Tony Walker

Was there a footstep close behind him?

He broke into a run.

To his surprise, he found the front door half open and went in.

He saw a light in the drawing-room, entered, and found it empty.

He waited a few moments, and then called timorously out, I'm here, Miss Pendulum.

Before the echo of his voice died away, there came a long, choked scream.

Good God, what was that?

he muttered, and sweat broke out on him.

It came from above.

I must go up.

He glanced distractedly around, picked up a candlestick, lit the candle, and opened the door to the stairs with a quivering hand.

As he hurried up the first flight, it seemed to him there was something astir in the house.

and that the shadows on the wall came from a company of persons following him up, and that others were awaiting him on the landing.

He trembled, and his breath came fast.

"'Miss Pendleham!'

he quavered.

No sound.

He lurched down the corridor till he came to an open door, through which he passed into a huge room.

He raised the candlestick and peered fearfully about him.

Ah, there was another door, open, and there was Miss Pendleham.