There lay Lord Mergwain!--or was it but a thing of nought--the deserted house, of a living soul?
The face was drawn a little to one side, and had a mingled expression, of horror--which came from within, and of ludicrousness, which had an outside formal cause.

Upon closer investigation, the laird almost concluded he was dead; but on the merest chance something must be done.

Cosmo seemed dazed, and Lady Joan stood staring with lost look, more of fright than of sorrow, but there was Grizzie, peeping through between them, with bright searching eyes! On her countenance was neither dismay, anxiety, nor distraction.

She nodded her head now and then as she gazed, looking as if she had expected it all, and here it was.
"Rin an' fess het watter as fest's ye can, Grizzie," said the laird.

"My dear Lady Joan, go and dress, or you will be frozen to death.