She eyed the panting girl with suspicion, as Theodora leant for support by the door, while her left hand clasped her beating heart.
The tragic events of the past few weeks, and the murder of Marietta in Mrs. Harkaway's bedchamber, had led them to distrust every body and every thing.
"I must see him," gasped Theodora.
"Impossible," returned the girl curtly; "call to-morrow in the afternoon."
"Afternoon," returned Theodora. "After six in the morning will be too late. It is life and death, I tell you. Go and tell him."
"Obstinate girl, I tell you Mr. Harkaway has serious business on at daybreak, and has gone to rest, giving the strictest orders that he is not to be disturbed."
"Call him," returned Theodora, with forced calmness, "and he will have no need to go on this business at daybreak."
"Hah!"
"Do you hear?"
The girl retreated backwards, never moving her eyes from Theodora.