It was Caleb’s turn to color. “I beg your pardon.� He stopped again, and then turned and looked out of the window. “I fear I have lost even your friendship now,� he said bitterly.
She did not reply at once; she was trying to discipline herself, and in the pause both heard the great clock in the tower strike one.
“On the contrary, I thank you for offering to find me a pleasanter place to wait in,� Diana said, with an effort at lightness. “It is a little dreary, but I’m sure my father must be coming and—�
She stopped with a little cry of surprise, for there was suddenly the sharp sound of a pistol shot, followed instantly by a second. The reports came from the other side of the hall, and were followed by a tumult in the street.
“What can it be?� she cried, in sudden terror for her father.
Caleb Trench swung around from the window with an awakening of every sense that made him seem a tremendous vital force. He divined a tragedy. Afterwards the girl remembered his face and was amazed at the fact that she had obeyed him like a child.
“Wait here!� he exclaimed, “your father is safe. I will see what it is. On no account leave this room now—promise me!�
She faltered. “I promise,� she said, and he was gone.
It seemed five minutes; it was in reality only ten seconds since the shots were fired. Meanwhile, there was a tumult without, the shouting of men and the rush of many feet. Diana stood still, trembling, her hands clasped tightly together. Even afar off the voice of the mob is a fearsome thing.