the secret of his
plans. Clyne, as he well knew, was dominated in every way by his astute
daughter, and did he learn Lucian's intentions, he was quite
capable--through sheer weakness of character--of revealing the same to
Lydia, who, in her turn--since she was bent upon marrying Ferruci--might
retail them to the Italian, and so put him on his guard.

Denzil, therefore, rid himself of the American by promising to tell him,
on some future occasion, all that he knew about Ferruci. Satisfied with
this, Clyne departed in a more cheerful mood, and, apparently, hoped for
the best.

After his departure, Lucian again began to consider his idea of calling
on Jorce regarding the alibi of Ferruci. On further reflection he judged
that, before paying the visit to Hampstead, it might be judicious to
see Rhoda again, and refresh his memory in connection with the events of
Christmas Eve. With this idea he put on his hat, and shortly after the
departure of Clyne walked round to Jersey Street.

On ringing the bell, the door was opened by Rhoda in person, looking
sharper and more cunning than ever. She informed him that he could not
see Mrs. Bensusan, as that good lady was in bed with a cold.

"I don't want to see your mistress, my girl," said Lucian quickly, to
stop Rhoda from shutting the door in his face, which she seemed disposed
to do. "I desire to speak with you."

"About that there murder?" asked Rhoda sharply. Then in reply to the nod
of Lucian she continued: "I told you all I knew about it when you called
before. I don't know nothing more."

"Can you tell me the name of the dark man you saw in the yard?"

"No, I can't. I know nothing about him."

"Did you ever hear Mr. Wrent mention his name?"

"No, sir. He called and he went, and I saw him in the back yard at 8.30.
I never spoke to him, and he never spoke to me."

"Could you swear to the man if you saw him?"

"Yes, I could. Have you got him with you?" asked Rhoda eagerly.

"Not at present," answered Lucian, rather surprised by the vindictive
expression on the girl's face. "But later on I may call upon you to
identify him."

"Do you know who he is?" asked the servant quickly.

"I think so."

"Did he kill that man?"

"Possibly," said Denzil, wondering at these very pointed questions. "Why
do you ask?"

"I have my reasons, sir. Where is my cloak?"

"I will return it later on; it will probably be used as evidence."

Rhoda started. "Where?" she demanded, with