"194, Handel Street, W.C.
"—th June, 189-.
"Madam,
"In reply to your communication, I beg to say that I shall be pleased to dispose of the Water referred to in my advertisement for the sum of £1000. This minimum price is absolutely fixed, and I cannot take less. Considering that the effect is guaranteed, and that I am the only person in the world who has this marvellous water to sell, I am sure you will admit the price is low. Were it not that I am in pressing and immediate need of money, I could easily get much more. If you are inclined to conclude the business at once, I shall be happy to see you here to-morrow at 4.30 p.m., and give you a proof before purchase. My bankers, Coutts & Co.; my solicitors, Lewis & Lewis, Dr. Llewellyn Smith, of 604, Harley Street; and His Grace the Duke of Fordham have kindly permitted me to name them as references, should you care to make enquiries about me.
"I am, Madam,
"Yours faithfully,
"Sophia Geldheraus."
Miss Semaphore ate her breakfast pensively
and in silence, then made her way to her
room. A thousand pounds! It was a large
sum of money, a very large sum. The sisters
were fairly well off, still that was a
great deal to give out of their capital. But
if this Mrs. Geldheraus—Miss Semaphore
knew the name as that of a famous African
