"I see it—I see it," replied Mother Demdike, with affected humility. "I see it is in vain to struggle with thee, or rather with the potent lady who sent thee. Tarry where thou art, and i will bring Alizon to thee."
"I almost mistrust thee," said Richard—"but be speedy."
"I will be scarce a moment," said the witch; "but I must warn thee that she is—"
"What—what hast thou done to her, thou wicked hag?" cried Richard, in alarm.
"She is distraught," said Mother Demdike.
"Distraught!" echoed Richard.
"But thou canst easily cure her," said the old hag, significantly.
"Ay, so I can," cried Richard with sudden joy—"the talisman! Bring her to me at once."
Mother Demdike departed, leaving him in a state of indescribable agitation. The walls of the tower were of immense thickness, and the entrance to the chamber towards which the arched doorway led was covered by a curtain of old arras, behind which the hag had disappeared. Scarcely had she entered the room when a scream was heard, and Richard heard his own name pronounced by a voice which, in spite of its agonised tones, he at once recognised. The cries were repeated, and he then heard Mother Demdike call out, "Come hither! come hither!"
Instantly rushing forward and dashing aside the tapestry, he found himself in a mysterious-looking circular chamber, with a massive oak table in the midst of it. There were many strange objects in the room, but he saw only Alizon, who was struggling with the old witch, and clinging desperately to the table. He called to her by name as he advanced, but her bewildered looks proved that she did not know him.