d that my Leader brought about this _contretemps_ with
deliberation, in order to terminate my false position, and make
prominent this statement, and I am instructed to remind my
authorities that State secrets of international importance are in
my possession and thus in his. But, lastly, I would assure France
and the world that no blot of dishonour is upon my name because I
have served two masters. My great Leader never did and never will
employ this knowledge to any improper end. But he would have my
Government know something--so very little--of his influence and of
his power. He would have them recall those warrants for his
apprehension that place him on a level with the Apache, the
ruffian; that are an _insult_ to a man who has never done wrong to
a living soul, but who only has exercised the fundamental, the
Divine, the Mosaic Law of _Justice_.

"I loved my work and I love France. But I grieve not. Other work
will be given to me. I make my bow; I disappear. Adieu!

"I am, sir,

"Your obedient servant,
"VICTOR LEMAGE
"(late _Service de Surete_)."

* * * * *

No. 3

(Received by Lady Mary Evershed)

"When, in your brave generosity, you accompanied your friend and
mine on her perilous journey to warn me that Mr. Oppner's
detectives had a plan for my capture, I knew, on the instant when
you stepped into Laurel Cottage, that Miss Oppner had made a wise
selection in the companion who should share her secret. I did not
regret having confided that address to her discretion. The warning
was unnecessary, but I valued it none the less. By an oversight,
for which I reproach myself, a clue to your presence was left
behind, when, but a few minutes before the police arrived, we left
the cottage--which had served its purpose. But another of my good
friends secured it, and I have it now. It is a white orchid. I have
ventured to keep it, that it may remind me of the gratitude I owe
to you both."

CHAPTER XX

CLOSED DOORS

"Why can't they open the doors? I can see there are people inside!"

A muffled roar, like that of a nearing storm at sea, drowned the
querulous voice.

"Move along here, please! Move on! Move on!"

The monotonous orders of the police rose above the loud drone of the
angry crowd.

Motor-buses ma