amazing agility as he spoke, for the culprit had seized the weapon
nearest his hand and hurled a heavy saltcellar from the table at
Peter's head. The mass of glass crashed into an old Italian mirror
behind Ganns and at the moment when all eyes instinctively followed
the sound, Jenny's husband dashed for the door. Like lightning he
turned and was over the threshold before a hand could be lifted to
stop him; but one in the room had watched and now he raised his
revolver. This young officer--destined for future fame--had never
taken his eyes off Doria and now he fired. He was quick but another
had been quicker, had seen his purpose and anticipated his action.
The bullet meant for Michael Pendean struck down his wife, for Jenny
had leaped into the doorway and stopped it.

She fell without a sound, whereupon the fugitive turned instantly,
abandoned his flight, ran to her, knelt and lifted her to his
breast.

He was harmless now, but he embraced a dead woman and the blood from
her mouth, as he kissed her, covered his lips. He made no further
fight and, knowing that she was dead, carried her to a couch, laid
her gently down, then turned and stretched his arms for the
handcuffs.

A moment later Mark Brendon entered from the house.

"Poggi sent no message and Albert Redmayne has not been seen at
Bellagio," he said.