THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES *sLJ ■Vwi i rfaj / s L~;^U HELD IN THRALL. BY BRACEBRIDGE HEMYNG, AUTHOR OF "THE CAM: LBT THROW," "SECRETS OP THE TUEP, ' ETC., HTC, F.TC. LONDON: ('. II. CLARKE, 13, PATERNOSTER ia>\\ LONDON: PRINTED BT W. WILFRED HEAD, VICTORIA PRESS, 12, 13, & 14, HARP ALLET, FARRINGDOX STREET, E.C. M- 3 7V HELD IN THEALL. CHAPTER I. JEALOUSY. A few years ago, one of the magnates of a county, which we will call Midlandshirc, was Lord Cariston, an elderly, crotchety man ; fond of his wife, fond of his only son, and a staunch supporter of Church and State. His ancestral domain was called Hartshill, and he lived at Hartshill Castle. The Honourable Ashley Leigh, who was his only child, held a captain's commission in the army, and was deservedly popular with all who knew him. Lord Cariston was tall, thin, and of ascetic appearance, much given to reading sermons and religious literature gene- rally. His hair was gray, rather with thought than age. He was not talkative, always priding himself upon his reserve, and -weighing carefully all that he said, saying that he should have to give an account of every idle word. Mr. Ashley Leigh was the direct opposite of his father. Tall, handsome, with short, curly black hair, gracefully brushed back from his forehead; always carefully dressed, though lie never wore anything vulgar or ostentatious, his manner was at once cheerful and winning. He was tin- idol of his mother, who regarded him as the support and consolation of her old age. lb' had been with his regiment in Ireland for some months, and, as In- expected to be ordered to Canada ill the spring, he applied for and obtained leave of absence, intending to spend the festive season of Christmas with his parents at Hartshill Castle. lb; had an additional object in wishing to return to 3Iidlandshire. 627666 " s 2 HELD IN THRALL. An old house, delightfully situated at the foot of a hill, which protected it from the chilling blasts of the east and north winds, belonged to Lord Cariston, and was let by him to an old friend named Ingledew. Built in the Elizabethan style, fitted with old-fashioned, quaint furniture, it exactly suited a gentleman who had been all his life engaged in antiquarian research. When Mr. Ingledew, a widower, having but a moderate income, settled down near his old college friend, Lord Cariston, at Heart's Content, he hoped that the remaining portion of his life would glide peacefully away. Like the Lord of Hartshill, he had but one child, a daughter. Marian Ingledew was very lovely, though she belonged to that impulsive, baby-faced, fair-haired class of women, who cannot be said to resemble any distinct, well-recognised type of beauty. Her features were neither Grecian nor Roman, but the expression which lighted up her round, rosy, good-tempered countenance was winning in the extreme. Marian had a governess who presented a striking contrast to her. Mona Seafield was of the middle height, dark as the night, with black flashing eyes, whose liquid depths seemed to be the repositories of more than one secret. Her features were regular, and her expression cold and repellant ; at times she was so stern that she seemed cut out of marble. There was no warmth in her manner, nothing friendly in the grasp of her limp, moist hand. In a word, she was to all both distant and severe. The colour she most affected in dress was black, and it became her well. To those with whom she sojourned, and who did not know her well, Miss Seafield was an enigma, which it was hopeless to attempt to solve. But beneath that icy surface there burned the fierce fire of ambition. To raise herself above the necessity of working — for work with her was a necessity, her parents being very poor, though, of genteel extraction — and to compel others to render her the homage due to rank and wealth, Mona would have sold herself to the powers of darkness. At Heart's Content she lived a quiet, uneventful, unsatis- factory life. JEALOUSY. 3 Her pupil was gentle and compliant; never contradicting her, and diligently learning that which she had engaged to teach her. Marian Ingledew and tbe Honourable Ashley Leigh had grown up together as playfellows and sweethearts. The intimacy of their childhood had ripened into love. It was with a terrible sorrow at heart, that Mona Seafield beheld the growth of their attachment, for she had flattered herself that she could win the affections of the handsome officer, and make herself the admired mistress of Hartshill Castle. Lord Cariston could not live many years ; and at his death — if she could succeed in marrying his son — she would accomplish the object of her ambition, and be the proud possessor of a coronet. It was the beirinninjr of December. The country was attired in its winter garb, though no snow had as yet fallen. Cold winds checked vegetation, and sharp frosts had denuded the most hardy trees of their leaves. Heart's Content was surrounded with shrubberies, filled with evergreens, and its walls were here and there covered with ivy, which saved it from that abomination of desolation which an ordinary plain brick building would have presented. One morning after breakfast, Marian Ingledew was engaged • J? •%• i m a • ^ DO in feeding the robins, which always came to the dining-room window to receive this mark of attention from the fair hands of their mistress. She wore an abstracted air. and Mona Seafield had to speak twice before she arrested her attention. ' So Mr. Leigh has arrived at the castle, dear ? ' she said. ' Yes,' answered Marian, with a start ; ' he came back from Ireland yesterday, bis note informs me, and we may expect him to-day.' 'In that case, I suppose I must not be very exacting,' said Miss Seafield, with a forced smile. ' We will put Verdi and Goethe on one side till the afternoon, or to-morrow. I can Bee you wish to be alone and ([uiet, in anticipation of his visit.' 'Oli, Mona,' cried the young girl, throwing her arms affectionately round the neck of her governess, 'you arc so kind, m> thoughtful. I have DO Secretfl from you. I have told you bow 1 love him, and how dearly, I have every reason to believe, he loves me. It is such pleasure to see him again after a long absence, which but precedes one longer still.' b a 4 HELD IN THRALL. ' Longer still ? ' repeated Mona, with an inquiring glance. ' Yes ; the regiment is under orders for Canada in the spring.' ' Indeed ! that is news I did not expect.' ' You ? ' said Marian, rather sharply, resuming her position by the window. ' In what way can Mr. Leigh's movements possibly interest you ? ' ' Only as your friend, my dear child,' answered the gover- ness, with hypocritical calmness. Marian again became absent, and renewed the attention she had been paying the robins. Miss Seafield reminded her pupil that she might look upon the day as her own, and retired to her room, which, being fond of privacy and seclusion, was a favourite retreat with her. In truth she wanted an interval of rest as much as did Marian. Her evil passions were surging high in her heart ; her tem- pestuous nature was threatening to burst through her outside calm. The Honourable Ashley Leigh would, she feared, offer his hand to Miss Ingledew, and then, adieu to all her dreams of ambition and aggrandisement. It was to think how she could frustrate this dire calamity that she wished to be alone. When she compared her appearance with that of her pupil, she decided that she was infinitely more worthy of a man's attention. ' I am superior to her in all,' she murmured. ' Is it because I am a dependant that he shows me scant courtesy, and never breathes a word of love.' Had it not been for a latent hope that Mr. Leigh would some day become conscious of her charms, the ambitious governess would not, for several years, have borne the unvarying monotony of Heart's Content. To teach others is always a disagreeable, and frequently a thankless task, but when the one who teaches hates the one who learns it becomes repulsive to the last degree. While in her chamber, which overlooked the drive leading to Heart's Content, Mona Seafield heard the sound of carriage wheels grating upon the gravel. She was brushing her long, glossy, black hair, which hung in wavy masses over her neck and shoulders. Hastily JEALOUST. 5 arranging it, she looked out of the window, and beheld the handsome form of the young soldier, who was in the act of throwing the reins to his groom, previous to alighting. Some one else had seen him, too. Marian Ingledew had been on the watch. She hastened to meet him, saying, as he shook her hand warmly — ' How kind of you to come over to Heart's Content, so soon after your arrival.' ' Where had I a better right to pay a first visit ? ' asked the young man, smiling. In the drawing-room they saw Mr. Ingledew, who was examining, through a microscope, a peculiarly-shaped bone, which one of his labourers had dug up. 1 Ah ! my young friend,' he said, extending his hand, but not quitting the table, which stood before the window. ' Glad to see you back again. Poor Marian has been fretting dreadfully at your absence.' ' Oh, papa ! ' ejaculated Marian, pouting her rosy lips. ' Do you deny it ? ' asked her father. ' What have you there, sir ? ' asked Ashley Leigh, hastening to relieve Marian of the embarrassment which her heightened colour showed him she was feeling. ' Something curious or rare, I imagine?' ' I scarcely know what it is as yet,' replied Mr. Ingledew. 1 The formation is so very peculiar. It was found by one of my men, near the abbey, and I am strongly inclined to regard it as the os fcmoris, or thigh-bone, of an ancient Briton.' For fully a quarter of au hour Mr. Ingledew continued to talk to the young man, having started upon his favourite hobby. When he could, however, without offending him, break away, he did so, and rejoined Marian, who, on this occasion, took little interest in the remarks of the antiquary. ' I buried an old pony, close to the spot your father speaks of, years ago,' said Ashley Leigh, in a low tone, to Marian, 'and I verily believe they have dug up the bones.' 'Surely, ho would know the difference between human and animal remains,' replied Marian, smiling, however, in spite of herself. Withdrawing into an embrasure of the window, the lovers talked without interruption. 6 HELD IN THRALL. 4 1 bring you an invitation to spend Christmas at the castle,' said Ashley Leigh ; ' you will not refuse it, for my sake, I know.' Marian murmured her thanks. Noticing an expression of sadness which suddenly overcast her features, he earnestly inquired the cause. ' You are going away so soon,' she replied. ' It seems so hard to lose you.' * My darling,' he said, in a fond voice, ' you have given me the opportunity I have been longing for. If you love me as I love you, we will never be separated again. Wherever I go you shall accompany me. Be mine, dearest. Say but the little word which will make you mine, and Ave need never part again.' Her head fell upon his shoulder, and she uttered a few words, which were scarcely intelligible, but which her lover construed into an acceptation of his suit. His lips sought hers, and he implanted a burning kiss to seal the compact. At this moment a noise as if of the rustling of a dress was heard, and starting to an upright position, once more Marian beheld Mona Seafield. The governess had been watching the lovers for some time, having entered the room unperceived. She could not bear to see this happiness, and an involuntary movement had betrayed her presence. Marian just caught a glimpse of her face before she had time to alter its expression. It haunted her for a long — long time afterwards ; so fierce, so cruel, so relentless, so revolting was it. The next moment Mona was smilingly shaking hands with the Honourable Ashley Leigh, talking like a woman of the world, about Ireland and other places, and asking him a multi- tude of everyday questions about commonplace things. No trace of the implacable hatred which had rested upon her face remained. Marian began to think she must have been mistaken. Mr. Leigh stayed to lunch, and extracted a promise from Mr. Ingledew, that he would accept Lord and Lady Cariston's invitation, and spend Christmas at the castle. He also ceremoniously extended the invitation to Miss Seafield, without whom he thought Marian would, perhaps, be lonely. When taking leave of Marian, he remarked to her — JEALOUSY. 1 What a charming, well-informed woman Miss Seafield is ! Quite a treasure to you, of course, although you are old enough and sufficiently accomplished to do without a governess. ' Yes,' replied Marian, ' she is more of a companion than anything else ; hut, agreeable as she can make herself, I fear her at times.' 'Fear her,' echoed Ashley Leigh, with a laugh ; ' she seems the gentlest of her sex.' ' Ah ! you do not know her as I do. You have not seen — but no matter. She is scarcely worth a difference of opinion between you and I, dear Ashley.' Marian spoke with some bitterness, for the tone of eulogy which her affianced lover had adopted in speaking of the governess had grated harshly on her ears. ' I meant no harm, my pet,' said Mr. Leigh. ' Do not excuse yourself or I shall think you do,' answered Marian, glad of an opportunity to employ that tyranny which most newly-engaged girls like to show to their lovers. Ashley Leigh avoided the subject, talked about something else, and was quickly driving home. While Marian lingered in the porch, a boy came up to her and said — ' If you please, miss, I was sent by Daddy Chiverton to say as how his missus was took worse, and would you come and see her.' 'Very well — I will attend to it,' answered Miss Ingledew, giving the boy a gratuity. She was not then in a mood to minister to her sick poor, though she was of a charitable deposition, and had acquired an excellent character in the neighbourhood for visiting them in their homes, and supplying them with religious instruction, good advice, and creature comforts. Mrs. Chiverton was an old woman, the wife of a farm labourer, who had been ill for some time. Miinii Seafield knew this, as she had accompanied Marian to the cottage. Seeking the governess, Marian said — 1 Will you oblige me by packing up a few things and taking them to the Chivertous' cottage I I have just received a message to say that the poor old woman is vroi 'Will you not go yourself/' asked Mona. 8 HELD IN THRALL. 'No, not now, my — my head aches,' answered Marian, inventing an excuse. Mona smiled inwardly and promised compliance. She began to make her preparations slowly, but suddenly hurried her movements. An idea had occurred to her. i This is inspiration,' she muttered, ' all may yet be retrieved. "Wealth, position, rank, even Hartshill Castle may be mine.' Hastily attiring herself, she set out on her journey, with a basket on her arm, and took the way which led to Daddy Chiverton's cottage. CHAPTER IL Tin: plot. Daddy Chiverton was a bad character. The truth must be told, and we must admit that he would not work if he could help it : was fonder of the public- house parlour than his own fireside ; and had, more than once, been convicted for poaching. His wife was one of those poor, weak, silly women, who from the hour of their birth to that of their death never dream of having a will of their own. She was always dependent upon some one. First of all she clung to her mother, and then her husband, Avho ruled her with a rod of iron, claimed her obedience and her services. Their son was just the sort of young man who could be expected of such parent-. He was not altogether without his share of good looks, and was what is called clever. But he was idle, dissolute, and worthless. The keepers on Lord Cariston's estate strongly suspected him of following in his father's footsteps, and in truth he brought many a hare, pheasant, and rabbit into his mother's kitchen. As yet he had not been caught. Lady Cariston often' gave the Chivcrtons presents of money and food. In doing this she was actuated by a recollection that Mary Chiverton had nursed her son, the Honourable Ashley Leigh, and, consequently, that he and Darby Chiverton were foster- brothers. When Bliss Seafield arrived at the cottage, she saw smoke curling up through t lie trees, with whieh it was BIUTOUndedt The thatch had grown thin in places, but Daddy Chiverton would never bestow an hour or two's work to mending it. Old rags were staffed into broken window panes, holes in the ground in front of the cottage, which had been made by 10 HELD IN THRALL. the pigs and fowls, were, for want of filling up, receptacles for muddy water, and she had to step carefully to avoid wetting her feet. Tapping at the door with her knuckles, she lifted the latch and walked in. The son, Darby, was out ; engaged, perhaps, in some pre- datory excursion. Mary, the old woman, who was so seriously ill, was in a bed, which had been let into an alcove in the wall. Sitting by the fire was her husband, smoking a short pipe, and resting his elbows on his knees and his head on his hands. Mona placed her basket on the table and proceeded to un- pack it, saying as she did so — ' Miss Ingledew has sent you a few little things which she thought would be acceptable to your wife. She would have come herself had she felt well enough.' The old woman mumbled her thanks, and Daddy Chiverton, dusting a dilapidated chair with his hand, offered it to his visitor. ' Do you find yourself better, my good woman 1 ' asked Mona, approaching the bedside. ' No, miss, thank you. I'm much worse ; I've no strength. The doctor says the cold weather that's coming on will kill me. My cough's so bad.' As if to prove the truth of this assertion she began to cough violently. Suffocation seemed imminent ; but when the fit was over, she fell back upon the pillow exhausted, breathing hoarsely. Mona gave her a little jelly and some weak port wine and water, which did her a little good. Soon afterwards her eyes closed and she fell asleep. Taking the chair Daddy Chiverton had offered her, Mona placed it near the wood fire which burned in the grate, and sat down. The old man was about to withdraw his chair from the chimney corner, as a mark of respect, when Mona prevented him. 1 Stay where you are,' she said, with the air and voice of one who knew how to command. ' I wish to speak to you.' Chiverton fancied that he was about to have a lecture about his wicked ways, the wretched, worthless life he led, and the evil example he set his son. Deprecating this infliction, he said — ' I know I'm a hardened old sinner, miss. But it's no kind THE PLOT. 11 of use talking to me. As I have lived I shall die. Better let me he. I don't want to say anything rude. You're kind to my missus, and heaven knows the poor old soul wants it badly.' ' You mistake me,' said Mona, impatiently. ' I have not come to talk in that way.' At this declaration Daddy Chiverton let his pipe fall from his mouth in great surprise, aud it was hroken into small pieces on the hearth. 'I repeat, I want to talk to you,' continued Mona. 'Listen to me, and answer my questions without any roundabout fuss.' ' Yes, miss,' replied Daddy, with alacrity. ' Your wife, I believe, nursed the Honourable Ashley Leigh ? ' * Lord and Lady Cariston's son. She did.' ' In that case they are foster-brothers.' 'Just so, miss,' answered Daddy Chiverton, looking curi- ously at her out of the corner of his eyes, and wondering what she meant. 1 1 had a dream last night,' Mona went on, in a low voice, gazing at the fire, and talking slowly, as if to herself. 'I thought that you aud your wife laid a plot, which might be of service to you in your old age. When the peer's son was brought to you, he was very much like your own boy, and you determined to change the children. That is to say, when the boy went back to the castle : it was your sou and not Lady Cariston's baby.' Daddy Chiverton drew a long breath. ' It might have been dune,' he said. ' It's a pity it wasn't.' ' I tell you it was dune! ' replied Mona, sharply. ' Was ! ' 'Attend to me. I have not concluded my dream yet. It appeared to me, in my sleep, that your wife's conscience pricked her on her death-bed, and she could not die without rendering justice to the boy whom she had kept out of his inheritance. Accordingly, when at the point of death, she sent, for a clergyman and made a confession, lie, in his turn, sent for two justices of the peace, who attested it.' She paused a moment. ' Yes, miss, yes,' replied Daddy Chiverton, trembling with excitement, and bending forward to catch every word she let fall. 12 HELD IN THRALL. ' When the news was brought to Lady Cariston,' resumed Mona, ' she refused to credit the story, but Lord Cariston, who is an extremely conscientious man, believed it implicitly and determined to do justice. The rightful heir was intro- duced to every one, and from a peasant's son, Darby became the presumptive owner of Hartshill Castle, and the broad acres attached to it.' 'And of course he took care of his poor old father, who never wanted for anything,' said Chiverton, finishing the story after his own selfish fashion. ' You seem to recollect the circumstances now,' said Mona, fixing her searching eyes upon him. ' The changing of the children ! ' replied Daddy Chiverton. ' Of course I do, miss. It's all as plain as daylight. Mr. Ashley Leigh is my real son, and Darby Chiverton is the only child of Lord and Lady Cariston.' ' That is it exactly,' replied Mona, with a satisfied smile. A restless movement in the bed showed that Mary Chiver- ton was awaking. ' Go to your wife. Talk this matter over,' said Miss Seafield. ' I will wait here, for I must see your son before I go.' ' He will be back soon,' answered Daddy. ' He's only gone to visit the snares. You see we're so poor, miss, that a rabbit or a brace of birds ' ' Don't stand there, whining and snivelling about being poor to me ! ' cried Mona, impatiently. ' Have I not told you how to obtain money ? ' ' I beg your pardon, miss. It's a way I've got. Years of poverty and ' ' Go and talk to your wife,' interrupted Mona, with a decided air. He went to the bedside and talked for a long time earnestly to his better-half, who, though weak and ill, and near death's door, still had the possession of her faculties. As wc have said, she knew no will but her husband's. After a while Daddy Chiverton came to Miss Seafield and said — ' If you please, she wants to see you.' Going to the sick woman, Mona said, leaning over the bed— ' Has your husband told you what you ought to do ? ' THE PLOT. 13 ' Yes, but I'm not quite clear about it. My bead's weak. Will you talk to me ? ' Bfona went over tbe ground again, and concluded by saying — ' It is only an act of justice which you ought — which you must do. You know yourself that you caunot live ; and by following my advice, you will make your husband and your son independent of the world.' 1 What are you to get for all this ? ' asked the woman, pointedly. 1 That is my business,' answered Moua, drily. ' Have you got her promise ? ' said Daddy Chiverton, gruffly. ' She'd better make it, if she doesn't want to die with my curse ringing in her ears.' 'Oh, David!' cried the poor woman ; 'I'll promise, I'll do anythiug you wish. I never did disobey you yet. I'll do it. Only tell me what I am to do. Don't curse me. Don't, don't. I couldn't bear it.' Daddy Chiverton smiled grimly. Biona talked to the woman for some minutes, in a clear but low voic I, She was giving her her lesson. Just as she had concluded the door was thrown violently open, and Darby entered, with his pockets stuffed full of game. He drew back on seeing Miss Seafield. ' Take your hat off, you cub,' Baid bis father. 'Don't you see there is a lady here.' ' Fine f'olk> limit keep us,' growled the promising youth. 'You always was a bad one, Darby,' replied his father. ' It's a crying shame I did not leather you more when you was youn^.' • (utiic here, if you please,' said Mona, wishing to put a stop to the Btorm which was brewing between father and son. ' I want td have a little conversation with you.' 'With me?' ' Ye>, with you. Take this chair.' He obeyed, awkwardly enough. He would have refused if he could; but there was that in Mona's manner which con- strained him to comply with her re»pie>t. In about tin minutes she bad made him thoroughly .acquainted with the details of her daring scheme. 14 HELD IN THRALL. ( Now,' she added, ' it depends entirely upon you whether you will continue in the sort of life you are leading, or whether you will be a gentleman and acquire a position.' It was very tempting to Darby Chiverton. ' I should like to be a fine gentleman,' he said ; ' why should I not?' 'Why, indeed?' 'One man is as good as another. It's only education and mixing with a different set that has made Mr. Ashley Leigh what he is. I can shoot as "well and ride as well as he can.' ' You consent?' she demanded, a little nervously. ' I do,' he answered. ' Very well. Now tell me how long it will take you to go into the town ? ' The town was called Stanton, distant about two miles. ' And back again ? ' he queried. ' Of course.' ' About an hour.' ' Go, if you please, to the stationer's and buy a bill stamp. I will write down the amount I want it for.' ' What for 1 ' 'You will see on your return.' With some difficulty a bottle of muddy ink was found and an indifferent pen. With these she wrote something on a piece of dirty paper j and giving Darby some money, saw him start on his errand. * Be cautious,' she said in an admonitory whisper ; ' say nothing to anybody. Keep your own counsel always.' He nodded, and was gone. The time passed wearily until he came back. Neither Mona or Daddy Chiverton were in the humour for conversation. The silence was only broken by the howling of the wind outside, the crackling of the logs on the fire, and the hacking cough of the poor woman who was lying in the bed. When Darby returned he drew a paper from his pocket, and handed it to Miss Seafield, who said — ' Did you bring the scrap on which I wrote what I wanted ? ' He shook his head. ' That was a mistake ; but it does not much matter. If we are clever, no one will take the trouble to rake up evidence against us. Can you write ? ' Darby answered in the affirmative. THE PLOT. 15 Miss Seafield told him what to put on the paper and where to siy the noble OWneM "t Hartshill. Often had he longed to make one ol the fashionable throng 16 HELD IN THRALL. and cursed the hard fate which condemned him to the life of a day labourer. Mona felt him tremble, as her little baud rested upon the sleeve of his velveteen jacket, and from that moment she knew that she could do as she liked with him. During this short walk to Heart's Content, she drew a vivid picture of the delights which awaited him, in the new sphere to which she was about to translate him, with a rapidity equal to that of a magician's wand. She cautioned him, too, and advised him to act circum- spectly, dinning over and over again into his ears the lesson she had given all of them in the cottage. 'You will find life much pleasanter,' she said ; 'plenty of money, and all the luxuries which unlimited wealth can command, will bring you such happiness as you have never yet dreamed of. If you want beauty, you will find it at your feet. But perhaps you have some rustic sweetheart? ' Darby emphatically assured her that such was not the case. He had always felt, he said, that he was destined to some- thing better than his present lot, and consequently looked higher. ' Ah, well,' said Mona, with a sigh ; ' we shall see you marrying some lady of rank.' ' No, indeed ! ' he answered, breathing heavily. ' If I dared — that is, if you would not be angry with me, I ' ' Here we are, close to Heart's Content ! ' said Mona, in- terrupting him. ' I must wish you good-bye. It will not be well for us to be seen together.' Pressing his hand, she favoured him with another bewitching smile, and tripped lightly away, leaving him standing still, as if overwhelmed. ' The simpleton ! ' she murmured. ' He would have pro- posed to me on the spot. Not yet, I must see how the plot works, and what compensating advantages he can offer me for such a sacrifice. Ugh ! the night makes one shudder.' On entering the house, Mona tried to glide up to her bedroom unperceived, but she met Marian Ingledew on the stairs. ' What a long time you have been ! ' she said. ' Yes, dear. I stayed to read the Bible to the poor old woman, who is very ill indeed: and after that I took a long walk. Is your headache better 1 ' THE PLOT. 17 'A little,' answered Marian drily, retiring to her chamber. Miss Ingledcw did not like her governess that day so much B8 -he had done formerly. The Honourable Ashley Leigh had, she fancied, spoken admiringly of her, and .-la' was slightly jealous. C 13 CHAPTER III. STRANGE NEWS. While Miss Seafield was dressing for dinner Marian put her head in at the door, and said — 'I forgot to tell you, that Mr. Champneys and Doctcr Hawkins are expected to-night.' ' Thank you, dear ! ' said Mona, in a quiet, condescending manner. When she reached the drawing-room, she found Mr. Ingledew talking to his guests, who had arrived. Miss Seafield was always treated by the master of Heart's Content as one of the family. 'It's so dreadful for a governess to be made to feel her position,' he would say, generously. Mona was never in better spirits, she laughed and chatted gaily ; being really a well-informed woman, and quite at her ease in the best society, she was a general favourite. She could talk to Mr. Fleurus Champneys about the high church movement, just as well as she could discourse with Doctor Hawkins about the poor of the parish, and the latest discoveries in medicine. It was Miss Ingledew's custom to retire soon after the dessert was placed upon the table ; to allow the gentlemen to sit over their wine, and talk politics. She was about to do so, when a servant entered, saying that Doctor Hawkins was wanted at Daddy Chiverton's cottage. 'I'll just run over,' he said, 'and come back again, though I don't suppose I can do much good in that quarter. The old woman was sinking fast when I left her yesterday.' He had scarcely got his great coat on, when another mes- senger came from the clergyman's house, saying his presence was also required at Daddy Chiverton's cottage. The wife Avas dying, and she wanted to see the parson before she passed away. ' In that case, doctor, we can go together ! ' said Mr. Champneys. STRANGE NEWS. 19 ' Certainly. Glad of your company ! ' replied Mr. Hawkins. For several hours Mr. Ingledew awaited their return ; but as he did not see them, he, being an early man, went to bed, having given them up. Our story now takes us to Ilartshill Castle — a venerable pile, built in the early Norman Btyle of architecture, and still pre- serving its distinguishing features, though it had been con- siderably altered and added to by the various Lords of Cariston. As soon as breakfasl was over, Lord Cariston was informed that the Rev. Fleurus Champneys wished to see him. ' Wants my advice about a church-rate, or some parochial matter, I suppose!' thought his lordship, as he told the domestic to show him into his study. After the greeting was over, the clergyman said — ' I have come upon very peculiar business, my lord. So peculiar, in fact, that I scarcely know how to begin my story.' 'Indeed !' said Lord Cariston, elevating his eyebrows. 'I had better be circumstantial, I think.' 'If you please.' 'Last night I was dining with Mr. Ingledew at Heart's Conteut. After dinner I was sent for by David Chivertou, whose wife was dying.' ' Nothing very extraordinary about that,' said Lord Cariston, with a smile. ' She has been dying for the last two years.' ' Slie is gone at last.' 'Poor creature! Well, we must all die some day. Go on, Champneys.' • Before her death she made a confession, which I have in my ] k't. I sent for two justices of the peace, in whose presence ii was read over to the old woman, and duly attested. They were Sir Temple Irving and Mr. George Pottinger. Here is the document. If you will cast your eye over it, the matter will be more plain to you.' 'To me? How can it possibly interest me'' asked his lordship, fidgetting nervously in bis pocket for his spectacles. * Ton will sec.' With these words Mr. Fleurus Champneys handed Lord Cariston a Bheel of foolscap paper, on which was written about a dozen lines. His lordship read it, at first with some carelessne -, and afterwards with trembling eagi rn< . 'J 20 HELD IN THRALL. He read it twice, as if fearful of having mistaken its import. Then laying it down on the table, and his spectacles on it, he said — ' This is grave, very grave.' Mr. Champneys quite concurred with him. 'If this be the truth,' he pointed to the confession, 'it follows that I have been cherishing the wrong man. Is it not so ? It is as clear as daylight that Ashley Leigh is a peasant's son, and that Darby — isn't that the name? ' 'Itis.' ' That Darby is really my child. That is the case — eh ? ' 'Yes ; in a nutshell.' ' As you say, in a nutshell. Now, tell me, Champneys, are you my friend ? ' ' I hope so, my lord.' ' I know it. I have proved it, ever since I presented you with the living of Stanton. Now, tell me, have you any reason to doubt the truthfulness of this old woman's dying confession 1 ' ' None whatevei',' answered Mr. Champneys. ' I never heard anything more truthfully revealed. There w T as no flaw or discrepancy in her statement. What she advanced she adhered to strictly. She declared that she had changed the children, sending her own child to the castle, and keeping the one entrusted to her care to nurse. There were no distinguish- ing marks on either, so the fraud was easily perpetrated.' Lord Cariston paced the room uneasily. Stopping suddenly opposite the clergyman, he said — ' I cannot help showing some emotion, Champneys, for I have got to love the boy. Ashley has twined himself around my heart. But I — advise me, old friend. Tell me what I ought to do.' Mr. Fleurus Champneys reflected a moment. ' You must do your duty,' he said, at length. 'And that is?' 'Maka reparation to your own flesh and blood for the wrong that has been done him.' ' Yes, you are right,' replied Lord Cariston . ' I am sorry — very sorry for Ashley. I wonder, too, how my poor wife will take it. He is quite his mother's boy. But you are right, Champneys. Justice must and shall be done. Will you break it to Ashley while 1 go and talk to Lady Cariston.' STRANGE NEWS. 21 Mr. Champneys proposed to do so, aud the two men separated. One went to seek Mr. Ashley Leigh, the other proceeded to the apartment of Lady Cariston. Her ladyship was in her boudoir, which opened on to a conservatory, attached to which was an aviary. Lady Cariston's two hobbies were flowers and birds. She was engaged in picking the dead leaves from a geranium, when her husband's voice aroused her, saying — ' Come here, my dear, for an instant ; I must speak to you.'| It was seldom that Lord Cariston used such imperative language, and her ladyship obeyed the command in some trepidation. ' How white you look ! ' she exclaimed. ' What has happened ?" ' Our son is not our son,' he answered. 'I cannot understand enigmas. You know that!' she exclaimed. ' Why keep me in suspense ? Be explicit, for good- ness sake.' In a low voice Lord Cariston informed !her of what had happened, and he ended by placing the confession in her hand. She threw it angrily on one side, crying — 'I won't read it. 1 don't believe a word of it. The thing has been got up by those people.' ' How could such simple people as these cottagers get up such a plot;' replied Lord Cariston. ' No, my dear; unpala- table ae it may be to us to do so, we must believe it. Justice must be done. We must have Darby, or Ashley, as he ought to be called, here. After Christinas we can engage a tutor for him, and send him abroad to be polished by foreign travel. Ashley we shall always treat as a dear friend, if not ae a relative; hut he must at once recognize the fact that my title can never he his, and that he [a not the heir to 1 lartshill.' 4 That is your decision .' ' said his wife. ' My inviolable decision.' A deep sob Startled them. Looking round they beheld Ashley, who had broken away from Mr. Ohampneya, on hearing the news, and had indig- nantly ruahed to hie father and mother, to demand the truth of the strange intelligence. fie heard the latter part of hi- lather'- Speech, and the 'inviolable decision ' had .-truck like a knell OD Ids heart. 22 IlflLD IN THRALL. It was very hard to be dispossessed of title, home, and fortune at a single blow, for he was much too proud to stay in a place which did not belong to him, and be dependent on the bounty of those upon whom he had no claim. ' My poor boy,' said Lord Cariston, turning round and wringing his hand. Recovering himself by a violent effort, Ashley exclaimed — 'What am I to understand from what Mr. Champueys has told me ? Is this wild, improbable story to be believed ] Am I the son of a peasant? ' ' The proofs are incontestable,' answered Lord Cariston. < Tell me all' Lord Cariston, as deliberately as possible, communicated the facts of the singular case as he knew them himself. He assured Ashley that he would always retain his affection> and that the allowance he now received should be continued ; while Hartshill Castle should ever be a home for him. Ashley shook his head mournfully. ' Is it possible that the ties of kindred are so weak, that you will act thus ? ' asked Lady Cariston. ' They are so strong that I am going to do a simple act of justice,' was the reply. Lord Cariston left the boudoir to rejoin Mr. Champneys, and concert the proper measures to be taken in the emergency. The mother and son were left together. Throwing her arms round his neck her ladyship exclaimed, with tears in her eyes — ' I will never, never believe this strange story. Trust me, that I will unravel this mystery somehow.' Ashley became calm and collected, and talked for a con- siderable time with his mother. In the afternoon he packed up a few things in a bag, and left the castle without saying a word to any one. Mr. Champneys had gone away in the morning, but he returned to dinner. His first question was — ' Where is Mr. Ashley, or Mr. Darby Chiverton, as I sup- pose I ought to call him ] ' 'If you mean my son, sir,' replied Lady Cariston, coldly, 1 he has gone to town, at least he announced his intention of doing so this morning.' ' Gone to London ! ' ejaculated his lordship. 'Certainly. The castle was no place for him after your decision this morning.' STRANG E NEWS. 23 • Without saying a word to me ! ' ' What had he to say ? ' 'That is very odd!' said Sir Temple Irving, who was one of the guests. 'I could have declared that I saw Mr. Ashley Leigh talking to Thome, the gatekeeper, as I passed the lodge. The light of my carriage-lamps shone full upon him.' 'Impossible!' said Lady Cariston, hastily. ' So I apprehend, after your statement ; but it was a sin- gular illusion.' The following day Lord Cariston sent word to Daddy Chiverton, that he would see him and his son in three days. He was not yet prepared for the interview, the intelligence had been so sudden that he required time to collect his thoughts, and decide upon the course of action to be pursued. That was on Tuesday. On Wednesday afternoon, news was received at the castle that the body of a young man, frightfully mutilated, had been found on the metals of a railway near London. His linen was marked ' A. L.' There was some money found in his pocket, a cigar case, with a coronet and the initials 'A. L.,' and an envelope, addressed to the Honourable Ashley Leigh, Ilartshill Castle, near Stanton, Midlandshire. The face was so disfigured that it was impossible to recognise the features. The conclusion arrived at by everybody was, that Ashley Leigh had been so overcome by the intelligence of his low birth, that lie had committed suicide. Lady Cariston WBG silent, but calm. The shock appeared to affect her deeply, but did not show its effects much on the surface. As for lil— lordship, he was grieved, and became doubly anxious to 'do justice,' as he called it, to Darby Chiverton. After breakfast, on Thursday, Lord Cariston, who was momentarily expecting the arrival of Daddy Chiverton and Darby, sought his wife, to beg her to be present at the interview. She was in her conservatory as usual. On the carpet of the boudoir her husband picked up a letter, which he ventured to read. It ran thus — 'Your ladyship will perceive that I have carried out your instructions to the letter. I hope everything has been done to your satisfaction. I accept your invitation, ami will 24 HELD IN THRALL. arrive at the castle, for Christmas, in a week from this date. ' I am your ladyship's faithful servant, 'Hamley Morris. ; ' 'Dec. 12th, 18—' Lady Cariston, hearing a noise, came out of her boudoir and flushed angrily at seeing her letter in her husband's hand. ' Who is your correspondent, my dear ? ' he asked. ' I do not know the name.' ' Oh ! perhaps not. He is a broker whom I have employed to transfer some stock which stands in my name. He is coming down for a week.' ' So I perceive,' answered his lordship, drily. When she heard what he wanted her to do, she refused firmly. ' I will receive him politely,' she said, ' If it be your determination to have him here, but I cannot recognise a peasant's son as my own. My grief for poor Ashley makes me wish to be as secluded as possible.' In vain Lord Cariston tried to persuade her. ' I, too, am overwhelmed with grief,' he said. ' But the dreadful news requires confirmation.' A servant announced the arrival of father and son, and Lord Cariston hurried away to receive them. 25 CHAPTER IV. DOING JDSTICK. Lord Cariston, upon leaving his wife's boudoir proceeded to the library, where Daddy Chiverton and Darby were auxiously awaiting him. The interview was a long one. At the conclusion, Lord Cariston embraced Darby and invited him to come at once to take up his abode at the castle. He offered a substantial cottage to the old man, which was thankfully refused. ' I like the old place, and I'll stick to it,' said Daddy, ' though a trifle of money, my lord, would be acceptable.' ' You shall have it,' answered Lord Cariston, going to a drawer, and cramming his hands full of sovereigns, without counting them. Darby ••aid he would come the next day ; he wanted to buy some clothes and other things at Stanton, which he thought would become his newly-found grandeur. The father and son left the castle highly satisfied with the result of their interview, and the generosity of Lord Cariston. Darby was publicly recognised as the Honourable Darhy Leigh. His Christian name he could not change. Everything had been highly successful. Much more so than they had expected. Daddy Chivertou had anticipated being bought off at a price. lie had received a line from Mona, in the morning, telling him to meet her, at midnight, at the ruins of the abbey, a spot half-way between Heart's Content and his own cottage. It was not sail- tin- them to lie seen together in the daytime. After Mr. Ingledew, his daughter, and the servants, had retired to rest, she slipped out of the house unobserved, and bent her steps towards the abbey. The ruins were well preserved, covered with ivy in places, and were considered most interesting relics of a bygone age. 26 HELD IN THRALL. It was a fine night, and the soft moonlight shone in streams through the grand old windows, and flooded the grass-grown courts. Report said that the ground underneath was honeycombed with the vaults and subterranean passages made by the monks, who had lived there in days of yore. Mona thought nothing of that, though she started when she came suddenly upon the person of Daddy Chiverton, who was standing in the shadow. ' A fine night,' he said, in a tone of familiarity, dropping the ' miss,' which he had always formerly used in addressing her. She was about to reply, when the distant sound of the midnight hour, borne along the frosty air from a clock at Heart's Content, fell upon their ears. At the same time Daddy Chiverton uttered a cry. It was an exclamation of alarm. Following the direction of his staring eyes, Mona beheld a sight which froze the blood in her veins. Some distance off, with his pallid face turned towards them, and passing from one portion of the ruins to the other, his figure well defined in the moonlight, was the well-known person of Ashley Leigh. They had both heard of his death. They both knew that they had, by their wicked ingenuity, hounded him on to the commission of the dreadful crime of suicide. That it was an apparition, Daddy Chiverton did not doubt. Mona, less credulous, dashed forward, but ere she reached the spot it was gone ; although she searched about in every direction, not a single trace of a human being could she see. Returning to Daddy Chiverton's side, she sat down on a block of moss-covered stone, trembling in every limb like an aspen. Her face was ghastly pale. In a short time the conspirators recovered from the conster- nation into which this extraordinary supernatural appearance had thrown them. But they conversed in whispers, as if they feared that shadowy, unsubstantial forms, floating in the air, might over- hear the dread secrets of which they were the mutual recipients* DOING JUSTICE. 27 Daddy Chiverton informed Mona of all that had taken place, and of the success of the plot BO far. The governess impressed the nece-sity of caution upon him ; and he, perfectly content to be guided by her, promised compliance with her instructions. 'I think I have nothing more to say at present,' said Mona. ' Of course, we must not be seen together ; and if we have occasion to meet again. I will come to your cottage. This terrible collection of ruins frightens me, I know not why.' 'They du tell -tiange tales of the olden times about it,' answered Daddy Chiverton. Mona shuddered involuntarily. Taking leave of the old man, she hurried back to Heart's Con- tent, and regained her chamber without anyone perceiving her. On the appointed day, Daddy Chiverton and his hopeful son Darby presented themselves at Hartshill Castle, and were shown into the drawing-room. The footman who admitted them knew that Darby was to be received as the young master, but having known him as an idle, poaching, good-for-nothing fellow, glad to go on any errand for a pint of beer, he was not particularly civil, and did not say ' sir' when he answered him. This enraged Darby, who had made up his mind to vindicate the false position he was placed in, and show them all, as he .-aid, who Avas their master. ' Tell my father, Lord Cariston, that I am here,' he ex- claimed, luudly ; 'and don't let me have any of your insolence You do not seem to know who you are speaking to.' The footman was sorely tempted to retort, but hia discretion over-ruled his inclination, and he bowed, as he went to an- nounce the arrival of .Mr. Darby Leigh, as he was in future to be called, with the prefix of ' honourable.' Lord Cariston Was quickly in at tendance, and heartily we! corned the man he firmly believed to be his son, saving — ' You have come to the seat of your ancestors, and I b you will live to add fresh lustre to the family name.' ' Where's my mother?' inquired Darby, abruptly. ' I will ring and ask,' rejoined Lord Cariston. He did so, and was informed thai she had driven over t Heart's Content. 'It does not seem to me that she is over and above anxious to sec me,' remarked Darby. 28 HELD IN THRALL. 'You must make allowance, my dear boy,' answered poor Lord Cariston. ' She has a prejudice in favour of Ashley — rest his soul — who was so sadly snatched from us. If you act judiciously, you will in time, I have no doubt, overcome that prejudice, which, we must all admit, is very natural.' ' I don't like it,' replied Darby, bluntly. ' I sympathise with you. Still it is a matter which rests with time. Win her love. You are, I am sure, warm-hearted and affectionate ; frequent opportunities of displaying your filial affection will occur — do not neglect them. A more esti- mable lady never lived, as you will admit, when you know her sterling worth as well as I do.' ' It seems a cold reception,' said Darby, shrugging his shoulders. 'Everything is so sudden and unexpected,' pleaded his lordship. ' Never mind — you're my father,' answered Darby. ' You've admitted it, haven't you 'I and you can't help that, old boy, can you?' Lord Cariston shrank back at this vulgar speech ; but he was always in favour of ' making allowances ' for people, and he attributed it to Darby's education and bringing up. 'Ah, my lord,' exclaimed Daddy Chiverton, affecting to weep, ' you are much happier than I am. You have a son, while mine is found dead, just as I had discovered him. Oh, if I had only held him in my arms once ! the separation then would not have seemed so hard.' ' Poor old man ! ' said Lord Cariston compassionately — ' yours is, indeed, a hard case ! ' ' Well, I give you up the son I thought was mine. You'll treat him kindly, my lord,' Daddy went on. ' Perhaps he mayn't be all you would like. He'll be strange to the ways of the fine folks he's come amongst, but you won't let him be put upon.' ' Make your mind perfectly easy on that point. He shall receive every consideration.' ' Don't you fret, father as was, I can take my own part,' said Darby, with a self-confident nod. ' I've got my position, and I'll make people respect me.' ' That is right,' said Lord Cariston, approvingly ; ' make people respect you. A very proper speech. Never forget the old adage — " Familiarity breeds contempt." And now, as I DOING JUSTICE. 20 have some letters to write, you must excuse me. Mr. Chivertoo, order what refreshment you like." 'Thank you, my lord. I'll go below, and take a mug of beer, and a crust of bread and cheese, thank you.' Darby turned away with ineffable disdain, saying — 'I shall have some champagne — that's the wine for nob- like me.' ' "What, at this early hour of the morning! Of course you can do as you like ; and if you wish to celebrate your arrival. why ' ' Leave me alone, father,' interrupted Darby. ' I know what I'm about. You uever need bother yourself about me. 1 wasn't boru yesterday.' ' Do as you like ; but be prudent. Every one will be ready to criticise your couduct at first, and it depends upon yourself entirely whether you make a favourable impression or uot. I have nothing more to say. If you want me, I shall be in my study. This house is your home.' Lord Cariston shook the old cottager by the hand, and went away, whereupon Darby rang the bell, and threw himself into an arm-chair. 'Bring some champagne,' he said, when the servaut appeared ; ' and mind it's good. No half-and-half stuff for me, and tell the keeper to come round with dogs and guns. I shall shoot to-day.' The wine was brought and opened. Darby indulged rather freely, but Daddy Chiverton would not touch the sparkling champagne, fearing, as he said, that it might get into his head, and let out some things he had got shut up there securely. lie went downstairs, and had a modest lunch of bread and cheese and ale, and then betook himself to his cottage. Liking the wine, Darby emptied the bottle and part of another. As may be imagined, it took an effect upon him, unaccustomed as he was to its potent Influence; so when he was told that the keeper had arrived, he walked with an unsteady gait to the front door. There were several statues on the lawn, which was taste- fully laid out; Darby, full of a newborn spirit of destruction, took a gun from the keeper, and blew oil' the head of a winged i'upid, shattering the arm of a Mercury with the other barrel. The keeper dared not interfere, and said nothing. Darby grew confused and dizzy. He lost his equilibrium, and while 30 HELD IN THRALL. trying to reload the gun, having put the shot in first, and the powder on the top of it, he fell back on the grass, and went sound asleep. The keeper called the servants, who indulged in many a joke at the expense of their new master, who, luckily for them, was unconscious of their pleasantries. Not knowing what else to do with him, they carried him upstairs, and laid him on a bed. Thus did he celebrate his arrival, and assume the position of heir of Hartshill Castle and the vast estates belonging to it. We must follow Lady Cariston to Heart's Content, where she found Marian Ingledew in tears. Ever since the terrible and distressing news of Ashley Leigh's death, she had given way to the most violent grief. Her sorrow was not loud or obtrusive, but it was none the less strong and acute. Those who suffer silently suffer most. She welcomed Lady Cariston as a mother, and threw her- self, weeping, into her arms. Mona sat in one corner of the deep bay-window, apparently engaged in embroidery work. ' My dear, dear child,' said her ladyship, ' you must not give way like this — indeed you must not.' ' Oh, Lady Cariston,' answered Marian Ingledew, weeping, ' I do not mind confessing to you, now that he is gone, that I did love him far, far beyond all created things. It is so hard to lose him. My heart will break. I am sure it will.' ' Let me comfort you, Marian. I think I can, if you will endeavour to be more composed,' replied her ladyship. ' You are very good. So often have I experienced your kindness that I am persuaded of that; but you cannot heal my wounded spirit,' said Marian, with a melancholy shake of the head. ' Is that Miss Seafield ? ' asked Lady Cariston, looking in the direction of the window. ' Yes ; Mona has been so kind to me.' ' Can we be by ourselves ? — what I have to say to you, I wish to say alone.' ' Certainly, but Mona ' 'Allow me to have my own way, dear,' said her ladyship, with a smile. ' I know Miss Seafield's worth, still it is my whim to speak to you alone.' DOING JUSTICE. 31 ' Do you mind leaving me with Lady Cariston? ' said Marian, to the governess. 'Not in the least. I was not aware I 'was intruding upon your privacy,' answered Mona, rising and gathering her work together, prior to leaving the room, which she almost immediately did. Mona went out on the lawn, and sitting upon a rustic-chair near the window, braved the chilly air, in the vain attempt to hear what passed in the drawing-room. Lady Cariston and Marian were alone together for more than half-an-hour. What passed between them was impossible for the scheming governess to guess. When her ladyship came out to her carriage, she was accompanied by Marian, who was smiling through her tears. ' You will not forget your promise to come and stay with me, at the castle, for a week, at Christmas ? " said Lady Cariston. ' No ; many thanks,' answered Mariau. ' I will certainly come. Once more let me assure you of my gratitude for this visit.' ' Remember ! ' said her ladyship, as she entered her carriage, and was driven off. Marian inclined her pretty head, and Mona worried herself to think if the word, ' Remember,' which appeared to be spoken in an admonitory tone, had reference to the invitation to the castle, or to the secret conversation which had taken place between them in the drawing-room. It was wonderful to notice the change in Marian's demeanour. She was sad and thoughtful, it is true, but the heart - breaking sorrow she had previously indulged in had utterly vanished. Mona was not slow to remark this, but she made no comment upon the sudden alteration. It was not her custom to a-k questions. When Lady Cariston returned to the castle, she at once noticed the ruthless destruction which had been committed amongst the statuary. Her face grew red, and she asked a servant what the cause of it was. 32 HELD IN THRALL. Lady Cariston was soon in possession of the history of the affair, and burned with indignation to think that this low impostor, as she persisted in calling Darby, should dare to take such a liberty on his first arrival at her house. Seeking her husband, she made a complaint to him, but he, as usual, endeavoured to excuse the outrage. 'It is monstrous,' she said. 'Will you allow such a thing to pass without expressing your disapproval of it ? Is Harts- hill to be turned into a bear garden ? ' ' Remonstrate with him yourself, my dear. I am afraid he is a little too headstrong for me,' answered Lord Cariston. 'You will, if you use kindness, acquire a beneficial influence over him.' ' The kindness I should use would be to send him back to his cottage,' replied her ladyship, leaving the study of her husband in anything but an enviable frame of mind. Darby was not visible until dinner-time, when he appeared in a shooting-coat and a spotted neckerchief, looking rather penitent. At all times, whether alone or not, Lord and Lady Cariston were very particular about evening dress, and when Darby appeared in morning costume, his lordship was constrained to say — ' You will I am sure excuse my remark, but it is always our custom to dress for dinner. Will you think of this when you visit Stanton, and procure what is necessary ? ' ' I'll try to think of it,' answered Darby, gruffly. ' This is good enough I should fancy, when there is no company.' ' We wish to show our respect to one another.' ' Oh ! that's it. Well, I'll see about it.' ' Odious creature ! ' said Lady Cariston to herself. For the next few days he conducted himself without com- mitting any glaring offence against good manners ; amusing himself by shooting and riding. It was then that a visitor arrived at the castle. This was Mr. Hamley Morris, who had written the letter which Lord Cariston had picked up and read in his wife's boudoir. Mr. Hamley Morris was tall and respectable, though not aristocratic in appearance. He was very reserved, seldom speaking without an object, as it seemed. He had short, dark brown hair, a bushy beard and whiskers. His attire, though not highly fashionable, was good, substantial, and very neat. DOING JUSTICE. 33 Hi- eyes were bright and piercing; his features regular, and habitually stem in their expression. He was muscular, and rather inclined to be .-tout. Darby did not like this man. He frequently met him in the fields, and it Beemed that Mr. Hamley Morris's chief occupation was to follow him about. Once Morris said to him — 'It's a fine thing to be a gentleman.' • I should not think you had ever had an opportunity of judging,' replied Darby, with a sneer. 'Very clever," Baid Hamley Morris, with a smile. 'It is to be hoped it will last.' 'Last! What do you mean?' asked Darby, beginning to tremble. But when he looked for Morris, he found he was walking quietly away. A little before Christmas, Mona, accompanying Marian Ingledew, arrived at the castle. Mr. Ingledew remained by himself, at Heart's Content. He was pursuing some archaeological studies, and did not mind being alone. Besides, the distance between the two ho was so short, that he could run over whenever he liked, with- out any difficulty. Darby was thrown a good deal in Marian's society, and courted it. She was very beautiful, and he fell in love with her, not taking any trouble to disguise his sentiment-. As for Marian, she treated him cavalierly, hating him cordially in her heart, and being angry with him fur his presumption. Out of respect for Ashley Leigh, no invitations had been sent out for Christmas. There was to be only a family party. No balls, no dinners, no display. Mona had hoped to fascinate Darby, and she was furioUG when she saw the attention he paid to .Marian. Talking to him she said — 'It seems you are not satisfied with obtaining the position of Ashley Leigh, you desire die girl lie was in love with ; but, let me tell you, she respects his memory so much that Bhe will never be yours.' ' I will never rest until Bhe i-.' he answered. 'It would be better for you to turn your thought- in another direction.' I) 34 HELD IN THRALL. ' What direction ? ' ' I want some of the money you promised me, and I must have it, or ' ' The time is not up yet,' he interrupted. 'Never mind that. Get the money, or dread the conse- quences. If you are wise, you will make a friend, not an enemy, of me. How would you like your house of cards to tumble about your ears ? ' ' Don't, for heaven's sake, talk in that way ! ' he cried in great trepidation. ' Get me the money,' answered Mona, resolutely. ' Where am I to procure it ? ' he asked, in perplexity. ' That is not my business. In three days I must have it. Do you understand me ? ' She walked away, leaving Darby in a perturbed state of mind. Where was he to get the large sum of five thousand pounds ? Would Lord Cariston give it to him ? Assuredly her ladyship would not give him a penny, if she could help it. There was no sympathy between them. He forthwith applied to Lord Cariston for the money, but, as he had expected, he was refused point blank. ' A hundred or two you are welcome to,' replied his lordship, 'but I do not feel justified in supplying you with such an extravagant sum. What do you want it for ? What can you want it for ? You have everything you can wish for here.' Darby was forced to content himself with a cheque for three hundred pounds. That was a very little help to the accumulation of five thousand. While he was racking his brain, and tortured by doubts and fears, he one day passed by the bedroom of Lady Cariston. The door was open, and he saw, on a table, her jewel-case, which was unlocked. The glittering contents were partially visible, and as he beheld the sparkling diamonds, and the artistically-wrought gold, he conceived an idea. Lady Cariston's jewels would enable him to satisfy the rapacity of Mona. THE CASTLE ON HUE. 35 CHAPTER V. THE CASTLE ON FIRE. ] ,.\dy Cariston's »uite of apartments were in the left wing of the castle, as were the rooms apportioned to the use of Miss Ingledcw and Mona. Between the two wings came the main portion of the building, in which were the bancpueting, drawing, and other room-. In the right wing the servants slept. Darby regarded the position of her ladyship's apartments with great care, and resolved, on Christmas Day, to make an attempt to possess himself of the jewels. The day opened dull and heavy. The air was heavily charged with snow, which, about one o'clock, began to fall in feathery Hakes, covering everything in Avinter's pallid garments. The ladies had been to church in the morning, and in the afternoon Marian complained of illness, and retired to her bed- chamber. A slight attempt at decoration had been made, but it was not very successful, as Lady Cariston discouraged anything ihat resembled festivity. The mistletoe was not hung up in the hall, and the huge branches of ivy, laurel, and holly, which usually adorned the castle, were absent. It promised to be a very gloomy Christmas, instead of a season of festivity and rejoicing, but every one secretly praised her ladyship because Ashley Leigh was a general favourite, and it was considered only right to pay a fitting tribute to his memory. .Marian did contrive to appear at dinner, but she retired as ■ as the ladies rose; from dessert. According to custom, Lord Cariston had, with his own hands, mixed a loving cup. '1 am at a loss for a toast, my dear,' he said, a [dressing his J) 2 36 HELD IN THRALL. wife. ' Perhaps I may call upon Mr. Ilamley Morris to give us one.' ' With pleasure,' replied Morris, raising the cup in his hand. 1 1 give you the " rightful heir." ' Then he drank deeply. The toast was accompanied with a significant glance at Darby, who did not like it at all, as every one, except Mona and Lord Cariston, refused to pledge him. Hamley Morris remarked that Mona drank the toast to Darby, and made a note of the circumstance ; thinking it odd that she should espouse his cause, when she was so intimate with Marian, and had known Ashley Leigh so well. ' It seems to me,' said Darby, with a flushed face, ' that . the toast was meant as a direct insult to me.' ' How so ? Are you not the rightful heir ? ' asked Hamley Morris. Darby bit his lip and was silent. ' You are too sensitive,' said Lord Cariston. Darby got up and left the table, without a word of apology or excuse. He was not seen again for some hours. The castle clock was striking ten, when he crept gently up- stairs, a small lamp in his hand, and determination expressed in his face. He entered Lady Cariston's room, having satisfied himself that she was in the drawing-room, playing chess with her husband. The jewel-case was where he had seen it on the former occasion. Disregarding its weight, which was considerable, he seized it, and was about to make his way out of the apartment with it, when he heard voices on the stairs. ' Perhaps the wayward child has gone to bed, disdaining to honour us with his company,' said the voice of Hamley Morris. ' Lord Cariston is annoyed. I wish you would prevail upon him to come down,' answered the voice of her ladyship ; who added — ' This should be a season of festivity, not ' What else she said Darby did not stay to hear. Quick as lightning he opened a window and threw the jewel-case out on the lawn. Then he unhesitatingly set fire to the bed-curtains and those about the windows. THE CASTLE ON FIRE. 37 [nstantly a dense smoke arose, which was followed by >ely crackling flames. The house was old, the wood-work dry, and everything in readiness for the appearance of the fiery demon. A volume of smoke wits driven out on the landing by the wind which entered at the open window, and nearly choked her ladyship and Namley Morris. • I Hi,' cried Lady Cariston, • the eastle is on fire! Save my jewels— the box on the table. I will give the alarm below. Heaven help OS ! ' I will do my best, my lady,' answered Morris, who always preserved his presence of mind on an emergency. Lady Cariston ran downstair- to give an alarm respecting the terrible occurrence, and to dispatch messengers, mounted on fleet horses, for the engines at Stanton. Morris plunged into the smoke which was rapidly becoming thicker every moment, Just at this crisis, Darby was forcing his way out. The two men came into collision. Ilamley Morris was thrown violently against the door-post by Darby, who was advancing at a (piicker pace, and heard the latter rush pasl him. This aroused hi- suspicions. Someone hail been in Lady Cariston's apartment ; there! it was highly prohable that the fire was the work of an in- cendiary. Gasping for breath and crawling on his hand- and knees, -u as to get the benefit of any small current of comparatively h aii-. Hamley Morris reached the table. II.- felt with his hands, and looked on it- surface by the help of the flames, which had now Beized. upon the oak wain- ting, curiously carved by cunning hands of yore, and which ■ a ruddy glare around. Nothing could he Bee of the jewel- The heal of the fire compelled him to withdraw, and the eager flame- followed him to the door, rolling over the Landing • and licking tin- bannisters with their forked tongues. The conflagration was becoming serious. It threatened to involve the ancient castle in dire ruin, ding he could do no more, Hamley Horris went down- stairs, to render what assistance he could, either by advic action, in extinguishing the fire. 38 HELD IN THRALL. Darby had hastened to the lawn, and picked up the jewel- case, which he hastily hid in the midst of some evergreens,, where he thought he could safely leave it until the morning. All the servants were assembled, with pails and buckets, but the supply of water was difficult to obtain ; it having to be carried from a frozen lake, distant about half-a-mile. A double chain of men was necessary for this purpose, which formed a picturesque appearance on the snow, which had fallen for some hours, and now lay thick upon the ground. The fire had, in the short space of a quarter of an hour, gained a terrible mastery over the left wing. As the flames broke through the windows, their vivid light was seen for many miles around. Three men had gone for the engines. Fearing that the venerable pile would be destroyed before their arrival, many articles of value were hastily got out and. placed upon the lawn. The plate-chest was the centre of a collection of odds and ends, consisting of pianos, old furniture, valuable paintings by famous masters, and countless other things. Hamley Morris was here, there, and everywhere. Lord Cariston, deeply agitated, and incapable of exertion or direction, formed one of a melancholy group, consisting of his wife, Mona, and Darby, which was to be seen in front of the house, on a couple of hearthrugs considerately placed on the snow for them. Suddenly Mona raised a cry. * Marian — Miss Ingledew ! ' she cried. ' What of her ? Is she not here ? ' asked Lord Cariston. 'No, indeed. She went to lay down ; complaining of indisposition.' ' Oh, heaven ! ' cried her ladyship, with sincere concern, ' she will be burnt alive ! ' Raising his voice, Lord Cariston cried — ' A lady — Miss Ingledew, is in the left wing ! A thousand pounds to the man who saves her ! ' The ringing sound of his lordship's voice electrified all who heard it. Three men rushed to the house and ascended the grand staircase. Hamley Morris was in front. A solid body of flame barred his progress. THE CASTLE ON* FIRE. 39 To attempt to break through it would have been madness. At a glance, he saw that the only way to save Miss Ingledew was through the window of her room, and by the aid of a ladder. No time was to be lost, for the flames were spreading laterally with extraordinary rapidity. Apparently she was unconscious of the immensity of the danger which threatened her. Men ran hither and thither in search of a ladder, but, as sometimes happens when excitement ruus high, one could not be found. All at once a man darted from the crowd, bearing a ladder in his arms. He placed it against the wall, and guided by the cries which arose on all sides, he selected the window of the room occupied by the poor girl. Running up with considerable agility and undaunted courage, his form was visible to all, for the flames lighted up the scene with a vividness resembling that of noonday. To the surprise of all, his face was concealed with a piece of black cloth, cut into the shape of a mask ; so that while he appeared to be a young man, it was impossible to recognise his features. The man in the mask found the window fastened. Dashin