By virtue of the power given to him from the
dying Sir Henry, though ostensibly for the benefit of his lady and her
infant offspring, Hildebrand guarded the trust with a jealous eye. No
one had access to it but himself, nor did he permit any other person
than old Geoffery, the house-steward, to visit his chamber.
Before this cabinet stood a figure enveloped in a dark robe. Pale,
deadly pale, were the features, though scarcely discernible in their
form and outline. The lamp burnt dimly; but with the quickened
apprehension of guilt he recognised the wan resemblance of Lady Fairfax!
A cry of exhausted anguish escaped him, and he fell senseless on the
floor.
Morning had risen, casting its bright and cheerful rays into the
chamber, ere Hildebrand Wentworth awoke. Consciousness but slowly
returned, and the events of the preceding hours came like shadows upon
his soul. He stamped thrice, and immediately the vapid countenance of
Geoffery Hardpiece was before him.
"Come hither, Hardpiece. I am wondrous heavy and ill at ease."
"Why, master, your bed has not been disturbed these two nights.--How
should there be anything but an aching head, and complaining bones,
when"----
Hildebrand cast a hasty and confused glance towards the couch as he
replied--
"I have matters of moment just now that weigh heavily on my spirit.
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