Surely it was so. I was lying upon a divan near the conservatory. Alas, I
was not dreaming! I sat up and looked drearily around, and as I did so
Mr. Bristed drew near with a beautiful lily in his hand, which he offered
to me. He inquired kindly after my health and looked pleased when I told
him I felt quite strong. Indeed I did feel strong for the moment, and
arose determined to leave the room.

"Sit still--where are you going?" he asked anxiously.

"Going to the school-room--going to see Herbert," I replied.

"Herbert," said he, and his countenance darkened; "you cannot see
Herbert, he is ill."

Not see Herbert, and he ill? What could be the matter? He was well but
yesterday.

Mr. Bristed's strange manner, coupled with Richard's absence and the
fearful events of the night, seemed likely to turn my brain.

He saw my startled look of inquiry, and said, "Be quiet awhile; I have
something of importance which I will communicate to you by-and-by, when
you are composed."

"Mary," he ordered, "ring the bell for breakfast to be sent hither;
meanwhile, Miss Reef, while awaiting our coffee, if you will walk with me
in the conservatory I will take pleasure in showing you my tropical
curiosities."