And then there is silence, while Alan, in compliance with a hint from the seeming Priest, motions the servants out of the room, all but Millie. Daisy has seized her hand and clings to it obstinately.
“Let her stay,” whispers Winnie. And of course Millie stays.
When they have filed out, Alan moves forward, his hand extended to close the door, and then he stops short, his attitude unchanged, and listens.
There are voices outside, and approaching feet. He hears the remonstrance of a servant, and an impatient tone of command. And then a man strides into their presence, closely followed by two officers.
It is Van Vernet, his eyes flashing, his face triumphant; Van Vernet in propia personne, and wearing the dress of a gentleman.
He pauses before Alan, and delivers a mocking salute.
“Alan Warburton, you are my prisoner!”
With a cry of alarm, Leslie lifts herself from the couch. She knows what these words mean.
Alan starts as he hears this cry, and moving a pace nearer Vernet, says, in a low tone:
