Page:Richard Marsh--The goddess a demon.djvu/279

Rh Three or four chairs, of incongruous design, completed the equipment of the room; with the exception, that is, of a tall screen covered with crimson silk which stood upon the daïs. This screen was the first object which caught the eye on entering. One wondered if an artist's model were concealed behind.

Lawrence placed his finger against his lips as he held the door open for us to enter.

"Ssh! She's there, behind the screen! Listen! Can't you hear her laughing?"

This time I, for one, heard nothing. There was not a sound. And, since every sense was at the acutest tension, had there been, it would scarcely have escaped my notice. Scarcely were we all in, than a door on the opposite side of the room was opened, gingerly, and seemingly with hesitation, as if the opener was by no means sure of his welcome. Through it came the pertinacious Mr. Bernstein, and, of all persons, young Tom Moore. At the sight of her brother the lady shrank closer to my side. The inspector appeared to regard the advent of the newcomers with suspicion, as though doubtful lest there were more to follow.

"Who are these men? Where do they come from?"

Lawrence explained

"Inspector Symonds, allow me to introduce