"Drink!" she said, authoritatively, and Ethel mechanically drank. Then
the blue eyes opened, and she stood erect in Sir Victor's arms.

"Oh, what is it?" she said. "What has happened?"

Her eyes fell upon the dark intruder, and with a cry of fear, a
shudder of repulsion, her hands flew up and covered her face.

"Don't be afraid, my darling," Sir Victor said, holding her close, and
looking with flashing, defiant eyes at his enemy; "this coward has
told a monstrous falsehood. Deny it, my love. I ask no more, and my
servants shall kick him out."

"Oh, shall they!" said Mr. Catheron; "well, we'll see. Now, Ethel,
look here. I don't understand this business, you know. What does Sir
Victor mean by calling you his wife? It isn't possible you've gone and
committed bigamy--there _must_ be a mistake. You are my wife, and
as such I claim you."

"Ethel, you hear that," Sir Victor cried in a voice of agony; "for
Heaven's sake speak! The sight of this fellow--the sound of his voice
is driving me mad. Speak and deny this horrible charge."

"She can't," said Juan Catheron!

"I can! I do!" exclaimed Ethel, starting up with flushing face and
kindling eyes; "It is a monstrous lie. Victor! O, Victor, send him
away! It isn't true--it isn't, it isn't!"