She did not speak, but flew to her desk, and snatching thence what seemed a thick album or manuscript volume, hastily tore away a few leaves from the end, and thrust the rest into my hand, saying, 'You needn't read it all; but take it home with you,' and hurried from the room.

But when I had left the house, and was proceeding down the walk, she opened the window and called me back.

It was only to say,--'Bring it back when you have read it; and don't breathe a word of what it tells you to any living being.

I trust to your honour.' Before I could answer she had closed the casement and turned away.

I saw her cast herself back in the old oak chair, and cover her face with her hands.