Happily the decanter of water on Sir Christopher's table was untouched.

He would at least try the effect of throwing that water over her.

She might revive without his needing to call any one else.

Meanwhile Sir Christopher was hurrying at his utmost speed towards the Rookery; his face, so lately bright and confident, now agitated by a vague dread.

The deep alarmed bark of Rupert, who ran by his side, had struck the ear of Mr.Bates, then on his way homeward, as something unwonted, and, hastening in the direction of the sound, he met the Baronet just as he was approaching the entrance of the Rookery.