How little did those who envied the young inheritrex of a princely fortune
suspect the load that lay at her heart, or, bating the fear of death, how
gladly at that moment she would have parted with her life!
Lady Knollys had not yet returned, and it was darkening rapidly; a mass of
black clouds stood piled in the west, through the chasms of which was still
reflected a pale metallic lustre.
The drawing-room was already very dark; but some streaks of this cold light
fell upon a black figure, which would otherwise have been unseen, leaning
beside the curtains against the window frame.
It advanced abruptly, with creaking shoes; it was Doctor Bryerly.
I was startled and surprised, not knowing how he had got there. I stood
staring at him in the dusk rather awkwardly, I am afraid.
'How do you do, Miss Ruthyn?' said he, extending his hand, long, hard, and
brown as a mummy's, and stooping a little so as to approach more nearly,
for it was not easy to see in the imperfect light. 'You're surprised, I
dare say, to see me here so soon again?'
'I did not know you had arrived. I am glad to see you, Doctor Bryerly.
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