CHAPTER II.
"Forbear, Selina," said the phantom in a hollow voice.
"Why should I forbear ?" responded Selina haughtily, as she recovered her courage.

"You know the secret of our race ?" "I do.

Understand me,--I do not object to the eccentricities of your youth.

I know the fearful destiny which, pursuing you, led you to poison your sister and drown your lady's-maid.

I know the awful doom which I have brought upon this house! But if you make way with these children--" "Well," said the Lady Selina, hastily.
"They will haunt you!" "Well, I fear them not," said Selina, drawing her superb figure to its full height.
"Yes, but, my dear child, what place are they to haunt?
The ruin is sacred to your uncle's spirit.