It occurred to her that Beaumaroy had perhaps had
some mishap with his burden, or found difficulty with it. She was coming
downstairs to offer her help. Seeing what she saw now, she stood still
in surprise.

Beaumaroy looked up at her and smiled. "No cause for alarm," he said,
"but I've got to go out for a minute. Keep an eye on this rascal, will
you? Oh, and, Doctor Mary, if he tries to move or untie himself, just
take the parlor poker and hit him over the head! Thanks. You don't mind,
de you? And you, Sergeant, remember what I said!"

With these words Beaumaroy slipped out of the door, and softly closed it
behind him.

CHAPTER XV

A NORMAL CASE

When Captain Alec brought his _fianc