And then she stood a moment gazing at me in a strange fashion.

'Do I believe that, Monsieur?
But come, come!' she continued impetuously.

'Come, and I will show you if I believe it.

But not here.' She turned as she spoke, and led the way on the instant into the house through the parlour door, which stood half open.

The room inside was pitch dark, but she took me fearlessly by the hand and led me quickly through it, and along the passage, until we came to the cheerful lighted hall, where a great fire burned on the hearth.