"

CHAPTER XXI

AGAIN THE CELLAR-ROOM

The father sank back in his chair, breathing heavily.

"Eric here, making use of this house, and my servants," he muttered. "I
can scarcely believe it true. Was--was he here yesterday morning when you
came?"

"I found no trace of his presence, sir."

There was a moment of silence, broken unexpectedly by the rustle of a
dress. I turned in surprise, and saw Claire standing quietly in the
doorway.

"Pardon me, gentlemen," she said softly, "but perhaps I can explain much
of this mystery, and establish the identity of Major Lawrence."

Seldon sprang forward and offered her a chair, but she merely thanked him
with a bow, and remained standing, her eyes upon her father. Not once had
she even glanced toward either Grant or me, but I noticed the deep flush
of color on cheek evidencing her excitement. What was she going to
explain? How account for the strange actions of the past few days? How
came she to be here at all? Would she confess the truth openly before us
all, or would she feel justified in concealment? I could not, did not,
doubt the honesty of the girl's intent, and yet was it possible for her
to compel these men to accept her version of all which had occurred?
Would she venture a falsehood to protect me, or to save herself?

"I--I have already explained much," I hastened to say, thinking she might
wish to know.

"I overheard what has already been said," she returned quickly, but
without looking toward me, "and appreciate the care with which my name
has thus far been guarded. Now I am ready to make my own explanation."

"But, first, Claire," said her father soberly, "how does it happen you
are here? We supposed you in the hands of 'Red' Fagin, and a squadron of
my men are out now tracking the fellows."

"I was not in the house when they came, father; Peter and I were back of
the stables, fortunately mounted. We were obliged to ride hard as we were
chased several miles, and returned as soon as it appeared safe."

"And Eric?"

"He departed before Captain Grant arrived," she replied unhesitatingly,
"and must be already safe within his own lines."

"It was Eric, then?"

"Who else could it be? Surely Captain Grant told you as much."

The Colonel's eyes wandered about the little group, and his doubt and
bewilderment were clearly evident.

"Do you know Eric's purpose in coming here? in presuming to act as an
officer in Delavan's company?"

"He did not inf