He touched the bell, and Levi opened the door; and she and that person walked together to the foot of the stair, where in a low tone they talked.
CHAPTER LXXXV.
THE CRISIS.
When Phœbe Chiffinch returned to Alice's room, it was about ten o'clock; a brilliant moon was shining on the old trees, and throwing their shadows on the misty grass. The landscape from these upper windows was sad and beautiful, and above the distant trees that were softened by the haze of night rose the silvery spire of the old church, in whose vault her father sleeps with a cold brain, thinking no more of mortgages and writs.
Alice had been wondering what had detained her so long, and by the time she arrived had become very much alarmed.
Relieved when she entered, she was again struck with fear when Phœbe Chiffinch had come near enough to enable her to see her face. She was pale, and with her eyes fixed on her, raised her finger in warning, and then glanced at the door which she had just closed.
Her young mistress got up and approached her, also growing pale, for she perceived that danger was at the door.