"Right! and one of them was dead."

"Dead!" exclaimed Sir Norman, with a perceptible start. "Which
one, madam?"

"If you cannot tell that, neither can I. If there is anything
further you wish to see, I am quite willing to show it to you."

"I'm obliged to you," said Sir Norman, stepping back; "but no
more at present, thank you. Do you mean to say, madam, that I'm
some day to murder a lady, especially one so beautiful as she I
just now saw?"

"I have said nothing - all you've seen will come to pass, and
whether your destiny be for good or evil, I have nothing to do
with it, except," said the sweet voice, earnestly, "that if La
Masque could strew Sir Norman Kingsley's pathway with roses, she
would most assuredly do so."

"Madam, you are too kind," said that young gentleman, laying his
hand on his heart, while Ormiston scowled darkly - "more
especially as I've the misfortune to be a perfect stranger to
you."

"Not so, Sir Norman. I have known you this many a day; and
before long we shall be better acquainted. Permit me to wish you
good evening!"

At this gentle hint, both gentlemen bowed themselves out, and