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Rh He heard no longer the sound of tearing paper, but it had been succeeded by the rapid clicking of the buttons and levers of the box. He recognized from the sound that they were being rapidly manipulated in the order which was correct for opening the box. The room was pitch-dark and now choked with powder smoke.

"Having now only one shot left in his revolver, the envoy fired for the last time with greater care. He was confident that this shot took effect, but at the same instant he discharged it he heard the sound of the opening of the box. Doubtful in the darkness of being able to find the electric light, he dashed forward with open arms to seize the thief. His outstretched arms, however, encountered no one; he stumbled over the box and fell full length upon the floor. He