human
Uncle Jachin! she exclaimed.
gpt
Yes--it's just as we thought; it's all a joke. No, it was not a joke, either, because he had some motive behind it, but he won't tell me what it was. I'm terribly glad that you opened one of those boxes and found the letter--if you had gone to the police it would have been perfectly dreadful----
human
I never go to the police, said Jachin Fell with his dry chuckle.
gpt
You are quite satisfied that there is nothing serious in the affair, then?
human
Absolutely! He told me that he had accomplished his purpose, whatever it was, and that it's all ended. He just gave me his word that the Masquer was dead for ever. Now, aren't you glad that you confided in me?
gpt
Very, said Jachin Fell.
human
Very glad, indeed!
gpt
Now you're laughing at me--never mind! We're going to lunch downtown, and we'll mail those boxes on the way, by parcels post. Is that all right?
human
Quite all right, my dear. It is the method adopted by the most exclusive and elusive criminals in the country, I assure you. Every handbag snatcher gets rid of his empty bags by mailing them back to the owner--unless first caught. It pays to follow professional examples, as Eliza said when she crossed the ice. Did your gown come for to-night?
gpt
It's to come this afternoon.
human
Very well. Do not plan to wear any jewels, Lucie. I have a set to lend you for the occasion--no, not a gift, merely a loan for the sake of Comus. They are very nice pearls; a little old fashioned, because they were mounted for the Princesses de Lamballe, but you will find that they fit in excellently with your gown. I'll bring them with me when I call for you----
gpt
And I'll tender fitting thanks then. One thing more: Henry Gramont is going to see you after luncheon, I think--on business. And I want you to be nice to him, Uncle Jachin.
human
Most assuredly, said the other, drily.
gpt
I should like to be associated in business with that young man. The firm would prosper.
human
Will you stop laughing at me? Then I'll ring off--good-bye!