The Strange Countess by Edgar Wallace Excerpt:LOIS MARGERITTA REDDLE sat on the edge of her bed, a thick and heavy cup of pallid tea in one hand, a letter in the other. The tea was too sweet, the bread was cut generously even as it was buttered

 economically, but she was so completely absorbed in the letter that she forgot the weakness of Lizzy Smith as a caterer. The note was headed with a gilt crest and the paper was thick and slightly perfumed. 307 Chester Square, S.W. The Countess of Moron is pleased to learn that Miss Reddle will take up her duties as resident secretary on Monday, the 17th. Miss Reddle is assured of a comfortable position, with ample opportunities for recreation. The door was thrust open and the red and shining face of Lizzy was thrust in. "Bathroom's empty," she said briefly. "Better take your own soap-you can see through the bit that's left. There's one dry towel and one half-dry. What's the letter?" "It is from my countess-I start on Monday." Lizzy pulled a wry face. "Sleep in, of course? That means I've got to get somebody to share these digs. Last girl who slept here snored. I will say one thing about you, Lois, you don't snore." Lois' eyes twinkled, the sensitive mouth curved for a second in the ghost of a smile. "Well, you can't say that I haven't looked after you," said Lizzy with satisfaction.