I know her to be perfectly innocent." At this announcement, Dick Taverner's countenance brightened, and he extended his arms towards Gillian, who gladly availed herself of his support.
"I am quite sure she was not the person I surprised in your chamber last night," continued Lady Lake.
"Indeed, Madam! How do you arrive at that conviction ?" "Because that person's hair was jet black, whereas Gillian's, as we see, is of the exactly opposite colour." Dick Taverner could not help pressing his lips against the back of the pretty damsel's neck as this was uttered.
"Your proof of this, Madam ?" demanded Lord Roos.
"Behold it!" she cried.

"This look of hair was cut off before your visitant escaped, and has remained in my possession ever since.

Ha! how is this ?" she exclaimed, as she unfolded the packet, and disclosed a tress of fair hair, evidently matching Gillian's lint-white locks.

"What transformation has taken place! Witchcraft has been practised.

This is the Countess's work." "The minion must have been there, after all," cried Dick Taverner, thrusting Gillian from him.
"The charge of witchcraft will not serve your turn, Madam," said Lord Roos derisively.