And all the time there was the strange light, or was it want of light, in those haunting eyes.

His speech of greeting was never spoken.
"So you have come to see me, Everard," she said, in a broken tone.

"You are very brave." He possessed himself of her hand, the hand which a few hours ago had held a dagger to his throat, and kissed the waxenlike fingers.

It fell to her side like a lifeless thing.

Then she raised it and began rubbing softly at the place where his lips had fallen.
"I have come to see you at your bidding," he replied, "and for my pleasure." "Pleasure!" she murmured, with a ghastly little smile.