There came a curious, almost a dramatic interruption.

Through the silence of the hall there pealed the summons of the great bell which hung over the front door.

Dominey glanced at the clock in amazement.
"Midnight!" he exclaimed.

"Who on earth can be coming here at this time of night!" Instinctively they both rose to their feet.

A manservant had turned the great key, drawn the bolts, and opened the door with difficulty.