Then she walked to the open window, and looked out into the hot, oppressive night.

The moon was hidden behind dark clouds, and the stillness was precursory of the thunderstorm which for the past hour or so had threatened.

Across the room she paced slowly several times, a deep, anxious expression upon her pale countenance; then slowly she slipped off her gown and put on a dark stuff dress.
Until the clock had struck eleven she waited.

Then, assuming her tam-o'-shanter and twisting a silk scarf about her neck, she crept along the corridor and down the wide oak stairs.

Lights were still burning; but without detection she slipped out by the main door, and, crossing the broad drive, took the winding path into the woods.
The guests had all left, and the servants were closing the house for the night.