"
The Frenchwoman's eyebrows lifted at this. "Doubtless, monsieur knows
what he's talking about----"
"Listen, madame: I am in love with a young woman, an American, a
stranger and friendless in Paris. If anything happens to me
tonight, if I am arrested or assassinated----"
"Is that likely?"
"Quite likely, madame: I have enemies among the Apaches, and in my own
profession as well; and I have reason to believe that several of them
are in this neighbourhood tonight. I may possibly not escape their
attentions. In that event, this young lady of whom I speak will need
a protector."
"And why must I interest myself in her fate, pray?"
"Because, madame, of this service I have done you ... Recently, in
London, you were robbed----"
The woman started and coloured with excitement: "You know something of
my jewels?"
"Everything, madame: it was I who stole them."
"You? You are, then, that Lone Wolf?"
"I was, madame."
"Why the past tense?" the woman demanded, eyeing him with a portentous
frown.
"Because I am done with thieving."
She threw back her head and laughed, but without mirth: "A likely story,
monsieur! Have you reformed since I caught you here----?"
"Does it matter when? I take it that proof, visible, tangible proof of
my sincerity, more than a meaningless date, would be needed to convince
you.
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