time when I
must have regarded you with animosity, as one who sought the
destruction of the most ancient and potent organization in the world--
the Si-Fan."

As he uttered the words he raised his right hand and touched his
forehead, his mouth, and finally his breast--a gesture reminiscent of
that employed by Moslems.

"But my first task is to assure you," he resumed, "that the activities
of that Order are in no way inimical to yourself, your country or your
King. The extensive ramifications of the Order have recently been
employed by a certain Dr. Fu-Manchu for his own ends, and, since he
was (I admit it) a high official, a schism has been created in our
ranks. Exactly a month ago, sentence of death was passed upon him by
the Sublime Prince, and since I myself must return immediately to China,
I look to Mr. Nayland Smith to carry out that sentence."

I said nothing; I remained bereft of the power of speech.

"The Si-Fan," he added, repeating the gesture with his hand, "disown
Dr. Fu-Manchu and his servants; do with them what you will. In this
envelope"--he held up a sealed package--"is information which should
prove helpful to Mr. Smith. I have now a request to make. You were
conveyed here in the garments which your wore at the time that my
servants called upon you." (I was hatless and wore red leathern
slippers.) "An overcoat and a hat can doubtless be found to suit you,
temporarily, and my request is that you close your eyes until
permission is given to open them."

Is there any one of my readers in doubt respecting my reception of
this proposal? Remember my situation, remember the bizarre happening
that had led up to it; remember, too, ere judging me, that whilst I
could not doubt the unseen presence of Chinamen unnumbered surrounding
that strange apartment with the golden door, I had not the remotest
clue to guide me in determining where it was situated. Since the
duration of my unconsciousness was immeasurable, the place in which I
found myself might have been anywhere, within say, thirty miles of
Fleet Street!

"I agree," I said.

The mandarin bowed composedly.

"Kindly close your eyes, Dr. Petrie," he requested, "and fear nothing.
No danger threatens you."

I obeyed. Instantly sounded the note of a gong, and I became aware
that the golden door was open. A soft voice, evidently that of a
cultured Chinaman, spoke quite close to my ear--

"Keep your eyes tightly closed, please, and I will help you on