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 to her feet impulsively. "But you will join us?" she asked. She came close to me as she waited for the answer, and when I did not answer, she added quickly, "Why do you hesitate?"

Before I could reply, we both heard a noise somewhere in the house.

"What can that be?" I asked. "You said there was no one in the house."

"None, that I know; and we both stood listening intently. "Those rascals may have left the place open and let in some of the thieves that infest the streets."

"Those are no thieves' footsteps," I answered, as quick steps were heard approaching the room.

"It may be another attempt on me—but I have a brave defender now," she said, under her breath.

I had a revolver with me and took it out of my pocket, glancing to see that the chambers were all loaded.

"You had better stand back at the end of the room there," and I went towards the door.

At that moment it was opened quickly, and three men in uniform entered.

"Stand!" I called. "What do you want here?"

"I am an agent of the Government and hold an order for the arrest of the Countess Bokara," answered the leader, coming to a sudden halt when he saw me in the way armed.

"Well, you cannot execute it now."

"My orders are imperative, sir, and you will resist me at your peril."

"I shall resist," said I shortly. "Where's your order?"

"I have it, that is enough," he replied with equal curtness.

"Produce it!"