Page:The traitor; a story of the fall of the invisible empire (IA traitorstoryoffa00dixo).pdf/272

 She sprang to her feet instantly, grasping at her heart, her breath coming in quick gasps:

"What's that!—Listen!"

He took her hand soothingly:

"Why, it's only our horses neighing to each other."

"You're sure?" she whispered.

"Of course."

"I thought it was something else," she faltered.

"My poor little darling! This has been too much for your nerves—you should have allowed me to come with you."

"Yes, I'm afraid I did make a mistake!" she said in low strained tones.

"Well, there's nothing to be afraid of now—is there?" he said assuringly.

"No! there's nothing to be afraid of now—is there?" she laughed hysterically, and suddenly stopped with a suppressed scream.

"My darling!" he exclaimed.

"Listen! Listen! My God, what's that?"

"It's nothing dear."

"It is! Listen! I hear them coming!"

"Impossible, my child, we're all here!" he laughed. "How could you guess there was anyone coming except you and me?"

"Oh, dear, you don't understand, and I can't explain!" she went on frantically. She looked at her watch and couldn't see.