glanced from one to another in
amazement, and the look of confidence forsook his face. He had not
been prepared to see these strangers, and his first thought was, of
course, for his own safety.

"Have no uneasiness, sir," said Madeline, seeing the fear in his face;
"these ladies and gentlemen will not interfere with you. They are here
because it is desirable that the people below should not know of their
proximity just yet. You are about to aid us, and need have no fear for
yourself."

The Professor drew a breath of relief.

While this conversation was going on, Mrs. Ralston and Claire had
removed their wraps, as if they knew quite well what they were about,
which, indeed, they did. Now, as Madeline did likewise, preparatory to
entering the room of the prisoner, they seated themselves, looking
grave, but perfectly composed. Dr. Vaughan said a few quiet words to
Henry, and the two strangers stood "at ease," looking as indifferent
as statues.

Entering the inner room; in company with the Professor, Madeline found
John Arthur pacing restlessly up and down.

"I wish you to go down-stairs with us for a few moments," said
Madeline. "It is to your own interest to do so. It is the easiest and
surest way of imparting to you what you must know, and, when you know
all, I shall be your jailer no longer. It shall then remain for you to
decide whether you will accept my terms, and end your days with at
least a semblance of honor, or whether you will remain here to be
pointed at as a man disgraced and dishonored, and deservedly so. When
you have seen justice done to those who have wronged you more than
they have me, for little as I desire to serve you circumstances have
constituted me your avenger--you will be free to act as you may see
fit."

With this she turned and abruptly quitted the room, leaving John
Arthur fairly stunned by her words, yet utterly unable to comprehend
their full meaning. Returning to the ante-room, Madeline found Hagar
awaiting her.

"Well, Hagar," said the girl, "we are ready to go down; is the library
lighted?"

"Yes, Miss Madeline."

"And the door leading to the drawing-room?"

"Is closed, Miss."

"Then go down, Hagar; open the library door, and leave it open. Move
the fire screen opposite the door leading to the drawing-room. When we
are all within the library turn out the light. That is all."

Hagar moved away to do her bidding, smiling grimly.

* * * * *