"The two gentlemen who brought you on board," he responded.

"Have any of your men described them to you?"

"They only said that they were both well dressed, and about middle age."

They were, without doubt, the Tempter and his accomplice.  The conspiracy had been conceived and carried out with amazing ingenuity.

"And they brought the doctor on board and delivered this letter?"

"Yes, sir.  They afterwards re-entered the carriage and drove away."

"Well," said the Consul, "the only course I see is for the doctor to take this letter, return to London, and seek an explanation of your owners."

"No, sir, I shan't give up the letter.  It's written to me," demurred the captain.

"But it is in my hands," responded the Consul.  "I am making inquiries into this affair, and I shall act as I think best in the interest of all parties concerned.  The letter is your property, certainly; but recollect that this affair may prove very awkward for your owners.  Therefore, take my advice, Captain, and assist this gentleman in his inquiries."

"I protest against you keeping the letter."

"Very well, I will see that your protest is forwarded to your owners," replied the Consul; and he handed me the letter, saying--"Your best course, Doctor, is to return by the Wilson boat to Hull.  She sails this afternoon at four.  Then go down to Leadenhall Street and, make inquiries--it seems a strange affair, to say the least."

"It is entirely unaccountable," I said.  "There seems to have been a widespread plot against me, with a single motive--the concealment of the murder of Beryl Wynd."

"But in that case why not let me telegraph to Scotland Yard?" suggested the Consul, as the sudden idea occurred to him.  "They would watch the house until your return.  Today is Tuesday.  You'll be in London on Thursday night, or early on Friday morning."The proposal was an excellent one, and I gladly acceded.  Next instant, however, the bewildering truth flashed across my mind.  I had not hitherto realised my position.  My heart sank within me.

"Would that your suggestion could be carried out," I replied.  "But, 

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