There was a faint cry, and two white hands were laid upon his breast.
“Stand aside, Marion!” and there was a click from the lock of another pistol.
“Doctor! for his sake!—pray!”
Chester turned from her sharply, as if to avoid her eyes. Then flashed his own upon the man who barred his way.
“Is this the rehearsal of some drama, sir?” he said scoffingly. “I refuse all part in it. Now have the goodness to let me pass, for pass I will.”
He threw the pistol he held upon the carpet, and once more advanced toward the door, braving the weapon pointed at his head.
“Bah!” he cried; “do you think to frighten me with that theatrical nonsense?”
“Keep back, sir, or I fire.”
At that moment a white hand pressed the electric button by the side of the heavy mantelpiece, the room was suddenly darkened, and a sharp crack and rattling sound announced the locking of the door and withdrawing of the key.
“Then there has been foul play,” muttered Chester. “Into what trap have I fallen here?”