And Clara also sat motionless in the dark, careful not to disturb her aunt, and desirous of being with her when she should awake.

Captain Aylmer had declared his purpose of being home early from the Mayor's dinner, and the ladies were to wait for his arrival before tea was brought to them.

Clara was herself almost asleep when the door was opened, and Captain Aylmer entered the room.
"H--sh!" she said, rising gently from her chair, and putting up her finger.

He saw her by the dull light of the fire, and closed the door without a sound.

Clara then crept into the back-room, and he followed her with noiseless step.