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 “He certainly deserves to know the real truth,” concluded Dr. Cumberly; “but would it relieve his mind or otherwise?”

Denise Ryland and Helen looked at him in silent surprise.

“The truth?” began the latter—“Do you mean that you know—where she is”…

“If I knew that,” replied Dr. Cumberly, “I should know everything; the mystery of the Palace Mansions murder would be a mystery no longer. But I know one thing: Mrs. Leroux’s absence has nothing to do with any love affair.”

“What!” exclaimed Denise Ryland. “There isn’t another man…in the case? You can’t tell me”…

“But I do tell you!” said Dr. Cumberly; “I assure you.”

“And you have not told—Mr. Leroux?” said Helen incredulously. “You have not told him—although you know that the thought—of that is?”…

“Is practically killing him? No, I have not told him yet. For—would my news act as a palliative or as an irritant?”

“That depends,” pronounced Denise Ryland, “on the nature of…your news.”

“I suppose I have no right to conceal it from him. Therefore, we will tell him to-day. But although, beyond doubt, his mind will be relieved upon