It was a long night, but morning came at last, and with it came Hilda, calm, refreshed, affectionate, and sweet.
"How has he been, darling?" she asked.
"Quiet," said Zillah, wearily.
"That's right; and now, my dearest, go off and get some rest. You must be very tired."
[Illustration: "The Earl Gasped--'Judas!'">[
So Zillah went off, and Hilda remained with the Earl.
Day was just dawning when Zillah left the Earl's room. She stooped over him and kissed him. Overcome by fatigue, she did not think much of the earnest, wistful gaze which caught her eyes. Was it not the same look which he had fixed on her frequently before?
The Earl again drew her down as she clasped his hand. She stooped over him.
"I'm afraid of _her_," he said, in a low whisper. "Send Mrs. Hart."