CHAPTER XXII.
Wife and Mother-in-Law.
Quick steps descended the narrow staircase--steps so light and cautious that they made no sound.

Before drawing aside the arras that covered the secret entrance to the chamber, the lady paused to listen; and hearing nothing to alarm her, she softly raised a corner of the woof and looked in.
What did she behold?
A young man seated beside a carved oak table, with his back towards her.

He was reading a letter, the contents of which seemed greatly to disturb him, for he more than once dashed it aside, and then compelled himself to resume its perusal.

No one else was in the room, which was spacious and lofty, though somewhat sombre, being wholly furnished with dark oak; while the walls were hung with ancient tapestry.

Heavy curtains were drawn before the deep bay windows, increasing the gloom.