Suddenly Sir John's major-domo entered the hall and passed rapidly to his master's side as he sat at the head of the table.
Sir John noted not that the man's face was ghastly pale, nor that his terror-stricken tongue could scarce find utterance for his words.
He stooped towards Sir John, and in low tones said—
"Sir John, the Deputy Sheriff is outside the hall—on the staircase."
Sir John started.
"Is it not the Sheriff?" he said; "we expected him as a guest to-day."
A dead silence had fallen in the hall, the guests were listening eagerly.
"No, Sir John, it is Mr. Deputy Sheriff," replied the major-domo.
"Bid him enter," said his master.
"He is not alone, Sir John; he has halberdiers with him."