It was Glory!
“Although a recent acquisition to the stage and the latest English actress to come into her heritage of fame, she was already a universal favourite, and her sudden and unaccountable disappearance is a shock as well as a surprise. To the disappointment of the public she had not played her part for nearly a week, having excused herself on the ground of indisposition, but there was apparently nothing in the state of her health to give cause for anxiety or to prepare her friends for the step she has taken. What has become of her appears to be entirely beyond conjecture, but her colleagues and associates are still hoping for the hest, though the tone of a letter left behind gives only too much reason to fear a sad and perhaps fatal sequel.”
When the officer entered the cell again an hour after his first visit, John Storm was pallid and thin and gray. The sublime faith he had built up for himself had fallen to ruins, a cloud had hidden the face of the Father which was in heaven, and the death he had waited for as the crown of his life seemed to be no better than an abject end to a career that had failed.
“Cheer up,” said the officer; “I've some good news for you, at all events.”
The prisoner smiled sadly and shook his head.
“Bail was offered and accepted at Bow Street this morning, and you will be at liberty to leave us to-day.”
“When?” said John, and his manner changed immediately.
“Well, not just yet, you know.”
“For the love of God, sir, let me go at once! I have something to do-somebody to look for and find.”
“Still, for your own security, Father——”