"It is a treaty! It is a treaty!" exclaimed one after another of the young men and maidens who were present.
Mr. Legare looked around in some confusion at being taken up so seriously, and then laughing, said:
"Very well—agreed! I ratify the compact, Mr. Howard; though I don't believe your part of it can be fulfilled. And now to breakfast!"
We adjourned to the old house—all who were in the secret wondering in what manner Mr. Howard would undertake to exorcise the key-demon; but all discussion was waived for the present, while we dispatched the necessary business of the table.
After breakfast, Frank Howard asked for a horse and rode up to Frost Height.
He was absent two hours, at the end of which time he returned, bringing with him a set of locksmith's tools, and flat piece of board, such as show-locks are sometimes screwed upon for a sign.
When he had brought these things into the new house he challenged Mr. Legare and all who wished to see the mystery evolved, to accompany him to the chambers above.
Of course, everybody accepted the invitation.
We all went first into the gentlemen's room, and stood around in a semi-circle, with our faces toward the door, and our eyes fixed upon the lock and Frank Howard. First he turned the key, and begged that we would observe that all was fast, and watch the result. Then he came away, and we waited with our eyes fixed upon the lock.
In a little less than fifteen minutes we both heard and saw the catch fly back, and the door swing open!