She bent over to examine more closely; but suddenly drew back and stood fully erect at her grand height.

She seemed to speak with the conviction of absolute knowledge as she said: "That is no cerement! It was not meant for the clothing of death! It is a marriage robe!" Mr.Trelawny leaned over and touched the linen robe.

He lifted a fold at the neck, and I knew from the quick intake of his breath that something had surprised him.

He lifted yet a little more; and then he, too, stood back and pointed, saying: "Margaret is right! That dress is not intended to be worn by the dead! See! her figure is not robed in it.

It is but laid upon her." He lifted the zone of jewels and handed it to Margaret.