Five more ghosts were added to the supernatural population of
Sloperton Grange. Perhaps this was the reason why Sir Rupert sold
the property shortly afterward, and that for many years a dark
shadow seemed to hang over the ruins of Sloperton Grange.



THE NINETY-NINE GUARDSMEN.

BY AL--X--D--R D--M--S


CHAPTER I.

SHOWING THE QUALITY OF THE CUSTOMERS OF THE INNKEEPER OF PROVINS.


Twenty years after, the gigantic innkeeper of Provins stood looking
at a cloud of dust on the highway.

This cloud of dust betokened the approach of a traveller.
Travellers had been rare that season on the highway between Paris
and Provins.

The heart of the innkeeper rejoiced. Turning to Dame Perigord, his
wife, he said, stroking his white apron:--

"St. Denis! make haste and spread the cloth. Add a bottle of
Charlevoix to the table. This traveller, who rides so fast, by his