Clemency complied briskly; but observed as she did so, that he
would only have his walk for his pains, that it was all his fancy,
and so forth. Mr. Britain said 'very likely;' but sallied out,
nevertheless, armed with the poker, and casting the light of the
lantern far and near in all directions.

'It's as quiet as a churchyard,' said Clemency, looking after him;
'and almost as ghostly too!'

Glancing back into the kitchen, she cried fearfully, as a light
figure stole into her view, 'What's that!'

'Hush!' said Marion in an agitated whisper. 'You have always loved
me, have you not!'

'Loved you, child! You may be sure I have.'

'I am sure. And I may trust you, may I not? There is no one else
just now, in whom I CAN trust.'

'Yes,' said Clemency, with all her heart.

'There is some one out there,' pointing to the door, 'whom I must
see, and speak with, to-night. Michael Warden, for God's sake
retire! Not now!'

Clemency started with surprise and trouble as, following the
direction of the speaker's eyes, she saw a dark figure standing in
the doorway.