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26 Evident preparation had, however, been made for their arrival. At one end of the room was spread a square carpet, and on it stood a table, on which were placed two most sacrilegious-looking wax-tapers: it is to be feared some poor sinner stayed longer in purgatory from the abduction of his offering. These threw their light on three large old chairs, covered with tapestry, which seemed long to have been the home of the moth—and also showed an open door, leading into another apartment. This Lady Mandeville prepared to explore. It was fitted up as a bed-room. On a dressing-table stood two more wax-tapers, but unlighted, a large looking-glass, and a most varied assortment of perfumes and fragrant oils. The two grated windows were here also covered with ivy; but the view was very confined. Lady Mandeville approached the table, and opening one of the bottles of sweet essences, said, "I see our bandit chief is prepared for fainting and hysterics." "How can you laugh? Hark! Did you not hear a step?" "Yes, I heard my own. My dear Emily, do not be more frightened than is absolutely necessary. A heavy ransom is the worst that can