XIX. — WEDDING ARRANGEMENTS.

“I had recognized his step,” continued Mohun, “but I did not move or turn my head, for I had not recovered from my feeling of ill humor toward the faithful retainer. I allowed him to approach me, and then said coldly, without looking at him—

“‘Who is that?’

“‘I, sir,’ said Nighthawk, in a trembling voice.

“‘What do you want?’

“‘I wish to speak to you, sir.’

“‘I am not at leisure.’

“‘I must speak to you, sir.’

“I wheeled round in my chair, and looked at him. His pallor was frightful.

“‘What does all this mean?’ I said, coldly, ‘this is a singular intrusion.’