'And a certain portrait of Nell Gwyn——'
'Which I have!'
'And a mole just above your left temple——'
'Which I have!' exclaimed I, in an ecstasy.
'Then your title is made out, as clear as the sun,' said he; 'and I bow, in contrition, before Lady Cherubina de Willoughby, rightful heiress of all the territory now appertaining, or that may hereinafter appertain, to the House of De Willoughby.'
'Oh, dear, how delightful!' cried I. 'But my good friend, how am I to set about proving my title?'
'Nothing easier,' answered he. 'Lady Gwyn (for his lordship is dead) resides at this moment on your estate, which lies about thirty miles from Town; so to-morrow morning you shall set off to see her ladyship, and make your claims known to her. I will send a trusty servant with you, and will myself proceed before you, to prepare her for your arrival. You will therefore find me there.'
While we were in the act of arranging affairs more accurately, who should make his appearance, but Stuart in a domino!
The moment he addressed me, old Eftsoones slunk away; nor could I catch another glimpse of him during that night.
Stuart told me that he had come to the masquerade, on the chance of finding me there, as I seemed so determined on going, the last time he was with me. He likewise explained the mystery of the darkened chamber, and the false alarm of fire.