As I did so, he laid his hand lightly on my head in a sort of unspoken benediction--then he closed his door, and I found myself alone in the great hall.

A suspended lamp was burning brightly, and the fountain was gurgling melodiously to itself in a subdued manner, as if it were learning a new song for the morning.

I sped across the mosaic pavement with a light eager step, and hurried up the stairs, intent on finding Zara to tell her how happy I felt, and how satisfied I was with my wonderful experience.

I reached the door of her bedroom--it was ajar.

I softly pushed it farther open, and looked in.