He was compelled, however, to request my help in reaching the window, which I gave with all possible deference.
But, to my alarm, when we reached the foot of the ladder, Eveena was nowhere to be seen.

Calling her and receiving no reply, calling again and hearing what sounded like her voice, but in a faint tone and coming I knew not whither, I ran round the platform to seek her.

I could see nothing of her; but at one point, just where the projecting edge of the platform overhung the precipice below, I recognised her bird fluttering its wings and screaming as if in pain or terror.

The Regent was calling me in a somewhat imperious tone, but of course received neither answer nor attention.

Reaching the spot, I looked over the edge and with some trouble discovered what had happened.