Arthur at once shrank into the corner where Corkins knelt, and touched the creature with his foot by way of warning. Then placing himself against the wall in such a manner that he could not be seen until the Madam entered the room, he awaited her return.
Her footsteps are on the stairs, and presently they are heard in the passage. Arthur, standing bolt upright against the wall, with the trembling Corkins at his feet, heard the rustling of her dress, as she came brushing along, with her heavy stride. Then he heard her voice—she was speaking to some one who accompanied her.
"There are two," he muttered, and bent his head to listen. He could distinguish her words:
"What a foolish fancy!" this was the voice of the Madam, "to think that any one could gain admittance to my house against my will. Why, my dear, the idea makes me laugh."
"Yes, but he's such a desperate ruffian," answered a second voice.
It was the voice of Rev. Herman Barnhurst.
[CHAPTER III.]
HERMAN, ARTHUR, ALICE.
"Oh! my God, I thank thee," muttered Arthur, and clutched the iron bar and crouched closer to the wall.