pposite door gave a private signal. It
flew open as if by its own impulse, displaying a chamber of no mean
dimensions, in which, by the light from a gigantic lamp, was seen a
figure seated before a table absolutely groaning with piles of books,
and various apparatus of unknown and wondrous import. Instruments of
unimaginable shape lay in heaps round the apartment; their use it were
impossible to conjecture. Furnaces, alembics, jars, glass urinals, and
bottles of all sizes, rendered the chamber perilous of access, save to
those who were acquainted with the intricacies of this labyrinth. "Sir
Edward," as he was yet generally styled, looked full at his visitors as
they entered. His eye was large and dark, the expression fierce and
commanding. He was clad in a gown of black silk, covering an inner vest
of sables. From a broad belt, glittering with costly stones, hung a
short sword and a pair of pistols richly embossed.

The upper portion of his head was bald; the hair on its sides short and
frizzly. His beard was of a reddish tinge, trimmed square and bushy,
beneath which his white ruff seemed to glisten from the sudden contrast.
His forehead was high and retreating; his face pale, and-his cheek
hollow and slightly wrinkled. His nose was small, looking ill suited to
the other features, which were large and strongly-marked. His mouth was
full, but compressed; and his teeth beautifully white and well shaped.
When he spoke, they were much exposed, projecting slightly, and tending
to give an air of ferocity to his countenance.

In stature he was tall and well formed. Proudly upright in his gait and
attitude, he appeared like one born to be obeyed,--to rule in whatsoever
station he occupied.

"Sir Hugh Parker. The parson of Slaidburn is welcome to Hornby," said
Lord Monteagle, rising. "It is long since we have met. I claim the
privilege of old fellowship: give me thy hand."

"My lord, I am here at your request. Your wishes are commands with my
poor endeavours."

"Thou mayest retire, Maudsley," said the baron to his servant, motioning
him to depart. The minister was accommodated with a low stool, made
vacant for the occasion. Lord Monteagle, closing the book, abruptly
addressed his visitor.

"I knew thou wast in the neighbourhood, and I would unravel a few
arguments with thee; a few quiddities about thy profession. I know thou
art skilful at thy trade, which, though a vocation having its basis in
fraud, finding countenance