"Pray be seated. I have much to say to you."
Atherton complied, but for some minutes Sir Richard continued to pace rapidly to and fro within the room, as if unwilling to commence the conversation he had proposed.
At last, he seated himself opposite the young man, who had watched him with surprise.
"Are you acquainted with the history of my family?" he inquired, looking steadfastly at his auditor.
"I have some slight acquaintance with it," replied Atherton.
"You are aware, I presume, that the Rawcliffes have occupied this old mansion for upwards of two centuries?"
Atherton bowed, but made no remark. Sir Richard went on:
"My ancestors have all been high and honourable men, and have handed a proud name from one generation to another. Would it not be grievous if a stain were affixed on a name, hitherto unsullied, like ours? Yet if this inquiry which the prince has instituted be pursued, such must infallibly be the case. A dark secret connected with our family may be brought to light. Now listen to me, and you shall judge:
"Some twenty years ago, Sir Oswald Rawcliffe, my elder brother, died, leaving a widow and an infant son. Lady Rawcliffe came to reside here with her child—do you note what I say?"
"I think I have heard that the child was stolen under mysterious circumstances," said Atherton, "and that the lady subsequently died of grief."