Was it a signal that he was about to come forth?
I waited. Seven o’clock struck, then eight, but still no sign of him. He was surely making a long visit. As darkness closed in I moved nearer the house, in order that he might not be able to slip away unobserved.
Suddenly, a little after nine, the girl opened the door and a visitor emerged. But I was disappointed. A woman in deep black descended the steps and turned to walk in my direction. The instant I saw this I hurried on, crossed the road, and then slackened pace in order that she should overtake me.
She was not long in doing so, and as she passed I turned and looked her full in the face.
Judge my surprise when I recognized her to be none other than the girl who had taken me on that mysterious journey to Blackheath!
CHAPTER XVII
THE SELLER OF THE SECRET
“Why, Miss Bristowe!” I cried. “Perhaps you don’t recollect me?”
She started quickly, and drew back for a moment, her countenance blanching; then looking into my face, she said, with a timid laugh: “Why, of course, doctor! But have you forgiven me for taking you on that fool’s errand?”
“Yes, long ago,” I laughed. “But our meeting this evening is certainly unexpected. Have you friends in this neighbourhood?”
She replied in the affirmative, but without giving me any explanation.