"Pray pardon me; I'm a journalist, you know," said Mr. Murmurtot, "and I earn my living by impertinence. Have I not seen you before, sir?" he continued, facing Rayel. "I think you were at the theatre one evening some time ago--sat in the lower box at the right of the stage--I remember it well, sir."
"I remember the occasion," said my cousin, with his accustomed gravity.
"I read about that occurrence at Mr. Paddington's dinner-party, sir," continued Mr. Murmurtot. "It was decidedly clever in you, sir--deucedly clever! Everybody is talking about it, now that the Count has been arrested."
"Arrested!" I exclaimed; "has he been arrested?"
"Yes, this morning, for the robbery, you know. They say that the police have secured evidence that will convict him sure, but it seems they are not yet ready to make it public; reporters can't get the Inspector to say a word about it, you know--not a word."
There were exclamations of surprise and gratification from all present, save Rayel, who remained silent, while a faint smile stole over his face.
"I knew they would find him out," said he.
"I hear that you are a mind-reader, sir," said Mr. Murmurtot, again addressing my cousin.
"And you are a detective, I believe, and not a reporter," said Rayel. "It is good that we understand each other."
Mr. Murmurtot started with surprise at the remark.
"I do not know how fully you may be acquainted with my secret," said he, "but permit me to assure you that I am here on a friendly mission.
"I have no doubt of that," said my cousin.
"Let me proceed directly to the object of my visit, then, which is to learn how soon you expect to return to England."
"By Saturday, if possible," I replied.
"That is good," said he, turning toward me. "The sooner the better. In the meantime it will be my duty to keep a sharp eye upon you; I have been near you all day. You need not feel any alarm--only do not be surprised if you meet me often. I am responsible for your safety, that is all."
"For whom are you acting?" I asked.
"My dear sir," said he, rising to go, "men in my line of business must not talk too much. Good night."
After he had gone we asked Rayel to tell us more about this mysterious visitor, but he was unable to do so.