.
It was then that strength returned to her, and she sprang up, crying wildly, every pulse alert and pricking her to action.

She fled across the room, instinctively seeking the light, stumbled on the threshold, and fell headlong into the arms of a man who stood just beyond.

They closed upon her instantly, supporting her.

She lay, gasping hysterically, against his breast.
"Easy! Easy!" he said.

"Did I startle you ?" It was Burke's voice, very deep and low.