John Jago never appeared.
The night wore on, and still the absent man failed to return.

Miss Meadowcroft volunteered to sit up for him.

Naomi eyed her, a little maliciously I must own, as the two women parted for the night.

I withdrew to my room; and again I was unable to sleep.

When sunrise came, I went out, as before, to breathe the morning air.
On the staircase I met Miss Meadowcroft ascending to her own room.