"If her ladyship will permit me," returned Gilbert, "I will withdraw for a few moments to give my servant some instructions."
"I am about to retire to my own chamber, Mr. Vernon," observed Adeline, "and shall leave you in undisturbed possession of this apartment. Your valet can therefore wait upon you here."
Quentin withdrew for the purpose of sending Mr. Vernon's domestic to the drawing-room; and Lady Ravensworth, having remained for a few moments to finish her coffee, also retired.
On the landing she heard hasty steps approaching and almost immediately afterwards Quentin appeared, followed by the Honourable Gilbert Vernon's valet.
They passed Lady Ravensworth as she was about to ascend the stairs leading from the brilliantly lighted landing to the floor above.
But—O horror!—was it possible?—did her eyes deceive her?—was she the sport of a terrible illusion?
No:—a second glance at the countenance of the false valet was sufficient to confirm the appalling suspicion which the first look in that direction had suddenly excited within her.
For his was a countenance which, once seen—if only for a moment—could never be forgotten;—and in spite of the new suit of complete black which he wore,—in spite of the care that had been bestowed upon his person,—in spite of the pains which a Globe Town barber had devoted to his usually matted hair—it was impossible not to recognise in this individual so disguised, the instrument of Adeline's own crime—the terrible Resurrection Man!
CHAPTER CCXXXIII.
A WELCOME FRIEND.
As if struck by a flash of lightning, Adeline fell insensible upon the stairs.