"You can trust me, can't you?" she whispered.
"Yes, yes!" I answered. "I will obey you to the very letter."
"Mind, make no sound. Do not move."
"Very well. Are you not coming with me?"
"No. Walk four paces into the apartment. Make no sound."
I did as she commanded me; then I heard the door close and I was left in perfect darkness.
I waited minute after minute in silence, wondering what she meant by such strange conduct. Under other circumstances I should have tried to get a light, and have examined the room in which she had left me; but I had given my promise, and I would abide by it. Besides, was I not doing this to serve her? I called to mind the rapping I had heard while we had been in the other room; that was doubtless a signal between her and Adam.
How long I stayed there I know not. I was like one stunned by a heavy blow; my mind was bewildered—everything was as confused as a dream. Sometimes I thought I was dreaming.
Presently I heard a sound of approaching footsteps. Several people seemed to be coming straight to the spot where I sat. Had Mistress Nancy been mistaken? That she had in any way betrayed me was not to be considered. I saw no light, but I could hear footsteps and voices plainly. A few seconds later, it seemed to me that people were so near that I had need only to stretch out my hand in order to touch them. All the same this could not have been. No one had entered the apartment, of that I was sure.
"Now then we can get to business."