"I hope you'll excuse me."
"I'm to wait for the answer," he said, and took up his position beside his wares.
Constance opened the letter, with a hand trembling with eagerness. It ran:
Miss Wardour:—By all means keep the secret of the diamonds, and trust all to me. I think it best not to come to you, as Belknap keeps a constant watch upon your movements; dismiss him as soon as you like. Have no fears regarding Heath, I have his enemies well roped; be assured that I shall be on hand when needed, and when you see me expect to have the question of the diamond mystery forever set at rest. If you have anything to say, send verbal instructions by boy; he is to be trusted.
Yours sincerely,
Neil J. Bathurst.
Constance heaved a sigh of relief, as she finished the perusal of this note, and afte
