He was a confederate of Argetti. He was a
would-be assassin. Alas! he had no cheerful news for poor Alice Frewen,
but he was verging toward a startling discovery, leading up to a clue to
the solution of the Roman robbery and murder.
"What is it?" asked the girl.
"It's a miniature."
"Let me see it."
Oscar held the light on the picture so the girl could see it. She looked
at it intently and said:
"He is one I never saw before, but he is undoubtedly a confederate, and
he believes I betrayed Argetti. It is a wonder he did not attack you."
"He merely sought to revenge his pals on you; but now what shall we
do?"
"I must flee away."
"No, you will go with me. I will find a home for you."
As the detective spoke he flashed the light of his lantern square on the
girl's face. Hers was indeed a remarkable face. She was very beautiful,
and there was an expression upon it which Oscar, despite his discerning
powers, could not interpret.
"Do you wish me to go with you?"
"Yes.
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