“Hist!”
It was from the keyhole without a doubt, and stooping, Lady Markham repeated her question, placing her ear close to the keyhole, as she listened for the answer.
That reply sent the blood thrilling through her veins, as it was whispered through the keyhole, and for the moment, she felt giddy with anguish, love, and fear.
It came again, with an addition.
“Mother! Open! Quick!”
With her hands trembling so that they almost refused their office, she turned the key, felt a strong grasp on the handle, the door was thrust open softly, closed, and locked, as she stood trembling there, and a pair of arms were clasped around her neck.
“Mother, dearest mother!”
“Scar, dear Scar, me too,” whispered Lil, for Lady Markham was speechless with emotion.
Brother and sister were locked in a loving embrace, and then Lil shrank away.
“Scar,” she whispered; “why you are all wet.”