Ah, that Formery--there is an intelligent man if you like." "At all events, the coronet is safe ...

to-night--" "Wait, my good chap ...

wait," said the Duke slowly; and then he snapped out: "Do you know what's behind that door ?" and he flung out his hand towards the door of the inner drawing-room, with a mysterious, sinister air.
"What ?" cried Guerchard; and he whipped round and faced the door, with his eyes starting out of his head.
"Get out, you funk!" said the Duke, with a great laugh.
"Hang you!" said Guerchard shrilly.
"I said that you were going to be absolutely pitiable," said the Duke, and he laughed again cruelly.
"Oh, go on talking, do!" cried Guerchard, mopping his forehead.
"Absolutely pitiable," said the Duke, with a cold, disquieting certainty.

"As the hand of that clock moves nearer and nearer midnight, you will grow more and more terrified." He paused, and then shouted violently, "Attention!" Guerchard jumped; and then he swore.
"Your nerves are on edge," said the Duke, laughing.
"Joker!" snarled Guerchard.
"Oh, you're as brave as the next man.

But who can stand the anguish of the unknown thing which is bound to happen?
...