Page:Randall Parrish--My Lady of the South.djvu/183

ON GUARD WITH JEAN work with its accustomed clearness, nor could I divorce my thoughts from the girl at my side, who was exhibiting such confidence in me. The slight pressure of her hand now warm and throbbing, the soft inhalation of breath continually reminded me of her near presence.

Was she right or wrong in her suspicion? Had overstrained nerves caused her to believe the house haunted? Or had the assassin, dissatisfied with his previous work returned tn complete his task? I was not convinced either way, yet the fellow must be mad to run such risk of discovery. Still, if he understood the situation, that the girl had been left alone, his venture would not be particularly dangerous; he had no reason to fear her or the negroes. Yet if he knew all this, he must also be aware that Colonel Donald and Calvert Dunn would soon return, and that he must act quickly in order to escape. A great clock at the rear of the hall boomed out nine strokes, causing us both to start nervously at the first unexpected sound. I counted the strokes to make sure of the hour.

"Do you know when the others are expected back?" I asked in a low whisper, turning my face toward her barely perceptible outline.

"No; they were unable to say, but they surely must be here before morning."

"Perhaps it is cruel of me to insist upon your remaining here in the dark. You could go into one of the rooms with a lamp, and lie down and rest."

"Oh, no," the clasp of her hand tightening, "I am far too nervous; I prefer being here with you." [ 173 ]