"On one condition only; if thou take the chair first, and note well an open scroll to the right, where those fawns and satyrs are carved."
"Agreed. And now shake off thy fears, my love."
De Vessey led her again to the apartment, and, as though without consideration, sat down, his face directly towards the cabinet. He fixed his eyes thereon a few seconds only, when Leonora saw him start up suddenly with a troubled aspect, and grasp the hilt of his sword. Then turning to the painter, he said sternly,—
"So!—We have intruders here, I trow."
"Intruders? None!" was the artist's reply, without betraying either surprise or alarm.
"That we'll see presently," said the cavalier, hastening to the cabinet; which, with hearty good will, he essayed to open.
"Why this outrage?" inquired the painter, colouring with a hectic flush.
"Because 'tis my good pleasure," was the haughty reply. The door resisted his utmost efforts. "Doubtless held by some one within. Open, or by this good sword I'll make a passage through both door and carcase."
The hinges slowly gave way, the folding doors swung open, and displayed a grinning skeleton!
"Ah! what lodger is this?"