 Section 72 of Mysteries of London, Volume 4. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Mysteries of London, Volume 4 by George W. M. Reynolds. Conclusion of the History of the Haunted Houses, Part 2. The fatal moment arrived when the gallant British soldier, stripped naked to the waist, was tied up to receive the torture of the lash in the presence of the entire regiment, which was marshaled for the purpose. Leonard's face was ashy pale, but the compressed lip, sternly fixed eye, and determined expression of countenance indicated his resolution to meet the horrible punishment with as much courage as he could invoke to his aid. On many an eye lash in the ranks did the tear of sympathy, eye of deep, deep commiseration tremble, but the officers looked on, the elder ones without emotion, the younger with curiosity, but with no better feeling. As for Cornette, Lord Satanette, he could scarcely conceal his delight at the inhuman spectacle, which he himself had caused to be enacted, and he thought what a lion of the party he should prove in the evening at his father's house when detailing to his noble mama and his dear sisters, the particulars of the military flogging of the morning. But Hark, the drums beat and the accursed torture commences, the first blow is inflicted and nine long, livid marks appear upon the back of the victim. Still he winces not and not a murmur escapes his lips. Again, does the lash fall and of a livelier red are the traces that leaves behind. A third time the instrument of torture descends and now blood is drawn, but still young man is silent. Although his well-knit frame moves with a slight convulsiveness, a shutter passing throughout the long ranks, like an electric shock from flank to flank, denotes the horror, the profound intense horror, which strikes to the hearts of the brave degroons who behold the appalling laceration of their comrade. And now faster falls each the murderous weapon, but there are two executioners employed at the same time. And when they have Delta, a certain number of blows they are relieved by others so that the victim may gain nothing by the slightest weariness of arm on the part of his torturers. Still he maintains a profound silence, but he cannot prevent his countenance from expressing a keen sense of the mortal agony that he endures. Down, down comes the horrible weapon, each stroke inflicting nine distinct blows. And while the blood streams forth in many crimson rivulets, the knotted cords carry away pieces of the palpitating flesh. Oh, that such infernal cruelty should be perpetrated in a country vaunted as the chosen land of freedom and people by beings who boast their humanity. Oh, that such a bloodthirsty torture should be sanctioned by the laws of a nation paying upwards of 10 millions a year for the maintenance of the ministers of Christ. Gracious God, do that thunder sleep when a creature fashioned after thine own image is thus enduring the torments of the damned. Torments inflicted not in a paroxysm of rage and by the hand of a savage individual vengeance but in cold blood in unprovoked mercilessness and under color of a sanguinary law which would disgrace a community of savages. People of England, let us blush, let us hang down our heads for a very shame when we reflect that such appalling scenes are enacted amongst us or rather let us gnash our teeth with rage and tear our hair and beat our breasts to think that we are unable to compel our legislators to receive even a scintillation of that humane spirit which animates ourselves. For we have a society to prevent cruelty to animals and the man who beats his ox or his ass too severely is punished and if a poor man only happens to jostle against the police officer, it is construed into a savage assault and attended with penalties but there is no society to prevent cruelty to human beings and the lash, the accursed lash may be used until the blood flows down the back. The skin has played away, deep whales are made in that quivering form morsels of palpitating flesh are torn off and the muscles are laid bare, oh all this may be done, all these revolting atrocities may be perpetrated, all these hellish cruelties may be accomplished and there is no association patronized by royal highnesses, bishops and noble lords to interfere in behalf of the victims nor to punish the offenders. Leonard Mitchell bore his murderous punishment as bravely as man could endure such fiendish torture, 150 lashes had been inflicted without eliciting a moan from his lips but his countenance betrayed all the intensity of the anguish which he suffered, his eyes lost their lust to his under jaw fell slightly, there was foam upon his mouth and his tongue protruded somewhat as for his back but perdition sees upon the blood hounds the indignation which we feel at this moment will not allow us to extend that portion of the painful description better or better far to be the vilest beggar that ever groveled in the mire than one of those green acres of the house of commons who advocate corporal punishment or those barkers of kernels who delight in having it inflicted as for poor Leonard Mitchell he received upwards of 200 lashes without a mama and then the surgeon ordered a pause, drink was given to him and he revived but was he then removed? Oh, no, no, the feast of blood was not accomplished the cup of gore was not full enough the sum of human tortures was not finished again fell the accursed weapon and now we know not whether it were that after a brief cessation the agony of the renewal was more intense than before or that the interval of rest had allowed the fine spirit of the man to flag whatever were the cause it is nevertheless a fact that appears seeing shriek of anguish burst from his lips a shriek so strange, so wild and so unnatural that long, long after did it ring in the ears of those who heard it for it seemed to lacerate the very brain as in its horrible inflections the vending sound was sent back from the barrack walls and penetrating echoes and frightful reverberations a thrill of horror electrified the startled ranks of the victim's comrades and the gloved hand of many a brave soldier was drawn rapidly across the countenance to dash away the tears that trembled on the quivering eyelids for oh, the British warrior may indeed well weep at such a scene weep, weep with mingle shame and sorrow weep too with bitterness and indignation the punishment was over soon as that piercing scream had died away the prisoner fainted and he was forthwith hurried to the infirmary where many hours elapsed there he came to his senses then he awoke to consciousness amidst the most horrible tortures for the means that were adopted to prevent his lacerated back from mortifying inflicted the agonies of hell. Only fancy Christian reader, a man in this country can be beaten into such a state that it is 10 to one whether he will not die of his wounds and all the surgeon's arc can with difficulty resuscitate him but pass we over the lingering illness endured by the unhappy Leonard an illness of eight long weeks and let us see whether the tortures of the lash have made him a better man alas far from it his fine spirit was broken he saw that it was useless to endeavor to be good that it was ridiculous to practice virtues which experienced no reward his religious faith was shaken they almost completely destroyed and he no longer believed in the efficacy of prayer instead of harboring feelings about generous philanthropy he began to loathe and detest his superiors and look with suspicion on his equals a doggedness of disposition, a recklessness of character a species of indifference as to what might become of him displaced all those fine qualities and noble attributes that had previously graced him for he felt that he was a marked man in his regiment and never could hope for promotion that his character was gone and that like Cain he bore about him the brand of indelible infamy moreover he longed for vengeance, bitter vengeance upon that young sign of the aristocracy who had lied against him, lied folly as only such a wretch could lie and who had brought down all that disgrace on his devoted head in such a frame of mind was it that Leonard Mitchell met Ellen for the first time after a separation of nearly 10 weeks the young lady had learned the misfortunes which had the fall on her lover and she was prepared by an intimate knowledge of his character to hear that he had been accused as unjustly as he had been punished savagely she endeavored to console him but he assured her broadly and frankly that the only solace he could ever know was vengeance Ellen did not discourage this idea did not rebuke this craving for it she also felt bitterly bitterly against that despicable lordling who had persecuted him so folly it was nevertheless with sorrow that she soon observed the alteration which had taken place in his disposition he was still devoted to her but his passion now part took rather of a gross sensuality than of the refinement of love how could it be otherwise the best feelings of the man were blunted and his brute impulses unchecked by that delicacy of sentiment which had once so peculiarly characterized him became the more violent especially did he soon manifest a loving fore-intoxicating liqueurs and at the third or fourth interview with Ellen after his release from the hospital he suffered her to understand pretty plainly that he could no longer refuse between the area assistants at her hands in the course of a few weeks he spoke out more plainly still and unblessingly asked for the amount he required at the time and there many months had passed away he never parted from her without receiving a portion of the contents of her purse at first she herself was much shocked at this evidence of an altered disposition but she was so deeply so devotedly attached to him that she reasoned herself into consolation even on that head and the more selfish she became the more anxious that she appeared to minister to his wants this was not all for frequent intoxication irritated his temper and he did not hesitate to vent his ill humor upon her sometimes too he failed to keep his appointments with her and when they did meet at last he abused her if she dared to approach him on one occasion he actually raised his hand to strike her but the poor loving creature falling on her knees at his feet turned up towards him a countenance so tearful and will be gone that the coward blow was stayed and he implored her pardon nevertheless she had received a shock which she could not forget neither could she avoid contrasting the Leonard Mitchell whom military punishment had degraded to the same level as the Brutes with the Leonard Mitchell who formally appeared the very type of a gallant generous hearted and high minded British Dragoon but Leonard Mitchell must not be blamed if his manners and habits were thus changed and if he took embeddedly to drinking he was one of those whom bad laws had forced into evil courses and if he flew to the intoxicating glass it was because the alcoholic liquor contained the hours of a baby and persecuted as he had been degraded as he felt himself existence had become intolerable unless he lost the consciousness of at least a portion of it his comrades noticed the alteration which had taken place in him and they well understood the cause for it had been the same with everyone who had ever undergone the torture and the disgrace of the lash in his sober hours Leonard experienced no remorse no compunction for the ways which he was pursuing he grown dogged morose indifferent no not altogether indifferent for he cherished dearly deeply cherished a scheme of vengeance and the day and the hour for carrying it into execution arrived at last it was indeed on the anniversary of the memorable morning of his degrading punishment that a grand review through place in Hyde Park certain German papa princes were on a visit to this country princes who received annual incomes from the English treasury heaven only knows for what services performed and whose very traveling expenses to him from the court of St. James's were duly paid from the public purse for those contemptible petty sovereigns of Germany are as mean as they are poor and as proud as they are both mean and poor well it was on the occasion of the presence of two or three of those princely beggars in that British metropolis that the grand review took place all the troops quartered in or near London were marched shortly after 10 o'clock in the morning to Hyde Park and as the day was remarkably fine the spectacle was brilliant and imposing the Duke of Wellington, the German princes and several general officers attended by numerous staff shortly afterwards appeared upon the ground and the road was drawn with spectators the review commenced in the usual manner the entire force infantry and cavalry was drawn up to receive the Duke the princes and their companions and after the inspection and the marching past various evolutions and maneuvers were practiced a sham fight was then ordered and the troops were accordingly separated for the purpose and to two divisions the appearance of the Dragoon regiment in which Leonard Mitchell served attracted general notice not only on account of the reputation it had acquired of containing some of the finest men in the British army but likewise in consequence of its discipline and its perfection in the evolutions already practiced but had some searching eye scanned each individual countenance there was one in that regiment which would have riveted the gaze for those strikingly handsome there was then upon that countenance an expression of fiend-like satisfaction and sardonic triumph and the portentous gaze the curling lip and the dilation of the nostrils on the part of the Dragoon thus alluded to would have convinced the observer that the man's thoughts were intent on some sinister design and now the sham fight commences and there is advancing and retreating by turns and there are echelons and deployings and other evolutions until a general attack commences on the side of the sailing party the Dragoons are armed with their carbines and Leonard Mitchell grasps his weapon with an ardor and affection a species of gratitude as if it were about to render him some signal service the order is given to fire and the carbines vomit forth volumes of white vaporized smoke which in a moment envelops the entire core but from the midst of the cloud appears seeing scream a scream of mortal agony breaks forth and then as the smoke moves slowly away on that lazy wing of the partial breeze ejaculations of horror and dismay announced that some accident has occurred all is now confusion but a report spreads through the Dragoon regimen and then circulates like wildfire amidst the troops and the spectators that Lord Satanette has been wounded in the sham fight and true enough was the rumor for there lay the young nobleman fallen from his horse and stretched bleeding and gasping on the green sword the surgeon hastily proceeded to render all the assistance that human skill could administer but the aid was vain and useless the victim was mortally wounded by a bullet which had entered his back and without uttering and intelligible word he shortly expired in the surgeon's arms and now a sad and heart-rending scene took place for the parents and the sisters of the murdered nobleman were upon the ground and they hastened to the spot guided by the common rumor which had appalled them for which they hoped to find incorrect or at all events fearfully exaggerated they discovered however that it was a last to true and the gala day was turned into one of bitter mourning for them the review was broken up and the troops were marched away to their respective barracks while the spectators crowded to behold the sad procession that bore the corpse of the young noble to the family mansion in the neighborhood during the return of the Dragoon regiment to its quarters those of Leonard's comrades who were near him frequently bent suspicious and inquiring glances upon him but his countenance afforded no indication of guilt he neither appeared triumphant nor downcast neither nervous nor afraid and the soldiers who thus beheld his calm and Frank will demeanor were shaken in the idea which they had formed in respect to the authorship of the morning's tragedy the moment the Dragoons entered the barracks every cartouche box was examined but in none was found ought saved blank cartridges the suspicions of the officers have naturally fallen upon Leonard Mitchell and it was deemed necessary to place him under arrest until the coroner should have instituted the usual inquiry but he energetically declared his innocence and those who were the most ready to suspect him were staggered by the sincerity which seemed to characterize his protestations and by the indignation which he manifested at the crime imputed to him on the ensuing day the inquest was held and the result was favorable to Mitchell no particle of evidence appeared to tell against him unless indeed it were the fact that he had been flogged a year previously through the instrumentality of the deceased nobleman but none of Leonard's comrades who were examined could avert that they had ever heard him used a threatening expression in respect to Lord Sataneth no not even in his cups when the truth is so likely to slip from a man's lips and the real state of his feelings to be proclaimed by the tongue that the nobleman's death was the result of an accident was an alternative that could scarcely be adopted where it was almost impossible that a ball cartridge could have been mistaken for a blank one. Thus, though not a tittle of testimony could be brought against Leonard Mitchell and though he was discharged from custody given the minds of all the officers and of many of his comrades there still dwelt a suspicion with regard to him. An open verdict was returned by the jury to the effect that the deceased had met his death by a ball discharged from a carbine of whether by accident or guilty intent and by what hand was unknown. A few days afterwards the remains of the young nobleman were consigned to the tomb and the Tory newspapers in passing and eulogium upon his character grouped together such a variety of admirable qualities that if he had only possessed one-tenth of them he must have been a phoenix of moral perfection and a prodigy of intellectual power. The first meeting which took place between Leonard Mitchell and Ellen after the tragedy just related was of a painful description. Scarcely were they alone together in the apartment where she had hired for these guilty interviews when seizing him violently by the wrist and speaking in a low, thick tone while her eyes looked fixedly and searching into the depths of his own she said, Leonard, is it possible that you have done this? I told you that I would have vengeance. She replied almost brutally as he abruptly withdrew his arm from her grasp and you have even encouraged me in the project. Do you mean to reproach me now? Oh my God, it seems so horrible to contemplate, cried Ellen, sinking into a chair and pressing her hands to her throbbing brows for a criminal almost to pray though she were yet she was not so hardened as to be able to stifle the still small voice which whispered in her ears thou art the companion of our murderer. Horrible to contemplate, repeated Leonard with a brutal laugh, you are a fool to talk in that style Ellen but perhaps you will go and betray me next. Good heavens, how have I merited such treatment as this? exclaimed the wretched woman now bursting into a flood of tears. Have I not sacrificed everything for you, Leonard? She demanded her voice broken with agonizing sobs and can you find it in your heart to insult me thus? Oh consider my position and have mercy upon me, tormented day and night by the suspicions and the increasing ill humor of a husband whom I loathe and appore with the greatest difficulty avoiding the snares which he sets to entrap me and to acquire proof of that infidelity which he even more than suspects and subjected laterally to the questions and remonstrances of my father who has at length obtained the knowledge of my frequent and unaccounted for absences from home. Thank you not that I am sufficiently unhappy, perplexed and bewildered without receiving insult and injury from you. Then why do you provoke me? demanded Leonard for a year past I've been constantly telling you that I would have vengeance. And as I said just now you have encouraged me in the idea but now that it is consummated and that my mortal enemy sleeps in a premature grave you affect horror and disgust. Oh Leonard ejaculated Ellen throwing herself at his feet. Pardon me and I will offend you no more. I'm well aware that the provocation was immense and that there are circumstances in which human forbearance knows no limit can acknowledge no restraint. Such was your position and I was wrong to utter a word deprecatory of your conduct. Well, well said Leonard raising the infatuated woman from her suppliant posture and placing her on the sofa by his side. Let us talk no more of this little quarrel between us for you must be aware that I should have been worse than the spaniel which licks the hand that beats it if I had not avenged myself on that miscreant lordling whom my hatred accompanies even in his grave. And let me tell you that in times of war many and many an officer is picked off by some soldier who has felt the iron hand of despotism press upon him or who has suffered from the effects of individual persecution. It may be called murder if you choose but I look upon it as a righteous retribution. Ellen gazed in mingled astonishment and horror and with a ghastly pallor of countenance upon her lover's face as he enunciated this dreadful doctrine and then perceiving that he was again about to become angry she hastened to caress him. He returned the amorous dalliance but Ellen could no longer abandon herself holy and entirely to the delights of illicit love. Though the course of life which she had for some time adopted had rendered her insatiably sensual she now experienced a feeling of loathing and disgust when in contact with her lover. This feeling she strove hard to conquer by conjuring up all the voluptuous ideas that had ever existed in her soul but in spite of this straining against nature a voice of blood seemed to ring in her ears warning her that she was in the arms of a murderer. She gazed upon his handsome countenance in the hope that its beauty would inspire her with sentiments of a pure affection but his eyes appeared to beam with fiendish triumph and ammonia malignity and if she pressed his hand to her lips it seemed as if she were kissing flesh stained with human gore. Unable to endure these torturing feelings she hastened to prepare the supper table and bade him draw the cork of a champagne bottle full readily did he comply and having tossed off a bumper first he refilled the same glass saying now drink from this to convince me that you do not love me less on account of what has happened. The lady took the glass and placed it to her lips but the words he had just uttered recalls so vividly to her mind those images which she had striven so forcibly to banish from her imagination that an indencible feeling of disgust came over her. A blood mist appeared to obscure her sight and as she drank it seemed as if it draft from a sanguine tide were pouring down her throat. Nevertheless she forced herself to drain the glass and as soon as the exciting liquor began to circulate in her veins these horrible images rapidly disappeared and she felt that she could now abandon herself to a voluptuousness of soul unmarred by disgust or loathing. Ellen therefore as well as Leonard discovered that there were charms in that crystal cup filled with sparkling wine and she drank the exciting juice with the avidity of one who knows full well its efficacy in banishing care. Leonard was both surprised and rejoiced to behold the influence which the nectar had upon her and for a long time he had not appeared so tender and affectionate as he was during the latter part of this interview. And what was the consequence of that evening's incidents that Ellen took out liking to alcoholic liquor? She had discovered therein a panacea for disagreeable thoughts and a reflections and serious moments were by no means about pleasurable nature. Thus was it that she who was lately so abstinious as scarcely to touch a drop of wine even after dinner and who had so deeply deployed the weakness of Leonard and yielding to the insidious temptations of strong drink thus was it that she, the elegant and lovely Ellen gave way to that same fascination and sought solace in the sparkling glass. At first she touched no wine until the dinner hour but she soon found that all the morning and afternoon she was a prey to low spirits, distressing reflections and feelings of mingled loathing and fondness and respect to Leonard and she therefore made the midday luncheon an excuse for taking her first glass. At dinner time she would freely partake of her two or three glasses and on those evenings when she met Leonard she indulged readily in the liquor provided for the supper table. But as the habit rapidly gained upon the unfortunate young woman she soon began to tipple slyly at home and even before breakfast she eventually found herself compelled by great mental depression to imbibe a dram. It was about this time that Mr. Gamble's intellects wracked in torture for upwards of a year by the most harrowing suspicions and by the total estrangement of his wife's affections and even attentions began to give way and he would sit for hours together in his chair with his eyes fixed upon vacancy. It was also at the same epic that a turn once more manifested itself in Mr. Pomfret's affairs and a colossal speculation failing he was again plunged into deep embarrassments. Further assistance from his son-in-law was out of the question and Mr. Pomfret accordingly devoted all his energies to sustain the credit of his house in the hope that he might yet retrieve himself or in any case postpone the catastrophe for as long a period as possible. Thus the condition of her husband and the constant application of her father to his business left Ellen almost totally free from any supervision and she was unable to indulge at will in the fatal habit that was gaining so rapidly upon her. Leonard did not fail to notice this growing attachment to liquor on her part and he rather encouraged it than otherwise for he himself had become utterly depraved and reckless and when his mistress was in a maudlin condition of semi-abriety she cheerfully parted with all the contents of her purse. The increasing childishness of her husband gave her a greater command over his finances and she was therefore the better able to supply her lover's extravagances. At length she acquired the certainty that Leonard was unfaithful to her and a desperate quarrel was the consequence or was the dispute confined to mere words for the young man beat her unmercifully and she half intoxicated at the time retaliated to the best of her ability. The scene was shocking and disgusting and when Ellen awoke next morning and reflected upon all that had occurred on the preceding evening she wept bitter tears as she compared the guilty present with the innocent past. Then she vowed to abstain from liquor in future and to see Leonard Mitchell no more and temporarily strong in this resolution she sent him a note communicating her design moreover under the influence of the better feelings that were thus awakening within her soul her heart smote her for her conduct towards her husband who was daily becoming more dependent upon her kindness and whom she had long neglected altogether. She even felt happy when she pondered upon her newly formed determination to resume a steady course of life but all her salutary schemes and hopes were annihilated in the afternoon of that same day by the arrival of a letter from Mitchell threatening to murder her and kill himself afterwards unless she repaired in the evening to the usual place of meeting. Over that letter Ellen wept scalding tears for she knew that if she yielded now her fate was sealed, ruined, degradation and disgrace must inevitably await her. She saw herself again entering upon the path which would lead her to the condition of a confirmed drunkard and the awful menaces contained in the missing filled her with presentiments that even her death might be premature and violent. Nevertheless, she had not the moral courage to resist the temptation of meeting her lover and she consoled herself or rather she endeavored to quiet her qualms of conscience and her presaging fears by saying it shall be for the last time. To the place of appointment she accordingly went and Leonard Mitchell who feared to lose a mistress possessed of such ample means to minister to his extravagances played the hypocrite so admirably that Ellen infatuated creature that she was believed in the sincerity of his protestations of undivided love for the future and his regrets for the past. The wine bottle circulated freely and she forgot all her remorse, all her compunctions, all her resolves of reformation. She even went so far as to revive the proposal of purchasing Leonard's discharge but to this he positively refused to exceed. He quoted his oath as a reason it was not however the correct one for even that solemn vow had long ceased to have any influence upon his depraved and hardened mind. The truth was that he had become a confirmed voluptuary in respect to women and he found that his uniform was an immense auxiliary towards success with the frivolous and giddy of the sex. Moreover he knew that were he released from the ranks he should become completely tacked to the apron strings of his mistress and as she held the purse he would not in that case be able to exercise his independence. It therefore suited him better to remain in the army and Ellen was foolish and infatuated enough to believe in the validity and genuineness of the motive which he alleged for declining her proposal. She accordingly for bore from pressing it and the remainder of that evening was spent in voluptuous enjoyment, sensuality and champagne constituting the elements of that guilty pairs unhollowed pleasures. Time passed on and the position of the lovers if such they could now be called became daily more unhappy in respect to each other quarrels between them were of constant occurrence and on each occasion those were exchanged. The affection of Ellen had changed into a gross sensuality having lost every particle of her finding sentiment and she became jealous in the extreme frequently giving way to such fits of passion when she reproached Leonard for his infidelities that it was impossible to recognize in the furious rabid half drunken demoness the mild amiable and chaste young lady of former years. She still retained her beauty to a marvelous degree in spite of the deep potations in which she indulged and the slovenly mess that had crept in upon her in respect to dress. And as she was frequently out in the streets late of an evening after her interviews with Leonard she was subjected to the licentious proposals of the young men about town who were ever on the lookout for pretty women. The result was that although she yielded not to such temptations her mind became more thoroughly depraved by being robbed of every chastened thought and feminine reflection. For when under the influence of liquor she would frequently converse with the rakes who accosted her in that manner described. Leonard himself suddenly grew jealous and having followed her one evening he caught her in discourse with a young gentleman whom she had encountered more than once during her walks home a dreadful scene ensued and though Leonard at length suffered himself to be appeased simply because afraid of losing one who's purse was so convenient to him who nevertheless entertained a firm but erroneous conviction of her infidelity. They therefore now harbored mutual distrust which on many occasions rose into absolute loathing. That is Leonard was as much as he had encouraged her in her drinking habits he was nevertheless often disgusted when he beheld her reeling under the influence of liquor. And when he felt upon his face that breath which now heated with alcoholic fluid was once so pure and balmy. On her side she could never divest herself of the remembrance that she was consorting with a murderer and frequently, oh how frequently the blood mist would reappear before her eyes and the liquor would seem gore in her glass and sanguine stains would in her heated imagination dye his hands. Thus retrospectively did that connection progress. She's still clinging to him through that infatuation which often belongs to sensuality of soul and he's still tolerating her because she possessed the means of supplying his pocket. At length matters had reached crisis at which the amour was destined to have a most tragical termination. Ellen was returning home one evening smarting under some insult which her lover had put upon her and laboring as usual under the influence of wine when she met the young gentleman above alluded to on this occasion his entreaties were more urgent than ever and she was more pliant than he had as yet found her to be. Her blood was inflamed and she was more over in that humor when to assert her independence of Leonard even to herself would prove a solace and a comfort. She accordingly yielded to the proposes of the stranger and accompanied him to an improper house. It was midnight when they issued forth and Ellen hastened home with having made an appointment for another evening. In the middle of Waterloo Bridge she heard hasty steps approaching from behind. It was a clear moonlit night and on turning her head she beheld Leonard Mitchell close at hand. A faintness came over her. She instantly suspected, they felt certain that he had watched her and trembling with terrible apprehension she sank upon a seat in one of the recesses. In another moment the young Durgun was by her side. For almost a minute he spoke not and this silence augmented her alarm raising her pale, her haggard countenance on which the moonlight streamed in all its chased and silvery purity. She endeavored to frame some question that would lead to an explanation of his presence there but her lips refused utterance to the words that rose to them. A mortal terror was upon her, a consternation as if she beheld the skeleton form of death hovering dimly in the obscure distance. End of section 72, section 73 of Mysteries of London, volume four. This is a LibraVox recording. All LibraVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibraVox.org. Mysteries of London, volume four by George W. M. Reynolds. Conclusion of the History of the Haunted Houses, part three. Taking her hand and pressing it with convulsive violence, Leonard said in a low and hollow tone, no Ellen, I have it last obtained. Ample proof of your infidelity. Mercy, mercy, murmured the young woman as gazing rapidly up and down the bridge. She saw that it was completely deserted. Oh, I deserve it, exclaimed Leonard, beating his bra violently with his open palm. I know that I deserve it all. I have long entertained the suspicion that such was the case. But now that I have acquired the conviction it seems too dreadful to bear. Again, however, I say that I deserve it and yet, bad, vile, depraved as I am, I feel as if my heart had received a mortal wound. I take almighty God to witness Leonard, cried Ellen, in an impassioned tone that this is the first time I have been unfaithful to you. Your conduct of the evening wounded me so deeply that I longed to avenge myself, longed also to assert my independence of you, even if only to the knowledge of my own heart. By this I mean that I should have felt triumphant in proving false to you, even though you yourself were to remain ignorant of the proceeding. And now if you will pardon me, I promise never to err again. But oh, Leonard, Leonard, do treat me with at least a little kindness. And as she uttered these words in a tone of deep feeling and profound pathos, she flung herself upon his breast, throwing her arms around his neck in a paroxysm of reviving fondness. So touching was her appeal that it instantly brought to his soul in a overwhelming cloud of reminiscences of all the harshness, brutality, and cowardly cruelty of which she had been guilty towards her. Reminiscences, too, of all her love for him, the sacrifices she had made for him, the generosity of her behavior. In his behalf, he recollected also, and all in a moment as it were, that if she were degraded by drink and defiled by the hot breath of licentiousness, she was pure and chaste as a wife until he had sought her out on his return to London, that her fall and fine might be unmistakably traced to her fatal connection with him. Then, too, he recalled to mind his own condition when two years previously he had crossed that bridge on his way to Snatcher Glimpse of the Three Houses and Stamford Street, a condition which, unenviable as he had then deemed it, was one of supreme happiness compared with his present state. For the mark of the branding lash was upon his back and the remorse of our murderer was in his heart and he knew himself to be a drunkard, a disgrace to his regiment, a vile wretch, rioting in pleasures purchased by the coin that he wrung from the woman whom he ill-treated and abused. And lastly, his thoughts were reflected back to those times when all was bright and smiling beforehand, when he and Ellen were alike, then tainted by guilt and the willing voteries of virtue when their loves were innocent and chaste and they would have started back in horror and indignation had it been prophesied to them that they were one day destined to look upon each other with disgust. All these recollections and reflections poured in like an overwhelming torrent upon the mind of the young Dragoon and his soul was softened, his heart long so hard was touched and melting into tears as he felt the miserable woman clinging to him with resuscitated fondness he pressed her to his bosom, exclaiming, Ellen, I have wronged you deeply, deeply, but can you, can you forgive me? The reconciliation was complete and then Ellen, animated by a sudden thought, exclaimed, but gracious heavens, Leonard, you have absented yourself from your quarters and hark the clock strikes one. The booming note of St. Paul's iron tongue had indeed fallen upon their ears. While she was yet speaking, I dare not return to the barracks again, said Leonard, and she felt that he shuddered convulsively in her arms. But what will you do? She asked diffidently, anything he cried, anything rather than be flogged again. Flogged, repeated Ellen, now shuddering in her turn. Yes, I should be assuredly condemned to that ignominy. That torture, replied Mitchell, my conduct has for some time been so unsteady and I have been so often reported late that this time nothing could save me from the cat. I have determined not to return to the barracks, he added doggedly, but what will you do again? I asked Ellen, I know not, he responded gloomily, unless I can find some secure place where in to hide for a few days until I may escape from the country, I cannot tell what will become of me. And must you quit the country, demanded Ellen, would you have me taken up as a deserter, asked Leonard bitterly? My punishment in that case would be worse than if I were now to go back and submit to the result of a court martial on charges of irregularity, drunkenness, and late hours. Not for worlds would I have you return under present circumstances, cried Ellen, in an impassioned tone, much less have you eventually incurred the danger of being arrested as a deserter, Leonard, she added after a few moments pause, if you leave the country, I will go with you. I thought that you would not abandon me, exclaimed the dragoon pressing her closer to him. Then he whispered something in her ears and they conversed in a very low tone for several minutes. The link Ellen yielded to the plan which her lover had suggested, but which had at first seem fought with difficulties. Yes, she said, there is no alternative, I must conceal you at my house. And when I reflect the two servants are devoted to me, you may suppose that I have all along pried them heavily in order to induce them to wink at my irregularities. And if they refuse to become Mr. Gamble's spies in these times when he was in full possession of his intellects, they will not betray me now that he is half-childish and does not question them concerning me anymore. Yes, it must be so, there is no choice left, come at once. I possess the latch key and can't admit you without even disturbing the servants. It will be sufficient to make confidence of them tomorrow. The reader may now understand that Ellen was about to consummate her improvements by taking her paramour beneath her husband's roof when the first moments of dissolving, softness and better feelings had passed away in respect to Leonard, his selfishness again asserted its empire and while determining to desert he at the same time the thought himself how he could still make Ellen's begunia or it means available to his own purpose. His object was therefore to gain admittance into the house to ascertain the precise nature of her resources and find out the amount of value that she could dispose of and then induce her to loop with him having previously plundered her husband in his dwelling of everything worth carrying off. We've seen how far his diabolical and hastily formed scheme succeeded. Two points were already gained. She would admit him into the house and she had promised to accompany him to another country. The robbery he felt was short, he should be unable to reason her into if not menaces could be effectively employed, no doubt. Such was the design which the once upright and honorable Leonard Mitchell now had in view and he chuckled inwardly at the scheme as he walked arm in arm with Ellen towards Stamford Street. In 10 minutes they reached Mr. Gamble's house. Ellen opened the street door by means of the latch key which she had about her and the regoon passed and observed and noiselessly to her bedroom. For during the past 18 months she and her husband had occupied separate chambers. The remainder of that night glided away in the morning Ellen admitted to two domestics to her confidence and as she at the same time slipped a heavy bribe into their hands they willingly promised devotion to her interests. The day passed heavily enough for the Dragoon who was accustomed to exercise and bustle and it could not endure the idea of being pent up within the narrow limits of a bedroom. He accordingly determined to put the remainder of his scheme into execution without delay and he rejoiced when night once more spread its stable wing over this hemisphere. It was 11 o'clock, Mr. Gamble had long before retired to rest. The servants had likewise sought their chamber and Leonard was seated at table with Ellen in the bedroom of the letter, a succulent supper and rich wines replaced before them. The curtains were drawn carefully over the windows and that lamp diffused a mellow luster throughout the apartment. Having eaten as much as he cared for it, Leonard filled the tumbler with sherry which he drank at a draft to inspire him with courage for the part which he had now to play for by fair or foul means was he resolved to succeed. Ellen said he after pause, we must quit the house tonight. Tonight she exclaimed in astonishment wherefore this hurry in the first place he replied because they're gonna bear confinement here. And secondly, because it may as well be done now as a week or a month hence, let us postpone our departure until tomorrow night, said Ellen imploringly, why so? Because I have not seen my father for many days he answered, he has been so much engaged in the city and I should wish to bid him farewell forever if only mentally. This is childish, ejaculated Leonard. Impatiently, I thought you had lost all respect for your father. Oh, but I cannot forget that he is my father. Responded Ellen, though tears trickling down her cheeks and now that I have made up my mind to leave England forever I would embrace him once more than I must depart without you, said Leonard, rising from his chair. Oh, this is unkind to a degree. I urge Ellen, but early surely you can allow me four and 20 hours for the necessary preparations. Our preparations can be made in an hour, said Leonard, obstinately then receding himself he drank off another tumbler full of wine. Listen to me, what preparations have you to make? Save to possess yourself of all the money, plate, jewels and other valuables you can let your hands upon. Ellen stared at her lover with the fixed gaze of mangled astonishment and horror. But what is the matter with you, he demanded. Leonard, you are not an earnest, she said at length. You would not have me rob my husband of his plate. Certainly replied the roughly end of his watch and everything of value that is portable in the house. We must not go away empty-handed, I can tell you. Is it possible that you would counsel me to do this as I asked Ellen, speaking in a low and agitated voice? Leonard, I have never hesitated to supply you with money because that is an article which I believe to exist in common between a husband and wife. Moreover, the household has suffered in no way by the appropriation of those sums to your wants. But if you mean me to plunder my husband of his plate, his watch and other things which are beyond all question, his own exclusively I declare once for all that I will not be a party to such a deed, it is sufficient. She added tears now bursting from her eyes that I am what I am without leaving behind me the reputation of a thief. Leonard ground his teeth with rage and again he had recourse to the wine bottle. Pray recall the words that you have uttered, exclaimed Ellen, tell me that you were joking or that you only made the proposal in order to try me. I never was more serious in my life, said Leonard brutally. Oh, what do I hear? Cried the wretched woman, wringing her hands. Enough of this, ejaculated the roughly end starting from his seat. Do you mean to accompany me or do you not? Yes, yes, I've pledged myself to that and are we to go empty handed? I have 60 or 70 pounds in money and my jewels are worth as much more. And the plate demanded Leonard is always kept in a box beneath Mr. Gamble's bed. And therefore you see how impossible it is to obtain it even if I were disposed to plunder him of property which has been in his family for so many, many years. Leonard receded himself, poured out more wine, drank it and then fell into a deep meditation. Ellen watched his countenance, flattering herself that the reason she had alleged for forbearance in respect to the plate would prove efficient, but she had only confirmed the ruffian and his resolution to possess it. In his measure, she committed herself in two ways. Firstly, she had told him where it was. And secondly, by informing him that it had been in the family for many years, she had naturally left on his mind the impression that it was of considerable value for heirlooms of that species are usually costly. What then was Leonard Mitchell really thinking of? To under the influence of the deep rotations which he had imbibed, he was revolving a hellish project in his mind if he endeavored to possess himself of the plate, contrary to the incentive Ellen, a disturbance would ensue in the house and his arrest as a deserter might follow upon the discovery of his presence there. To depart without the plate was not at all suitable to his purposes for if he repaired to a foreign country, it would not be to toil for a livelihood. How then was he to secure the coveted property and carried away without the chance of noise or detection? Only if Ellen were removed from his path. Yes, this was the project now revolved in the mind of the lost, depraved young men and having again fortified himself with liquor, he determined to put his diabolical scheme into execution. Suddenly rising from his seat, he approached Ellen and taking her hand said, forgive me, dearest, for what I did to utter just now, we will delay our departure until tomorrow at night and then you shall take with you just so much as you choose to select and nothing more. I freely pardon you, Leonard, she replied, and yet as he bent over her, there was a while gleaming in his eye and a peculiarity of expression in his countenance, which caused vague apprehensions to sweep across her mind. But how strange that you will guard me, Leonard, she said, is anything the matter with you? Nothing, nothing, dearest, he responded, throwing his arms round her neck and pressing her head as if in the fervor of affection against his bosom. All her alarms were immediately dissipated and thrown completely off her guard. She returned the embrace, abandoning herself and touted to him. At that instant, his right hand was withdrawn, and as he uttered some words of endearment, he possessed himself of the carving knife, unperceived by her. Let us now retire to rest, Leonard, she murmured, as her face labored on his chest, it is growing late, oh heavens. And farther utterance was suddenly stopped for like a flash of lightning, the sharp blade gleaming in the rays of the lamp was drawn across her throat, the murder returning her head and throwing it back at the same moment in order to aid his fell design. Death was almost instantaneous and that misgrain gently lowered the body upon the floor for nearly half a minute. Did he stand gazing upon that corpse unable to believe that it was really what it seemed to be and that he had perpetrated the deed. Then as the awful conviction steered him fully in the face in the entire sense of his enormity, seized upon his soul, he would have given worlds had he possessed them to undo what was there done but it was too late, oh, too late and he must save himself, he must escape. A bumper of brandy gave him the courage of a brute and taking the lamp in his hand, he crept cautiously to Mr. Gamble's bedroom. The door was unlocked and the old man slept profoundly beneath the bed was the plate chest but he was securely fastened with a padlock, Leonard raised the chest and placing it on his shoulder was about to quit the room when he aspired upon a chair the clothes which Mr. Gamble had put off when retiring to rest. These garments, the murderer likewise, self-appropriated as well as a hat which was standing on our chest of drawers and he noiselessly retraced his way to the chamber where the corpse lay, turning his back towards that appalling spectacle he proceeded to dress himself. Mr. Gamble's apparel which fitted him quite well enough for his purpose and was at all events a safer attire than his uniform. He next proceeded to break open the plate chest a task speedily effected by means of the same knife that had accomplished the murder, the contents of the chest and rapidly scanned by his eager eyes were evidently a great value and he hastened to pack them up in towels and lastly in brown paper, he then rifled the jewel box of his murdered paramour and in addition to the costly articles which he found there were the 70 pounds that the unfortunate woman had alluded to but a few minutes before she had ceased to exist. Leonard was satisfied with the booty thus acquired and he was moreover in haste to depart having secured the money and jewels about his purse and he took the parcel containing the plate under his arm and stole cautiously down the stairs all was silent throughout the house several times that he paused to listen but not a sound was heard and he gained the street without interruption. We know however he was in the open air he knew not whether to go what plan to adopt whether to seek concealment in London until the coming storm should have blown over or to make every effort to get out of England the latter plan appeared to be the more advisable and he accordingly pushed on towards the Dover Road. It was shortly after sunrise that Mr. Gamble awakened from a sound sleep beheld a deep stain on the ceiling of his chamber and with eyes riveted upon it he lay reflecting what it could possibly be. The old man was half childish and that strangest conjecture has passed through his mind. At length he grew frightened and unknown terror stole gradually upon him and he rang his bell violently. In a few minutes the two female domestics entered the room having hastily huddled on some clothing and they found their master gazing intently up at the ceiling with a while vacancy in the eyes. Their own looks instantly took the same direction and one of them suddenly exclaimed with shuttering horror it is blood. They then hurried upstairs and out frightful spectacle met their view. Their mistress lay upon the floor with her throat cut from ear to ear and the carpet was completely saturated with her blood. Screams and shrieks burst from the lips of the horror stricken women and rushing downstairs they rashly communicated to Mr. Gamble without any previous warning or preparation of dreadful tragedy which had been inactive. The flickering decaying lamp of the old man's intellect suddenly burnt up vividly for a few moments. The full powers of reason returned. He comprehended the appalling news which were thus unguardedly made known to him and with a horrible lamentation he sprang from his bed with incredible speed that he ascended to his wife's chamber and when the awful spectacle met his eyes he threw up his arms into despair gave bent to a piteous cry and sank down on a bloodstained corpse. Meantime one of the servants had hastened next door to alarm Mr. Palmfoot and when that gentleman accompanied by two or three of his own domestics appeared on that scene of murder assistance was immediately offered to Mr. Gamble but all endeavors to recover him were ineffectual. The shock he had received was a death blow and life was extinct. A few questions hastily put to the old man's servants elicited many facts dreadful for Mr. Palmfoot to hear. He now learned enough to convince him that his daughter had long maintained an illicit connection with the handsome young Grigun that her lover had been admitted the night before the one of the murder to the house and that he must have been the author of the dreadful deed. Further investigation corroborated disbelief. The uniform was found on a suit of Mr. Gamble's apparel had disappeared. The plate jewels and money were likewise gone. The distracted father having heard a long time previously that Leonard Mitchell had enlisted in a Grigun regiment immediately suspected that he must be the criminal and this idea was confirmed by the discovery of some letters in Ellen's desk. Information of the murder and robbery was accordingly given to the popular authorities. Mr. Palmfoot crushed to the very dust by the weight of misfortune crept back to his own cheerless dwelling. There to meditate upon the closing scene of the tragedy in which his own conduct had originally made his poor daughter the heroine. Bitterness was in the wretched man's soul, horror in his eyes, spasmodic shuddering in all his limbs. And when he contemplated his child's horrible end in his own ruined fortunes, he felt indeed that he had nothing left worth living for. The cup of his adversity was not however quite full yet, but in a few hours it was overflowing for his head clerk arrived in a cab and rushing into the parlor without ceremony announced to him that the officers of justice were in search of him, a true bill of indictment having been found against him for certain frauds in his commercial transactions. Thank you, thank you for coming to give me this timely warning. Said Mr. Palmfoot pressing his clerk's hand with painful violence, I will depart immediately. And he staggered from the room. The clerk waited five minutes and began to grow impatient, 10 minutes elapsed and still his master did not reappear. The man rose and rang the bell furiously to summon one of the domestics, but at the same instant the constables entered the house. These officials having learned from that servant who admitted them that Mr. Palmfoot was at home, proceeded to search the dwelling on the court, now entertaining the worst fears accompanying them to the ruined merchant's bed chamber. There the spheres met with immediate confirmation. Mr. Palmfoot had put up period to his existence. He had hanged himself to a strong nail in his sleeping apartment. The body was instantly cut down. The medical assistance promptly obtained, but the refugee suicide was no more. In the evening of that same day, a man was arrested under suspicious circumstances at Dover, the news of the awful occurrences in Stanford Street had not reached that town at the time, for there was neither railway nor electric telegraph between London and the Kentish coast in those days. But the individual alluded to had presented a quantity of plate at a pawnbroker's shop and not being able to give a satisfactory account of how it came into his possession. Was detained until a constable arrived to take him into custody. On the ensuing morning, the tidings of the murder in London reached Dover and the particulars given by the newspapers of the preceding evening were ample enough to identify the person under arrest with the Leonard Mitchell who was accused of desertion, murder and robbery. He was accordingly sent under a strong escort to the metropolis where on his arrival he was immediately lodged in Nougat. In due course his trial came on. He was found guilty upon evidence the most conclusive and upon being called upon to allege anything wherefore sentence of death should not be passed. He dressed the judge in the following manner. I acknowledge my Lord that I'm guilty of that dreadful crime and beauty to me. And although it'd be too late, far too late to express contrition now, I nevertheless declare that I'm deeply, deeply penitent. My Lord lost a graded criminal and condemned as I stand here in your presence. I was once as sincerely attached to virtue as any manner of woman who now hears me. Even when adversity entered the paternal grilling, ravaging yet with the desolating fury of an army, I yielded to no evil temptation. Neither did my confidence and the justice, the goodness and the wisdom of heaven abate. I enlisted my Lord in order to obtain an honest livelihood and to stifle in the bustle of a new state of existence, the painful reminiscences of lighted hopes and crushed affections. The officers who have appeared before your Lordship this day have all admitted and replied to the question I put to them. But up to the time when I was sentenced to 300 lashes, I'd never even received a reprimand nor had been once reported for the slightest irregularity. But from the moment that the first blow of the torturing and degrading weapon fell upon my back, my existence assumed a new phase, my soul and the wind a sudden and immediate change with each drop of blood that oozed from my lacerated back. I had to waive some sentiment of rectitude, some principle of virtue. My Lord, it was the lash that drove me to drinking that made me reckless of all consequences that made me a liar and a voluptuary, a mean fellow and a paltry rascal and that hardened my heart so as to render it inaccessible through every feeling of honor, mercy or remorse. It was the lash then that has made me a murderer and I might almost claim to be pity rather than to be looked upon with loathing. A cruel law taught me to be cruel, a merciless and barbarian punishment prepared me to become a ruthless and ferocious assassin. And now my Lord, I'm about to reveal a fact which has long ago been suspected and which situated as I am happily and need not exist in doubt or uncertainty anymore. My life must be forfeited for the crime which has been proved against me this day and it will unburden my soul of a heavy secret to confess another crime which I perpetrated upwards of a year ago. Your leadership doubtless remembers that a young nobleman in officer in the regiment to which I belong was shot at a review in Hyde Park. My Lord, I was the assassin. The man accused me wrongfully, persecuted me unrelentingly and lied most valiantly against me and I was avenged. As Leonard uttered these last words in a farmed tone and with marked emphasis, a thrill of horror passed through the crowded court and the dead silence which had been observed while he was speaking was succeeded by a subdued murmuring. As of many voices commenting on what he had said, erecting with an evident determination to meet his doom courageously, the unhappy young man stood in the dock, his eye quailing not, his limbs trembling not and heinous as his offenses were, he was not altogether without commiseration on the part of many present. The judge put on the black cap and the sentence of death, that barbarian sentence was pronounced in due form, the culprit receiving an intimation that he need entertain no hope of mercy. The hint was unnecessary. He made up his mind to suffer and as firmly as he walked out of the dock back into the prison. So resolutely did he step from that same prison 10 days afterwards onto the scaffold, erected at the dead's door. A tremendous crowd was assembled to witness the execution and the unhappy criminal maintained his courage to the last. From that time have that three houses and Stanford's feet been shut up. From that period have they been suffered to fall into decay? In the first, old Mr. Mitchell expired suddenly. In that second, Mr. Pomford hung himself and in that third, Ellen was brutally murdered. The hand of fate had marked those three tenements to be the scenes of horror and of crime and a superstitious feeding on the part of certain credulous and weak-minded neighbors soon engendered the report that they were haunted. It was said that the ghost of the young lady had been seen walking in her shroud in the yard behind the house where she was murdered and rumor added that on the anniversary night of that dread crime, which had hurried her to a premature grave, she was want to wander about the premises uttering hollow and supulchral moans. Such reports as those lose nothing by repetition during the lapse of years, especially while the buildings which were the scenes of the crimes engendering the superstition continued to exist. And therefore is it that even at the present day the evil reputation of the haunted houses remains unimpaired in Stamford Street and its neighborhood. End of section 73. Section one of Mysteries of London, volume four. This is a Libra box recording. All Libra box recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Libra box.org. Recording by Susan Florschinger, Montana. Mysteries of London, volume four. By George W. M. Reynolds. The ghost Agnes and Mrs. Mortimer. Mysteries of London, volume four. By George W. M. Reynolds. The ghost Agnes and Mrs. Mortimer. Chapter 179. The preceding episode has run to a considerable length, but we hope and believe that our readers will experience no difficulty in resuming the thread of the general narrative. It must be remembered that the leading incidents of the story just placed on record were related to Mrs. Mortimer by Jack Riley by way of passing the few hours during which they had agreed to remain with Bitterle Bodd, who, bound hand and foot, was seated helplessly in a chair. Yes, observed Jack Riley, when he had brought his history to a conclusion, they do say that the young woman walks at times. Don't speak in such a solemn tone, interrupted Mrs. Mortimer, casting a sudden glance around. You almost make me think that you yourself believe in the possibility of the spectral visitation. Well, I don't know how it is, returned the doctor, feeling a certain superstitious influence growing upon him, and which he vainly endeavored to shake off. But I certainly never before had such sensations as I experience now upon my soul. He cried, striking the table violently with his clenched fist. I am a prey to vague and undefined alarms tonight, but I will subdue them. Well, and are you sure that this is the house where the young lady was murdered? Ask Mrs. Mortimer after a brief pause. There is no doubt about that, responded Jack Riley. Viderol Bob there can tell you that the floor of the chamber where the deed took place is blackened with accumulated dust. Yet in the middle there is a deeper stain, and on the ceiling of the room beneath, it is easy to describe the same sinister traces even at Miss Dirt and Cobwebs. Then, as you said just now, remarked Mrs. Mortimer, drawing her shawl over her shoulders, for she experienced the chill of superstitious terror gaining upon her. As you said just now, this is the second murder that has been committed within these walls. Scarcely had Mrs. Mortimer cease speaking when the bell of the neighboring church proclaimed the hour of one. Now is the time for the ghost, said Viderol Bob, with a low but ferocious chuckle, for he experienced a malignant pleasure in observing that superstitious fears were gaining on the formidable Riley and the hideous old woman. You don't like the near neighborhood of the stiff, huh? I'm a-thinking. Well, I'll lay you wager, Jack, that I'll go and shake the old feller by the hand quite in a friendly way if you will but take off these cursing corns. There's no ill-feeling betwixt us now. I would rather leave you where you are and send Polly Calvert to release you, replied the doctor. Yes, yes, hastily exclaimed Mrs. Mortimer. Let him be where he is. But surely we may go now, Mr. Riley, for it is getting on for two. It is only this minute struck one, cried Viderol Bob with a malignant leer from his dark reptile-like eyes, which seemed to shine with a glare of their own, independent and brighter than the dim light of the miserable candle. Besides, he added, now purposely rendering his voice as solemn and as omniscient as possible. It is just the time for the ghost of the young gal or rather the young woman to walk. And I should be vexed indeed if you didn't stay to have a look at her. I've seen her more than once. That's an infernal falsehood, Bob, exclaimed Jack Riley, starting from his seat on the barrel and vainly endeavoring to subdue the nervous excitement that had gained so rapidly upon him. It's true, it's true as you're there, cried the murderer, who felt a ferocious joy at thus inspiring terror in the mind of the strong and hardened Ruffian who had conquered him. And I'll tell you something more too, continued Viderol Bob. You said just now, and you said truly also, that on the anniversary of the murder of the young lady wanders about the place uttering holler moans. Well, this is the night, then. She was murdered just 20 years ago and the clock has struck one. The effect which these words produced upon Jack Riley and Mrs. Mortimer was as rapid as it was extraordinary, although they were both of a nature peculiarly inaccessible to superstitious terrors on common occasions and under any other circumstances would have laughed at the idea of a spectral visitation and ghostly wanderings. Yet now they vainly struggled against the powerful influence of increasing terror. And although, in their hearts, they more than half suspected that Viderol Bob had spoken only to aggravate their alarms, yet they could not shake off the awe and consternation that seized upon their souls. In respect to Jack Riley, it was in one of those evescent weaknesses which the most brutal and remorseful Ruffians are known periodically to experience. But with regard to Mrs. Mortimer, it was the singularity of her present position, the consciousness that she was in a lonely place with two men of desperate character, to terrible remembrance that the murdered corpse of her husband lay in the adjoining room. The impression made upon her mind by the appalling history of crime which had been told elaborately in detail to her the thought that the very floors and the ceilings of the uppermost chambers in that house bore the testimony to the tale of blood and the idea that the ghost of the assassinated lady was want to wander in the depth of the night and on the scene of the crime. It was all this that struck Mrs. Mortimer with awe and consternation, rendering her incapable of serious reflection and leveling her strong mind as it were beneath the influence of superstitious tears. Well, what the devil is the matter with you both? demanded Fidderle Bob after a pause. How do you mean? answered Jack Riley, reseeding himself and grasping the brandy bottle with the trembling hand. Why, you and the old lady looked at each other as if you already heard the light step and the rustling shroud of the apparition, said the murderer. Hark! What's that? ejaculated the doctor once more, starting to speak. It certainly was a noise somewhere, observed Mrs. Mortimer trembling from head to foot. Perhaps the old man in the back kitchen has gotten up and is groping his way about, said Fidderle Bob, speaking with an infection of terror which was so natural that it cruelly enhanced the superstitious alarms experienced by his companions. This is intolerable, exclaimed Riley, looking in a ghastly manner towards the door as if he more than half expected to behold it suddenly thrown open and some hideous form appear on the threshold. I can't make out what it is that has come over me tonight which is like a warning and yet, I never believed in ghosts until now. Nor I, nor I, murmured Mrs. Mortimer, but tonight I feel also as if. Hark! Suddenly cried Fidderle Bob, there is a noise again. It must be the old man, ejaculated the doctor. Are you sure that you did for him thoroughly? If anything like him meets your eyes, Jack, it must be his ghost. I can assure you, was the solemn answer. Although Fidderle Bob himself partook not in the slightest degree of the superstitious terrors that had grown upon his companions, but was on the contrary, inwardly cheffling with malignant joy at their awestruck state of mind. There! Did you hear it? He demanded Mrs. Mortimer, in a hasty and excited tone, I am sure it was a noise this time. There could be no mistake about it. And she endeavored to raise from her chair, but terror kept her motionless, paralyzing every limb, though not placing a seal upon her lips. Something dreadful is to happen tonight. I know it. I feel it, said Jack Riley, in a tone which indicated remorse for a long career of crime and turpitude. By God, tis the back door of the house that is opening. Then this is serious indeed, interrupted Fidderle Bob, now alarmed in his turn, but rather on account of constables than specters. Unlose me! Let us fight! Resist! Say it! Mothered Jack Riley, in a low but imperious tone, there was a pause of nearly a minute, during which the three inmates of the kitchen held their breath to listen in painful suspense. Suddenly the rattling of the crazy banister outside fell upon their ears, and Jack Riley worked up to a pitch of desperation, seized the candle, saying in a horse and dogged tone, By hell I'll face it, whatever it may be. With these words he tore open the kitchen door, and behold, before him stood a female form, clothed in white, with a continence, paleless death, her hair flowing wildly, and disheveled over her shoulders, with eyes fixed in unnatural brilliancy upon him. The Refian was for a few moments paralyzed, stupefied with horror. Then, unable any longer to endure the spectral, which his fears converted into a corpse, wrapped in a winding sheet, he exclaimed, The ghost! The ghost! And dropped the candle upon the floor. Total darkness immediately ensued. At the same time a piercing scream echoed through the house, and Mrs. Mortimer, now recovering all her presence of minds, started to her feet crying. That is no apparition, save of flesh and blood, haste Jack Riley, procure a light. Where are you, man? Let us see who it is. Here I am, returned the daughter, likewise regaining his self-possession. Bob, where are the Lucifers? In my right-hand pocket growled the murderer, who, in the excitement of the past scene, and in the tremendous but ineffectual exertions, which he had made to release himself from his bonds, the moment the light was extinguished, had fallen from his seat and rolled upon the floor. Nearly half a minute now he lapsed, ere the candle was found, and lighted again. Then Jack Riley, closely followed by Mrs. Mortimer, hastened into the passage, where they beheld the form of a young female straight, senselessly at the foot of the stairs. The old woman stooped down to raise her, but scarcely has she caught a glimpse of the pale continents, on which the finger of death seemed to have been placed when, startling with surprise and joy, she exclaimed, "'Tis Agnes Vernon, as I am a living being." Agnes Vernon, who is she? Do you know her? Demanded the doctor, holding forward the light, by Jove, she is a sweet creature, whoever she is. That's right, raise her gently, but is she dead, poor thing? No, no, her heart beats, and her lips already begin to move, responded Mrs. Mortimer hastily, as she held the still senseless maiden in her arms. Well, this is a lucky chance that has thrown her in our way, and there's money to be made out of it. So much the better, shall I get a little water? Asked the doctor. Yes, and used dispatch, returned Mrs. Mortimer, Jack Riley entered the kitchen, and filled the glass with water. Who is it? Demanded Viterol Bob, whom the doctor had previously restored to his position in the chair. A young lady that Mrs. Mortimer happens to know, was the reply. There is no danger for mother visitors, according to all appearances, so keep quiet, and don't alarm yourself. The doctor hastened back into the passage, where Mrs. Mortimer was seated on the last step of the staircase, supporting Agnes in her arms. No, will you follow my advice, Mr. Riley? She demanded in a rapid tone, as she sprinkled the water upon the pallid continents of the young lady. Yes, it seems feasible, was the immediate answer. What is it that we do not keep this timid thing a moment longer in the house, than is absolutely necessary, continued Mrs. Mortimer. For our own sakes, we must guard against her, beholding the interior of that place. And as she uttered these words in a lone tone, she nodded significantly towards the door of the back kitchen, where the corpse of Torrance had been deposited. Yes, yes, I understand, said Jack Riley. It might be thought that we were accomplices in the murder. In the same way, it would do no good to let her see Viterol Bob bound neck and crop in the front kitchen. That is just what I was about to suggest, observed Mrs. Mortimer. We must get her out of the house as soon as possible, and into a cab. Then don't use any more means to recover her. Interrupted Jack Riley, snatching the glass of water from the old woman's hand, let her remain for a short time longer in that trance. It will not kill her. Depend upon it, and you have the advantage of possessing an esculapius in me. Oh, what do you propose then? Demanded Mrs. Mortimer, casting an anxious glance upon the continents of the still senseless girl. Don't be frightened. I tell you, repeated Jack Riley. I'll guarantee that she shall recover. But let us be off at once. I'll take her in my arms and carry her into Bennett Street. The neighborhood is all quiet and deserted at the hour. And you shall order round a cab from the stand in the road. There are always two or three in attendance throughout the night. Good, exclaimed Mrs. Mortimer, we'll be off at once. This instant, said Jack Riley, as he gently raised the motionless, senseless form in his powerful arms. Well, Mrs. Mortimer took off her shawl and wrapped it hastily over the head and shoulders of Agnes. The doctor gave a hurried intimation to Vitero Bob that Polly Calvert should be sent to him as speedily as possible. And he then stole out of the house, Mrs. Mortimer having previously ascertained that the coast was perfectly clear. Everything was affected as Jack Riley had proposed. He gained Bennett Street with his lovely birthing in his arms. And there he waited in the deep darkness afforded by a large gateway until Mrs. Mortimer came round with the cab. The maiden was placed in the vehicle, which the old woman entered in order to take charge of her. And Jack Riley, after having made an appointment with his accomplice for the next evening, bade her a temporary farewell. The cab drove away towards Park Square and the doctor on his side hurried off to the lodgings of pig-faced Molly. But the thread of our narrative now lies with Mrs. Mortimer and the beautyess Agnes Vernon. Scarcely had the cab moved away from the vicinity of the haunted houses when Agnes began rapidly to recover. And on opening her eyes she became aware that she was reclining in the arms of a female and that they were being born speedily along in a vehicle. For an instant it struck her that she must be with her mother. But in the next moment the horrors of the night crowded rapidly into her memory. And starting up she demanded in a hurried, anxious manner, where am I? And who are you? Scarcely were the questions put when the young maiden was enabled by the silver moonlight to catch a glimpse of the continents of her companion. And she instantly recognized Mrs. Mortimer. Her first emotions were of joy and gratitude, for she had delighted to find herself in the care of a female, especially one of whom she knew something. And taking the old woman's hand she said, Madam, I know not how to thank you, and am scarcely aware of what I have to thank you for. But if my impression be correct, you must have rescued me from something very terrible. Yes, I recollect now that door opening, a light appearing, and then that hideous, horrible face. And with a visible shutter the maiden threw herself back in the vehicle, pressing her hands to her throbbing brows in order to collect her still disjointed and somewhat confused reminiscence. You are laboring under dreadful recollections, my dear child, said Mrs. Mortimer in a soothing tone. No, you not. Can you not suspect that you were in the power of a ruffian when I fortunately encountered you? Of where? Where? Demanded Agnes impatiently as her settling ideas seemed to coincide with that belief. I should rather ask you, my sweet maiden, said Mrs. Mortimer, how you came to be in Stanford Street this night. My mother took me thither. Yes, I recollect it all now, exclaimed Agnes. She left me at the house of some dear friends, and I was ungrateful enough to entertain the most injurious suspicions respecting them, yes, and relative to my own dear mother also, your mother. Repeated Mrs. Mortimer in astonishment, I thought you had never known her, or that she had died when you were in your infancy. Oh, no, thank God, my mother is alive and I know her now, ejaculated Agnes with all the enthusiasm of a strongly reviving affection, a powerfully resuscitating devotion for the parent whom she had so lately discovered. But where is your mother now? inquired Mrs. Mortimer. Ah, that I know not, replied Agnes, and this reminds me, she exclaimed after a few moments pause, that you must take me back to the good kind ladies in Stanford Street, that I may remain there until my mother shall come to fetch me away to this new home which she has promised to prepare for me. Who are those good ladies? asked Mrs. Mortimer. Their name is Theobald, and they live in Stanford Street, responded the artless girl. You may know the house, or at least the driver of the vehicle can find it out. When I describe it as being situated forth from the corner of the Black Barriers Road and next to three deserted, dilapidated, sinister-looking houses. Ah, then you must have found your way from the dwelling of your friends into one of those ruined places, thought Mrs. Mortimer. But I am really at a loss, my dear young lady, to comprehend all you tell me, she said aloud. Before I give you the necessary explanation to enable you to understand it all, said Agnes, will you inform me which road the vehicle is pursuing? I am taking you to a place of safety, my dear girl, responded Mrs. Mortimer, a place of safety. Repeated, Agnes, for continents assuming an expression of deep anxiety. Am I then in any danger? And in what does the peril consist? I know not my love, answered the old woman, speaking in the kindest tone of voice. I only judge by the condition in which I found you, the circumstance which threw us this night together, and the observations which has fallen from your lips that you were indeed in a state of extreme danger. Just heaven, exclaimed Agnes, but what observations did I make? That you had entertained suspicions relative to the friends to whose care your mother had consigned you, said Mrs. Mortimer. Yes, and I told you truly, resumed the ingenious maiden, I know not how it was. I cannot account for it now, but when I found myself alone in a strange house, terrible though undefined fears took possession of my soul, and I resolved to escape. I succeeded in getting as far as the next house, which I entered, but scarcely had I crossed the threshold of the back door when a light suddenly appeared and a continence was revealed to my frightened gaze, a continence so dreadful to look upon, that I tremble now as I think of it. Then so far as I can recollect, I heard a voice thundering something loud but unintelligible in my ears. I screamed and fainted. When I came to my senses, I was in your arms and in this vehicle. I can throw some light upon the matter, said Mrs. Mortimer, whose object was to keep the attention of Agnes as much as unremittingly engaged as possible, so as to prevent her from growing uneasy relative to the ultimate destination of the calf. For should she become alarmed, she might appeal to the driver for protection, and a disturbance in the street would prove inevitable. You must know, continued Mrs. Mortimer, that I was returning home from a friend's house in Stanford Street. When I met a great stout, horribly ugly man, carrying a female form in his arms, the moonlight showed me his dreadful continence, and I instantly suspected that some foul play was intended. I accordingly insisted that he should stop, which he did with much reluctance, declaring that you were his daughter and that he was taking you home as you had fallen down in a pitfall. Then some mischief was really meditated towards me, exclaimed Agnes, clasping her hands together in shuttering horror of the perils through which she supposed herself to have passed. Yes, my dear child, observed Mrs. Mortimer, you doubtlessly owe your life to me. Ah, madam, interrupted Agnes, how can I ever sufficiently thank you for your goodness? Then, as a reminiscence struck to her artless mind with a pang of a remorse, she exclaimed as she pressed the old woman's wrinkled hand to her lips, it seems faded, that I should suspect those who are my best friends. Do not think of that, my love, said the widely old creature, who easily conjectured what was passing in that amiable maiden's ingenious soul. When you know me better, you'll appreciate my conduct towards you as it deserves. Doubtless, your father will set you against me, and then that little misunderstanding related to the affair of Lord William Trevelyn, but enough of that for the present. Let me conclude my little narrative relative to yourself. Well, I was describing to you how I compelled the man to stop, and I was about to tell you that I was by no means satisfied with the explanations he gave me. Indeed, I threatened to summon the assistance of the police, and you may be well assured that this menace suddenly became a settled resolution when as the moonlight fell upon the continents of this fair creature, whom the man carried in his arms, I recognized yourself, my sweet Agnes. You can conceive my astonishment, perhaps, but you can form no ideal of the apprehension that ceased upon me, for I really love you dearly, although I have seen so little of you. The man was dreadfully alarmed when he perceived that I knew you, and I had no difficulty in compelling him to surrender you into my charge. He then de-champed, and I placed you in a cab, which happened to be passing at the time. You now know all. Oh, from what inconceivable perils have you not saved me? exclaimed Agnes, full of enthusiastic and impassionate gratitude towards the woman whom she looked upon as her deliverer. My dear mother will thank you warmly, earnestly, most sincerely for this generous act on your part, and I shall never, never forget the deep obligation under which you have placed me. Enough on that subject, my dear child, said Mrs. Mortimer. You have spoken several times of your mother. May I ask how you came to discover her, or how she happened to have remained so long unknown to you? I'm bewildered when I think of all that, returned Miss Vernon in a mournful tone. It was last evening when she came to me that she sought me out in my retirement, that she announced herself as my parent, and my heart's feelings gave me the assurance that she was indeed what she represented herself to be. Then I agreed to accompany her, for she told me that she was unhappy, and she claimed my love and my duty as a daughter. Oh, my dear madam, can you doubtless understand how joyous, how delightful were my emotions on the encountering a mother whom I had never known till then. I only thought of giving away to those delicious feelings until I found myself left in the charge of strangers. Then it was that I grew afraid, that big and undefinable apprehension took possession of my soul, that I became suspicious of all and everything, and that I fled. Foolish mistake and creature that I was, that one false step of mine threw me into the hands of a monster who would perhaps have killed me had you not rescued me from his power. Agnes paused and arranged her hair, her dark, luxuriant, glossy hair, floating so wildly and yet so beautifully in its disheveled state over her shoulders. And now as the tint of the rose had returned to her cheeks and her eyes had recovered their witching softness of expression, she appeared transcendentally lovely to the view of the old woman whom the moonlight enabled to survey the charming creature seated opposite to her. Suddenly the vehicle stopped, and Agnes hastily looked from the windows, beheld a row of handsome houses on one side and an enclosure of verdant shrubs and plants on the other. This is not Stanford Street, madam, she said to Mrs. Mortimer. No, my dear child, was the almost whispering reply, but it is a place of safety to which I have brought you. Do you imagine that I, who have saved your life this night, could intend you any harm? Wherefore be thus ever suspicious respecting your best friends? These words not only reassured Agnes, but made her blush at what she deemed to be her ingratitude towards her deliverer, impressing the old woman's hand feverently, she murmured, forgive me, I implore you. Think no more of it, my love, said Mrs. Mortimer, as she alighted from the vehicle then, turning towards the maiden, she added, remain in your place for a few minutes until I have aroused the people of the house, the chill air of the early morning will give you cold, lightly clad as you are, Agnes signified in his scent, and the old woman hastened up to the front door of the house, at which they had stopped. She knocked and rang, but some time elapsed, ere the summons was answered, at length, a domestic who had huddled on some clothing, made his appearance, and to Mrs. Mortimer's query, whether his master were at home, an affirmative reply was given. Then hasten not to arouse him, for I have called upon a matter of great importance to his lodge, said the old woman. Certainly I will do so, madam, return the domestic, since you assure me that your business is pressing, but will you not walk in and await the Lord's ship's readiness to receive you? Yes, replied Mrs. Mortimer, and I have a person with me who must accompany me, but listen to something that I have to urge upon you. You will conduct a spoke, as a matter of course, into the same room, but when your master is ready to receive me, take care that I obtain an interview along with him in the first instance. It is of the highest consequence that these instructions should be fully attended to. You shall be obeyed, madam, said the servant. Mrs. Mortimer now fetched Agnes from the vehicle which she ordered to be kept waiting for herself, and the two females were conducted by the domestic into a handsome apartment. Where having lighted the wax candles, he left them. End of chapter one, recording by Susan Flarschinger Montaner. Section 75 of Mysteries of London, volume four, this is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Mysteries of London, volume four by George W. M. Reynolds, Agnes and Trevelyan, in spite of her anxiety to place confidence in Mrs. Mortimer, in spite of the deep obligation under which she believed herself to be lying towards her, Agnes could not subdue a partial feeling of uneasiness when she found that she was in a strange house, evidently the abode of a rich person. She gazed round the walls covered with splendid pictures on the chandeliers suspended to the ceiling, on the elegant and costly furniture, the superb mantel ornaments, and down upon the luxurious carpet, so thick that her tiny feet were almost embedded in it as if she were walking in snow. Whose dwelling could it be? Assuredly not Mrs. Mortimer's, for she was only treated as a visitress. At length after the lapse of a few minutes, the young maiden ventured to ask, who are the friends, madam, with whom you propose to leave me? Does not that very question, Agnes imply a suspicion injurious to me? said Mrs. Mortimer evasively. Oh, no, no, exclaimed Ms. Vernon in a melting tone of the profound dissincerity, but may I not ask so simple a question without being liable to such a distressing imputation? Can you not leave yourself in the hands of one who has saved your life and who wishes you well? Said the old woman speaking in a voice of mingled reproach and conciliation. Yes, certainly, madam was the immediate answer, but you yourself are not going to remain here in as much as you have ordered the cabriolet to wait for you. True, Agnes, because I have business of importance to transact at an early hour this morning and at a considerable distance. Hence, reassure yourself, my darling girl, continue the iniquitous hag, you will be delighted to meet the person whom you will presently see. Indeed, it is only a little surprise which I am preparing for you. And after all, I have done for you, you surely will not deny me the pleasure, which I promise myself in beholding the interview between yourself and the owner of this splendid mansion. By degrees, as Mrs. Mortimer spoke, the countenance of Agnes brightened up, for it struck the young maiden that it was her mother whom she was now to meet. And this idea grew into a positive conviction by the time the old woman had uttered the last words of her sentence. She was accordingly about to express renewed gratitude for the happy surprise thus reserved for her when the door opened and the domestic returned to the apartment. Madam, will you follow me? He said, addressing himself to Mrs. Mortimer. My dear child observed the old woman turning towards Agnes and patting her face with a show of affection. You will remain here for a few minutes, a very few minutes. And then she added with a sly smile, which meant as much as to intimate that she read the hope entertained by Agnes and should speedily have the pleasure of gratifying it. And then my love, you will not scold me for having kept you a little in suspense. Tears of gratitude trembled upon the long dark lashes of the beautyous maiden, although her lips were weaved in smiles, but when nature melts into April softness, tis with mingled rain and sunshine. While Agnes remained alone in the hands in parlor, cradling herself in the hope that the lapse of a few minutes would see her embraced in the arms of her mother, Mrs. Mortimer was conducted into another apartment where she found herself in the presence of Lord William Trevelyan, who had dressed himself with as much dispatch as possible. Well, Madam, he said in a hasty and even anxious tone, what has brought you hither at this unseasonable hour, whom have you with you and wherefore this desire has expressed to my domestic to see me alone in the first instance. My Lord, it is Agnes Vernon who has accompanied me and who is in the room which I've just left to answer the old woman. I thought so, I was afraid that it was so when the servant gave me a description of her, a very rapid and partial one, it is true in as much as he beheld her only for a few moments. The great heavens, Madam, continued the young nobleman, speaking with singular and unusual vivacity, what means this strange proceeding. That Agnes required an asylum and I brought her hither was the response. And do you for an instant imagine, Madam, that I am capable, that I would be guilty that I, but enough I will say no more to you, I see through your real character and I loathe and despise it. My God, to think that I should have enlisted a common procurus in my service, oh, how can I ever look Agnes in the face, how ventured to a coster after having thus offered her the most flagrant of insults. But tell me, vile woman, he exclaimed, seizing Mrs. Mortimer forcibly by the wrist, while his tone and manner alike indicated the most painful excitement. Tell me, I say, by what detestable artifice as you have induced that innocent and unsuspecting maiden to accompany you hither. My Lord, you will be ashamed of yourself for this unworthy conduct towards me when you come to know all, yes, ashamed and astonished at the same time, said Mrs. Mortimer, assuming an heir of offended dignity and wounded pride. How speak ejaculated Lord William, dropping the woman's arm and surveying her with mingle surprise and repentance. I shall not waste precious time in entering into details, resume Mrs. Mortimer. Yesterday morning I saw Agnes and induced her to peruse your letter. She was offended and tossed indignantly back to me. Ah, cried the nobleman, his countenance assuming an expression of extreme vexation. Yes, and here it is, continued Mrs. Mortimer, producing the epistle from her reticule and laying it upon the table. But she read it, you say, exclaimed Lord William. Every word was the response. Nevertheless, those softened and even pleased at first, she subsequently thought better of it and rejected the communication in the manner I've described. I was disheartened and felt unwilling to return to you with such unwelcome intelligence. An hour ago I quitted the house of a friend in Stamford Street and in that same street the following adventure occurred to me. The old woman then related precisely the same anecdote which she had already told to Agnes relative to the presented rescue of that young lady from the power of a man who was bearing her along insensible in his arms. The young nobleman was astounded and his manner denoted in credulity. I perceive that your lordship puts no faith in my narrative, said Mrs. Mortimer, who conjectured what was passing in his mind. But the tale which Agnes can tell you will corroborate it. She herself will inform you how she fell into the power of the rough end from whom it was subsequently my good fortune to deliver her. And if you place confidence in her words, you will perforce be led to accord the same favor to mine. And her tale, what is it, demanded the nobleman impatiently. Yesterday she discovered the mother whom she had lost since her infancy, answered Mrs. Mortimer. Her mother exclaimed to Vellion, and where is that mother? Who is she? Tell me that I may hasten to her as early an hour as possible and implore of her to accord me the hand of her daughter. Be not so hasty, my lord. I'm totally unacquainted with Agnes Mernen's mother. And she herself, poor, artless girl, knows I believe but little more. It is however certain that the young lady was induced to accompany her newly found parent from the cottage that she was consigned to the care of two ladies named Theobald and dwelling in Stamford Street, that in the night she became the prey to vague and unfounded terrors, which induced her to attempt an escape from the house and that she fell into the hands of a man from whom I rescued her. And therefore have you brought her hither, asked Lord Vellion, why not have conducted her back to the ladies to whose care her mother had consigned her or to the cottage where she has dwelt so long? I've put you in the position of one who may perform a chivalrous action and thereby win the permanent esteem, gratitude and love of this beautiful creature whom you adore, said Mrs. Mortimer. And now you appear inclined to load me with reproaches. Yes, I perceive that reproaches are trembling upon your lordship's tongue. And I who have done all I could to serve you shall experience not save in gratitude. Oh, short-sighted lover that you are, here is a younger whom I pick up as it were houseless and homeless. And I'm already halfway with her to your mansion before I even learned from her lips how she came in Stamford Street at all or that she has friends there. But when I do glean those facts, I find that she has escaped from the guardianship of those friends. And could I suppose that they would be willing to receive her again? Not my lord, it is for you to grant her an asylum to treat her with all imaginable delicacy and attention and to leave me to find out her mother that you may restore the lost daughter to the distracted parent. Doubtless the missteal balls will give me the desired information and then calculate the amount of gratitude that will be due to you in spite of her father, whoever he may really be and whatever opposition he might raise, Agnes is yours and you gain the object of your heart's dearest wishes. And thank you, woman, exclaimed Lord William Trevelyan, unable any longer to subdue his resentment. Thank you that I will bless the fair fame of this young lady by retaining her for even a single hour beneath my roof. Thank you that I will obtain for her the inevitable reputation of having been my mistress previously to becoming my wife. No, a thousand times no. And do you imagine that I read not your heart a right? Do you suppose that I am your dupe? I tell you, vile woman, that in bringing the innocent and artless Agnes Hither, you fancied you would be throwing in my way a temptation which I could not resist, a temptation which would thaw all my virtuous principles and honorable notions and lead me to sacrifice the purity of the confiding girl to my passion. Yes, such was your base calculation or you would at once and unhesitatingly have conducted her either to the abode of her friends in Stanford Street or home to her own cottage. Ah, madam, because I belong to the aristocracy, you imagine that I must necessarily be as vile, depraved and unprincipled as 99 out of every hundred individuals who bear lordly titles, but you have deceived yourself, grossly deceived yourself and you shall at once have the proof that you are so deceived, follow me. Thus speaking, Lord William advanced rapidly towards the door, imperiously beckoning the vile woman to accompany him. Whither are you going, my lord? She demanded finding that she had indeed overreached herself that the noblemen's principles were more profoundly rooted than she had imagined and that all her trouble was likely to go unrewarded. Follow me, I say, as you have done this amount of mischief, you shall at least see it remedied to the utmost of my power and the noblemen burst from the room, literally dragging the old woman with him. In less than a minute, they entered the apartment where Agnes was anxiously, most anxiously awaiting the presence of her mother. And the moment the door was open, she darted forward to precipitate herself into the arms of her parent. The recognizing Lord William Trevelyan, she stopped short with a cry of mingle disappointment, surprise and alarm, while an ashy pallor over spread her countenance. Reassure yourself, Miss Vernon, I'm your friend and a man of honor, for the encouraging words which Trevelyan hastened to address to her. And my mother, said the young maiden, bending a look of earnest appeal upon Mrs. Mortimer, who, however, shrank back in confusion. Your mother is not here, Miss Vernon, exclaimed the noblemen. Neither does this woman know where to find her. An act of the greatest imprudence has been committed in bringing you hither. Oh, what do I hear? cried Agnes, clasping her hands. Is this your house, my Lord? If so, she added with dignity, succeeding grief. I am innocent of any intention to intrude. Indeed, your lordship might full well concede that I should not have come hither of my own accord. Oh, no, not for worlds. And tears rolled down the cheeks of the gentle girl for she felt humiliated in the presence of the very man in whose eyes, if her young heart had a preference, she would have faint appeared in another light. Oh, Miss Vernon, it is you who do not understand me, ejaculated Lord William, advancing and taking her hand. If I spoke of the imprudence which had been committed, it was on your account only. For believe me, when I declare that I should be proud, yes. And in the enjoyment of an Elysian happiness, could you enter this mansion to remain here, to command here with honor to yourself. But I will not avail myself of this opportunity to urge a suit that I've already ventured to prefer. And in the prosecution of which, I unfortunately selected so improper an agent. As he uttered these words, he bent an indignant look upon Mrs. Mortimer, who turned away petulantly and made for the door, stop woman, cried the young nobleman, hastening to detain her. I cannot yet part with you intolerable as your presence has become to me. Miss Vernon, he continued again turning toward the maiden whose sense of humiliation had vanished and who in her heart of hearts now rejoiced in the conviction that Lord William Trevelyan was indeed as noble in nature as he was in name. I need scarcely observe that circumstances compel me to procure for you an asylum for the remainder of the night as speedily as possible. You will permit me to conduct you to the abode of a lady of my acquaintance, a lady who will receive you with open arms and who will tomorrow or rather in a few hours' time herself conduct you to the abode of your friends in Stanford Street or to your own home near Strutham. With these words, the nobleman took the hand of the blushing Agnes and letter from the house to the vehicle that was still waiting. Now, madam, you may depart. He said sternly to Mrs. Mortimer, as soon as he had seated himself in the cab, opposite to Agnes. The old woman turned sulkily away, muttering threats of vengeance, but these were unheeded by the chivalrous Trevelyan who gave hasty instructions to the driver and the vehicle rolled rapidly on towards Kentish town. Agnes could not do otherwise than appreciate all the delicacy of Lord William's conduct towards her, for it is no disparagement to the extreme artlessness of her mind to state that she comprehended wherefore he had compelled Mrs. Mortimer to wait until they had quitted the house, but she could scarcely collect her bewildered ideas into a subtle state. So rapid was the world of incidents and adventures through which she was doomed to pass on this memorable night. Had she paused, reflect upon her position with that seriousness, which it required, she would have requested the nobleman to conduct her at once to the dwelling of the Mrs. Theobald, but he had deported himself towards her with the generosity of a brother and she acted in obedience to his suggestions without waiting to analyze them. In a word, she was full of confidence and ingenuous reliance in him, and she felt as if she had suddenly found a stance and sincere friend in the midst of cruel difficulties and deep embarrassments. A dreamy kind of repose stole over her as she was born along in the vehicle, and yet she not only heard the few remarks which her companion addressed her, but likewise answered them in a befitting manner. Agnes, such a valiant was a prey to the strangest excitement, accident having not only thus procured him, the acquaintanceship of her whom he loved so fondly but having likewise placed him in a relative position, establishing as it were a friendship, almost an intimacy. Moreover, had he not touched her delicate right hand, touched it gently, it is true, and without venturing to press it but still touched it and even held it for a few moments in his own, had he not discovered to that if she appeared surpassingly lovely when seen from a distance and near a contemplation of her charms, was only calculated to enhance his admiration and strengthen his devotion. And lastly, had not the musical tones of her silver voice been breathed in his hearing, wafting words that were addressed to himself and making every fiber in his heart vibrate deliciously to the dulcet sounds, yes, all this he felt and appreciated and he was happy. The conversation that passed between them during the drive to Kentish town was slight and chiefly confined to such observations as a well-bred gentleman would address to a lady under circumstances of embarrassment and to such responses as those remarks were calculated to elicit. The young nobleman was careful to avoid any illusion to the letter which he had sent to Agnes or to the circumstances that had thus thrown them so singularly together and she understanding his forbearance and perceiving his unwillingness to take the least advantage of her peculiar position felt her esteem, we might almost say her love increase in his favor. In about 20 minutes, the cab stopped at the gate of a beautiful villa and as the orient sky was now flickering with the first struggling beams of a summer sunrise, Agnes was unable to obtain a tolerably distinct view of the picturesque spot, the fresh breeze to fan her countenance recalling the roses to her damask cheeks and as she threw back the shining masses of her hair from her forehead, Trevelyan's eye could trace the blue vein so delicately marked beneath the white skin of that fair and polished brow. On the lighting at the entrance to the villa, Trevelyan and his beautiful companion were both struck by the glimmering of lights which shown through the divisions in the parlor shutters and the rays of which peeping forth struggled with sickly effect against the dawning of a new day. Those lights too were evidently moving about and it was therefore clear that the inmates of the drilling were astir even at that early hour. The summons at the front door was almost immediately responded to by a female servant who in reply to the young nobleman's question stated that Mrs. Sefton was at home and had risen thus early in order to make preparations for removal to a new house that she had taken in another suburb of London. Trevelyan and Agnes were accordingly admitted forthwith and the domestic conducted them to the parlor where Mrs. Sefton was busily engaged in packing up her effects. She was much surprised when she heard Trevelyan's voice and immediately apprehended that some misfortune was in store for her, some evil tidings perhaps relative to Sir Gilbert Heathcote. But scarce they had Agnes reached the threshold of the apartment when the moment Mrs. Sefton turned to receive her visitors. The young girl gave in to an ejaculation of mingled astonishment and joy and bounding forward was in the next instant clasped in that lady's arms. My dearest, dearest mother, Agnes, my beloved child. These were the words which explained to Trevelyan the scene that he now witnessed in the section 75.