CHAPTER VI.
THE THREAT OF SWORDS Stepping from the glare of those gleaming parlor lights into the gloom of that narrow passage, blinded me for the instant, yet a moment later, I became aware of the distant glimmer of a candle, the faint reflection revealing the girl's face.
"Please do not talk; do not ask anything--yet," she urged hurriedly, noiselessly closing the door at my back, and as instantly gripping my sleeve.

Her breath came quickly; her voice trembled from suppressed excitement.

"Come with me, beyond the light yonder." I followed her guidance, bewildered, yet having every confidence the reason for this mysterious occurrence must be fully justified.

The passage curved slightly, terminating at a closed door.

Scarce a reflection of the candle reached us here, yet my eyes were by now sufficiently accustomed to the gloom so that I could trace the outlines of her face.