"How is he?—much injured?" she asked.
"He has been brutally used," said the old man. "But he is now in good hands. Where is Salina?"
"I don't know. I had been to look for her, when I came and found you in the kitchen. I think she must have gone out."
"Gone out, to-night? That is very strange!" The old man mused. "She will have to be told that Penn is in the house. But I think the knowledge of the fact ought to go no farther. Mr. Stackridge is of the same opinion. Now that they have begun to persecute him, they will never cease, so long as he remains alive within their reach."
"And we must conceal him?"
"Yes, until this storm blows over, or he can be safely got out of the state."
"There is Salina now!" exclaimed the girl, hearing footsteps approach the piazza.
"If it is, she is not alone," said the old man, whose blindness had rendered his hearing acute. "It is a man's step. Don't be agitated, my child. Much depends on our calmness and self-possession now. If it is a visitor, you must admit him, and appear as hospitable as usual."
It was a visitor, and he came alone—a young fellow of dashy appearance, handsome black hair and whiskers, and very black eyes.
"Mr. Bythewood, father," said Virginia, showing him immediately into the sitting-room.