e or obstruct us; we represent the law of this
country."

"Have I done so, M. le Juge?" answered the General, with the utmost
courtesy, as he threw away his half-burned cigarette.

"No, no. I do not imply that in the least. I only entreat you, as a good
and gallant gentleman, to meet us in a proper spirit and give us your
best help."

"Indeed, I am quite ready. If there has been any unpleasantness, it has
surely not been of my making, but rather of that little man there." The
General pointed to M. Flocon rather contemptuously, and nearly started a
fresh disturbance.

"Well, well, let us say no more of that, and proceed to business. I
understand," said the Judge, after fingering a few pages of the
dispositions in front of him, "that you are a friend of the Contessa di
Castagneto? Indeed, she has told us so herself."

"It was very good of her to call me her friend. I am proud to hear she
so considers me."

"How long have you known her?"

"Four or five months. Since the beginning of the last winter season in
Rome."

"Did you frequent her house?"

"If you mean, was I permitted to call on her on friendly terms, yes."

"Did you know all her friends?"

"How can I answer that? I know whom I met there from time to time."

"Exactly. Did you often meet among them a Signor--Quadling?"

"Quadling--Quadling? I cannot say that I have. The name is familiar
somehow, but I cannot recall the man."

"Have you never heard of the Roman bankers, Correse & Quadling?"

"Ah, of course. Although I have had no dealing with them. Certainly I
have never met Mr. Quadling."

"Not at the Countess's?"

"Never--of that I am quite sure."

"And yet we have had positive evidence that he was a constant visitor
there."

"It is perfectly incomprehensible to me. Not only have I never met him,
but I have never heard the Countess mention his name."

"It will surprise you, then, to be told that he called at her apartment
in the Via Margutta on the very evening of her departure from Rome.
Called, was admitted, was closeted with her for more than an hour."

"I am surprised, astounded. I called there myself about four in the
afternoon to offer my services for the journey, and I too stayed till
after five. I can hardly believe it."

"I have more surprises for you, General. What will you think when I tell
you that this very Quadling--this friend, acquaintance, call him what
you please, but at least intimate enough to pay her a visit on the