The driver started his horses and made off at a rapid pace toward the carriage-road down the hill.

I watched till the vehicle was out of sight and then drew my head in, giving a low puzzled whistle and forgetting the better part of my irritation in the interest of this new development.
Where was the old witch going--and why was she going alone?
Again I rang my bell; but the waiter was at the door before it ceased tinkling.
"Where's she going to ?" I asked.
"To the house of the Duke of Saint-Maclou, sir," he answered, wiping his brow and sighing for relief that he had got rid of her.
"And the young lady--where is she ?" "She has already gone, sir." "Already gone!" I cried.

"Gone where?
Gone when ?" "About two hours ago, sir--very soon after I saw you go out, sir--a messenger brought a letter for the young lady.

I took it upstairs; she was alone when I entered.

When she looked at the address, sir, she made a little exclamation, and tore the note open in a manner that showed great agitation.