CHAPTER IX.
The two pairs of steel eyes met, and looked fixedly at each other.
A tap came to the door.
Sir George winced, and made a sign to Ralph, who rushed to it and bolted it.
"I am coming in, George," said Lady Mary's voice.
"Send her away," came a whisper from the bed.
This was easier said than done. But it was done after a sufficiently long parley; and Lady Mary retired under the impression that Ralph was sitting alone with his father, who thought he might get a little sleep.
"Now," whispered Sir George, motioning to Ralph.
"The fact is," said Ralph, "the jewels are gone! They have been stolen in the night."