Ten dressing-gowned figures, each wearing a black mask and holding a piece of lighted candle in her hand, startled the astonished eyes of Mabel Hughes, who sat up in bed to stare at them.
"What's all this about ?" she asked.
"We've come here to hold an inquisition on your conduct," replied a solemn voice from behind one of the black masks.

"Will you kindly get out of bed and seat yourself upon this chair.

We should be sorry to use force, but I warn you you'll have to obey us." Looking a little scared Mabel apparently thought discretion the better part of valor.

She rose, put on her dressing-gown, and took the seat indicated.

Her inquisitors grouped themselves opposite, placing their candles in a row upon the mantelpiece.