"Two minutes afterward I had ascended to madam's chamber, opened the
door, and entered."
XXII.
WHILE WAITING FOR MIDNIGHT.
"I did not arrive a moment too soon--in fact I came in the nick of
time.
"Madam had hastily collected watches, chains, breastpins, necklaces,
and all the money she could find; had thrust the whole into a jewel
casket; thrown her rich furs around her shoulders; and was hurrying
toward the door, in rear of the apartment which opened on the private
staircase.
"She had not locked the main door of the apartment, doubtless fearing
to excite suspicion, or knowing I could easily break the hasp with a
single blow of my foot. She had plainly counted on my stupor of
astonishment and horror at her crime, and was now trying to escape.
"That did not suit my view, however. In two steps, I reached the
private door, turned the key, drew it from the lock, and placed it in
my pocket.
"'Sit down, madam,' I said, 'and do not be in such a hurry to desert
your dear husband. Let us talk for a few moments, at least, before you
depart.'
"She glared at me and sat down. She looked regal in her costly furs,
holding the casket, heaped with rich jewels.
"'What is your programme, madam, if I may ask?' I said, taking a chair
which stood opposite to her.
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