father's wrongs had been awaiting avenging; Oswald
Langdon was sleeping in Thames slime; I was an exile, robbed of home and
fortune; and the guilty Laniers were at large, seeking to ensnare
another victim.

"As supposed heir to fabulous wealth, how the real heiress would be
avenged! With what dissembling arts the infatuated Paul would be lured
to unwitting confessions! Through feminine wiles I would learn the facts
of Lanier guilt, and bring both to justice. Why longer fear any harm
from either of these cruel foes?

"Nerved by these sentiments, I became impatient for the test. Since
through such strain, maidenly scruples had been stifled, I felt equal to
any demands upon my dissembling arts.

"Both uncle and niece attended other social gatherings at which the
Laniers were present.

"Though Pierre and Paul were much flattered by Bombay elite, they seemed
most interested in Sir Charles Chesterton and Agnes Randall.

"The girl appeared to enjoy Paul's attentions. Soon it was rumored that
Paul and Agnes were engaged.

"Paul proposed, and was conditionally accepted. He asked uncle's
consent, who insisted on an inventory of all property belonging to the
Laniers. Paul furnished the list. Uncle Thomas took time to look it
over, and made copies. Concealed in a folding wardrobe, that assistant
heard all Paul's talk.

"Paul called often. Through questions and hints from me, he told much of
his past life, but gave wrong names, places, and dates. I would appear
pleased at any story which promised some revelation as to Calcutta or
London incidents. Paul was vague, and would abruptly change the
subject. Then I appeared bored and listless, when he would tell more,
but less disconnected, stories about his past. At each suggestive hint I
would show renewed interest, again lapsing into listless preoccupation,
uneasy dissatisfaction, or frigid unconcern. Paul noted each changing
mood, suiting his conduct to these varying caprices.

"At times I would feel an overwhelming sense of disgust at such
deceitful, unmaidenly occupation. Past recollections intruded with
startling clearness.

"Looking at the infatuated Paul, whose fingers, then nervously
twitching, surely would strangle me if he knew, I often shuddered and
felt deathly sick, but from such sensations rallied, with strong resolve
well to act my part.

"Even these moods appeared to interest Paul, who was most persistently
attentive.

"Through uncle's advice, Paul's calls