I have penetrated
the mysteries of this infernal den, and my vengeance, if not
ordinary justice, will speedily overtake him!

SYDNEY.'

Leaving the note upon the table, Frank descended the stairs, unlocked
the door, and departed from that abode of crime and horror.

FOOTNOTES:

[Footnote 3: A _stool pigeon_ is a person who associates with thieves,
in order to betray their secrets to the police officers, in reference to
any robbery which has been committed, or which may be in contemplation.
As a reward for furnishing such information, the _stool pigeon_ is
allowed to steal and rob, _on his own account_, with almost perfect
impunity.]

CHAPTER XV

_Showing the pranks played in the Haunted House by the two Skeletons._

When Mrs. Belmont awoke from the swoon into which she had fallen, at
sight of the terrible apparition which had visited her, daylight was
shining through the windows of her chamber. She immediately recalled to
mind the events of the preceding night, and resolved to remove without
delay from a house which was troubled with such fearful visitants.

Her maid Susan soon entered, to assist her in dressing; and she learned
that the girl had neither seen nor heard anything of a mysterious or
ghostly nature, during the night. But when the lady related what _she_
had seen, the terror of poor Susan knew no bounds, and she declared her
determination not to sleep alone in the house another night.

While at breakfast, a visitor was announced, who proved to be the
landlord, Mr. Hedge. The old gentleman entered with many apologies for
his intrusion, and said--

'To confess the truth, my dear madam, I am anxious to learn how you
passed the night. Were you disturbed by any of the goblins or spectres
which are supposed to haunt the house?'

Julia related everything which had occurred, and Mr. Hedge expressed
great astonishment and concern.

'It is singular--very singular, and fearful,' said he musingly--'a
terrible blot seems to rest upon this house; I must abandon the hope of
ever having it occupied, as I presume you now desire to remove from it,
as a matter of course?'

'Such _was_ my intention,' replied Julia, 'but you will be surprised
when I assure you that within the last hour I have changed my mind, and
am now resolved to remain here. To me there is a charm in mystery, even
when that mystery, as in the present instance, is fraught with terror. I
think I need entertain no appre