“‘I will explain myself; the girl escaped from your custody hence, you say?’
“‘She did.’
“‘When had you the maid last?’
“‘Well, not very long ago, sire.’
“‘No, I think not, not many hours ago, Blood.’
“‘Sire!’
“‘Nay, don’t stare in surprise. She was in your house this very night.’
“Blood turned pale; his deceit was now discovered, and he could not deny it; but, he said, with a bold front,
“‘Who has so deceived you, sire?’
“‘No one, Blood.’