Now at last there came a footfall--was it true?
It seemed not heavy enough for a man's step, but a man on secret errand might tread light.

She flung herself upon the bed, her hands clasped, her lips moving in supplication.
But now it came again, that was it--it was a footfall.

It approached along the hall, paused at the barricaded door.

It was there outside, stopping.

She heard a breath drawn.