Bruce weighed these statements very carefully. They did not contain any
positive facts that promised well for the elucidation of Lady Dyke's
visit to the mansions on that fateful November evening, but the absolute
colorlessness of the reports concerning the other occupants rendered
them quite impossible of individual distinction.
After an hour of puzzled thought the barrister finally decided upon a
course of action. He would see Mrs. Gwendoline Hillmer, and trust to
luck in the way of discoveries.
A quiet smile lit up his handsome, regular features as he proceeded to
array himself in the most fashionable clothes he possessed, paying the
utmost attention to every detail in a manner that amazed his valet.When at last that worthy was despatched to the nearest florist's for a_boutonniere_, he communicated his bewilderment to the hall-porter.

"My guv'nor's going out on the mash," he said confidentially. "I thoughthe would never look at a woman; but, bless you, Jim, we're all alike.When the day comes we all rush after a petticoat."

It was nearly six o'clock when Bruce walked down Victoria Street. Forsome reason, he did not call a hansom, and it was almost with a startthat he found himself purchasing a ticket to Sloane Square at theUnderground Railway office. At this precise hour and place he had lastseen Lady Alice on earth. The memory nerved him to his purpose.

A few minutes later he pressed the electric bell of No. 61 RaleighMansions. As he listened to the slight jar of the indicator within, hesmiled at the apparent fatuity of his mission.

He had one card, perhaps a weak one, to play, it was true, but he hopedthat circumstances might prevent this from being tabled too early in thegame.

The door opened, and a youthful housemaid stood before him, the simplewonder in her eyes showing that such visitors were rare.

"Is Mrs. Hillmer at home?" he said.

"I'll see sir, if you give me your name."

"Surely you know whether or not she is at home?"

The girl stammered and blushed at this unexpected query. "Well, sir,"she said, "my mistress is in, but I do not know if she can receive anyone. She is dressed to go out."

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