He was much pleased at being able to leave the widow’s residence without attracting the notice of any one, as he thought, but he had reckoned without his host. His movements had been watched; and he had not got more than a hundred and fifty yards or so from the chateau when he became aware that someone was behind him. His attention was attracted by footsteps. He stopped to listen, and then the sound ceased.
“I am full of idle fancies. No wonder,” he ejaculated, and once more he continued on his way.
But again the sound fell upon his ear. It was at this time nearer and more distinct.
“Umph, I was not mistaken after all,” he murmured. Upon turning round and looking behind him he observed a female which, much to his surprise, he found to be Theresa Trieste.
“You here, darling?” he ejaculated. “Whither are you bound for?”
“It is not a question of whither I am bound for,” returned the French maiden. “That is of no import. Where are you going, my lord?”
“Where am I going, Theresa?”
“Yes, where?”
“Well, if you must know, I am about to pay a visit to my friend, Monsieur de Monpres.”
“Don’t think to deceive me by such a shallow pretext,” cried Theresa.