But even as he racked his mind, the footman's voice broke the silence, and the words the fellow uttered did what his presence alone might not have sufficed to do.
"Mr.Vallancey is asking for you, sir," he announced.
Richard started.

Vallancey! He had come at last, and his coming was connected with the impending duel.

The thought was paralyzing to young Westmacott.

The flush of anger faded from his face; its leaden hue returned and he shivered as with cold.

At last he mastered himself sufficiently to ask: "Where is he, Jasper ?" "In the library, sir," replied the servant.