As I returned with the light, a suspicion stole into my mind, that Welbeck had taken this opportunity to fly; and that, on regaining the foot of the stairs, I should find the spot deserted by all but the dead.

My blood was chilled by this image.

The momentary resolution it inspired was to follow the example of the fugitive, and leave the persons whom the ensuing day might convene on this spot, to form their own conjectures as to the cause of this catastrophe.
Meanwhile, I cast anxious eyes forward.

Welbeck was discovered in the same place and posture in which he had been left.

Lifting the corpse and its shroud in his arms, he directed me to follow him.