CHAPTER VI

THE THREAT OF SWORDS


Stepping from the glare of those gleaming parlor lights into the gloom of
that narrow passage, blinded me for the instant, yet a moment later, I
became aware of the distant glimmer of a candle, the faint reflection
revealing the girl's face.

"Please do not talk; do not ask anything--yet," she urged hurriedly,
noiselessly closing the door at my back, and as instantly gripping my
sleeve. Her breath came quickly; her voice trembled from suppressed
excitement. "Come with me, beyond the light yonder."

I followed her guidance, bewildered, yet having every confidence the
reason for this mysterious occurrence must be fully justified. The
passage curved slightly, terminating at a closed door. Scarce a
reflection of the candle reached us here, yet my eyes were by now
sufficiently accustomed to the gloom so that I could trace the outlines
of her face. A vague doubt took possession of me.

"You are causing me to run away from Grant," I protested blindly. "You
are making me appear afraid to meet him."

"No, it is not that," swiftly. "He was not coming to you personally at