"Now what is it, if I may ask?"
"She is safe! My dear Sybil is safe!—safe beyond all pursuit; beyond all possibility of recapture!" exclaimed Mr. Berners, triumphantly.
"Thank Heaven, with all my heart! But how, and where?" inquired Sheridan, excitedly.
"She was rescued by Raphael! She is on mid-ocean now, in a British ship, under the protection of the British flag, God bless it!"
"Amen! But tell me all about it, or let me read the letter."
"Stop! I must call Pendleton and Beatrix. Those two true friends must hear my secret and share our joy," said Mr. Berners, rising and going to the door.
But there was no need to call, for he had scarcely turned the lock before he heard the light steps of Miss Pendleton approaching.
"What is the matter? Lyon, you are happy or crazy! Which is it? I am sure something delightful must have happened to make you look so! What is it?" demanded Beatrix, as she slided into a seat.
Before Mr. Berners could answer, the door once more opened, and Captain Pendleton entered.
"What is up?" was his first question, on seeing the excited countenances of his friends.