The servant bowed formally upon the threshold, and advanced, holding a salver of silver in one hand and the candle in the other. As soon as he had traversed the space between Randolph and the door, he bowed again, and extended the salver, upon which appeared a card, inscribed with a name—
"Master, a gentleman desires to see you. He is in his carriage at the door. He gave me this card for you."
Randolph exchanged glances with Esther, as much as to say "our expected visitor," and then took the card, and read these words:
"An old friend desires to see Randolph Royalton and his sister."
Randolph started as he beheld the handwriting, and the blood rushed to his cheek:
"Show the gentleman up stairs," he said quietly.
The servant disappeared, taking with him the light, and the room was wrapt in twilight once more.
"Have you any idea who is this visitor?" whispered Esther.
"Hush! Do not speak! Surrounded by mystery as we are, this new wonder throws all others completely into shade. I can scarcely believe it; and yet, it was his handwriting! I cannot be mistaken."
In vain did Esther ask, "Whose handwriting?" Trembling with anxiety and delight, Randolph listened intently for the sound of footsteps on the stairs.