But these have a trick of re-establishing themselves as one gets older, and the castle and what it contains have a keen interest for me now.' 'It contains Paula.' De Stancy's pulse, which had been beating languidly for many years, beat double at the sound of that name.
'I meant furniture and pictures for the moment,' he said; 'but I don't mind extending the meaning to her, if you wish it.' 'She is the rarest thing there.' 'So you have said before.' 'The castle and our family history have as much romantic interest for her as they have for you,' Charlotte went on.

'She delights in visiting our tombs and effigies and ponders over them for hours.' 'Indeed!' said De Stancy, allowing his surprise to hide the satisfaction which accompanied it.

'That should make us friendly....

Does she see many people ?' 'Not many as yet.

And she cannot have many staying there during the alterations.' 'Ah! yes--the alterations.