, and found me trying to evade identification by running away from
my own Uncle Tom.

"He understood my reasons for not wishing to go home, and thought I
acted wisely. Uncle Thomas said:

"'Alice, if you will be brave and help me, we will yet outwit those
villainous Laniers.

"'It will be hard for you at times, and most disgusting, but the aim
justifies the means. The big estate stolen from your father by Pierre
Lanier yet may be recovered, and perhaps both Laniers be brought to
strict account for the murder of Oswald Langdon. I will devote time and
money to this purpose, and need your help.'

"To this generous appeal I could not be indifferent. While dreading the
thought of having anything to do with these cruel foes, refusal would be
base ingratitude. In fear I promised, but then had no idea of such long,
terrible mixing in future 'shadowings.' The fearful part I was to play
could not then have been clear to uncle's mind, but grew out of the
situation's intensely dramatic promptings and tragic power.

"Through this same assistant who had helped keep watch of the Laniers,
Uncle Thomas was advised as to their conduct since arrival at Bombay.
This man had come from London and Southampton with them. He lodged at
the same hotel.

"Paul freely spent money with a number of young fellows, who gave him
information about the wealthier people of the city.

"Pierre and Paul were reported as very rich. They were seeking
acquaintance with wealthy Bombay families. Both had been invited to a
social function at the home of a prominent man.

"Uncle Thomas said:

"'Alice, the money Paul is spending rightfully belongs to you. This
red-handed wretch will try to marry some aristocratic heiress. How fine
to snare him into a trap!'

"Then he suggested that with little difficulty I could assume an
effectual disguise.

"'Your previous voice-culture will help out the ruse. The Laniers doubt
not that you are lying in the Thames. Neither Lanier knows me. There may
be a few people in Bombay who would recognize your Uncle Tom. I will
avoid such, and as a precaution assume a new disguise. Through this
assistant of mine I will acquire reputation of immense wealth. As Sir
Charles Chesterton, a bachelor and multi-millionaire I will soon be an
object of social interest. Much attention will be paid you as the niece
and heir of such a rich uncle. You will be known as Agnes Randall.
Thoroughly disguised and under these assu