"The removal of mystery," I replied. "I have spent the whole of this day like one in a dream. I seem to be enveloped in shadows."
"I have much to tell you by and by," she answered.
"And much to ask, too, I trust," I cried. "You have saved me from I know not what; for I know it is you to whom I owe everything. You will let me serve you, for verily you need service."
"We will talk of many things at the proper time," she replied, "but food is being brought."
Both of us stood silent while the old serving-man brought food; then when he had gone she turned to leave me.
"Mistress Molesworth," I said, "you will not condemn me to eat my food alone. May I be honoured with your company at supper?"
She hesitated a second. "Thank you," she said, "you will desire quiet after so much excitement. I will return to you to-morrow."
I sat down with a sad heart, and ate the food with but a poor appetite. During my meal I heard only one sound. It was that of a clock striking the hour of midnight.
After supper I went into the bedroom I have mentioned, and fell into a deep sleep, from which I did not wake till late next day. When I got up I hoped to see Mistress Nancy at once, and so was mightily disappointed when the old serving-man brought me a message from her telling me that she would not be able to visit me till night.