I was at the one next to the last when a board creaked somewhere behind me, and I wheeled about instantly, and ran back to the head of the stairs.

There was nothing visible, and a glance down the front hall proved it also deserted--only the door of Miss Willifred's room stood slightly ajar.

She was watching me then, fearful lest the fellow had failed to get away.

This discovery added to my anxiety, and my anger.

He should not get away--not if I could prevent it--until he confessed to her the truth.