“Yes, yes,” murmured the doctor, “and you, sir? you seem to have been hurt!”
“Not in the least,” said Mr. Faradeane, “not in the very least, thanks,” and, with a bow to Olivia, he passed out of the room.
Obeying an impulse she could not resist, Olivia followed him, and, darting at the squire, who was standing outside the lodge door, said:
“He—this gentleman—saved Bessie’s life!”
The squire started, as well he might, and approached the tall figure.
“My daughter tells me, sir,” he said, “that this poor girl owes her life to your courage and presence of mind. I hope you will allow me to express my sense of your bravery. My name is Vanley——”
For a moment Mr. Faradeane stood and regarded him with a frank smile; then his face changed suddenly.
“No thanks are due, sir; good-night,” he said, gravely, almost sternly; and before another word could be said he raised his hat and passed them.
CHAPTER V.
THE KEY TO THE RIDDLE.
The squire looked after the retreating figure in astonishment, and then at Olivia. She was trembling slightly, and the red and white were chasing each other on her downcast face.