What her strange words might mean could not be interpreted; I made no attempt to comprehend.

Now I must find means of escape, and learn the truth later.

I opened the door cautiously, and stepped without, every nerve taut, every muscle braced for action.

It was a star-lit night, and the numerous rear windows of the mansion cast a glare of light for some distance.

The dark shadow of a high fence alone promised concealment, and, holding my sword tightly, I crept in that direction, breathing again more freely as I reached its protection unobserved.