Page:The traitor; a story of the fall of the invisible empire (IA traitorstoryoffa00dixo).pdf/210

 "I'll believe it if you tell me," she said softly.

John took her hand and lifted her from the lounge.

"Have you faith enough to follow me through the dark secret way to-night if I can find it for you?"

"Yes!" she whispered, leaning toward him trustingly.

"Then I'm going to do what was never done before—show this secret way to one who does not answer to the name of Graham."

Stella's bosom rose and fell with deep emotion as she turned her brown eyes on John.

"But why not?" he continued. "The house is yours. And I'm haunted with the strange fancy that your spirit has lived here before."

"I have grown to love it," she said hesitatingly, "in spite of the tragedy. It's strange. I wonder at myself for it."

John turned toward the panel in the wainscoting whose location he knew so well, paused and said:

"I'd better wait and let you change your dress. You'll soil it against the damp narrow walls."

Stella's eyes were sparkling now with excitement.

"No matter. I can't wait a minute. The mystery and romance will be worth a dress. Show me the way. I'll follow."

"All right," John answered, as he extended