"
Next minute the apartment was invaded by a _posse_ of police, all of
whom were drawn to where Hyde was by his loud cries of "Here! Here!"
"Let no one move," said the chief of the police, briefly. "What is the
meaning of this? Who are you?" This was to Ledantec.
"My name is Mr. Hobson, a British subject, and member of the press. I
shall require you to explain this intrusion."
"His real name is Ledantec!" cried Hyde, interposing. "Ex-gambler, and
now spy in the pay of the Russians. This woman is his accomplice."
"And who may you be?" said the police-officer, turning to Hyde.
"I know this gentleman," put in the _attache_ whom Hyde had seen at
the Embassy. "He is a British officer--Mr. Hyde."
"I know better!" cried Ledantec, with a scornful laugh. "I denounce
him as Rupert Gascoigne, the perpetrator of the murder in Tinplate
Street, fifteen years ago. The case cannot yet be forgotten at the
Prefecture."
"Is it possible?" said the chief of the police, looking curiously at
Hyde. "Surely I should recognise you. I was one of those from whom you
escaped by jumping into the Seine."
"I do not deny that I am the man," replied Hyde, calmly. "But I am
innocent, and only ask a fair trial."
"We must arrest you, anyway. Keep what you have to say for the judge.
Come! bring them along; it's altogether a fine morning's work.
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