For what purpose?  To West’s mind only one object appeared probable.  The man was too far advanced in life—­certainly much above sixty from his appearance—­to be involved in a love affair with so young and attractive a woman.  Moreover in such a case she would scarcely seek him out here in this private home, where he was merely a transient guest; he would never venture to use a place like this as a rendezvous.  That was unthinkable.  Some other purpose, demanding immediate attention, must furnish the reason for her venturing to enter this house at such an hour, and coming directly to the room where she supposed Coolidge to be sleeping.  To West’s mind there could be but one answer.  The two were mutually involved in a conspiracy of some nature, undoubtedly connected with the approaching settlement of the Coolidge estate.  This girl, so strangely resembling Natalie, had in some way been discovered by the scheming guardian, who was now using her for his own selfish ends.  The plot had been carefully perfected, and the time must now be near for execution.  This girl had been selected, and trained to act a part—­the part of Natalie Coolidge.  Her ability to deceive had been tested in various ways.  Now the moment approached when they were ready to play out the real game.  Yet the nature of that game was in no way apparent.  He could only keep quiet, and wait for some further development, even appear indifferent, while he secretly watched every suspicious movement of Percival Coolidge.

It was not at all probable the satchel contained any incriminating evidence, yet the temptation was strong to obtain, if possible, a hasty glance at the contents.  But for this he was already too late, scarcely reaching the room indeed, before Sexton appeared, announcing his mission.  West, perched on the arm of a chair, smoking, and watched the man bring forth the valise, and start toward the door.

“Coolidge tells me he usually occupied this room,” he ventured curiously, “How did it happen I was put in here?”

Sexton paused, and faced about respectfully.

“It was upon orders from Miss Natalie, sir.  But she did not mention the change in time to remove the bag.  The truth is, I forgot, sir, that it was here.”

“Oh, I see; this is not the grip he usually travels with then?”

“No, sir; this was sent down in advance, sir.  Mr. Percival Coolidge is here quite frequently.”

“Naturally.  As I understand he has no home of his own?”

“No, sir; he was never married, sir.  In the city he stops at one of the big hotels.  Of late he quite frequently spends the end of the week out here, sir.  Of course he is deeply interested in the prosperity of the estate.”

“As the guardian of Miss Natalie, you mean?”

“Just so, sir.”

“How long have you been here, Sexton?”

“Sixteen years, sir.”

“You knew Miss Natalie’s father then, and must enjoy the place to remain so long?”