Filled with astonishment, he was about to enter the room to inquire by what means she had reached the Hall, when he was arrested by the voice of her companion.

It was that of Humphrey Chetham.

Maddened by jealousy, Catesby's first impulse was to rush into the room, and stab his rival in the presence of his mistress.

But he restrained his passion by a powerful effort.
After listening for a few minutes intently to their conversation, he found that Chetham was taking leave, and creeping softly down-stairs, stationed himself in the hall, through which he knew his rival must necessarily pass.

Chetham presently appeared.