 CHAPTER 11 THE TREASURE A week of horror and anxiety during which the customary legal processes had been gone through, a jury had visited the dark house and then conducted through the two rooms to go away disappointed at not seeing the inside of the great iron safe. Then after the evidence had been given by the various witnesses at the inquest, including that of the two doctors who had performed the post-mortem examination, a verdict was returned which charged Charles Filler with willful murder and stated that the Indian had committed justifiable homicide. The doctors had differed as it is proverbially said that they will. Dr. Heston, the young medical man, who had then called in first telling the jury that he was not satisfied that the blows given had caused the death and drawing attention to the peculiar odor he had noticed. But the coroner, an old medical man, sided with the colleague who poo-pooed the idea and the verdict was given. The coroner was a good deal exercised in his mind, whether some proceedings ought not to have been taken in respect to the remains of the late Colonel, but he obtained no legal support and the terrible murder and attempted robbery at number 9A, Albemarle Square, with the history of the embalming and the mysterious inner chamber, were public property for the usual nine days when something fresh occurred and the interest died away. Then once more there was the old piece in the dark house, where the remains of Colonel Cappell lay in state in the mystery-haunted room. The servants were very reticent and consequently that little was heard of the proceedings in Albemarle Square. A good many loiterers had stopped to stare at the darkened windows at the great mansion, but as two coffins had been born from the place, it was forgotten outside that another still remained. What might have been some busy body's business became no-ones and the horrible tragedy tended towards the simplification of the dead man's instructions. It is nine days now since the Colonel's commands should have been fulfilled, said Mr Gertel, as they were seated at lunch in the darkened dining room, the same party. The Catrine had expressed her determination to stay in the house through all the trouble, and Lydia had offered to remain with her. Catrine and Lydia had kept a great deal to their rooms. Mr Gertel spent most of his time in the library, busy over papers, only appearing at mealtimes, and consequently Paul Cappell was thrown a great deal into the society of jurid artists, treating him always in the most friendly way and declining to notice the barbs of the verbal arrows the other was fond of launching. One of Artis's favourite allusions was to the house his companion inherited. I felt horribly jealous of you at first, he said, seemed such a pot of money, but with special commands to live here with the haunted room and the Muslim beyond it, no thank you. What shall you do with the Chamber of Horrors, said Artis on another occasion. You heard it is to be built up, no, no, I mean the bedroom, eh? I shall take that as my own, what? A room haunted with the spirits of three dead men, ah, impossible. Then came the ninth day, and Mr Gertel announced that on the next his instructions should be carried out precisely at twelve. That will give you ample time, Mr Cappell, to visit a banker afterwards, for after the late experience I should not lose an hour in depositing your great uncle's bequest in the hands of your banker. You will go with me, I hope, the old man looked pleased and nodded, but I had reckoned upon seeing the duels, said Catrine, with a smile at the young air, which made his heart throb and Lydia shrink. That pleasure must be deferred, Miss Ingram, said the old glory across to Lee, and no more was said. At twelve o'clock punctually the next day Mr Gertel unlocked the door at the Colonel's room, and fulfilling Ramo's duty, held it back while the young men bore in lights. Catrine and Lydia followed, and the old butler, looking shrunken and depressed, came last to close the door and draw the curtain. It was midday, but it might have been midnight. Candles were lit again on chimney piece and dressing table, and after the old solicitor had seen that the door was fastened within, he took out his key, drew the portal curtain at the end, and then unlocked and slowly pushed open the iron door. At a given order the butler solemnly carried a couple of candles down into the vault, and stood there in the gloomy stone chamber, where, to those who stood waiting his return, they seemed to cast a peculiarly weird light. Then in utter silence the lid was placed over the calm sleeping features, and the four men taking each a handle lifted and bore the coffin down. There was some little difficulty in the sharp turn of the steps, but in a few minutes all was done, and the coffin lay upon the plague stones, while the two girls stilled hand clasping hand. Mr. Gertle walked round to the back of the iron safe and stooped down, when a peculiar clang was heard as if a spring had been set free, and a large panel at the end where the capel was standing dropped down. As the old lawyer came back, candle in hand, it was now seen that the panel that had fallen lay bare a keyhole. Upon the key being inserted in this, and turned, the panel flew back and glided over the keyhole as soon as the key was drawn out, displaying a second keyhole, crossed by a row of lettered brass slides. These the old lawyer manipulated till the letters formed in a row a particular word, when the second keyhole was laid bare, the key inserted and turned, and one end of the iron safe revolved on a pair of huge pivots, showing the interior plain, rectangular and dark, with an oblong mass of black metal in the centre. The steel chest, said the old lawyer in a whisper, as he stepped inside the great safe, in which he could nearly stand upright. Candle in hand, he went to the other end, put down the light for a moment to set his hands free to get a second key, a curiously long, thin key, with the end of which he pushed something at the back of the chest. Then going to one side, he repeated the act, went back round to the other side, and again repeated it, after which he came to the front, and as he held down the light, those who were intensely watching his actions, saw that there was a small circle of Roman figures, with a hand like that of a small clock, which he pushed round with the end of the key, till it was at the letter V. This done, he bent over the chest, and repeated the action twice upon the top. Then, as he stepped out, a sharp sound was heard, and a keyhole was laid bare once more. In this he placed the key, turned it, and the steel chest seemed to split open from end to end, dividing in equal parts, which slowly turned over on massive hinges, leaving the centre a space large enough to hold the coffin wide open. Mr. Cappell said the old lawyer, stepping aside, the next duty is yours. There lie the banknotes and the case of precious stones. I give them over to your care. Paul Cappell hesitated for a moment, glanced at his companions, then back at the opening leading to the colonel's room, where Catrine and Lydia were watching. The young man's heart beat heavily as he took the candle, and, stooping down, entered the iron chamber to take from its hiding place his enormous fortune. It was by the step, and he had only stretch out his hand to pick up the two cases, but the steel chest held nothing. The treasure was not there. End of Chapter 11 Chapter 12 of The Dark House This is a LibriVox Recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. The Dark House by George Manuel Fenn Chapter 12 The End of the Instructions Paul Cappell did not realise his position. Is there some mistake, Mr Gertel? Mistake. There is nothing here. Nothing there. Nothing. See for yourself. The old man stepped in, searched, and came out with drops of sweat upon his yellow forehead. Well exclaimed Cappell, excitedly as the old man stared in a dazed way. It is gone, said the old lawyer, in a hoarse voice, and his hand trembling violently. Well, Mr Gertel said Cappell at last, in a voice that he vainly strove to make firm. What have you to say? To say, said the old lawyer hastily. Oh, it is all the cock and ball story, cried Artis. There never was any treasure. Silence, sir, cried the old lawyer, recovering himself. How can you speak like that in the presence of the dead? Bah, cried Artis. Presence of the dead indeed. Presence of the mummy. Would you have me pull a long face as I went through the British Museum? I would have you behave. You look here, cried Artis sharply. You are executor, and this treasure, if there was one, laying your charge. It's nothing to me. If it were, I should call in the police. Mr Cappell cried the old lawyer excitedly. I swear to you, sir, that the money and jewels were there a fortnight ago. You came down here with Ramo, and there laid the two cases with their contents. Well, said Cappell, and what then? We carefully closed up the place. Then somebody must have been down since, and taken the treasure away. Only two men could have done this, sir, Ramo, and myself. That throws it onto you, said Artis. And my reputation, sir, will bear me out when I proclaim my innocence. I don't know, said Artis, sudden temptation, kleptomania, and that sort of thing. The old lawyer turned his back. Mr Durard Artis, this is no time for such remarks as these, said Cappell. Mr Gertel, what have you to say? At present, nothing, sir. I am astounded. You know we came down on that dreadful morning, and found the chamber intact. Besides, it could not have been forced. There were the keys, said Artis. But they have never left my person. There were but the two sets of keys, the kernels and mine. Those were the kernels set that we found upon Ramo. Rather strange that the kernels should have given you a set, said Artis. No more strange than that a gentleman should trust a banker, said Cappell. What going to side with the lawyer? Cappell made no reply, only gazed, searchingly, at the old executor. There may have been other keys, Mr Gertel. Oh no, the place was made some years ago, for a Sacrifice, and the makers never imagined that it would be used for a safe. There was a dead silence. Let us search again. The cases may have slipped aside. It is impossible, said the old lawyer. And as they too passed into the iron chamber, Artis exchanged a glance with Catrine, while the old butler still looking dazed. You see, said Mr Gertel, holding down the light, there is nowhere for the cases to have slipped. All is a plain, solid steel, without a corner or a crack. But underneath, said Cappell. Underneath? Look for yourself, said Mr Gertel. Where there is not solid steel, there is solid iron. And beneath that, massive stone. The treasure seems to have been spirited away. That's it, said Artis. The old man was not satisfied, and he got up out of his coffin and hid it somewhere else. Cappell caught Artis by the collar. I will not, he begun. But mastering his indignant anger, he let fall his arm. There is nothing here, he said. Let us look about the outside. That was the work of a minute, for on every hand there was the blank stone wall, floor and roof, and the exterior of the iron safe or tomb was perfectly rectangular and smooth. What was the size of the cases? One was about twelve inches by eight, and three or four deep. And the other, rather smaller, replied the old lawyer. Both too large for me to have juggled them into my pockets when I opened the steel chest, Mr Artis. You held the keys, and if you meant to take the treasure, you had it before. Enough of this, cried Cappell. It is plain that the bequest has been taken away. Mr Gertel, we will finish it once. Fulfill my uncle's commands. Come. He went to the head of the oaken coffin and took one handle. When influenced by his example, the others helped to raise it a little from the floor, and it was thrust in and onward till it rested upon the bottom of the steel chest, nearly filling the space. Cappell stood on the right of the entrance, and for fully five minutes there was perfect silence in the solemn chamber. Go on, Mr Gertel. Cappell said at last, and the old man bent down, thrust the key in the end, gave a half turn, and the two ponderous sides slowly curved over till they were nearly together, leaving only a few inches of the shining brass press plate visible. Then there was a faint click, and the left side fell heavily, setting free the right, which descended with a loud clang and closed tightly over a rebate in the lower side so closely that it was only by holding a candle near that the junction could be seen. Go on, and the old lawyer again inserted a key. There was no show of effort on his part as the old lawyer turned the key when the end of the iron chamber closed in tightly, and after once more examining the blank stone chamber they slowly ascended the steps. Then the iron door was closed and locked, and Mr Gertel handed Cappell the keys. An hour later, a couple of masons were at work with the stones that were below in the locked up cellar, and the next day they had filled in a wall of six feet thick, cemented over the face so that only a dark patch showed where the entrance to the colonel's tomb had been. End of Chapter 12 Chapter 13 of The Dark House This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org The Dark House by George Manville Fenn. Chapter 13 The Young Doctor Look here, said Artis, you mustn't be offended with me. I speak very plainly, and if I can be of any use to you, I will. They were in the drawing room, prenant having announced that the masons had left. I am not going to think of your remarks. I was thinking of going today, continued Artis, and I feel now that I ought not to go and leave you in a regular hole like this. There is no need for you to stay. Well, no need, of course, but I suppose you will not kick me out. Of course not, you are welcome. That's right, said Artis. You see, he continued, looking round to wear catrine and Lydia sat together. I feel it due to myself in the show that I had no hand in that. No one accused you, Mr. Artis. Oh, no, of course not. That would be too good a joke. Then I shall stay. Our case is different, said Lydia, turning red, and then pale. Mr. Capel, misty-ing him and I, if we can be of no more use, would like to say goodbye this afternoon. But why? cried Capel, glanced at the speaker and then fixed his eyes on catrine. There is no occasion for you to leave. I think Miss Lawrence is right, said Catrine, but I want help and counsel from both of you. You must not leave me yet. It is impossible for us to stay. Impossible? Why, etiquette? Is not Mr. Gertl here? Are not things as they have been since we met? I did not know that Mr. Gertl was going to stop, said Catrine, softly. If I felt that we could be of any service, then you will stay, cried Capel warmly. Catrine hesitated, looked up, then down, raised her eyes once more and left her chair to take Lydia's hand. Let us go upstairs, she said softly. Lydia rose at once. You do not speak, said Capel. Catrine did not answer till they reached the door and then she raised her eyes to his with a long, timid look. If Lydia consents, so will I. And you will stay, Miss Lawrence, to help me, cried Capel warmly. I will, said Lydia gravely. That's right, cried Capel, opening the door for them to pass out and catching Catrine's eye for a moment as she passed. Curse her, she's playing a dangerous game, said artist to himself, as he watched the ladies leave the room. Glancing aside, he saw that the old lawyer was watching him narrowly. I suppose you are not glad that I am going to stay, Mr. Gertl, he said. For some things I am, said the old man Cooley, for others I am not. Just then, Capel returned. The two girls separated as they reached their rooms, Catrine kissing Lydia's cheek, and then, as soon as she was alone, her countenance changed and she sat gazing with glowing eyes that seemed full of some purpose upon which she was bent. At the same time, Lydia Lawrence sat with her face buried in her hands, weeping silently and wishing that she were back in her country home. Very little more was said below, for Mr. Gertl had an engagement in the city and let the young men together. You won't have a detective set to work, no. Well, do as you like. I'm off for a run to get rid of this gloom, back to dinner. Thank goodness, said Artis, breathing more freely, and five minutes after, he was slowly crossing the square, wondering who the man was who had just gone up to the door he had left. I've seen his face before, he muttered. Why, of course, the young doctor. What does he want? Capel was thinking of the fortune that had slipped through his fingers, depressed and yet at times overjoyed for Catrine's glance had been full of hope, but he must trace the money that had been taken, and the gents, how lovely they would look on Catrine's neck. He sighed as he pictured her thus adorned and he was sinking into a daydream when the door opened softly and Prenum entered with the doctor's card. Dr. Heston, show him up. Capel motioned his visitor to a chair when the keen-looking young doctor who was watching him narrowly said, I dare say you are surprised to see me here. Oh no, a call. I only make professional calls, Mr. Capel. I have come to you on an important matter. Indeed, exclaimed Capel. Yes, respecting the death of one of those two men, the Indian sir. I'm afraid there was some foul play there. Foul play? Why, he was killed with a life preserver. The doctor tapped with his fingers on his hat as if he was beating a funeral march. Quickly, no sir, the more I study this case the more I feel convinced that he was not. End of Chapter 13 Chapter 14 of The Dark House This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org The Dark House by George Manvulfing Chapter 14 A clever diplomatist. Dr. Heston, you surprised me. There was the inquest. Yes, where my opinion, sir, was overruled by the coroner and my colleague, both elderly medical men, sir, while I am a young and comparatively inexperienced. You are disposed to think that this is a case of professional jealousy. I will be frank with you. I did think so. Exactly, but pray, disabuse your mind. I am not jealous. I am angry with myself for giving way in that case. It seemed all very straightforward but it was not. May I ask what you mean? I mean, sir, that I am certain that our poor old Indian friend did not die from the blow that he received from that life preserver. How, then, said Capel Huskily, it seems to me that he must have been poisoned in some way or another and I could not rest without coming to you. Oh, impossible. Perhaps so, sir, but I am telling you what I believe. Do you think he had any enemies here? Oh, no. The servants seemed to have been on friendly terms. Well, it hardly seems like it. That wretch must have yielded to a terrible temptation, said Capel, and the other was defending his master's goods. What goods? Said the doctor. Capel was silent. I see, sir, there is more mystery about this than you care to explain. Was there some heavy sum of money in the late Colonel's room and were these two men in league? I don't think they were in league. Was anyone else interested in the matter? Oh, no. Impossible, said Capel, half aloud. Doctor Heston, I am afraid there is a good deal of imagination to say. Let me try and disabuse your mind. I should be glad if you could. Capel paced the room for a few minutes. This has taken me quite by surprise, Doctor Heston, he said. Give me a little time to think it over. Will you keep perfectly private all that you have said to me? I don't like to suspect men unjustly, and yet I'm afraid I've done wrong in giving him time, said the Doctor, as he went down. Well, a week is not an age. As soon as he had left, Paul Capel let his head go down upon his hands, for his brain seemed to be in a whirl, the death of Ramo, the disappearance of the fortune, the visit of the Doctor. It only wanted this letter, with the hints he had thrown out via a train of latent suspicion in the young man's mind. There was that open window that the policeman had declared had not been used. Was he wrong? Had others been in the conspiracy and turned afterwards on Ramo and Charles, they might have been in the plot, or again, they might have been defending their master's wealth against the wretch who had escaped with the treasure by the open window. Those three Italians had they anything to do with the matter? The old butler, he seemed so quiet and innocent, but often beneath an air of innocency, crime found arresting place. Then he found himself suspecting Mr. Goetel and on the face of the evidence Capel laid before himself, the case looked very black. He knew everything, he held the keys, he, the old friend and companion had been left merely a signet ring. Impossible, cried Capel half a loud, I might as well suspect artist, or Miss Lawrence, or Catrine herself. May I come in, said a voice that sent through the thinker, and Catrine D'ingham stood in the doorway. Come in, yes, cried Capel, advancing to meet her with open hands, and moved by an impulse that he could not withstand. Is anything the matter, she said simply. Yes, no, yes, a great deal is the matter, cried Capel, there, I must speak to you. Capel, she said, half in alarm. Forgive me if I seem impetuous, he cried, but I am greatly troubled in mind, and I feel as if I would give anything for the sympathy of one who would listen to my troubles, and help me with her counsel. Surely you have all our sympathy, Miss D'Capel, said Catrine innocently. Yes, I hope so, he cried obviously, but I want more than that, Catrine. You must know that I love you. Mr. Capel, pray do not be angry with me. Is this a time or season to make such a declaration to me, Mr. Capel, said Catrine softly. For some things, no, for other things, yes. I am in such sore need of help and counsel. Such as could be given me who returned my love. No, no, don't leave me, hear me out. As soon as I heard that will read, it filled my heart with joy, for it told me that I was rich, and that these were riches which I could share with you. Then, when the discovery was made that the treasure had been stolen, it was not the wealth that I regretted, but I despaird because it seemed that you were father from me. But listen to me. I am trying hard to discover how this large fortune has been swept away. Catrine's eyes glittered. Help me in my endeavours and tell me this someday if I make the discovery, and am I once more in a position to ask you to be my wife? You will listen to me. She raised her beautiful eyes to his, and he brought her hand. It was withdrawn, and she said softly, I am sorry you should think me so sordid. Then you loved me, he cried. I made no such confession. The man to whom I give my hand will not be chosen for the sake of his money. Then I may hope, he cried, Mr Capel, is it not your duty to find your fortune? Yes, but let me say our fortune, he cried. Mr Capel, do not speak to me again like this. I should feel that I was standing in your light if I listen now. But at some future time, she looked at him softly, and his breath went and came fast as her speaking eyes rested on his, and he saw the damask red deepen in her cheeks. Until that future time comes, she whispered, and you will help me, he cried. Yes, she said at last, I will help you all I can. He would have called her in his arms, but she raised her hand. I thought we were to be friends. Friends, he whispered, I love you. It must be then, as a friend, she said in her low voice, but there was in her look which made Capel's heart throb, while when she extended her hand he kissed it, without being aware that Lydia had entered the room and drawn back with a weary look of misery in her face that she vainly sought to hide. End of Chapter 14 Chapter 15 of The Dark House This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org The Dark House by George Manville Fenn Chapter 15 In the Dark Look here Kate, I'm not going back till I've had a good try here to see if something can't be made out of this affair. Catherine Dyingham sat in the drawing room of the Dark House with her eyes half closed as if listening to the ballad, Lydia was singing in a low tone in the corner of the back room, while Capel stood by turning over the leaves. The old lawyer was in another corner at a card table on whose green surface lay a heap of papers and parchment, one of which he took up from time to time and laid down after examining it by the light of the shaded lamp. You said only yesterday that you were sick of domestic cemetery, said Catherine. So I am, for it's dullful enough for anything here, only it makes me mad to see such wealth about treasures and plate belongings to this fellow Capel. Then it is very evident that you did not filter the old man's treasure, said Catherine. Yes, my dear, very evident, if I had I should not be here. Unless you thought it better for the sake of throwing people off the scent, said Catherine, with a peculiar look in his face. I say, he cried, returning the gaze, what do you mean? You don't think I killed those and got the plunder, do you? I don't know, she replied. Well then, I didn't. I never had the chance. All the brains to conceive such a coop. Look here, cried artist. Don't speak so loud, Gerard. Oh, very well. But look here, madam clever. Did you manage that bit of business? Catherine raised her soft white hands. Don't do that, said the young man. You make me want to kiss them. You would not be so foolish now. I don't know, and look here. I don't like you being so thick with Capel. Don't you? He wants to marry me. I'll break his neck first. You will act sensibly and well, Monture, said Catherine. That is, if you mean that we are to be married by and by. Mean it, of course. But not on a fortune of 100 pounds each, Monture. Good heavens know. Then hold your tongue and say nothing. But I shall say something if I see you working up a flirtation with that cad. You will say nothing, do nothing, see nothing. We cannot marry and starve. Tell me, Kate, on a bride. You don't care for this Capel. I care for him. Tell me then. What do you mean to do? Have my share of that money, said Catherine, with the peculiar hardening of her face. But I don't believe the treasure ever existed. It was a craze on the old man's part. You must be careful. Don't say or do anything at all, Capel, or Mr. Goetel. We must stay here. It was no craze on the old man's part. Maybe I can tell where the fortune is. What? You mean that? Hush. I am working for us both. But tell me. Hush. She has finished the song, see Catherine, leaning back and clapping her hands softly. Thank you, thank you, she said. Oh, what a while it is since I heard that dear old ballad. The evening wore away till bedtime, when the butler brought in and lit the candles, according to his custom, Catherine and Lydia taking theirs and going at once, and Gerard Artis following after partaking of a glass of soda water, leaving the old lawyer and Capel together. That in silence for some minutes, when the old lawyer said, I do not seem to get any nearer to the unraveling of this knot, Mr. Capel. Do you still adhere to the opinion that the treasure was there? Yes, and we shall find it soon. By a masterly inactivity. Oh, no, replied the old man, for I am taking steps of my own to redeem myself. I don't think those duels can be sold, or one of those notes changed with that word being brought to me. Capel felt one by the old man's manner. He shook hands with him warmly and said good night. He went to the door with him and saw the light shine on the thin, silvery hair as he went slowly up the staircase, while his candle cast on the wall. Then, as Capel listened, he heard the old man shut his chamber door, open it softly, and shut it again, more loudly, while the great house seemed to be doubly steeped in darkness and silence. Poor Capel went back to the lounge in which he had been seated, leaving his chamber candle burning like a tiny star in the sea of gloom and sat back, thinking. The candle burned lower as he thought on, ransacken his memory for some slight clue that would help him to find his lost fortune. The candle went out. Had he been asleep, he could not say. He believed that he had been only thinking deeply. At all events, he sat back, listening to the heavy beating of his own heart as he stared through the intense darkness towards the door. Upon whose panel he had felt sure he had heard a soft pat as if something had touched it. A minute, it might have been half an hour. It seemed so long, and there was a faint rustling that someone or something was coming silently towards where he sat. End of Chapter 15 Chapter 16 of The Dark House This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org The Dark House by George Manuel Fenn Chapter 16 You hear Paul Capel was not superstitious, but a curious thrill ran through his nerves and his first impulse was to leap up and shout Who's there? Then a thought flashed through his brain that whoever this was might have something to do and he told himself that he would wait, though the next moment he found himself, frankly, owning that a chill of dread had frozen his powers and that he could not have moved to save his life. A minute's reflection told him that it could not be a burglar. No one would come singly upon such a mission and the marauder would have been provided for him or matches. It must be someone in the house. The superstitious fancies were cleared away as his heart gave a thromb with the hope that he might now find a clue to the mystery that was hanging over the place. Thought after thought flashed through his brain and as they dazed him with the wild conjectures the person, whoever it was nearer and nearer and all doubt fled for whoever it was had stretched out a hand and touched the silver candlestick upon the table where he had set it down. There was again silence and then it seemed to copel as he sat there that the nocturnal visitor had made the table a starting point for a fresh departure in the dark and was going from him toward the back-drawing room in the left-hand corner of which the old lawyer had sat that night. Doubtless there are people who can weigh every act before they commit themselves to it but the majority of us even the most thoughtful go on weighing a great many and then in the most important moments of our lives forget all about the balance or the mental weights and scales and so it was that all in an instant poor copel unable longer to bear the mental strain rose quickly from his seat took two strides forward and grasped at the intruder exclaiming who's there he touched nothing he heard nothing and the old chill came back for a moment or two superstitious suggestions that he drew out a little silver matchbox which rattled as he opened it shook a match into his moist hand struck it and the faint little star of light flashed out Catherine you hear he exclaimed there were candles on an occasional table and he lit one before the little wax match burned down and then he remained speechless for the moment gazing at Catherine who stood within the back dooring room her long hair loosely knotted on her neck her wide arms outstretched before her and halfway from him she stood motionless as if turned to stone Catherine he cried again he took a step or two towards her almost impulse being to clasp her in his arms but as she stood motionless before him draped in a long grey pigment that swept the ground there was something about her that repelled him so that he stood staring at her unable to speak suddenly she turned from him and stood gazing at the corner where the piano stood walking slowly towards it and rested her hand upon it remaining there motionless for a few moments till catching up the candle Capel went towards her his pulse is throbbing and his temples seeming to flush as if a hot breath from a furnace had passed over them but before he reached her she turned slowly and walked straight towards him her eyes wide open and gazing intently before her she would have walked right upon him had he not given way and then stood holding the candle while she went deliberately to the fireplace rested her hands upon the mantelpiece and stood there holding one bare white foot towards the extinct fire as if to warm it Capel sat down the candle and advanced towards her when once more she turned and came straight towards him and this time he took her in his arms and kissed her quickly and passionately upon her cheek and lips his arms dropped to his sides though he felt that she was icily cold and as involuntarily he gave place as she walked slowly past him to the open door he went down to the broad landing and as he caught up the candle and followed he saw the tall grey figure go slowly on up and up the stairs and when he followed it to the first landing it was on the one above going slowly onto the bedroom at the end through whose door it passed and the lock gave a low soft click Paul Capel went back into the drawing room feeling half stunned and when he reached the middle of the room he paused candle in hand thinking a sleep he said at last a sleep and I did to take her in my arms like that then with an involuntary shiver the young man turned quickly round and went hostily up to his room to lie till morning tossing sleeplessly from side to side the tenth night it might be thought Capel as he dwelt upon the adventure of that night Catrune had descended to breakfast the next morning and he fancied she blushed slightly as he pressed her hand but she looked so frankly in his face that he could not but think that she was ignorant of what had taken place the days slipped by and in company by a private understanding Capel and the old lawyer searched every article of furniture that could possibly had been made the receptacle of the lost treasure I'll help you of course my dear sir said the old man if you wish it but I really think we shall do no good there had been several talks about breaking up the party but Capel as host had always begged that his companions would stay urging Mr Gertl to back him up by proposing that there should be no change until the whole of the business of the will was completed so far as the others were concerned I shall find my share at last Capel said laughingly and besides I have the house one afternoon when an artist had accompanied the ladies for a drive and the search was about to be recommenced Mr Gertl sat down by his little table in the drawing room and said I have a little news for you Mr Capel what have you found the clue not yet said the old man quietly but I have found an angel a what you did not know we had one in this house indeed but I did cried Capel ah yes said the old man looking at him thoughtfully but I'm afraid we are not thinking of the same indeed but we are said Capel warmly no one who has seen Miss Dyingham could hesitate to say that she is a very handsome woman said the old lawyer I was referring to Miss Florence a lady for whom I entertain the most profound esteem said Capel which will be strengthened sir when I tell you that she came to me and made a proposition that the old lawyer's communication was checked by the announcement of a visitor for Mr Capel and the doctor Mr Heston was ushered in that his visit was not productive of much for he had only to announce that he was more and more sure in his own mind that he was right the result being that Capel asked him to wait before taking any further steps and Dr Heston went away rather dissatisfied in his own mind if he does not follow up my proposals he said to himself I think that he has some reason of his own for keeping the matter quiet the ladies returned directly the doctor had gone an artist in perseverance of his instructions made himself so agreeable to Capel that he did not leave him alone with the old lawyer while at dinner and during the evening no opportunity was likely to occur for a private conversation I'll see you directly after breakfast tomorrow morning Mr Capel the old man said I should prefer a quiet business chat with you for the matter is important I should like to have heard it at once replied Capel but as you will suspicion was very busy in the dark house in those days for the butler had found that for several nights past chamber candles had been burned down in the sockets in one of the candle sticks which candle stick was left in the drawing room while a tall candle stick was afterwards taken up to the bedroom Prenum wanted to know why Mr Capel or the young master as he termed him should want to sit up so late so he watched and saw that night after night he stayed down in the drawing room for hours but he found out nothing only that the cold struck even through the mat from the stone floor and that he was chilling enough when he went to bed in his pantry to require a liqueur of brandy to keep of rheumatism and similar attacks for Mr Capel had remained up after the others had gone night after night blaming himself for behaving in an unfair unmanly spirit but unable to control the impulse which led him to long for such another adventure as on that special night but after a long day night watches grow wearisome to the most ardent lovers and when after nine nights spent in expectancy there was no result no soft gliding step heard upon stair or floor both Capel and Prenum grew weary and retired to their couches like the rest it was on the tenth night that Capel instead of going to bed at once sat musing over the old lawyer's words then he began thinking of the doctor's visit and at last taking out his watch he saw it was close upon two the hour made him think of the night when he had encountered Catrine just at that time and moved by some impulse he knew not what he went to his door softly opened it and gazed out onto the gloomy staircase where all was silent as the grave no there was the faint creak of a hinge that had been opened and with his heart seeming then still Capel stood in the darkness listening till utterly weary he was about to close his door when so softly that he could hardly distinguish the sweep of the dress something past him going straight to the stairs and then he could just hear whoever it was descend end of chapter 17 chapter 18 of the Dark House this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org The Dark House by George Manville Fenn chapter 18 nocturnal proceedings there was not a sound to be heard as Paul Capel stole softly down in his dressing gown and as he expected the drawing room door was closed but not latched pushing it softly feeling certain that Catrine if it was she had entered there he followed and went on and on till he was about in the middle of the room and listening attentively he began to think that he must have been mistaken when there was a faint rustle and a heavy breath was drawn the sound coming from the lesser drawing room he listened more intently his heart beating heavily and a strange singing in his ears another sound as of something being touched the pen tray on the little card table where Mr Goetel sat and worked and what was that undoubtedly one of the keys that lay there another and another was touched and as they were moved on the thin mahogany the bottom of the receptacle for cards the sound seemed quite loud then came a faint scraping sound and he knew as well as if he had seen it that a key was taken up keys yes there were several there which the old lawyer used Capel recalled that the key of the plate closest had been placed there when Prunam had handed it over he listened but there was no further sound yes the low breathing could be heard and it suddenly dawned upon Capel that Petrine had been approaching him there she was close at hand he had only to stretch forth his arms and the next instant she would have been folded to his breast it was a hard fight but he had read of a sudden awakening under such conditions proving dangerous as he listened there was a faint rustling as the soft grave pegnore he knew so well passed over the thick carpet towards the door and if the listener had any doubt he had a side by the light pack that he heard it was a hand touching the panel Capel waited a minute during which he heard the dress sweep against the edge of the door and then the sound was quite hushed he knew what that meant too the door had been drawn to and so he found it as he stepped lightly there opened it and passed out onto the great landing where he strained his eyes upward to try and make out the graceful grape figure as it went up the winding staircase to the bedroom it was not so dark there for a faint gloom if could not be called light fell from the great ground glass skylight at the top of the winding staircase like so much diluted darkness being poured down into a well the great winding staircase suddenly seemed to him full of horror as he stood there it had never struck him before but now how terrible it seemed that balustrade was so low suppose poor girl in her sleep she should lean over it and fall down onto the white stones where the black fret work of the glistening stove could be seen there patch against the white slabs there was no reason for such fancies but poor capels hands grew wet with a cold perspiration I ought to have stopped her and awakened her at any risk he said as he still gazed up the great staircase and then his heart seemed to stand still for there was a faint click as of a lock shot back either from on a level with where he stood or from down below in an instant he realised what had happened Katrina had been to fetch the key at the late colonels chamber and had gone in there he hesitated a moment and then going close he softly touched the door and felt it yield just then there came a faint scratching noise and there was a gleam of light showing him that the heavy curtain was drawn then the light shone more clearly and pressing the door a little more open he glided through he was about to peer out softly when the light was set down he heard the soft rustle of the dress an arm was thrust round from the far side of the curtain and the door was carefully closed look at the spy he said but a slight sound attracted his attention and his curiosity mastered all other feelings gently sliding his hand into his pocket he drew out a pen knife and cut gently downwards making a slit a few inches in length this he drew slightly apart and gazed through to see that Katrina was standing with her back in the act of opening one of the large cabinets at the side of the bed end of chapter 18 chapter 19 at the dark house this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org dark house by George Manville Fenn chapter 19 birds of prey travelers in Mayfair will have noticed that every here and there old-fashioned snug-looking hostilities exist in out-of-the-way places at the corner of a muse in a private street where they do not seem to belong and they are generally kept by travelers who have taken wives joining their savings and gone into business with the brewer's help in the parlour of the foreign hand Lower Maybush Street a party of gentlemen servants were playing bagatelli upon a bad board in a very smoky atmosphere while a knot of three men sat at one of the old narrow battered mahogany tables in a corner drinking cold gin and water and smoking bad cigars one was a little sharp-eyed round-headed man smartly dressed and evidently rather proud of a large guilt pin in his figured silk tie another was at all and not ill-looking he might have been a valet for there was a certain imitation gentility about his cut a valet whose master had been rather addicted to the turf and this had been reflected on this man to extent of trousers rather too tight short hair and a horseshoe pin with pearl nails the third was rather a shabby-looking man of forty undoubtedly a gentleman servant out of place carrying the sign in the front of the reason why in the shape of a nose were being bathed in glasses of alcoholic drink knew him long did you say said the tall man tapping his chin with an ivory handled rat and cane ten years poor chap said the ex-servant it was very horrid here never mind that said the brisk little man we don't want horrors touch the bell-dick come old fella and we'll have them filled again that cigar don't draw try one of these here three fours of gin cold he cried to the landlord and as soon as the glasses were refilled and cigars lighted the conversation went on to the accompaniment of rattling balls and laughter from the bagatelle players well said the tall man in a low voice can do as you like my lad but I should have thought that hard up as you are and I should say without much chance of getting another crib say at present you'd have been glad to earn an honest quid or two the shabby looking man shook his head here you're always putting on the pace too much dick said the little man a fellow wants a little time he's on you see if he isn't my respects to you Mr. Barnes huh nice flavoured drop of gin that you see you know the house well continued the tall man often been a course oh yes had many a glass of wine there when poor Charles was alive rather a bit of mystery that said the little man I put that and that together I said it down that he was trying the job on his own account and muffled it the shabby man shuddered and took a hearty draft of his gin and water there would be only us three in the game said the tall man softly and it would be share and share alike why if we worked it right it would set you up might take a pub on it said the shabby man you might take a pub and drink yourself to death was added aside the little man winked at his tall companion unobserved by the other who looked dreamy bars at all the lower windows aye yes yes you couldn't get in there was the quick reply more ways of killing a cat than by hanging it look here my lads there's a stable to let in the muse at the back the shabby man looked up quickly I had a look at it today anyone could easily get to that window looking on the leads but that's the window where well dead men tell no tales and they don't get in the way that's the place oh no said the shabby man you're not afraid I tell you it would be as easy as easy you can give me a plan of the place and all about it and why it's child's play my lad and won't hurt anybody take everything out at that stable and have a cart in the coach house I say touch that bell again old man you are not going to let a fortune slip through your fingers I know the three occupants at the corner soon after rose to go holding half way down the street where the tall man said there's half a sovereign to keep the cold out till then 12 o'clock mine punctual the shabby man slouched away while the little fellow rubbed his hands there's half a ton of it there he whispered think he'll stand to it no fear now we've got him over his fright by jingo I'm only afraid of one thing what's that someone else will be on the job end of chapter 19 chapter 20 at the dark house this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information all to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org The Dark House by George Manuel Fenn Chapter 20 A Sleep or Awake it was a painful and Paul Capel thought a degrading position but he blamed his passion telling himself that it was his duty to watch her in this sleep walking state less ill should befall how thoroughly awake she seemed to be her every act was that the person perfectly herself an eager to find something that was hidden softly and quickly she examined the cabinet opening door after door and taking out one after the other to see whether there was a concealed cavity behind next she knelt down before a large carved oak chest and Capel saw how carefully she searched that and examined top and bottom to see whether was false this done she walked to the bed and stood pondering there crossing to the built up portal she drew the curtain aside revealing the half dry cement she shook her head and walked to the window where she carefully rearranged the heavy folds there to keep the rays of light from passing out and betraying her task to anyone who might be at the upper windows of some house the act displayed the working of the brain that if slumbering still held a peculiar activity of an abnormal kind once or twice he caught sight of Catrine's eyes that were not as he had seen them on that other night wide open and staring straight before her but bright, eager and full of animation she must be awake he thought and the idea was strengthened as he saw her throw herself down upon a chair and with a peculiar action of her hands, indicative of disappointment rest her elbows on her knees her chin upon her clenched fists and there she bent down her face intent her brows knit and looking ten years older the candle cast a curious shadow on her countenance then the lover intervened on her behalf no, she could not be to suppose that she was awake was to credit her with being deceitful with cheating him into the belief that night that she was asleep he was about to spring out throw himself at her feet and awaken her with his caresses but a chilling feeling of repulsion stayed him it might work mischief in the terrible fright it would give her at being awakened in that gloomy room and besides what a place to select for his passionate avowals it was secret and silent the very home for such a love as his, but there was the terrible past where she was seated put time back there lay the ghastly body of the murdered man behind her was the bed where so recently a strange occupant was stretched and beneath it lay that other lately discovered horror beyond that built up wall was colonel's tomb love was impossible in such a place as that and did he want confirmation of the fact that Catherine was on the ballast he felt that he had it here before him for no girl of her years would dare to come down in the dead of the night and enter that room haunted as it was with such terrible memories he's still watching her as she crouch there looking straight before her and as she suddenly sprung up and went to a picture painted upon a panel in the wall he found himself growing excited by the fancy that perhaps in the clairvoyant state of sleep she might be able to discover the mystery that had baffled them all he stood there wrapped in his thoughts till he saw her turn from the frame that she had tried to move in a dozen different ways her fingers playing here and there with marvellous quickness about the corners and prominent bits of carving as if she expected that anyone might prove to be a secret spring again she tried another picture darted to the group a statuary in the corner and tried to lift it back as if expecting that which she thought might be hidden beneath it and again there was the movement full of dejection and despair as she stood facing him with the light full upon her eyes she turned away despondently and then started upright with her eyes flashing and one hand raised in the involuntary movement of one who listens intently to some sound had she heard something or was it fancy a part of her dream Paul Capel thought the latter for light as a form he saw Catrine dart across the room to where the candle stood the next moment they were in total darkness End of Chapter 20 Chapter 21 at the Dark House This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org The Dark House by George Manuel Fenn Chapter 21 What the Sound Was A faint rustle was plainly heard as Capel drew aside the curtain then the sound ceased but he felt that as he had taken a step to the left Catrine must be exactly opposite to him in another moment she would come forward and touch him for he could not move from his position if he still decided she would pass him and fasten him in the room he listened in the intense darkness and could just detect the short hurried breathing of one who was excited by dread but as he listened in the darkness clear now of the heavy curtain he heard another sound a peculiar scraping sound that seemed to come from outside the window it was that which had alarmed Catrine and made her extinguish the light the noise ceased then it was repeated and directly after sounding muffled by the heavy curtain the window rattled a little in its frame as if shaken or pressed upon by someone outside the painting grew louder there was a warm breath upon Catrine's cheek and the next moment he held Catrine in his arms she uttered a low cry of fear and struggled to escape hush he whispered you have nothing to fear are you awake there was no answer only a vigorous thrust from the hands placed upon his chest trying to open the door trembling violently the while Catrine he whispered why do you not trust me wake up there is nothing to fear he tried to clasp her in his arms again but with a quick movement she eluded him and as he caught at her again it seemed as if the great curtain had been thrust into his arms for he grasped that and as he flung it away the door struck him in the face and then closed he heard it locked and the key withdrawn then he stood listening for the window rattled again and he wondered that the noise he had made in his slight struggle with Catrine had not been heard by whoever was on the seal there was a bell somewhere in the room but if he rung and roused up the man would be horrified at hearing his old master's bedroom bell ringing in the dead of the night even if that had not been the case what excuse could he make and could he explain his position to Mr Gertel without making him the confident of all that had passed and how could he relate to anyone that Catrine had been wondering about the house in the middle of the night what would Mr Gertel say would he think it was sonnabilism no he could not ring it was impossible and all the while there was that strange noise outside muffled by the curtain he walked cautiously through the intense darkness towards the window till he could touch the curtain and then passing to the left he softly drew it and looked out it was almost as dark out there as in but there was a faint glow from the lamps beyond the tall houses that closed in the back and against this he could dimly see the figure of a man standing on the sill while more instinctly and quite low down there were the heads and shoulders of two more it seemed to him that the man standing on the sill was trying to pass some instrument through between the two sashes so as to force back the window catch what should he do give the alarm downstairs he could not with our compromising Catrine alarm the nocturnal visitors that would be to give up a chance of getting hold of the clue now that the opportunity had come make a bold effort to capture these intruders three to one yes but he was in the fort and they had to attack and could he secure one bribery or punishment would make him tell all there was the sound going on at the window which was resisting the efforts and with pulpitating heart and heavy breathing he well asked himself the questions again should he be cowardly or brave and make a daring effort to gain that which was his from the information these people could give there was a grating and clicking still going on as he stepped cautiously across the room the sound guiding him to the stand where his uncle's old East India uniform and accountants were grouped and the next minute his hands rested upon a pistol useless for it was old fashioned and uncharged that was better his hand touched the ivory hilt of the curved sabre for a time the blade refused to leave its sheath then it gave way a little and he drew it forth laid the scabbard on the floor passed his hand through the wrist knot and thought that he would have to strike hard for a calvary sabre is generally round edged and blunt as he thought of this he touched the edge of the sword with his thumb to find that this was no regulation blade but a keen edge tower set in an English hilt and armed with this Paul Capow felt himself fully at the window which did not yield creak crack crack the catch flew open and there was a pause during which Capel drew near the blade thrown over his left shoulder ready for delivering the first cut at the man who entered then the window glided up the great curtain was drawn by an arm in his direction partly covering him and a light flashed across the room end of chapter 21 chapter 22 of The Dark House this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org The Dark House by George Manful Fenn chapter 22 a blank adventure the light played on the blade of the keen edged sword as if it were phosphorescent but the Lambert quivering was not seen by the holder of the lantern who hid Capel with his own hand as the light was flashed upon the bed and into the corners of the room and then turned off all right boys the light was whispered and a man swung himself into the room be quick and shut the window a second man crept softly in and the third was half in when he slipped threw out his hand to save himself struck against one of his companions and drove him back against the curtain and upon Capel light barkers the words saw the flash and struck at the hand that held it the blade fell heavily upon the lantern and dashed it to the floor where it went out raising the sword he struck again but as he did so one of the men sprung at him and the blow that fell was upon the fellow's shoulder and with the hilt of the sword Capel was born back the man's fierce spring his feet became entangled in the curtain and he fell heavily with his adversary upon him quick Morris whispered a voice no no curse you shut the window there's only one where's your matches quick light the glim ah would you lie still and bite that you just move again the barrel of the revolver had been thrust between Capel's teeth and as he lay back with the man on his chest half stunned helpless and despairing he saw instinctively the figure against the window heard the sash slide down and the darkness was complete as the curtain was drawn over the panes then there was the faint streak of light as a match was struck the bull's eye lantern was picked up and re-lit and the bright rays once more played all about the room the man who held it then went to the door and listened it's all right he whispered you said nobody can't hear what goes on in this room these curtains would suffocate a trumpet here you he cried to the third man don't stand shivering like that take that carving knife out of his head pull the trigger-dick if he stirs this to the man kneeling on Capel's chest Capel lay absolutely powerless at that moment but as the third fellow caught him by the wrist the young man wrenched his head on one side and heaved himself up so that he partially dislodged the ruffian who held him down at the same time he swung the sabre round driving the third back and striking the principal adversary to sharp a blow that he slipped aside and Capel leaked to his feet at that moment the light was turned off and there was a rush made to get beyond his reach Capel also took advantage of the total darkness to step back and ready for a cut should an attack be made as he stood there panting a low whisper rose from the direction of the door and he just caught its import give me the light there was a click directly after and then from about the middle of the room the dazzling light of the bull's eye shone out full upon Capel as he stood with upraised sword while his assailants were in the dark now then said the voice which he recognised as that of the man who had held the pistol to his mouth throw down that tool give up you scoundrel cried Capel you can't escape can't we? said the man between his teeth more can't you? now then will you throw down that sword? no said Capel furiously you've walked into a trap so give up go on said the voice of the lesser man at that moment there was a bright flash of light a sharp report and Capel felt a sensation as if he had been struck a violent blow on the left shoulder which half spun him round while the round glistening disc of light seemed to have darted back to the side of the bed half stunned but full of light Capel turned and made for the light once more when there was another flash a quick shot and this time the blow seemed to have fallen on the top of his head and stunned and helpless the sword dropped from his hand and he fell on a chair and from that onto the floor you've killed him you've killed him think I want my skin turned into poor crackling with that sword hold your row will ya or we shall be taken and hung oh my arm look here dear pal said the little man if you want to preach just wait till this job's done throw the light on the door dick I don't know which is doors and which is windows with all these curtains oh that's it is it quiet will you he stood listening attentively it's all right there isn't a sound let's go then at once what empty not me oh dick take lightly wait till I've got two more cartridges in that's it now then business but this poor fellow he's not killed only quieted now then what is there here they made a hurried search of the room but with the exception of the silver tops of the bottles of the colonels dressing case there was nothing to excite their cupidity then capels pockets were searched but watch and purse were in his chamber while though the colonels room was full of costly objects they were not of the portable nature that would have made them valuable to the men now then said the tall man quickly it's of no use we must go down where are the keys the little man took a bunch from the bag but suppose the old man's awake whispered the shivering ex-servant thanked from his wound well if he is we must persuade him to go to sleep somehow till we're done here you come and hold the light while I hand him the keys the trembling man took the lantern while his leader went down on one knee and as his little companion handed him false keys and picked locks he visited himself trying to open the door keep that light still will you he cried menacingly why you're making it dance all over the door I wanted on the keyhole don't I then the light shone full on the lock for a minute or two not more for he who held it kept turning his head to see if Capel was moving this brought forth a torrent of whispered oaths from both men here let me have a try whispered the little man I can open it if you'll hold this blessed glimpse still I never see such a cure then in the coolest manner possible he took the other's place and tried key after key pick lock after pick lock and ended by throwing all into the bag with a growl of disgust it's one of them stupid paints he cried here give us the jones a strong steel crowbar in two pieces were screwed together and its sharp edge inserted between the door and the post but the great solid mahogany door stood firm only emitting now and then a loud crack sharp as that given by a card whip as the men strained added in turn here let's try a saw centre bit a centre bit was fitted into a stock and a hole cut right through into this after much greasing a keyhole saw was thrust and not without emitting a loud noise the work of cutting begun the sawdust falling lightly on the line skin but at the end of a few seconds a dull harsh sound told that the saw was meeting metal and a fresh start had to be made for fully two hours did the men work to get through boring and soaring in place after place but always to find that the door was strengthened in all directions with metal plates and at last the task was given up look here, ground the leader of the party that bed isn't used I want to know how that chap got in he hasn't any key can't you get the door open then said the third man after the other had shaken his head why don't you see we can't but we shall get nothing for our trouble nothing at all said the tall man quietly but there that'll do first of all you were so precious anxious to go now you know we can't get down you're all for the job I say is this the room where the murder was yes don't talk about it why not we haven't done another he'll come round what next dick was the laconic reply when there's all that plate asking of us to make up the small parcel and carry it away don't patter got all the tools yes then come along the light was played upon capels insensible face for a few moments and then to the intense relief of the ex-servant the lantern was placed in the bag with the burglars tools and the window being thrown open one by one stole out the last closing the window behind him leaving capel lying helpless and insensible in the locked up room end of chapter 22 chapter 23 at the dark house this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org The Dark House by George Manuel Fenn chapter 23 waiting for breakfast such a bright cheery morning Lydia said catrine knocking at the bedroom door oh you are up breakfast must be ready the two girls descended to find that they were first nobody down cried catrine and I am so hungry oh how wicked it seems on a morning like this to keep out all the light and sunshine just then old Mr. Goetel came in looking as usual very quiet and thoughtful and after a while artist came down looking dull and sleepy where's the boss he said suddenly the what? I do not understand you said the old Gloria the master, the guardian of this tomb where's Capel oh said the old Gloria possibly the fine morning may have tempted him to take a walk are we going to wait for Capel said artist I'm so hungry I feel quite ashamed but I think we ought to wait there is nothing to be ashamed of in a healthy young appetite my dear young lady said the old Gloria I have been reading in my room since six and I should like to begin I don't suppose he will belong Mr. Capel out Prenum I think not so said the butler who was bringing in a cupboard dish perhaps you would better tell him that he was all assembled he may have overslept himself at the end of five minutes the old butler was back to say that Mr. Capel had not answered when he knocked he may be ill said Lydia anxiously and then catching Catrine's eye she coloured warmly Prenum gave artists a meaning look and that gentleman followed him out what is it Mr. Capel hasn't been to bed all night sir not been to bed all night Prenum said the old Gloria who had followed did you let him out last night no sir then how can he have gone out I saw that the door was fastened after you had gone to bed and it was still fastened when I came down at six and at seven too sir said the butler said artists go and look round is Mr. Capel ill said Catrine no no my dear I think not said the old Gloria I'll go too and see it is very strange said Catrine turning to Lydia who looked ashy pale I hope nothing is the matter dear she seemed so calm that Lydia took courage and returned to the breakfast table well followed by the old Gloria and Prenum artists examined the dining room and study then ascended to the first floor tried the colonels door found it fast and went on into the drawing room I tried that door he said grimly because that is the chamber of horrors it is locked and the key is in my table said the old Gloria the other rooms finding Capel's watch purse and pocketbook and looked at each other blankly he must be out said artists no sir he's his hat and stick artists stopped thinking and then bounded up the stairs again to the colonels door I thought so he said there's something wrong here look he pointed to several holes through the mahogany door the mark of a saw scoring the panels and the reddish dust on the lion's skin mat is anyone here he cried knocking I say is anyone here look at that he uttered a cry almost like a woman as he pointed to a place where the lion's skin rug did not reach and there dimly seen by the gloomy light thrown by the stained glass window there was a thread of blood that had run beneath the door end of chapter 23 chapter 24 of the dark house this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org The Dark House by George Manvolven Chapter 24 Doctor and Nurse The old lawyer ran from the door with an alacrity not to be expected in one of his years and returned directly with the key that he had found in his table give it to me said Artis Huskily and snatching the key he tried to insert it but his hand trembled so that he did not succeed the next moment he shrunk away here open the door Prenum he said I dent sir I dent indeed ah poor young man give me the key said the old lawyer firmly and taking it he tried the door to find that the lock had been tampered with so that it was some minutes before he could get it to move had not better fetched the police sir faltered the butler stop said the old lawyer turning the handle there is someone against the door he pushed hard and with some effort he got it open so that he could have squeezed in it is all dark he said no it is the curtain and forcing his way through he drew back the hangings from the window it's poor Capel dead whispered Artis who had followed here Prenum come in he cried angrily oh how horrible poor lad the lawyer saw the naked sword lying on the carpet that the drawers and cabinet had been ransacked and that the window was not quite shut down he took this in at a glance as he ran to where Capel lay close to the door where he had dragged himself sometime during the early hours of the morn to lie exhausted after vainly trying to raise the alarm he's dead Sue dead grown the butler hush cried the old lawyer harshly he's not dead Mr. Artis you are young and active quick that doctor Mr. Heston you know where he lives you Prenum Brandy stop tell the ladies Mr. Capel is ill nothing more don't spread the alarm is anything very serious Mr. Matter said a voice at the door yes nobody go away now cried the old lawyer Mr. Capel is ill there is something terribly wrong again said a deeper voice and white as ashes and closely followed by Catrine Lydia came in she uttered a faint cry and then rested herself from Artis who tried to stop her no she cried seriously changed as if it were an instant from a shivering girl into a thoughtful woman quick go for help Mr. Gertel what can I do yes let me help too said Catrine what is it has he tried to kill himself no cried Lydia turning upon her fizzly he was too true a man I'm afraid there has been an attempt made by burglars with the old lawyer and that our young friend has been trying to defend the place but he was locked in here the key was in my table and I'm afraid I'm growing very old things seem so much confused now he put his hand to his head for a few moments and looked helplessly from one to the other then his customary sang froid seemed to have returned this is not a sight for you ladies he said pray go back I am not afraid Mr. Gertel said Catrine with a slight shudder as she looked eagerly about the room for her answer Lydia took water from the wash stand and began to bathe the blood smeared face kneeling down by Capel's side just then Prenum entered with decanter and glass the former clattering against the letter as he poured out some of the contents holding a little of the brandy to Capel's clenched teeth Mr. Gertel managed to trickle through a few drops at a time while Lydia continued the bathing and Catrine stood like some beautiful statue gazing down at them with wrinkle-brow and clasped hands by this time the knowledge that something was wrong had reached the women's servants and they had both come to the door no no keep them away Prenum said Mr. Gertel in answer to offers of assistance you go down too and be at the door ready to let the doctor in yes sir I will said the old butler piteously but my young master will he live please God said the lawyer simply but he is not dead sir there is your answer man said Mr. Gertel for just then Capel uttered a low moan the old butler bent down on one knee and Lydia darted at him a grateful look as he saw him lift and press one cold hand and then laying it down he rose and went out at the room on tiptoe hands and his face towards heaven was he stabbed with that sword said Lydia in a hoarse voice no I think not the doctor must soon be here was the reply in fact five minutes later there was a quick knock at the door and Dr. Heston hurried in followed by artists give me the room he said quickly ladies please go the train turned slowly and glanced at Lydia I may stay Dr. Heston she said I may be abuse no words now he said sharply by and by you will be invaluable well there stay he had thrown off his coat and rolled up his sleeves as he spoke and as Lydia bent her head and stood waiting Catherine left the room and was busy with his examination head literally scored with a bullet he said not a cut whispered Mr. Girtle pointing to the sword bless me no scored by a bullet an inch lower hello what have we here he took out a knife and cut through the clothes where he could not draw them away from where the blood had oozed out just below the left shoulder ha yes bullet entered here passed out no here it is just below the skin he had raised the sufferer and found that the bullet had passed nearly through and was visible so near the surface that a slight cut would have given it exit nothing vital touched I think said the doctor visiting himself about the wound in the shoulder ah that's right madam nothing like a woman's hand after all about a sick man why this must have happened hours ago the doctor chatted away quickly but his hands kept time with his voice he had laid down a small case of instruments with a roll of linen and turning from the arm once more he rapidly clipped away the hair and dressed the wound in the head a wound so horrible that Artis shuddered turned to the brandy decanter the old butler stood holding with a helpless day's look and poured out a good dram while Lydia knelt there very pale but calmly holding scissors lint or strapping to hand as they were required now for the bullet said the doctor in a cheerful airy way Mr. Artis just lend a hand here oh no you look upset put down that decanter butler this isn't a dinner party that's right now kneel down here he softly raised capel and placed him in a convenient position before turning to Lydia really I think you would prefer to go now the girls lips seemed to tighten and she shook her head as you please said the doctor I have no time to waste a little back Mr. Gertel I want all the light I can have yes that's plain enough he muttered as with one hand resting on the injured man's shoulder where the bullet made quite a little lump he stretched out the other and from where it nestled in the case fitted amongst so much purple velvet he took out a small knife there was a pleasant look of satisfaction in the doctor's face as he took out the knife but the next moment he turned with an angry flash upon Lydia it was the natural instinctive act of one who loved seeking to protect the object loved for as Dr. Heston took the knife in his hand Lydia's eyes dilated and she leaned forward caught the doctor's arm raised at the keen little blade with dilated eyes my dear young lady are you mad? cried the doctor testily she raised their eyes to his in a look so full of appeal that he could read it as easily as if she had given it with the interpretation of words he was not accustomed to argue in a case like this but the girls loving attempt to protect the insensible man touched him to the heart and dropping his sharp imperious manner he said gently but don't you see it is to do him good Lydia's hand tremble but she still grasped the doctor's arm come come he said smiling you must not be alarmed do you want the bullet to stay in and irritate the whole length of the wound he said a sharp shake well then be sensible my dear there get me a bit of lint he continued and you shall see how easily and well I do this that's better why taking a tooth out is ten times worse this is a mere trifle there that's a brave little woman he will not even feel it Lydia's hand had dropped from the doctor's arm and she drew a long breath watching him as if her eyes were drawn to the knife while he bent over in a few minutes more the patient was lifted upon the bed and Lydia stood there with her hands clasped in dread for it seemed ominous to her that Capel should be compelled to lie there can he not be taken up to his room no my brave little nurse no it would have been extremely nice for him but what he requires now is absolute rest and quiet come come you are too strong minded a little woman to be superstitious go where you will in old houses there has generally been a death in some of the bedrooms but believe me that does not affect the living why if that were the case what should we do at the hospitals you are going to install yourself here then as nurse that's right let my instructions be carried out and I'll come in again at noon whispered conversation went on through the house that day but though there had been the attempt at burglary Mr. Goethe hesitated about calling in the police again and on consulting the doctor he agreed that it would be better not to have them there it will only disturb my patient he said and depend upon it with the light and people sitting up the scoundrels will not come again well said Mr. Goethe we will not communicate with the police at present the doctor came in at one and again at five and on leaving look rather serious different to this at about nine when I come in again I'll get Sir Ronald Mackenzie to see him I'll warn him at once that he may be wanted then you think his case serious brain injuries always are at nine o'clock when the doctor came his man has startled Lydia who had patiently watched the sufferer all day yes he said I will have Sir Ronald's opinion I shall be back in half an hour he left the room and hurried downstairs while Lydia bent down and laid her cheek against the patient's burning hand he was delirious now and talking loudly and rapidly yes it is there he kept on saying count four stones from the leg press on the fifth and it will swing around I have it safely this went on over and over again and as Lydia listened something she knew not what made her turn her head when it seemed to her that one of the bed curtains trembled and that in the gloom a hand was softly drawing one back that the sick man's words might be more plainly heard End of Chapter 24