Sophy.

[Pointing to the passage-door.] As true as I'm alive, if you don't unlock that door, I—I—I'll scream the place down!

Quex.

Why scream? [Pointing to the bell-rope which hangs beside the door.] There's the bell. I daresay a servant or two is still up and about. You'd rouse the house quicker in that way.

Sophy.

Much obliged to you for the hint. I will—I will— [She goes to the bell-rope and grasps it; then she looks round and sees him calmly turning the leaves of a book he has selected. She stares at him, with sudden misgiving.] Ha, now we shall see how much your grand scheme amounts to!

Quex.

We shall. Ring the bell.

Sophy.

[Blankly.] What do you mean?