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Oppenheim, Edward Phillips
Published: 1920 Categories(s): Fiction, Action & Adventure, Mystery & Detective, Romance Source: http://www.gutenberg.org
About Oppenheim: Edward Phillips Oppenheim (October 22, 1866 – February 3, 1946), was an English novelist, in his lifetime a major and successful writer of genre fiction including thrillers. Featured on the cover of Time magazine on September 12, 1927, he was the self-styled "prince of storytellers." He composed some one hundred and fifty novels, mainly of the suspense and international intrigue nature, but including romances, comedies, and parables of everyday life. He was the earliest writer of spy fiction as understood today, and invented the "Rogue Male" school of adventure thrillers that was later exploited by John Buchan and Geoffrey Household. Undoubtedly his most renowned work was The Great Impersonation: it was filmed thrice, the last time as a strong piece of wartime propaganda. Perhaps Oppenheim's most enduring creation is the character of General Besserley, the protagonist of General Besserley's Puzzle Box and General Besserley's New Puzzle Box (one of his last works). Much of Oppenheim's work possesses a unique escapist charm, featuring protagonists who delight in Epicurean meals, surroundings of intense luxury, and the relaxed pursuit of criminal practice, on either side of the law. Source: Wikipedia Also available on Feedbooks for Oppenheim: • The Kingdom of the Blind (1916) • The Double Traitor (1915) • The Double Four (1911) • The Vanished Messenger (1914) • An Amiable Charlatan (1916) • The Evil Shepherd (1922) • The Zeppelin's Passenger (1918) • The Black Box (1915) • The Moving Finger (1911) • Berenice (1907) Copyright: This work is available for countries where copyright is Life+50 or in the USA (published before 1923). Note: This book is brought to you by Feedbooks. http://www.feedbooks.com Strictly for personal use, do not use this file for commercial purposes.
The trouble from which great events were to come began when Everard Dominey, who had been fighting his way through the scrub for the last three quarters of an hour towards those thin, spiral wisps of smoke, urged his pony to a last despairing effort and came crashing through the great oleander shrub to pitch forward on his head in the little clearing. It developed the next morning, when he found himself for the first time for many months on the truckle bed, between linen sheets, with a cool, bamboo-twisted roof between him and the relentless sun. He raised himself a little in the bed. "Where the mischief am I?" he demanded. A black boy, seated cross-legged in the entrance of the banda, rose to his feet, mumbled something and disappeared. In a few moments the tall, slim figure of a European, in spotless white riding clothes, stooped down and came over to Dominey's side. "You are better?" he enquired politely. "Yes, I am," was the somewhat brusque rejoinder. "Where the mischief am I, and who are you?" The newcomer's manner stiffened. He was a person of dignified carriage, and his tone conveyed some measure of rebuke. "You are within half a mile of the Iriwarri River, if you know where that is," he replied,—"about seventy-two miles southeast of the Darawaga Settlement." "The devil! Then I am in German East Africa?" "Without a doubt." "And you are German?" "I have that honour." Dominey whistled softly. "Awfully sorry to have intruded," he said. "I left Marlinstein two and a half months ago, with twenty boys and plenty of stores. We were doing a big trek after lions. I took some new Askaris in and they made trouble,—looted the stores one night and there was the devil to pay. I was obliged to shoot one or two, and the rest deserted. They took my
compass, damn them, and I'm nearly a hundred miles out of my bearings. You couldn't give me a drink, could you?" "With pleasure, if the doctor approves," was the courteous answer. "Here, Jan!" The boy sprang up, listened to a word or two of brief command in his own language, and disappeared through the hanging grass which led into another hut. The two men exchanged glances of rather more than ordinary interest. Then Dominey laughed. "I know what you're thinking," he said. "It gave me quite a start when you came in. We're devilishly alike, aren't we?" "There is a very strong likeness between us," the other admitted. Dominey leaned his head upon his hand and studied his host. The likeness was clear enough, although the advantage was all in favour of the man who stood by the side of the camp bedstead with folded arms. Everard Dominey, for the first twenty-six years of his life, had lived as an ordinary young Englishman of his position,—Eton, Oxford, a few years in the Army, a few years about town, during which he had succeeded in making a still more hopeless muddle of his already encumbered estates: a few months of tragedy, and then a blank. Afterwards ten years—at first in the cities, then in the dark places of Africa—years of which no man knew anything. The Everard Dominey of ten years ago had been, without a doubt, good-looking. The finely shaped features remained, but the eyes had lost their lustre, his figure its elasticity, his mouth its firmness. He had the look of a man run prematurely to seed, wasted by fevers and dissipation. Not so his present companion. His features were as finely shaped, cast in an even stronger though similar mould. His eyes were bright and full of fire, his mouth and chin firm, bespeaking a man of deeds, his tall figure lithe and supple. He had the air of being in perfect health, in perfect mental and physical condition, a man who lived with dignity and some measure of content, notwithstanding the slight gravity of his expression. "Yes," the Englishman muttered, "there's no doubt about the likeness, though I suppose I should look more like you than I do if I'd taken care of myself. But I haven't. That's the devil of it. I've gone the other way; tried to chuck my life away and pretty nearly succeeded, too." The dried grasses were thrust on one side, and the doctor entered,—a little round man, also clad in immaculate white, with yellow-gold hair and thick spectacles. His countryman pointed towards the bed. "Will you examine our patient, Herr Doctor, and prescribe for him what is necessary? He has asked for drink. Let him have wine, or
or something of that sort?" "He is Military Commandant of the Colony. "He has also a special mission here." 5 . "Is he the Governor. "but I drink whisky whenever I can get it. "I don't know what the devil it's got to do with you." Dominey remarked." "Well." he declared. with unthinking insolence." the doctor informed him. I have the wounds of a native to dress." the doctor announced. "What a constitution I must have." "All that!" Dominey muttered. "It is His Excellency the Major-General Baron Leopold Von Ragastein. I have been at death's door a dozen times." was the curt reply. "You have drunk much whisky lately. doctor! The smell of that cooking outside is making me ravenous. "What is my preserver's name?" he asked the doctor. I present my excuses." was the comforting assurance. He was feeling his patient's pulse. not only here but in the swamps. He has been here for five years. If he is well enough. He concluded his examination a few minutes later." "Send it along. but until that time comes I shall drink whisky whenever I can get it. "and I don't much mind when I hand in my checks." "The cook is preparing you some luncheon." the Englishman rejoined a little recklessly. who was bitten last night by a jaguar. The latter looked as though the questions were irreverent. "and two of your ponies have been eaten by lions. and he has not been ill one day." the doctor replied. "and it will do you good to eat. so?" he asked. he will join our evening meal." "Your constitution is still sound if you would only respect it. I have a despatch to write. "Some bodies of Askaris have been washed up from the river. "Anything been heard of the rest of my party?" Dominey enquired.whatever is good for him." "Damned fine-looking fellow for a German." The man on the couch turned his head and watched the departing figure with a shade of envy in his eyes. but you can have some hock and seltzer with bay leaves. I cannot give you whisky at this moment. You will excuse." was the enthusiastic reply. "The climate is good as he is treated. The doctor was unmoved. "His Excellency drinks nothing but light wine and seltzer water. Who wouldn't in this pestilential climate!" The doctor shook his head.
a political machine. that they might catch the faint breeze from the mountains. and the air was faint almost to noxiousness with the perfume of some sickly. the doctor and himself. When I succeeded to the barony and estates at my uncle's death." "You mean to say that you've taken up this sort of political business just for its own sake. mysterious and impenetrable save for that rough elephant track along which he had travelled. future Governor-General of German Africa. scrubby stretch of land which had been cleared for this encampment to the mass of bush and flowering shrubs beyond. Devinter. "Devinter is my family name. it's a small world!" Dominey exclaimed. number five in the boat. I was compelled to also take the title. and hang like miniature stars in the clear. herald of the swift-falling darkness." "My country is a country to be proud of. lay still in the hut. I came to Africa for different reasons. I suppose. above the stumpy clumps of shrub. Native servants beat the air around them with bamboo fans to keep off the insects. not for sport?" "Entirely so. drilling niggers to fight God knows whom." "And Magdalen afterwards." Dominey drank deep of his hock and seltzer and leaned back. except for necessity.The traveller. eh? You were always proud of your country. sat at a little table arranged just outside the hut. The face of his host had carried him back into the past. It came to him later on at dinner time. "Siggy Devinter. the Commandant. "What a world!" he soliloquised. blue as the sky above. slaving for God knows what. violet air. however. left alone. "Why. when they three. and to the mountains fading into mist beyond. and his thoughts wandered backwards." was the solemn reply. and the one by which I was known when in England." "And why the devil did the doctor here tell me that your name was Von Ragastein?" "Because it happens to be the truth. out here. you're Devinter!" he exclaimed suddenly. He looked out over the bare." "Well. watching the fireflies rise above the tall-bladed grass. "What brought you out here really—lions or elephants?" "Neither. to the broad-bosomed river. I do not use a sporting rifle once a month." was the somewhat measured reply. exotic shrub.—"Sigismund Devinter! You were at Eton with me—Horrock's House—semi-final in the racquets. 6 . Baron Von Ragastein. Puzzled reminiscence tugged at the strings of memory.
to be prepared not only for what is likely to happen but for what might possibly happen. sometime—Can I have some rum or whisky." Dominey mused. Devinter—I mean Von Ragastein—Your Excellency—or whatever I ought to say? You see those wreaths of mist down by the river? They'll mean malaria for me unless I have spirits. white bread." Von Ragastein declared a little didactically. You don't want an army here. rolling it around in his glass. "Napoleon!" he exclaimed. To-night. disappeared into the commissariat hut and came back presently with a bottle at the sight of which the Englishman gasped. anyhow. "might have made a man of me." "What the mischief do you find to do so far from headquarters." "By Jove. You're not likely to quarrel with us or the Portuguese. and I don't much care—that's the trouble. collecting natives for drill. received a whispered order." his host explained. And to-morrow again—well." Dominey continued. I go blundering on. you're in earnest."Well. "What a world! I hadn't eaten for thirty hours when I rolled up here last night. if you don't shoot lions or elephants?" his guest asked curiously." "I have something better than either." Von Ragastein replied. "I heard some time ago that you have four times as many natives under arms as we have." "But what do you want to drill them for?" Dominey persisted. there's no mistake about that!" Dominey declared. It would have been finished last night if I hadn't seen the smoke from your fires. Von Ragastein?" "Not for several days. and drunk nothing but filthy water for days." "A war in my younger days. "in Germany and wherever we Germans go. "If you really wish to know. "I am annoying your political agents immensely by moving from place to place. "I am delighted to offer it to some one who will appreciate it." "Surely you had your chance out here?" Dominey shook his head. And I—well. "in earnest about something. when I was in the Army." Von Ragastein replied. "Just a few bottles I had sent to me." The orderly who stood behind his master's chair. I suppose the end will come somehow. fricassee of chicken. who knows? When do you move on. "You shall give me your opinion of this. 7 ." "It is our custom. it's finished with me. cabinet hock and Napoleon brandy.
on the other hand. brought up together thousands of miles away." Von Ragastein murmured. Let me ramble on. Your muscles are hard. and since then a drifter." Dominey continued." he observed. continued to be reminiscently discursive. jogging on towards the eternal blackness along lines as far apart as the mind can conceive. at dusk. "You are only my age. with no definite hope or wish. You rise at five every morning. and you look ten years younger. a harmless pleasure-seeker in my youth till I ran up against tragedy. "If there has been tragedy in your life. from behind which you say the sun comes up every morning like a world on fire." his companion objected petulantly." Von Ragastein protested. smoking cigars and drinking some rather wonderful coffee. on the other side of the river. lolling through life with no definite purpose. two human beings of the same age. You carry yourself like a man with a purpose. brought together by some miraculous chance to spend one night of our lives in an African jungle. Their guest. You will see it come up from behind the mountains in that precise spot." Later on they dragged their chairs a little farther out into the darkness. ignoring altogether his friend's remark. even if my metaphor is faulty. like a new and blazing world. "We were shut up in Ireland all the time. "Our meeting." he went on a little drowsily. you have time to get over it. except." "You talk foolishly. You spend every moment of your time drilling those filthy blacks. your eyes are as bright as they were in your school days." "Then I turn and consider you." "Your eyes are fixed. you are prospecting. "that I think I'd like to be buried somewhere near the base of those mountains. "should be full of interest to the psychologist."My battalion never left the country. You are not yet forty years old. worn out. Here we are. supervising reports home. my friend?" 8 . and you return here. an idler in my boyhood. "upon that very blackness behind which the sun will rise at dawn." "Don't put me off with allegories. When you are not doing that. That was the reason I chucked the army when I was really only a boy. The doctor worships you but who else knows? What do you do it for. a drifter with a slowly growing vice. The doctor had gone off to see a patient. I am disposed to be philosophical. trying to make the best of your few millions of acres of fever swamps. "The eternal blackness exists surely enough. lazily stretching out his hand for his glass. and Von Ragastein was thoughtful." he said. the doctor tells me. Here am I.
his face seemed suddenly white and old. In that perfumed darkness. "You hinted at tragedy. I do not enjoy passing the years as an outcast from the ordinary joys of human life. "I do not enjoy drilling natives. It is work which makes fibre. "We met trouble in a different fashion. I'm a slacker. and live a man's life." "The difference between us. was cold between his fingers." "And I my will-o'-the-wisp. The mightiest German noble who ever lived has his work to do. which gives balance to life. In England. a little birth. and I am here. illuminated only by the faint gleam of the shaded lamp behind. "is something which is inculcated into the youth of our country and which is not inculcated into yours. Perhaps if things had been otherwise. Tragedy also has entered my life. and look into the eyes of white women?" "I go where I am needed most." he groaned. dearly prized though it had been."Because it is my duty. my friend. with a little money. but sorrow came to me." Von Ragastein pronounced. your young men expect to find the world a playground for sport." Von Ragastein answered." Dominey laughed mockingly. His host leaned towards him and spoke for the first time in the kindlier tones of their youth. "The whole thing's as plain as a pikestaff." A quick flash of sympathy lit up Dominey's face. I should have found work in more joyous places. "Duty! But why can't you do your duty in your own country. But I follow my star. 9 . His cigar. and hold the hands of white men. a garden for loves. You may be a dull dog—you always were on the serious side—but you're a man of principle." was the calm reply." Dominey sighed. You are not alone.
but all the same I have a queer sort of feeling that I'd like to see Von Ragastein again. The resemblance must have been still more remarkable in your youth. Herr Doctor. there are a dozen boys left and some ponies." was the stolid reply." Dominey protested irritably. who came in to see him. The doctor." he announced.Chapter 2 Dominey slept till late the following morning. He desired that you would remain his guest until his return." the doctor declared enthusiastically. There are plenty of lion. you needn't rub it in. 10 ." Dominey murmured. "What he sets his mind to do. "His Excellency. "and I feel like a horrible sponge. "His Excellency desired me to inform you that if you cared for a short trip along the banks of the river. he does. "has received important despatches from home. dreamless slumber. southward. Have you noticed the likeness between us." he assented. "if I had had an incentive." "I suppose I might have been like that. he was conscious of a curious quietness in the camp." Dominey sighed. sipped his excellent coffee. "I am not in the least keen on hunting." Dominey bathed and dressed. and when he woke at last from a long. "Is there any European news?" "I do not know. He has gone to meet an envoy from Dar-es-Salaam. Herr Doctor?" The latter nodded." "He is a great man. He has something which I have lost." he confessed. Your silent chief rather fascinates me." "Very good of him. "You are very much alike yet very different. He will be away for three days. and rhino may be met with at one or two places which the natives know of. He is a man." "Well. "I noticed it from the first moment of your arrival. He unburdened himself to the doctor as they drank tea together late in the afternoon. explained it immediately after his morning greeting. and lounged about the place in uncertain mood. Time has dealt with your features according to your deserts.
His conversation with Von Ragastein had unsettled him. he paused to greet his guest with punctilious courtesy. If you had been possessed of the same moral stamina as His Excellency. failed to move him. and there was a gleam of real satisfaction in his eyes as the two men shook hands. The doctor nodded. waiting till the mountains on the other side of the river had lost shape and faded into the violet darkness." Dominey spent three restless days." "I suppose I am pretty rocky?" "Your constitution has been abused. "I speak the truth. haven't you?" he asked. you would be a different man. fierce chorus of night sounds. came again but was beaten back. the killing of an animal more or less? His mind was fixed uneasily upon the past. you've got some whisky. What did it matter. Nevertheless. For the moment his love of sport. 11 . I have work. "There is a case somewhere to be found. Even the sight of a herd of elephants in the river and that strange. dust and dirt were thick upon his face. but he advises you to drink only the white wine until his return. seemed dead. returned in the night so that he sat up with the sweat pouring down his face and his tongue parched. Late in the afternoon of the third day. "His Excellency told me that I was to refuse you nothing. His pony almost collapsed as he swung himself off. "Doctor. His clothes were torn and drenched with the black mud of the swamps. have much vitality. Von Ragastein rode into the camp." he admitted. however." "He really left that message?" "Precisely as I have delivered it. you might have preserved your health and the things that count. You might have been as useful to your country as he is to his." The desire for whisky passed.—You must excuse. as beasts of prey crept noiselessly around the camp. transforming birth of the day. he wanted him back again. his last hold upon the world of real things. Memories that had long since ceased to torture were finding their way once more into his brain."I am rubbing nothing in. You still. He drank lithia water instead. On the first day he had striven to rid himself of them in the usual fashion. Without knowing definitely why. searching always for something which he failed to discover. and at night he sat outside the banda." the doctor replied with unruffled calm. At dawn he watched for that strangely wonderful. If you cared to exercise self-control for a few months.
creeping nearer and nearer to the fire which burned at the end of the open space. Perhaps you have guessed that it is not duty alone which has brought me here to these wild places. and Dominey. "My friend. He kept the conversation with curious insistence upon incidents of their school and college days." Dominey said. Only the black shapes of the servants were dimly visible as they twirled their fans. however. They were alone. and a curious silence ebbed and flowed between the two men. The bush stillness. seemed gradually to become charged with unvoiced passion. He was at once more attentive to his guest. with clean linen. and Dominey found his glass filled once more with the wonderful brandy. and the later episodes of his life. The silent orderly produced even larger cigars. Von Ragastein was one more himself. clearing the table. upon the subject of Dominey's friends and relations. "I have trekked far. immaculate in white duck. Every now and then a star shot across the sky. Soon the animals began to call around them. too."I am glad that you are still here." 12 . The doctor had left them to visit the native camp nearly a quarter of a mile away. "Tell me a little about your career now and your life in Germany before you came out here?" Von Ragastein made no immediate reply." was the quiet reply. "I've been talking an awful lot of rot about myself. I." Von Ragastein said at last. and the orderly was busy inside. left behind me a tragedy. After the meal was over. "you speak to me of Germany. Dominey felt himself all the time encouraged to talk about his earlier life. yet further removed from him in spirit and sympathy. and with little left of his fatigue. shaved. their chairs were dragged as before into the open. of my homeland. The red rim of the moon rose a little higher from behind the mountains." "A long trek?" Dominey asked curiously. speaking with the air of a man who has spent much time in deliberation. "Excuse me while I bathe and change. There was something different in his manner. At dinner time. We will dine a little earlier. talked volubly and without reserve. Champagne had been served and served freely. and all the time he was conscious that for some reason or other his host's closest and most minute attention was being given to his slightest word. up to the very gates of that one secret chamber. always the most mysterious of silences. some change which puzzled Dominey. So far I have not eaten today." he said heartily.—and overhead the gleaming stars.
meet here in the wilderness. "I should never have the courage to face what might come. "I have nothing to do but obey. To-night it is not weakness which assails me." was the stern reply. There was no spark of tenderness or regret in his set face. "I am part of a great machine. "In the life of the cities you would be a sentimentalist. but it isn't human. Curse these animals! If I live in this country much longer. I shall go on all fours. "I shall drink a whisky and soda. "no word of this matter has passed my lips.Dominey's quick impulse of sympathy was smothered by the stern. We want streets. It was Von Ragastein who broke through what might almost have seemed a trance. We want the tide of people flowing around us." "You yield too much to environment. I shall drink to the new things that may yet come to both of us. "Since the day of my banishment." his companion observed." "I cannot!" Dominey groaned. each with the iron in our souls. The words seemed to have been torn from his throat." was the somewhat evasive reply. and a slow. "Are you content to live and die like this?" he demanded." he went on. you and I. and you shall speak to me of your own curse. vanished inside the banda." 13 . schoolmates and college friends. The howling of the animals had lessened with the paling of the fires. but a desire to yield to the strange arm of coincidence. I shall tell you the thing which happened to me. "Don't you want to get back to where a different sort of sun will warm your heart and fill your pulses? This primitive world is in its way colossal. "Listen. flamed for a moment in his tone. and the voices of the two men had ceased. "To-night I break what has become a rule with me." An hour passed. though sons of a different country. it isn't a life for humans. One he set down in the space provided for it in the arm of his guest's chair." "You are giving up your work here?" Dominey asked curiously." he announced." A flicker of passion distorted Dominey's face. the roar of wheels and the hum of human voices. almost harsh repression of the other's manner. Von Ragastein. and reappeared a moment or two later with two tumblers. melancholy ripple of breeze was passing through the bush and lapping the surface of the river." "No city nor any civilised country will ever claim me again. He rose to his feet. "But you will. You and I." Dominey sighed.
" he begged." "Well. he turned and passed through the hanging curtain of dried grasses into the next banda. "To-morrow." Dominey laughed a little bitterly." Von Ragastein decided. "I travel officially." "It is Fate. just to shake hands and pass on. and I must travel alone. to meet right out here. satisfied that his guest really slept. was awaiting him. I can't force myself upon you. "It seems strange. alas. I shall be gone. friend of my school days. "I must trek westward myself directly." Dominey said a little wistfully. almost pathetic. I must go alone. "As for yourself. "leading where I shall follow—into the swamps!" A few minutes later Dominey threw himself upon his couch. This. though. For us it must be farewell. or northward—it doesn't so much matter. stood looking down at him for several moments with significant intentness. Then." he muttered recklessly. "Finish your whisky and soda to our next meeting." Von Ragastein replied. They spoke together in German and with lowered voices. The dim outline of his erect form was in a way majestic. Von Ragastein. "Everything progresses according to my orders?" he demanded. before you awake. "Everything. and a runner has gone on to Wadihuan for ponies to be prepared. curiously and unaccountably drowsy." he replied. Farewell. Can't we travel together?" Von Ragastein shook his head. dear friend! We will drink the toast we drank our last night in your rooms at Magdalen. where the doctor.Von Ragastein rose to his feet. they will be breaking up here to-morrow. I am sick to death of niggers and animals. still fully dressed." Dominey was querulous. is as much as I can do for you. "My will-o'-the-wisp." 14 . far away even from the by-ways of life. but they will lend you an escort and put you in the direction you wish to take. "I must be on the other side of those mountains. Excellency! The boys are being loaded. This must be our farewell. He had a sudden hatred of solitude." "So soon?" "By to-morrow night. "or eastward. He pointed to a light glowing fitfully in the bush." he protested. That Sanscrit man translated it for us: 'May each find what he seeks!' We must follow our star. who had come in to wish him good night. He seemed to tower over the man who lounged in the chair before him. "Where I go. Von Ragastein had lost something of his imperturbability.
"They know that I wish to start at dawn?" "All will be prepared. You know what that place is? You know why I was sent to an English public school and college?" "I can guess. Excellency. He can speak German as fluently as you or I. Not content with the sound of that regular breathing." "Ah!" the doctor grunted. "the time. Schmidt. "I have formed a great plan. "My principal need in England is an identity. "happen to be that man's only accomplishment." "We speak in German." "So!" 15 . Then he returned. I shall take this Englishman's. Schmidt." Von Ragastein pointed out. Schmidt. A great idea has come to me." "Languages. is of no consequence. That." the doctor reminded him. the doctor in an attitude of strict attention. Listen. his voice shaking with deep emotion. From Dominey's quarters came the sound of deep and regular breathing." he said. I mixed him a sleeping draught with his whisky and soda." The two men seated themselves in the long." The doctor lit a cigar. "Come outside." was the cautions reply. is fixed. The means are left to my ingenuity. He paused a moment in thought and continued." "I am to take up my residence in England. "It is something which you do not wish the Englishman to hear?" the doctor asked." Von Ragastein proceeded. "I have something to tell you of my plans. he made his way to the opening of the banda and gazed in at Dominey's slumbering form." Von Ragastein rose to his feet. Excellency. I am to find a place for myself there as an Englishman. wicker chairs. "I listen. "It is. I am recalled from here to take the place for which I was destined. even the month." Von Ragastein laid his hand upon the doctor's shoulder. Von Ragastein turned his head and listened. I shall return to England as Sir Everard Dominey. I am to have a special mission. however." Von Ragastein pronounced. "The Day arrives. "I have made up my mind. "You know what news has come to me from Berlin?" "Your Excellency has told me a little. He sleeps and he will continue to sleep.
Dominey. "Therein lies his tragedy." he pronounced. with a couple of boys for escort and his rifle slung across his shoulder. even."There is a remarkable likeness between us. To all appearance. must have guided this man to us. and she is as though she did not exist. "She is insane—insane. gazed down upon his guest's outstretched form. Schmidt." the man replied. and Dominey has not seen an Englishman who knows him for eight or ten years." he said. through a shock for which he was responsible. dropping his voice a little lower. to remain in England even after the storm bursts." the doctor suggested. She might have been the only stumbling block. of political life. Herr Doctor. To-night he has babbled for hours. "He must not. it seems. rode into the bush along the way he had come. which watches over our country and which will make her mistress of the world. I know Dominey's relatives. My position in England will be unique. Late in the afternoon of the following day. As Sir Everard Dominey I shall be able to penetrate into the inner circles of Society—perhaps." "Supposing. telling me many things that it is well for me to know." "How much food?" 16 . Von Ragastein returned to his place. Herr Doctor." he confided. "Heinrich." "It is a great scheme. "this man Dominey should return to England?" Von Ragastein turned his head and looked towards his questioner." "What about his near relatives?" "He has none nearer than cousins. waving his hat until he was out of sight. Then he called to the orderly. Any school or college friends whom I may encounter I shall be able to satisfy. After a moment or two's watch." the doctor murmured enthusiastically." "No wife?" Von Ragastein paused and turned his head. "you are sure that the Herr Englishman has the whisky?" "The water bottles are filled with nothing else. "So!" the doctor murmured. "There is no water or soda water in the pack?" "Not one drop. "It is a wonderful one! That great and unrevealed Power. stealing uneasily to the opening. I have stayed at Dominey. The little fat doctor stood and watched him. I shall be able. Dominey still slept deeply. if necessary. The deep breathing inside the banda had certainly ceased. He rose to his feet and.
If the Englishman does not drink." 17 . Herr Doctor. Herr Doctor. they will take him at midnight to where His Excellency will be encamped at the bend of the Blue River." he murmured." "The beef is salt?" "It is very salt." The doctor sighed. "I think." "The boys have their orders?" "They understand perfectly."One day's rations. He was not at heart an unkindly man." "And the compass?" "It is ten degrees wrong. "it will be better for the Englishman that he drinks.
Dear me—you'll forgive my saying so—how well you look!" Dominey smiled as he accepted an easy chair. He was prepared to greet a seedy-looking and degenerate individual. Instead. "This is a most unexpected pleasure—most unexpected! Such a pity. Mangan directed ill-temperedly. passing it over to his manager. speechless. that we only posted a draft for your allowance a few days ago. the rather deep-set grey eyes—presented themselves. "There isn't an extra penny to be had out of the estates—you know that. looking older than his years." he answered testily. show him in!" Mr. "Oh. still represented a family who had been valued patrons of the firm for several generations. "Good God. For a moment he stared at his visitor. Then certain points of familiarity—the well-shaped nose. 18 .Chapter 3 Mr. Why the mischief didn't he stay where he was!" "What shall I tell the gentleman. This surprise enabled him to infuse a little real heartiness into his welcome. an astonishment which became speedily blended with dismay. His employer frowned. Harrison. I'll finish these affidavits after lunch. Harrison. sir. "Of course I shall. too. do you see this. "I'm afraid you will find him rather a troublesome client. with whom he had been in consultation. The last two quarters' allowance which we sent to Africa came out of the timber." he remarked. however troublesome his affairs had become." The solicitor composed his features to welcome a client who. "My dear Sir Everard!" he exclaimed. sir?" the boy enquired. "Dominey—Sir Everard Dominey—back here in England!" The head clerk glanced at the narrow piece of pasteboard and sighed. Harrison?" he exclaimed. he found himself extending his hand to one of the best turned out and handsomest men who had ever crossed the threshold of his not very inviting office. "I suppose I shall have to see him sooner or later. John Lambert Mangan of Lincoln's Inn gazed at the card which a junior clerk had just presented in blank astonishment.
as I dare say you can understand. and could not remember one in which the question of finance had been dismissed in so casual a manner. "I was just wondering—I think that last remittance we sent to you could be stopped. "And Lady Dominey?" the former asked at length. "I trust. unchanged. Nothing has ever been heard of him since the day you left England. Mangan metaphorically pinched himself." "Precisely." he murmured reminiscently." he remarked. "that you are thinking of settling down here for a time now?" "I have finished with Africa. well." The lawyer nodded. it must be eleven years since we met. Sir Everard. that depends a little upon what you have to tell me. had received a great many visits from him at different times. Let me see. "I think it very likely that I may decide to settle down at Dominey Hall. if that is what you mean. nineteen hundred and two." he said. eleven years. "in April." "His—body has not been found?" "Nor any trace of it. "It—pardon my remarking it—has done wonderful things for you. after another moment's pause." he observed chiefly for the sake of saying something." the lawyer murmured. with a confident smile. "that you may make yourself quite easy as regards the matter of Roger Unthank. It seems queer to find myself in London again. "Thanks. "If the circumstances are favourable. and Dominey searchingly back again at the lawyer." The lawyer appeared doubtful. I believe. with just that faint note of patronage in his tone which took his listener back to the days of his present client's father. Mangan. I don't think I need any just at present. He had known his present client even during his school days. "Her ladyship's condition is. I have no doubt you will be glad of a little ready money." There was a brief silence." was the amazing answer." Sir Everard tapped the toes of his carefully polished brown shoes with the end of his walking stick. "I think." was the somewhat guarded reply." was the somewhat grave reply. Mr. Mangan. 19 ." he added." Dominey continued. "I left London. The lawyer looked hard at Dominey. Yes. "We'll talk about financial affairs a little later on." Mr. "As to settling down here."Africa's a wonderful country.
If you haven't happened to hear any South African gossip lately. with a frown. racquets and fives. As I have repeatedly told you in our correspondence. to have taken you more into my confidence. Mangan was a lawyer of the new-fashioned school." he said. Mangan repeated. Sir Everard?" "I thought you'd be surprised. "I have made money in gold mines.—Harrow and Cambridge." Dominey replied." Dominey smiled good-humouredly. The only intimation we had that our payments had reached you was the exceedingly prompt debit of the South African bank." Mr. "when—er—about when did you receive my last letter?" "Your last letter?" Mr. and from what I remember of you in England—I'm sure you'll forgive my being so frank—I should never have expected you to have even attempted such a thing. "you will be very disappointed in the condition of the estate. for over four years. in diamond mines and in land." his client continued." he added. I suppose it will be a surprise to you to hear that I have been making a good deal of money. Mangan. Sir Everard. has at no time reached the interest on the mortgages. "You'll forgive my being so astonished. 20 . that's neither here nor there. "I have had three or four years of good luck." "That is a pity. and leaned back in his chair with his hands in his pockets. "We have not had the privilege of hearing from you. Mangan found breath to murmur." this unexpected visitor confessed. after deducting your settlement upon Lady Dominey. By the by." "My heartiest congratulations!" Mr. and we have had to make up the difference and send you your allowance out of the proceeds of the outlying timber. I should have descended altogether to the commonplace and come back a millionaire."I am afraid. "I ought. The business object of my visit to you this morning is to ask you to make arrangements as quickly as possible for paying off the mortgages on the Dominey estates. "However. rather than gold and lawn tennis. perhaps." "Making money?" the lawyer gasped. "On the other hand. but you are the first Dominey I ever knew who has ever made a penny of money in any sort of way. the Bath Club." "I have certainly been to blame." Dominey observed coolly. Sir Everard. the rent roll. I have been very much absorbed. I am afraid that if I had stayed out another year. "You making money. Instead of saying "God bless my soul!" he exclaimed "Great Scott!" dropped a very modern-looking eyeglass from his left eye.
Do me the favour of lunching with me. Mangan. I will tell you about some of my speculations." the lawyer told him a little gravely. as they drew near their destination. "I will send the boy for a taxi. she is in excellent health. invested in first-class mines." Mr. "Before we leave. with the terminable dates and redemption values?" "I will leave instructions. the returned traveller gazing all the time out of the window into the crowded streets. by all means. let us say a trifle more. "Still. "if you inquire at the United Bank of Africa." The solicitor groped around for his hat. "I'm afraid my clubs are a little out of date." Mr. Mangan suggested. I think you ought to be told that time does not seem to have lessened her tragical antipathy. "We will lunch there. "They are keeping me a table until half-past one. "she has sworn to take my life if ever I sleep under the same roof. 21 . an object of much interest to the little staff of clerks." the latter said. Mangan promised." They drove off together. "I should be glad of a short conversation with you before you go down to Dominey." "She will need. Sir Everard. "While I think of it. the lawyer a little thoughtful. Then I have also—well. you will find that I have a credit balance there of something over a hundred thousand pounds." he said. The lawyer joined him on the pavement in a few minutes. "I have a car outside. Mr. "I think that the total amount is under eighty thousand pounds. I am afraid." Dominey said bitterly." "In plain words. Mentally I believe that there is no change." Dominey sauntered through the office. "Is her ladyship very much changed?" "Physically." "The Carlton grill room is quite excellent." this astonishing client told him." the lawyer answered evasively. "Where shall we lunch?" Dominey asked. in a measured tone." "With regard to anything in particular?" "With regard to Lady Dominey." "She regards me still as the murderer of Roger Unthank?" Dominey asked. I am staying at the Carlton. A shadow rested on his companion's face. to be strictly watched. and although Africa will never be a favourite topic of conversation with me. She has unfortunately the same rather violent prejudice which I am afraid influenced your departure from England." Dominey replied."Well." he faltered. could you instruct your clerk to have a list of the Dominey mortgages made out. I believe.
Mangan admitted."I am afraid she does." "Let us be quite clear about this." "If I had killed him." Dominey insisted. after all these years. of course." Dominey pointed out. "why was his body not found?" The lawyer shook his head." "And in the second?" "There isn't a human being in that part of Norfolk would ever believe that the body of man or beast. "has never been cleared up. "There are all sorts of theories. "In the first place. that you fought in the park and that you staggered home almost senseless. It is well known. Roger Unthank has never been seen from that day to this. you see. left within the shadow of the Black Wood. to be indicted for manslaughter?" "I think you may make your mind quite at ease." he said. am I liable." the lawyer assured him. I don't think you would ever be indicted. "but for one superstition you may as well be prepared." Mr. "If the body should ever be found. There is scarcely a man or a woman for miles around Dominey who doesn't believe that the ghost of Roger Unthank still haunts the Black Wood near where you fought. would ever be seen or heard of again!" 22 ." "And I suppose that every one else has the same idea?" "The mystery.
Mr. Mangan, on their way into the grill room, loitered for a few minutes in the small reception room, chatting with some acquaintances, whilst his host, having spoken to the maitre d'hotel and ordered a cocktail from a passing waiter, stood with his hands behind his back, watching the inflow of men and women with all that interest which one might be supposed to feel in one's fellows after a prolonged absence. He had moved a little to one side to allow a party of young people to make their way through the crowded chamber, when he was conscious of a woman standing alone on the topmost of the three thickly carpeted stairs. Their eyes met, and hers, which had been wandering around the room as though in search of some acquaintance, seemed instantly and fervently held. To the few loungers about the room, ignorant of any special significance in that studied contemplation of the man on the part of the woman, their two personalities presented an agreeable, almost a fascinating study. Dominey was six feet two in height and had to its fullest extent the natural distinction of his class, together with the half military, half athletic bearing which seemed to have been so marvellously restored to him. His complexion was no more than becomingly tanned; his slight moustache, trimmed very close to the upper lip, was of the same ruddy brown shade as his sleekly brushed hair. The woman, who had commenced now to move slowly towards him, save that her cheeks, at that moment, at any rate, were almost unnaturally pale, was of the same colouring. Her red-gold hair gleamed beneath her black hat. She was tall, a Grecian type of figure, large without being coarse, majestic though still young. She carried a little dog under one arm and a plain black silk bag, on which was a coronet in platinum and diamonds, in the other hand. The major-domo who presided over the room, watching her approach, bowed with more than his usual urbanity. Her eyes, however, were still fixed upon the person who had engaged so large a share of her attention. She came towards him, her lips a little parted. "Leopold!" she faltered. "The Holy Saints, why did you not let me know!"
Dominey bowed very slightly. His words seemed to have a cut and dried flavour. "I am so sorry," he replied, "but I fear that you make a mistake. My name is not Leopold." She stood quite still, looking at him with the air of not having heard a word of his polite disclaimer. "In London, of all places," she murmured. "Tell me, what does it mean?" "I can only repeat, madam," he said, "that to my very great regret I have not the honour of your acquaintance." She was puzzled, but absolutely unconvinced. "You mean to deny that you are Leopold Von Ragastein?" she asked incredulously. "You do not know me?" "Madam," he answered, "it is not my great pleasure. My name is Dominey—Everard Dominey." She seemed for a moment to be struggling with some embarrassment which approached emotion. Then she laid her fingers upon his sleeve and drew him to a more retired corner of the little apartment. "Leopold," she whispered, "nothing can make it wrong or indiscreet for you to visit me. My address is 17, Belgrave Square. I desire to see you to-night at seven o'clock." "But, my dear lady," Dominey began— Her eyes suddenly glowed with a new light. "I will not be trifled with," she insisted. "If you wish to succeed in whatever scheme you have on hand, you must not make an enemy of me. I shall expect you at seven o'clock." She passed away from him into the restaurant. Mr. Mangan, now freed from his friends, rejoined his host, and the two men took their places at the side table to which they were ushered with many signs of attention. "Wasn't that the Princess Eiderstrom with whom you were talking?" the solicitor asked curiously. "A lady addressed me by mistake," Dominey explained. "She mistook me, curiously enough, for a man who used to be called my double at Oxford. Sigismund Devinter he was then, although I think he came into a title later on." "The Princess is quite a famous personage," Mr. Mangan remarked, "one of the richest widows in Europe. Her husband was killed in a duel some six or seven years ago."
Dominey ordered the luncheon with care, slipping into a word or two of German once to assist the waiter, who spoke English with difficulty. His companion smiled. "I see that you have not forgotten your languages out there in the wilds." "I had no chance to," Dominey answered. "I spent five years on the borders of German East Africa, and I traded with some of the fellows there regularly." "By the by," Mr. Mangan enquired, "what sort of terms are we on with the Germans out there?" "Excellent, I should think," was the careless reply. "I never had any trouble." "Of course," the lawyer continued, "this will all be new to you, but during the last few years Englishmen have become divided into two classes—the people who believe that the Germans wish to go to war and crush us, and those who don't." "Then since my return the number of the 'don'ts' has been increased by one." "I am amongst the doubtfuls myself," Mr. Mangan remarked. "All the same, I can't quite see what Germany wants with such an immense army, and why she is continually adding to her fleet." Dominey paused for a moment to discuss the matter of a sauce with the head waiter. He returned to the subject a few minutes later on, however. "Of course," he pointed out, "my opinions can only come from a study of the newspapers and from conversations with such Germans as I have met out in Africa, but so far as her army is concerned, I should have said that Russia and France were responsible for that, and the more powerful it is, the less chance of any European conflagration. Russia might at any time come to the conclusion that a war is her only salvation against a revolution, and you know the feeling in France about Alsace-Lorraine as well as I do. The Germans themselves say that there is more interest in military matters and more progress being made in Russia to-day than ever before." "I have no doubt that you are right," agreed Mr. Mangan. "It is a matter which is being a great deal discussed just now, however. Let us speak of your personal plans. What do you intend to do for the next few weeks, say? Have you been to see any of your relatives yet?" "Not one," Dominey replied. "I am afraid that I am not altogether keen about making advances."
Mr. Mangan coughed. "You must remember that during the period of your last residence in London," he said, "you were in a state of chronic impecuniosity. No doubt that rather affected the attitude of some of those who would otherwise have been more friendly." "I should be perfectly content never to see one of them again," declared Dominey, with perfect truth. "That, of course, is impossible," the lawyer protested. "You must go and see the Duchess, at any rate. She was always your champion." "The Duchess was always very kind to me," Dominey admitted doubtfully, "but I am afraid she was rather fed up before I left England." Mr. Mangan smiled. He was enjoying a very excellent lunch, which it seemed hard to believe was ordered by a man just home from the wilds of Africa, and he thoroughly enjoyed talking about duchesses. "Her Grace," he began— "Well?" The lawyer had paused, with his eyes glued upon the couple at a neighbouring table. He leaned across towards his companion. "The Duchess herself, Sir Everard, just behind you, with Lord St. Omar." "This place must certainly be the rendezvous of all the world," Dominey declared, as he held out his hand to a man who had approached their table. "Seaman, my friend, welcome! Let me introduce you to my friend and legal adviser, Mr. Mangan—Mr. Seaman." Mr. Seaman was a short, fat man, immaculately dressed in most conventional morning attire. He was almost bald, except for a little tuft on either side, and a few long, fair hairs carefully brushed back over a shining scalp. His face was extraordinarily round except towards his chin, where it came to a point; his eyes bright and keen, his mouth the mouth of a professional humourist. He shook hands with the lawyer with an empressement which was scarcely English. "Within the space of half an hour," Dominey continued, "I find a princess who desires to claim my acquaintance; a cousin," he dropped his voice a little, "who lunches only a few tables away, and the man of whom I have seen the most during the last ten years amidst scenes a little different from these, eh, Seaman?" Seaman accepted the chair which the waiter had brought and sat down. The lawyer was immediately interested. "Do I understand, then," he asked, addressing the newcomer, "that you knew Sir Everard in Africa?"
Seaman beamed. "Knew him?" he repeated, and with the first words of his speech the fact of his foreign nationality was established. "There was no one of whom I knew so much. We did business together—a great deal of business—and when we were not partners, Sir Everard generally got the best of it." Dominey laughed. "Luck generally comes to a man either early or late in life. My luck came late. I think, Seaman, that you must have been my mascot. Nothing went wrong with me during the years that we did business together." Seaman was a little excited. He brushed upright with the palm of his hand one of those little tufts of hair left on the side of his head, and he laid his plump fingers upon the lawyer's shoulder. "Mr. Mangan," he said, "you listen to me. I sell this man the controlling interests in a mine, shares which I have held for four and a half years and never drew a penny dividend. I sell them to him, I say, at par. Well, I need the money and it seems to me that I had given the shares a fair chance. Within five weeks—five weeks, sir," he repeated, struggling to attune his voice to his civilised surroundings, "those shares had gone from par to fourteen and a half. To-day they stand at twenty. He gave me five thousand pounds for those shares. To-day he could walk into your stock market and sell them for one hundred thousand. That is the way money is made in Africa, Mr. Mangan, where innocents like me are to be found every day." Dominey poured out a glass of wine and passed it to their visitor. "Come," he said, "we all have our ups and downs. Africa owes you nothing, Seaman." "I have done well in my small way," Seaman admitted, fingering the stem of his wineglass, "but where I have had to plod, Sir Everard here has stood and commanded fate to pour her treasures into his lap." The lawyer was listening with a curious interest and pleasure to this half bantering conversation. He found an opportunity now to intervene. "So you two were really friends in Africa?" he remarked, with a queer and almost inexplicable sense of relief. "If Sir Everard permits our association to be so called," Seaman replied. "We have done business together in the great cities—in Johannesburg and Pretoria, in Kimberley and Cape Town—and we have prospected together in the wild places. We have trekked the veldt and been lost to the world for many months at a time. We have seen the real wonders of Africa together, as well as her tawdry civilisation." "And you, too," Mr. Mangan asked, "have you retired?"
Seaman's smile was almost beatific. "The same deal," he said, "which brought Sir Everard's fortune to wonderful figures brought me that modest sum which I had sworn to reach before I returned to England. It is true. I have retired from money-making. It is now that I take up again my real life's work." "If you are going to talk about your hobby," Dominey observed, "you had better order them to serve your lunch here." "I had finished my lunch before you came in," his friend replied. "I drink another glass of wine with you, perhaps. Afterwards a liqueur—who can say? In this climate one is favoured, one can drink freely. Sir Everard and I, Mr. Mangan, have been in places where thirst is a thing to be struggled against, where for months a little weak brandy and water was our chief dissipation." "Tell me about this hobby?" the lawyer enquired. Dominey intervened promptly. "I protest. If he begins to talk of that, he'll be here all the afternoon." Seaman held out his hands and rolled his head from side to side. "But I am not so unreasonable," he objected. "Just one word—so? Very well, then," he proceeded quickly, with the air of one fearing interruption. "This must be clear to you, Mr. Mangan. I am a German by birth, naturalised in England for the sake of my business, loving Germany, grateful to England. One third of my life I have lived in Berlin, one third at Forest Hill here in London, and in the city, one third in Africa. I have watched the growth of commercial rivalries and jealousies between the two nations. There is no need for them. They might lead to worse things. I would brush them all away. My aim is to encourage a league for the promotion of more cordial social and business relations between the people of Great Britain and the people of the German Empire. There! Have I wasted much of your time? Can I not speak of my hobby without a flood of words?" "Conciseness itself," Mangan admitted, "and I compliment you most heartily upon your scheme. If you can get the right people into it, it should prove a most valuable society." "In Germany I have the right people. All Germans who live for their country and feel for their country loathe the thought of war. We want peace, we want friends, and, to speak as man to man," he concluded, tapping the lawyer upon the coat sleeve, "England is our best customer." "I wish one could believe," the latter remarked, "that yours was the popular voice in your country." Seaman rose reluctantly to his feet.
"At half-past two," he announced, glancing at his watch, "I have an appointment with a woollen manufacturer from Bradford. I hope to get him to join my council." He bowed ceremoniously to the lawyer, nodded to Dominey with the familiarity of an old friend, and made his bustling, good-humoured way out of the room. "A sound business man, I should think," was the former's comment. "I wish him luck with his League. You yourself, Sir Everard, will need to develop some new interests. Why not politics?" "I really expect to find life a little difficult at first," admitted Dominey, with a shrug of his shoulders. "I have lost many of the tastes of my youth, and I am very much afraid that my friends over here will call me colonial. I can't fancy myself doing nothing down in Norfolk all the rest of my days. Perhaps I shall go into Parliament." "You must forgive my saying," his companion declared impulsively, "that I never knew ten years make such a difference in a man in my life." "The colonies," Dominey pronounced, "are a kill or cure sort of business. You either take your drubbing and come out a stronger man, or you go under. I had the very narrowest escape from going under myself, but I just pulled together in time. To-day I wouldn't have been without my hard times for anything in the world." "If you will permit me," Mr. Mangan said, with an inherited pomposity, "on our first meeting under the new conditions, I should like to offer you my hearty congratulations, not only upon what you have accomplished but upon what you have become." "And also, I hope," Dominey rejoined, smiling a little seriously and with a curious glint in his eyes, "upon what I may yet accomplish." The Duchess and her companion had risen to their feet, and the former, on her way out, recognising her solicitor, paused graciously. "How do you do, Mr. Mangan?" she said. "I hope you are looking after those troublesome tenants of mine in Leicestershire?" "We shall make our report in due course, Duchess," Mangan assured her. "Will you permit me," he added, "to bring back to your memory a relative who has just returned from abroad—Sir Everard Dominey?" Dominey had risen to his feet a moment previously and now extended his hand. The Duchess, who was a tall, graceful woman, with masses of fair hair only faintly interspersed with gray, very fine brown eyes, the complexion of a girl, and, to quite her own confession, the manners of a kitchen maid, stared at him for a moment without any response. "Sir Everard Dominey?" she repeated. "Everard? Ridiculous!"
The lawyer plunged into the breach. "Sir Everard. Omar chuckled vaguely. Come and see me at half-past three this afternoon. a faint smile played at the corners of her lips. I am half an hour late for my dressmaker already." she cried. When did we meet last?" "At Worcester House." was the prompt reply. Omar. then shook hands with his newfound relative. "I simply cannot bring myself to believe it. nodded affably to the lawyer and followed his aunt out of the room. "God bless you! If ever a woman got what she deserved! I've seen a duchess blush—first time in my life!" 30 . turning to the young man who stood now by her side. "As you will." she declared. put that thing away. He only returned from Africa during the last few days. "Come." he continued." The Duchess's incredulity remained." "You were a little kinder to me. "and you permitted—" "For heaven's sake. "and?" "I am to take that as a challenge?" Dominey asked." he insisted earnestly. but do shake hands with him and come along. St. You gave me—this. drawing a small picture from his pocketbook. And. "and don't say another word! There's my grown-up nephew. and don't be a minute late." Lord St. "You came to say good-bye." The Duchess was a little staggered. "than you are to-day. Omar." he added. "I can assure your Grace. Her eyes softened. St. "this is a connection of yours—Sir Everard Dominey. Mangan's expression was beatific." she repeated.Dominey's extended hand was at once withdrawn. and the tentative smile faded from his lips. wholly good-natured but ministered to by her natural obstinacy. He is a terrible person. standing very upright and looking her in the eyes. paying his bill almost within earshot." she went on. I'll challenge you." he exclaimed. "I came to say good-bye to you. She was suddenly a very attractive looking woman. "that there is no doubt whatever about Sir Everard's identity.
which her visitor raised to his lips." she remarked critically. "when I return to find you wholly unchanged." she said. She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness. It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent.Chapter 5 Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park. too. conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat. "Look here. who was reclining in an easy-chair." he sighed. "it is better for us to have a perfectly clear understanding upon one point." "Lecturing?" Dominey repeated. who was his intimate friend." "Not bad. "All the same. I know the exact position of your affairs. you know." "It was the fear of that change in you. "which kept me for so long in the furthest corners of the world. Dominey. The Duchess. that the two hundred a year which your lawyer has been sending out to you came partly out of a few old trees and partly out of his own pocket. I am not in the least in love with you any longer. and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane." She looked at him with a severity which was obviously assumed. "There's something wrong about you. The poor man has scarcely enough pocket money to pay his travelling expenses when he goes lecturing. who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge. I have changed." he rejoined. "That seems very unfortunate." she declared. and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics. held out her hand. "What's happened to poor Henry?" 31 . but it isn't the least use expecting Henry to do a thing for you. was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall. and I know. How you are going to live over here I cannot imagine.
"And a few minutes ago I was nearly observing that you had lost your sense of humour!" "I am in earnest." he replied. But you are so stiff. though. sat perfectly still for a moment with her mouth open. Have you been drilling out there or anything?" He shook his head. "One spends half one's time in the saddle." he persisted. and I want Henry to jot down on paper at once those few amounts he was good enough to lend me in the old days. "Henry is in the house! Besides—Yes. wasn't he?" Dominey observed. "and been able to marry a Dutch Jewess. "Let me put your mind at rest on that other matter. You should have leaned towards me with a quiver in your voice when you said those last two words." she complained. Duchess of Worcester." She sighed. "It's too wonderful." "And you are really well off?" she asked again wonderingly." "And you?" She looked positively distressed. "If I had stayed there another year. I should have qualified for Park Lane. a condition which was entirely natural but unbecoming. "Africa has turned out to be my Eldorado. Henry will love having his money back. I suppose you must be Everard. "And you mean to tell me that you really are Everard Dominey?" she exclaimed. She drew a little back—and too abruptly." His cousin shook her head mournfully. Just now there was something in your eyes exactly like his." "Dear Henry was always a little cranky. and instead of that you look 32 . took her hand and raised it to his lips. I came in for a considerable sum of money towards the end of my stay there. I am paying off the mortgages at Dominey at once. Her face was perilously near to his." was the dignified reply. "You've lost all your manners." Caroline."My husband is an exceedingly conscientious man. "The weight of evidence is rather that way." she whispered. I can assure you that I have come back to England not to borrow money but to spend it. I must admit. Quite unexpectedly. "My dear Everard. Caroline. lecturing on national defence. "You make love like a garden rake. "He goes from town to town with Lord Roberts and a secretary. He moved his chair deliberately a little nearer." he murmured.
to say exactly the right thing in the right manner. You'll be able to frivol with musical comedy." she told him." "And Mr. "with a little assistance. Is there any change in your wife?" "Not much." "I shall pick it up. "You won't want an old woman like me to assist you." She looked at him earnestly. with a positive glint of steel in your eyes. how fond she had been of this scapegrace cousin. "now that you are wealthy and regenerate. I have been an exile from my home long enough." he answered. something.as though you were sitting at attention. Caroline suddenly broke off in her speech and glanced warningly towards the larger room. "You've changed." She looked at him with a new thing in her eyes—something of fear. grey-haired man. You'll have the town at your feet. had lifted the curtains." he said." "You forgot what?" he asked steadfastly. I forgot your marriage. I believe. For her sake. "I forgot the tragedy which finally drove you abroad. dressed in old-fashioned clothes and wearing a pince-nez. you ought not to give her the opportunity—" Dominey could never make up his mind whether the interruption which came at that moment was welcome or otherwise. "I thought of going down to Dominey to-morrow. but you have your future and your career to consider." she begged suddenly. reedy voice. When will you come and dine here and meet all your relatives?" "Whenever you are kind enough to ask me. I am afraid. She shook her head. "You'll find that no one will have a word to say against you. of admiration." She made a little grimace. or—I'm sorry. "I cannot help it. A tall. even to herself. flirt with our married beauties. I know how tender-hearted you are." he pleaded. "But—your wife?" "She is there. Everard." "Don't go. too. I forgot." "One sees a woman once in a blue moon out there. He addressed the Duchess in a thin. 33 . Perhaps she had never admitted. too. They'll forget everything you want them to. It was a sixth sense with you to make love in exactly the right tone." he declared hopefully. "Why not be brave and have her removed. Mangan—he thinks that you are safe over here?" "Perfectly. Everard.
and you carry yourself like a soldier. Delighted." he began.—"ah. Henry. Everard. "I seem to be rather a surprise to every one. 34 . was hovering in the background." "Do bring him in. are one of those." "You see." was the calm assurance. "And I have a surprise for you too. I think you will find it!" Dominey rose to his feet—a tall."My dear Caroline. yes." his wife replied. my dear. "I am not the only one. "Most amazing!" the Duke declared. Yes. The Duke advanced. then." "How do you do?" Dominey said. "Most amazing! I never saw such a change in my life. and is an enthusiastic supporter of our cause. who did not accept you upon a glance. of course—nose and eyes—yes. returned from foreign exile and regenerated in every sense of the word. my dear Captain Bartram." his wife remarked drily. commanding figure—and stood waiting the approach of the newcomer. but I hope you haven't quite forgotten me. "I must plead guilty to the surprise." "Precisely so. holding out his hand. We will not stay. I see—same complexion.—Sir Everard Dominey. very obviously a soldier in mufti. sir. beyond a doubt. do present your friend. "There is something exceedingly familiar about your face. Dear. turning to the young man in the background." the Duke acquiesced. The unexpected return of a connection of my wife must be my apology for this lapse of manners. "You. smiling. too. "You don't mean to say that you're really Everard Dominey?" "I am he. "Most sorry. "In the meantime." the Duke confessed courteously. as he shook hands. This is Everard Dominey. her voice once more attuned to its natural drawl. dear me! Africa has done wonderfully by you. and Dominey exchanged a solemn handshake with him. you must forgive me. looking at him enquiringly." Caroline shook hands kindly with her husband's protege. Captain Bartram is just back from Germany. Henry—a very great surprise. yes! But you seem taller. Captain Bartram. but I cannot remember having had the privilege of meeting you." "God bless my soul!" the Duke exclaimed." Caroline observed. but I should like to present to you a young friend of mine who is going to help me at the meeting this evening. who are convinced that Germany has evil designs upon us?" the former said. I did not know that you were engaged. A young man. Let me present you to the Duchess. my dear Everard! Delighted!" "You'll be more delighted still when you hear the rest of the news.
" the young soldier remarked. trying to provoke unsettlement and disquiet amongst the Boers? Isn't it true that they apprehend a war with England before very long and are determined to stir up the Colony against us?" "I am very sorry. and there doesn't seem to be the slightest discontent amongst the Boers or any one else. "but I am not a politician in any shape or form. Sir Everard. but I am bound to say that it is in direct opposition to all I have heard." the young soldier replied." Dominey replied." "What you say about South Africa." Dominey replied. Everard?" "Within a week. I didn't commence to do any good myself there till a few years ago. perhaps. "Our young friend is right. I shall claim the privilege of coming 35 . so long as he is making money and having a good time. It is a terrible thing to realise how hard it is to make an Englishman reflect." "The only people who seem to have any cause for discontent." Dominey continued. "Three times a week for many months I have been drumming the fact into the handful of woodenheaded Englishmen who have deigned to come to our meetings. "I went with an open mind. "This is very surprising. my observations may have been at fault. "are the English settlers. Everard. "You may be of service to us." Dominey continued. lately I am bound to confess that every thought and energy I possess have been centered upon money-making. isn't it true that they have secret agents out there. I have made myself a nuisance to the House of Lords and the Press. sir." the Duke echoed fervently. All the Germans whom I have met out there seem a most peaceful race of men. indeed! Now tell me. I have come back convinced that we shall be at war with Germany within a couple of years." he declared." "Did you see anything of the Germans out there? Were you anywhere near their Colony?" "I have been in touch with them for some years. "Most interesting!" his questioner exclaimed.—You are just back from Africa." "And I. For that reason."I have just returned from Germany after twelve months' stay there." The Duke nodded vigorously. but I have heard some queer stories about the way our own people were treated after the war. "is naturally interesting." The Duke's face fell. You may. "I have lived there for the last eleven years. "and although I spent the earlier part of that time trekking after big game.
"Dominey Hall will really find you?" she asked a little curiously. of course. His mouth came together like a rat-trap." he repeated. He has apparently made a fortune in Africa. "He intends to repay it at once. Duke. Dominey. that although." Caroline smiled. with faint irony.to one of your first meetings. "Most certainly!" There was again that little flutter of fear in her eyes. "There's something wrong about it somewhere. The servant whom the Duchess had summoned stood holding the curtains on one side. Mangan in a day or two. my dear." The Duke gazed after the retreating figure of this very amazing visitor." The Duke collapsed into an easy-chair." His august connection blinked at him a little curiously for a moment behind his glasses." he said. it is absolutely hopeless for him to look to me for any financial assistance at the present moment. followed by a momentary flash of admiration. "There is a little matter of business to be adjusted between us. "As soon as I return from Norfolk. as he completed his leave-taking. but I find you more changed than I could have believed possible. "A little matter of business." his wife acquiesced. Duke." he replied." he declared. 36 . sir?" she added. we are very glad to see him back again." "Everard is changed in more ways than one. Dominey shook hands gravely with his host and nodded to Bertram. He is also paying off the Dominey mortgages. "Everard Dominey pay off the mortgages?" "That is what I understand." she explained. and of trying to understand this question. The Duke clutched at the last refuge of a weak but obstinate man. bent over her hand. "My dear Everard. When the curtains had fallen he turned to his wife. "I shall hope to see you again shortly. "What about my dinner party. "Everard pay his debts?" he exclaimed. "I hope you have explained to Everard. "forgive my remarking it. "Everard was alluding to the money he already owes you. You will probably hear from Mr." his wife observed." Dominey said. who had risen to leave.
with his eyes fixed upon his companion's." Dominey said slowly." Dominey asked him. "It was not an unforgivable act." "I killed a man in a duel. "that I am expected to call upon the Princess Eiderstrom at seven o'clock?" "I have your word for it." Dominey obeyed a little sullenly. we met by appointment at a certain hotel in Cape Town. I still think that a middle course can be judiciously pursued. however. ignored his demeanour." Seaman replied." "There are duels and duels. "As Leopold Von Ragastein. While I cannot recommend you to take her entirely into your confidence.Chapter 6 Dominey spent a very impatient hour that evening in his sitting-room at the Carlton. "I am a man of commerce and I do things in a business way. Seaman laid his hat. He then looked into the connecting bedroom. A fight between two young men. "Sit opposite to me. my friend. engaged in an important enterprise in East Africa by special intercession of the Kaiser." "Only three months. closed and fastened the door and extended himself in an easy-chair. Three months ago this very week. "Now. waiting for Seaman. Let us take stock of our position." "Rubbish!" Dominey exclaimed. His companion. my friend. on account of a certain unfortunate happening in Hungary. "I had only heard of the Baron Von Ragastein as a devoted German citizen and patriot. "We were unknown to one another. the Princess has indisputable claims upon me and my liberty. in defence of the honour of or to gain the favour of a young lady in their own 37 . gloves and walking stick upon the sideboard. The Princess is a woman of sense and a woman of political insight. "We will talk together. It was not until nearly seven that the latter appeared." he said. claims which would altogether interfere with the career of Everard Dominey." With methodical neatness." Dominey muttered." Seaman continued. "but I see no tragedy in the situation. "Are you aware." he said. beating upon the palm of one hand with the forefinger of his other.
"There is no bottom to our purse. has never been against the conventions of the Court. On the other hand. "I am not of your order and I probably do not understand the etiquette of these matters. but we do not grudge money." he added gravely." "I had no wish to kill the Prince." "I could not return home to a poverty-stricken domain. to become the lover of the wife of one of the greatest nobles in Hungary. on to the point of my stationary sword. I do not wait for our meeting. "what more he would have? I have spent weary years in a godless and fever-ridden country." Seaman said. "In this instance. I am to repair to England. I see a great chance and I make use of it." Dominey protested. and I think you will admit that I have done so with great success. We were friends over here in England. Remember that the question of our identities might crop up any day. I am to take up the work for which I was originally intended." "All that you say is granted. for which I was given an English education." Dominey demanded." "Perhaps you will tell me. You have made it uncommonly expensive. under such identity as I might assume after consultation with you at Cape Town. whilst her love affair with Leopold Von Ragastein is still remembered. "it is not a matter of loyalty. "nor was it at my desire that we met at all. and to secure possession by killing the husband in the duel which his honour makes a necessity is looked upon very differently. "You met me at Cape Town in your new identity. Everard Dominey cannot throw himself at the feet of the Princess Eiderstrom. Neither must there be any stint to our loyalty." Seaman agreed." Seaman declared." Dominey protested. I transform myself into an English country gentleman. and.station of life. at school and at college. 38 . nor any stint. I am to render myself so far as possible a persona grata in that country." "Again I make no complaints." Dominey pointed out. raising up for our arms a great troop of natives." "Let that pass. well-known to be one of the most passionate women in Europe. I simply look upon you as a culprit in the eyes of our master. "I should have held no place whatever in English social life. and you certainly seemed to wear it wonderfully. after a wild lunge. I have undertaken other political commissions in the Colony which may bear fruit. The Prince fought like a madman and slipped. and I feel that he has a right to demand from you much in the way of personal sacrifice. and I should have received no welcome from those with whom I imagine you desire me to stand well.
" was the cool reply. in the solitude of her room as in the drawing-room where we might meet. There will be doubts no longer if I am to be dragged at the chariot wheels of the Princess. I am and must remain Everard Dominey. "the Princess understands the situation and is. She will at any rate do nothing rash. as he took up his hat.and there are many who still remember the likeness between us. "At what hour was your appointment?" "It was not an appointment. But let her remember that even between us two." Seaman glanced at the clock." promised Seaman. my young friend." "You probably had not met the Princess before?" "I had not. I know the Princess and I know myself. descending about an hour later." Seaman continued. it can be Everard Dominey only until my mission is ended. "There is reason in what you say. it was a command. Let her be content with such measure of friendship and admiration as Sir Everard Dominey might reasonably offer to a beautiful woman whom he met to-day for the first time. "Dine with me downstairs at eight o'clock on my return. "Point out to her that for the present. but on reasonable terms. He was welcomed with a little wave of the hand. and cocktails were at once ordered. "It is for a few months only. impressed." Seaman was silent for a moment. perhaps." he admitted presently. here and there there may be doubts. "Since my visit I am bound to admit that I realise a little more fully your anxiety." Seaman continued. Perfectly though I may play my part." "I will have an understanding with the Princess." "August next year can take care of itself. to her as to the rest of the world." Dominey. I think. You think. You and she will meet within the course of the next few hours. What is your proposition?" "That you see the Princess in my place at once. I fancy. "that somewhere about August next year you will find your hands full. "I was told to be at Belgrave Square at seven o'clock." Seaman announced. I must confess that I found her a lady of somewhat overpowering temperament. To proceed! As I drove back here after my interview 39 . that I lay unnecessary stress upon this. and I am entirely and with all my heart at her service. far-away table set in one of the recesses of the grill room. I do not. "I have done your errand. found his friend Seaman already established at a small. for political reasons." Dominey suggested eagerly." Dominey replied. with a twitch at the corner of his lips. "In the meantime.
Those instructions will never be committed to writing. We require you to concentrate wholly and entirely upon Terniloff. you could not in six months' time appreciably affect the position either way. "and. "With all your ability. If there is anything of the spy about your mission here." "Terniloff?" "Precisely! You have maintained." Seaman touched his forehead and drained the remaining contents of his glass. as though interested in the people. Baronet. or you can join me in my efforts to cement the bonds of friendship and affection between the citizens of the two countries." Seaman went on after a brief pause. Satisfied at last that there was no chance of being overheard. "My instructions are to trust you absolutely. he continued: "The first idea you have to get out of your head. You can believe in Germany or fear her—whichever you like." Seaman acquiesced. We really do not care in the least." Dominey observed. They are here. You are a free agent in all that you may choose to say or do. to concentrate the greater part of my energies in leading the natural life of the man whose name and place I have taken. Choose your own part. it is not England or the English which are to engage your attention. Therefore. if it is there. my young friend. You are not connected with our remarkably perfect system of espionage in the slightest degree. You can join your cousin's husband in his crusade for National Service. Give yourself thoroughly into the life of Sir Everard Dominey." "Quite so. until the greater events stir. and pursue exactly the course which you think Sir Everard himself would be likely to take. "is very broad-minded." "It is common sense. "a very discreet and laudable silence with regard to those further instructions which were promised to you immediately you should arrive in London. of Dominey Hall.with the Princess. I decided that it was time you made the acquaintance of the person who is chiefly responsible for your presence here." Dominey admitted. Norfolk. You are nothing of the sort. during which one waiter had brought their cocktails and another received their order for dinner. my dear friend. we choose to have you concentrate the whole of your energies upon one task and one task only." was the prompt reply." Dominey was startled." "This. is that you are a spy. He glanced around the room for a moment or two. 40 .
"by my nearest living relative. "A little doctor named Schmidt has spent many marks of the Government money in frantic cables." Seaman promised." Dominey replied." "That is all understood. You must have endeared yourself to him." "As yet. So are you. though. "You must remember. Remember. So far all has gone well?" "Perfectly. "You shall understand everything when the time comes for you to take a hand. of whom you were speaking just now." Seaman enjoined. "I expected to work with him. but—" "Empty your mind of all preconceived ideas." "He has been a very troublesome friend. earlier in our conversation. so far as I am concerned. "What your duties are with regard to Terniloff will grow upon you gradually as the situation develops. and Schmidt continually emphasised your promise to let him hear from Cape Town. Let speech remain with him alone. "and do not in your zeal forget." Dominey remarked. "I have not even made his acquaintance." Seaman assured his companion."Terniloff?" he repeated. that I have made an appointment for you to see him at eleven o'clock to-night at the Embassy." Dominey declared. that your utility to our great cause will depend largely upon your being able to establish and maintain your position as an English gentleman. who apparently died in the bush." "I have at any rate been accepted." "I begin to understand. that there is your end to keep up. You will find him absolutely satisfied with the situation. absolutely content. He is a missioner of peace." 41 . It seems that the natives got their stories rather mixed up concerning your namesake. However. "Whom do you mean?" "The Duke of Worcester. my friend. The only real dangers are over here. all this has been dealt with satisfactorily." "I was on the point of telling you. Not even my immediate associates were in the secret. Take care not to disturb him. and incidentally I have discovered the one far-seeing person in England who knows what is in store for us. Be particularly careful not to drop him a hint of your knowledge of what is coming. you know nothing. my cousin's husband." Seaman was momentarily anxious. and so far you seem to have encountered the principal ones." "He was a very faithful associate." Dominey said thoughtfully. You will go to him at that hour. you are waiting for instructions. Berlin will be receiving frantic messages from East Africa as to my disappearance.
" Seaman frowned angrily. has a certain obstinacy. "He reminds me of the geese who saved the Capitol." his companion declared. with a little bow. glancing around the room after a brief but thoughtful pause. and yet we are incapable of the slightest self-sacrifice in order to preserve it. generally connected 42 . by unanswerable scientific deduction. But to leave generalities." Seaman rejoined irritably." he complained. "a brainless man obsessed with one idea. "Apropos of what you were saying." was the somewhat stiff reply. our historians. It is queer how often these fanatics discover the truth. Besides. when do you think of going to Norfolk?" "Within the next few days. "I shall breathe more freely when you are securely established there." he said. One would have imagined that our philosophers. "All that is necessary is not enough. "even though he be degenerate. "There are others associated with him. You are sure that you perfectly understand your position there as regards your—er—domestic affairs?" "I understand all that is necessary. "In other words." "My compliments to your pronouns. would warn us in irresistible terms. "who are not so insignificant. "Great things wait upon your complete acceptance." Dominey pronounced. of what was coming. one of your countrymen—realise anything unpleasant. He prefers to keep his head comfortably down in the sand. when I interrupt I advertise my own little hobby. I shall make one of my usual interruptions.The little man's face relaxed. "We advertise and boast about our colossal wealth." "These—we English are strange people. "His Grace has a meeting to-night at the Holborn Town Hall." was the placid reply." "The Englishman of a certain order. as Sir Everard Dominey. taking a small memorandum book from his waistcoat pocket and glancing it through." Dominey remarked. why don't you leave him alone?" Dominey enquired. "you remembered that you were a gentleman and not that you were a German. There were just one or two points which lay beyond the limits where questioning was possible." he added. you will never make an Englishman—I beg your pardon. That reminds me. in the country as well as in town." Dominey replied." "If he has so small a following." Seaman murmured. "I thought that you had wormed the whole story out of that drunken Englishman?" "He told me most of it.
their personal characteristics seemed to have become intensified. "Then come with me to Holborn. Once more. We grow too serious. enough of this subject. we drank wine and brandy." Dominey replied in spiritless fashion.with one particular thing. Dominey was more than ever the aristocrat. It is the things which are to come later. "It will amuse you. During the last few minutes a certain tension had crept in between the two men. "It will be better than a music hall. We talked together on that last night until morning. His teeth were more prominent than usual. I know well enough that the sense of personal honour amongst the Prussian aristocracy is the finest in the world. You must have your amusements. 43 ." Dominey objected. How shall you spend your evening until eleven o'clock? Remember you did not leave England an anchorite. I know that you understand. He leaned presently a little way across the table. and you shall sit at the back of the hall. You must fall into line with your fellows. You shall hear the haunting eloquence of your cousinin-law. We will part at the door. Sir Everard. I tore the story of my own exile from my breast and laid it bare before him. as I know now.—Come. that the hardest part of my task over here will not be this necessity for self-imposed amusements. it is not only your task with regard to Terniloff which makes your recognition as Everard Dominey so important to us. Seaman. Why not try a music hall?" "My mind is too full of other things. Seaman the plebian schemer. which nothing can break. that he kept something back. His eyes had narrowed but they were as bright as steel. I am not at all sure. at any rate. if you are able to play your part still in this country as Everard Dominey of Dominey Hall. "You should have dragged it from his throat." His companion struck the table gently but impatiently with his clenched fist. and yet there is not a single man of your order who should not be prepared to lie or cheat for his country's sake. Heart and soul you stand pledged to great things." There was a brief pause. You shall hear him trying to warn the men and women of England of the danger awaiting them from the great and rapacious German nation." the little man suggested. With it. out of sight. unabashed and desperately in earnest." he insisted. "It is not your duty to nurse fine personal feelings. I cannot at this moment give you any idea what you may not mean to us after the trouble has come. Yet I knew all the time. What do you say?" "I will come.
First of all the Duke rose. a halfdozen or so of nondescript residents from the neighbourhood." At the entrance to the town hall. a few sturdy. I was a philosopher before I became a professor of propaganda. you are young!" he exclaimed. where he was unlikely to be recognised from the platform. a few genuinely interested. respectable-looking tradesmen who had come because it seemed to be the respectable thing to do. Cast the memory of them away. on the other hand. making their way inside by different doors. parted. That is something gained. at Seaman's instigation. There were rows of empty benches. Seaman."Man. a distinguished soldier. The meeting was by no means overcrowded. took up a more prominent position at the end of one of the front rows of benches. preferred playing or watching football or cricket on Saturday afternoons to realising their duty. He explained that he had resigned his commission and was therefore free to speak his mind. a good many young couples who seemed to have come in for shelter from the inclement night. The conclusion of an ill-pointed but earnest speech was punctuated by the furtive entrance into the hall of a small boy selling evening newspapers. but remember the sin was not wholly yours. even in this hour of danger. over-enthusiastic. Don't nourish past griefs. There! You see. On the platform was the Duke. a sprinkling of enthusiasts. over-anything. He spoke of enormous military preparations in Germany and a general air of tense expectation. There's nothing which narrows a man more than morbidness. You have a past which may sometimes bring the ghosts around you. Dominey found a retired seat under a balcony. whose millions of young men. and in a few hackneyed but earnest sentences introduced his young friend Captain Bartram. Greatness and gaiety go hand in hand. the two men. I have said enough about that. and here and there. Against whom were these preparations? Without an earthly doubt against Germany's greatest rival. and Captain Bartram. a Member of Parliament. and there is an atonement which in measured fashion you may commence whenever you please. and there was a temporary diversion from any interest in the proceedings on the part of the younger portion 44 . at any rate. "You are like the rest of us. The meeting was on the point of commencement as Dominey settled down in his corner. You carry your life in your hands. was nervous and more than a little bitter. although they were decidedly in the minority. The latter. Now we will take a taxicab to Holborn and I will show you something really humorous. Good! You smile. who sprang at once into the middle of his subject. with civic dignitaries on either side of him.
He brought in a few historical allusions. with the exception of the distinguished soldier. He was a German citizen—he was indeed one of that bloodthirsty race.) He was also. (Some laughter. and at that point was interrupted by a drowsy member of the audience with stentorian lungs. The Member of Parliament then descended upon them in a whirlwind of oratory and in his best House of Commons style. bowed to the Duke. The Navy. The proceedings were wound up by the Duke. the sacred soil of their country. to the tune of rounds of applause. The Duke. he declared. Seaman scrambled up the steps on to the platform. their homes. Business often took him to Germany. he made his confession. Seaman before. He spoke of black clouds and of the cold breeze that went before the coming thunderstorm. who seemed just at that moment to have waked up. guv'nor?" The orator swept upon the interrupter in his famous platform manner. He pointed to the collapse of every great nation throughout history who had neglected the arts of self-defence. pleaded for a greater spirit of earnestness and citizenship amongst the men of the country. "What about the Navy. a league for promoting more friendly relations between the business men of Germany and England. and sat down amidst a little burst of quite enthusiastic applause. Some of the remarks which he had heard that evening had pained him deeply. Seaman looked around upon the audience was so good-natured and attractive. and enroll his name for drill and national service that evening?—and so on. Seaman. and took possession of the meeting. doubtless well known to them. and it was his excuse for standing there. but the smile with which Mr. and secured upon the whole a respectful attention. whilst they satisfied themselves as to the result of various Cup Ties. appealed even to the women to develop their sense of responsibility. He appealed to the youth of the nation to prepare themselves to guard their womenkind. and as a German he would be doing less than his duty if he did not stand up there and tell them that the 45 . that he had no alternative but to assent. who was suffering from a cold. who had had some experience with Mr. who was obviously. but it could not fight on sea and land. could be trusted at all times to do its duty. The distinguished soldier. Would the young man who had just interrupted do his. appealed to the chairman for permission to say a few words. fired off a few husky sentences only. After a word or two of compliment to the chairman. the founder and secretary of a league.—The vote of thanks to the chairman was on the point of being proposed when Mr. coughed apologetically. much more in earnest than any of them. looked at him severely.of the audience. standing up in his place.
The Duke went home full of wrath. He would simply tell them this great truth. it was doubtful whether a single adherent had been gained to the cause of National Service. were one of the greatest difficulties in his way.—In his humble way he was striving for the betterment of relations between the dearly beloved country of his birth and the equally beloved country of his adoption." "The miracle of it extends further. as it seemed to him. He could not for a moment doubt that these gentlemen upon the platform were patriots. "I promised you entertainment. If ever they were used it would be against Russia.average German loved the Englishman like a brother. tolerant." he observed. murmurs of dissent from the platform. "Confess that I have kept my word. She is like a child being overfed with jam. Seaman's little bow to the chairman was good-humoured. begging for a larger understanding. did nothing to undo the effect produced by this undesired stranger. was standing with hand outstretched to her relatives across the North Sea. a little wistful. at the corner of the street. (Applause from the audience. "You certainly succeeded in making fools of a number of respectable and well-meaning men." Seaman agreed. He would not waste their time telling them of the political difficulties which Germany had had to face during the last generation. The Duke's few words. begging for a deeper sympathy. that the object of his life was to come into greater kinship with him. in our dear 46 .—the foe for whom Germany was obliged to make these great military preparations was Russia. England is being slowly choked and strangled with too much liberty. let them realise that eastwards Germany was being continually pressed by an ancient and historic foe of enormous strength. Such meetings as these.) And as to those military preparations of which they had heard so much (with a severe glance at Captain Bartram). and Seaman chuckled with genuine merriment as he stepped into the taxi which Dominey had secured. let them glance for one moment at the frontiers of Germany. and at Russia's instigation. in its small way. When the meeting broke up. is a supreme example of the transcendental follies of democracy. both to themselves and their country. for the propagation of unfair and unjustified suspicions. "To-night. if they abandoned their present prejudiced and harmful campaign and became patrons of his Society. prefaced by an indignant protest against the intrusion of a German propagandist into an English patriotic meeting. Imagine. They would prove it more profitably." Dominey smiled enigmatically. instituted. that Germany even at that moment.
But he has also the genius for government. my friend!" he exclaimed. His eyes were bright. As you ask me. they will sound like his.country. He laid his hand on Seaman's arm. The Kaiser is a vain. you have other things to think about. secure against any possible eavesdropping. spoken once and for all. spoken through the lips of the Kaiser. In Germany. "we are in London. to-morrow." "Yet in any great crisis of a nation's history. "You are beginning to think. but no one knows their varying views. if you like. There is no one else in this world whom I have ever met so well fitted to lead our great nation on to the destiny she deserves. undisturbed. "surely there is safety in a multitude of counsellors?" "There would be always a multitude of counsellors." he said. each view would have its adherents. and no one except we who are behind will realise the ass's head. too. earnest and wise counsellors. There are counsellors there." Dominey was showing signs of a rare interest in his companion's conversation. the real destinies of the country are decided in secret. All that one learns is the result.—And now. Tonight. a ceaseless craving for the limelight. You are going into the great 47 . English propaganda in deadly opposition to German interests. and the Government be split up into factions. his eternal smile gone." Seaman replied. my friend. and he will believe them his. alone in a taxicab. Their words will pass through his personality. He looked at his companion in satisfaction. He was the man of intellect. with a diseased personality. What is more. All Europe will bow down before this self-imagined Caesar. so shall I answer. The time of war will prove all that. You preach the advantage of our Kaiser-led country." Dominey queried. They cannot govern themselves. the greatest egotist who ever lived. His forehead was puckered. Do you really believe that the Kaiser is the man for the task which is coming?" Seaman's narrow eyes glittered. his usually impassive features seemed to have become more mobile and strained. "Listen. The so-called liberty of the Englishman is like the cuckoo in his political nest. The trouble for this country is that they would be all expressed publicly and in the press. Countries must be governed. "in Germany as in England. we will speak of these matters again. "So you are waking up from the lethargy of Africa. an Englishman being allowed to mount the platform and spout. I mean this: he is a splendid medium for the expression of the brain power of his counsellors. He will see himself the knight in shining armour. bombastic dreamer.
" 48 .places where I never penetrate. At eleven o'clock the Prince Von Terniloff will expect you. You have an hour to change and prepare.
" he answered. After a moment's pause she continued: "I spoke to him." she said." He led her towards a settee but she shook her head. and he denied himself." "He is to work under your auspices?" "By no means. the Princess Eiderstrom. I have never suffered more." "You know. In the reception-room I came face to face with Leopold Von Ragastein. I learnt something of his true position later. long lost in Africa. "Your Excellency. the last of his guests." she said. It seemed to be his wish to hear first all that his companion had to say. To me! I think that those were the most terrible seconds of my life." "And I with you." the Prince rejoined warmly.Chapter 7 There had been a dinner party and a very small reception afterwards at the great Embassy in Carlton House Terrace. "I am not favourably inclined towards this network of espionage. She drew him on one side for a moment. then?" "I lunched to-day at the Carleton grill room. dear Stephanie. "I wish you to keep it. "This evening. an English baronet.—Sir Everard Dominey. I shall never suffer so much again. The Ambassador." the Prince murmured sympathetically. "It is very early. You know of this?" "I know that to-night I am receiving a visit from Sir Everard Dominey. He came to me to explain that Leopold was engaged in this country on secret service." she went on. was bidding farewell to his wife's cousin. "You have an appointment at half-past eleven. that he was passing under the name which he gave me. "I received a visit from a man whom I took at first to be an insignificant member of the German bourgeoisie." "It was most unfortunate. Let us sit down for a moment." The Ambassador made no remark. Prince Terniloff. "I have been hoping for a word with you all the evening. The school of diplomacy in 49 .
" she said. under present conditions. I am Hungarian. to-night. but I do not surrender. I make terms. I must speak to him. and inside I am on fire. be kind to me!" she went on. Only one thing can quiet me. "My eyes are hot. "You will do me the service of conveying to him a message from me. He remembered that although she had carried herself throughout the evening with all the dignity which was second nature to her. I will be content with the acquaintance of Sir Everard Dominey. I have now considered the matter. Oh! believe me. dear friend. but if in Berlin they decide that. however. he had overheard more than one sympathetic comment upon her appearance. "I do not even know what Von Ragastein's mission over here is. Those terms I will discuss with Leopold. You will help?" "An acquaintance between you and Sir Everard Dominey." he admitted. I listened to all that he had to say. "This man Seaman pointed out to me the unwisdom of any association between myself and Leopold." the Ambassador reflected. "I am not of Berlin. but that I will have. "I can see that you are suffering. I must decide with him what I will do." she continued." the Ambassador asserted. I shall take other means. Arrange that he drives me home. association between you and him is undesirable—" She laid her fingers upon his arm. Freda has asked me to stay and talk to her for an hour. Ah. He turned and looked into her face. "Stop!" she ordered. To-night I can see him without observation. "Since these few minutes at midday I have lived in a dream. I am not even an Austrian. "I must speak to Leopold. Underneath her beautiful eyes were dark lines." she begged." she continued. I am not a German. "is certainly a perfectly natural thing.which I have been brought up tries to work without such ignoble means. I reserved my decision. with a sudden change of voice. to pay his respects to you. and though I am willing to study your interests." "One realises that. I 50 . I am a very human woman. and there is nothing in the world to be gained by treating me as though I were of wood or stone. for the more complete preservation of his incognito." "He is waiting for me now in my study. "Leopold is coming. My car waits." he remarked kindly. I will compromise with necessity." "Look at me. there was something pitiful about the curve of her mouth. If you refuse." "For myself. I am not willing to place them before my own life.
where Dominey was waiting for him. you are nervous." She suddenly stooped and kissed his hand. "I am glad to see you. I believe that in Berlin the character of some of the leading statesmen here has been 51 ." The Ambassador strolled thoughtfully away into his own den at the back of the house. the object which the Kaiser has declared to me with his own lips is nearest to his heart—to cement the bonds of friendship between Germany and England. "For five minutes I desire to talk to your real self. your Excellency. "I do not know what the exact nature of your work over here is to be. whisky and soda on the sideboard. that I entirely disapprove of your present position here?" "I gathered as much. sir." he promised." "You believe. in Saxony?" "I remember it perfectly. "Stephanie. After that." the Prince declared. I shall bring the young man to Freda's room and present him." the Ambassador went on. lighting a cigar." "His Majesty knew how to keep Court in those days." "We will have no reserves with one another.will make no promises. "Come. I have no doubt that you are here with the same object as I am. "I know quite well that you form part of a network of espionage in this country which I consider wholly unnecessary." "You consent?" "I consent. I have not yet answered your entreaty. I will respect your new identity. His host pointed to the sideboard. Freda is waiting for me. Make yourself at home in that chair there. Africa has rally changed you very little. I will call him Leopold Von Ragastein—" "Hush!" he begged her." the former said." was the earnest reply. of course. that his life is a lie. "One was tempted to believe oneself at an English country party. "After our interview. "there are cigars and cigarettes at your elbow." he continued. You will be there. for the rest of your time in England. holding out his hand. An immense relief was in her face. that that is possible?" "I am convinced of it. You know. I will not even promise that I will not call out before him in the streets that he is a liar. Do you remember our previous meeting. That is simply a question of method. your Excellency. However." Dominey bowed in silence. but I am glad to have an opportunity of putting before you my convictions. He can offer you his escort. "Now I will keep you no longer. that much of the past.
it is to become closely connected with my own." "You are out of date. This is why all this outside espionage with which Seaman is so largely concerned seems to me at times unwise and unnecessary. "These matters will be solved for us. "what about the matter from our point of view? There are a great many in our country." Dominey rose to his feet." "And that?" "She insists upon it that I present Sir Everard Dominey. the greatest empire in the world." "These things have been decided?" "Absolutely! They form the soul of my mission here. My mandate is one of peace.misunderstood and misrepresented. The disintegration of Russia in the near future is a certainty." "In this house?" "Waiting for a word with you." the Prince replied. your Excellency. 52 . There is room in the world for Great Britain and for Germany. prepared to take his leave. "I see now why they sent you to me. "There is just one word more. and the more I see of English statesmen and the more I understand the British outlook. "But. I understand that she is content to subscribe to the present situation. with the air of one who hears unexpected things. then I am very sure you will presently find that its text also is Peace. we all believe. I find on all sides of me an earnest and sincere desire for peace. She makes one condition. whom you and I know of. as one of our friends once said. "The Princess Eiderstrom is upstairs. who look forward to a war with England as inevitable. She must climb there. Our friend Seaman has been with her this evening. "Its nature. I have convinced myself that there is not a single statesman in this country who is desirous of war with Germany. however. Those days have passed. as I have been given to understand." he murmured." Terniloff said in an altered tone. but if." "And my own mission?" Dominey enquired. Germany must become." The latter did not attempt to conceal his perturbation." the Ambassador declared earnestly. with her foot upon the neck of the British lion. "is not as yet divulged. It is eastward that we must look for any great extension of territory. the more sanguine I am as to the success of my efforts." Dominey was listening intently. on a somewhat more private matter." he ventured.
because of your likeness to a very dear friend of hers. "and I hope that we shall often see you here. "that any association between the Princess and myself is likely to largely increase the difficulties of my position here. I must tell you frankly. She is also very powerfully placed here." Stephanie." he protested. Her gown was of unrelieved black. but in considering the present position you will. and still an extremely attractive woman. "You say that the Princess is waiting here?" "She is with my wife and asks for your escort home. "It was hard for me to believe that you were not indeed the person for whom I mistook you. Sir Everard Dominey. and she wore also a tiara fashioned after the Hungarian style. this is Sir Everard Dominey—the Princess Eiderstrom. who is interested in you. My wife also looks forward to the pleasure of renewing her acquaintance with you. that I speak from a political point of view only. Wonderful diamonds flashed around her neck. "Both Seaman and I have endeavoured to reason with her. of course." "Other people have spoken to me of the likeness." Dominey replied." "I shall accept your Excellency's guidance in the matter. Her manner and tone still indicated some measure of rebellion against the situation. She received the visitor whom her husband brought to her in a very charming little room furnished after the style of the simplest French period. "We are delighted to welcome you to London. You will understand. but." The Ambassador sighed. I cannot ignore the fact of your unfortunate relations with the late Prince. the Princess is a woman of very strong will." 53 . a little low on her forehead. held out her hand to Dominey. "You have forgiven me for my insistence this morning?" she asked. The Princess Terniloff was a woman of world culture. as you are doubtless aware. who made her a very low and formal bow. sir." he admitted. Stephanie. I want to present you to my cousin."I need scarcely point out to you." His visitor was silent for a moment. who was seated upon the couch from which her cousin had just risen." Dominey decided. remember the greater interests. and it is the urgent desire of the Court at Berlin to placate in every way the Hungarian nobility. an artist." she said. I am sure. "It is a matter of regret to me that I can claim to be no more than a simple Norfolk baronet. "I quite appreciate that. taking his hand. and she did her best to relieve the strain of what she understood must be a somewhat trying moment.
" "I shall be very happy. You know what I look for from you. leaned gracefully over and kissed her hostess on both cheeks. Leopold—we are alone!" He caught the flash of her jewels. I must remain to you as to the world. "until the hour strikes. A servant in the hall handed him his hat and coat." "Languages were the sole accomplishment I brought away from my misspent school days. There is one way and one way only of carrying through my appointed task." she murmured. too. "I think. "Will you be so kind as to see me home?" she asked. Leopold. I am Everard Dominey. but you have a soul." Dominey replied. ashamed and miserable." She gave a little hysterical sob. She touched the electric switch as they glided off. "and I have experienced more than my share of solitude during the last few years."Without any previous experience of European Courts?" "Without any at all. "very obstinate and very devoted to your marvellous country. I hope to spend a portion of my time here. alone or in a crowd—Everard Dominey. "You mistake. what I must find from you or go down into hell." Dominey assented. Princess. "Listen. Sir Everard?" the Princess Terniloff enquired." Stephanie rose slowly to her feet." "Oh. Then she turned to Dominey. I know that you are very obstinate. My husband would be so interested. even to himself." He felt his throat suddenly dry. My name is not Leopold. "Afterwards. and submitted her hand to the Prince. 54 . He. The car was in darkness." she said softly." "You must dine with us one night." "You are very kind. made his farewells. my car can take you on wherever you choose to go. the soft brilliance of her eyes as she leaned towards him. harsh and strident. you know that there are human duties as great as any your country ever imposed upon you. His voice sounded. and he took his place in the car by Stephanie's side. who raised it to his lips." "You are not going to bury yourself in Norfolk." the Princess insisted." he muttered." "Your German is wonderfully pure for an untravelled man. "Norfolk is very near London these days. "and tell us about Africa. "that I could not have borne another moment of this juggling with words.
" She leaned back in her seat with an air of exhaustion. He is not here. when we are in the presence of other people. He felt her eyes burning into his. which was immediately opened. I am exiled now. Her eyes closed. "I understand. although her hands were tearing at his. I will receive you only as often as you say. "Whatever may come afterwards. So she sat for several moments. the man who slew my husband and left me?" "I was exiled. and he felt the hot grip of her hand. this time with something more like furious curiosity. too. A footman hurried out. You have reason."Wait. So far as other things are concerned. his own voice shaking with emotion. drawing it toward her until the fingers of her other hand. I will never even look at you as though my heart ached for your notice. She turned to Dominey. as you know." she cried. I cannot take advantage of your feelings for Leopold Von Ragastein." she continued presently. Tell me you have come back. You shall come and see me as seldom as you wish. Throw off this hideous mask. on my return from Norfolk. I will be careful. if I may." He opened the fingers which he had kept clenched together. I swear it." She gave him her hand with a sad smile." she begged. You are afraid that I shall betray our love. What we are to one another when we are alone. "Leopold. Is this just some ghastly change. Are you the man I have waited for all these years? Are you the man to whom I have given my lips. "for a short time?" "If you will permit me to pay you a visit. it will give me great pleasure. but I have restraint." He sat quite still. I am working out my expiation. 55 . "Let me be sure. for whose sake I offered up my reputation as a sacrifice. Then the car drove in through some iron gates and stopped in front of her door. Give me your hand. But don't treat me like this. "until the time arrives I am Everard Dominey. no soul in this world need know. holding his passionately." she pleaded." he answered formally. "I will call. I am full of impulses and passion." She flung his hands away. fell upon it. or are you an imposter? My heart is growing chilled." he pronounced inexorably. "I will answer you in a moment." he reminded her. Perhaps some day he will come back to you and be all that you wish. "You know that. He is in Africa. if it be only for a moment. her lips and eyes beseeching him. "Let me look at you. "You will not enter.
" "What is that?" "A woman—the Princess Eiderstrom. lowering his tone. My tongue is parched with inaction. escorted through the great front door of one of London's few palaces by an attractive major-domo and footman in the livery of her House. "I thought you understood a little of human nature." "And I thought you were a man of sentiment!" Dominey scoffed. I like to talk." "I believe I appreciate both. You don't seriously suppose that after all these years." "Then you must be closing your eyes to it willfully." Seaman began— 56 . Dominey drove back to the Carlton. "I do not admit defeat. dropping her voice." Seaman lit one of his inevitable cigars and threw one of his short. I might as well have opened up my little house in Forest Hill. neatly encased in court shoes." Seaman replied. where in the lounge he found the band playing. As an English nobleman you have a perfect right to enjoy the friendship of the Princess Eiderstrom." he exclaimed. "and remember. "I am weary of solitude! I have seen scarcely a face that I recognise. Seaman. "You surprise me. and there has been no one to talk to." Dominey promised a little grimly. Stephanie Eiderstrom is Hungarian born and bred. "or else you are wholly ignorant of the Princess's temperament and disposition. He gazed for a moment with an air of satisfaction at his small foot." Dominey retorted. "Come. She has made it very plain to-night that she is going to be content with nothing of the sort."Let my people take you wherever you want to go. "but I still do not see any peculiar difficulty in the situation. He greeted Dominey enthusiastically." she invited. "I will begin by telling you this. This is not the last word between us." she added. in his neat dinner clothes and with his cherubic air of inviting attention from prospective new acquaintances." "I'll talk to you if you like. "I have considered the matter." he added." he confessed. fat legs over the other. glancing at the clock and hastily ordering a whisky and soda. "I have discovered the greatest danger I shall have to face during my enterprise." She disappeared in some state. I cannot see any great difficulty. crowds still sitting around. after all she has suffered—and she has suffered—she is going to be content with an emasculated form of friendship? I talk to you without reserve. Even race has never taught her self-restraint. amongst whom Seaman was conspicuous." "What takes place between you in private.
The two men looked at it side by side beneath one of the electric standards which had been left burning." Seaman protested." he pointed out. I will think out a scheme. a certain helplessness. The face was the face of a girl. You know what you have to deal with down at Dominey. I would sooner have a dozen of your Princesses to deal with than the original of that picture. "Do you remember. Seaman turned away with a little grunt. "I will deal with the matter for you as well as I can." "Perhaps it is as well." Seaman promised. and from that a worn picture. They strolled into the darkened hall of the hotel together."Rubbish!" his companion interrupted. Seaman still hesitated. and commented: "Permitting myself to reassume for a moment or two the ordinary sentiments of an ordinary human being. with a good deal of the wild animal in her still. The two men rose a little unwillingly. appealing light. a distinctly primitive woman. with fingers that trembled a little. but anxious at the same time to get rid of his companion." "May I have one more look at it?" Dominey. you showed me a picture of—of Lady Dominey?" "I remember. your greatest difficulty will be encountered to-morrow. "I am prepared." he said. Her only concern is the personal question between us. "On the contrary. "She is not a German. Plots or political necessities are not likely to count a snap of the fingers with her." 57 ." Dominey's face was very set and grave. "that when we talked over your plans at Cape Town." The lights were being put out. a passionate. almost a child. Dominey felt singularly indisposed for sleep." he asked. "she must understand that your country has claimed you for a great work?" Dominey shook his head. There was something of the same suggestion to be found in the lips. Something must be done to pacify her." Seaman remarked. "that you have arranged to go down to-morrow to Dominey. I think she rather dislikes Germany and Germans." "But surely. and the great eyes seemed filled with a queer. She considers that every moment of the rest of my life should be devoted to her. "To my mind. drew from the breast pocket of his coat a leather case. like a great many other Hungarians. an appeal for love and protection to some stronger being. "The Princess is an impulsive.
of course." Mr." he said. with its great double front." "She is still in attendance upon Lady Dominey. then?" 58 . "Not a stump. without turning his head." "The superstition remains then?" "The villagers are absolutely rabid about it. "and I don't think you'll miss the timber much. red brick outline that faced the park southwards. "Damned fine house. and. All bunkum. We've taken it as far as possible from the outlying woods. There are at least a dozen who declare that they have seen the ghost of Roger Unthank." "Does he still select the park and the terrace outside the house for his midnight perambulations?" Dominey enquired." "Any from the Black Wood?" Dominey asked. That is the sole reason why I haven't ventured to recommend long ago that you should get rid of Mrs. he had dragged his hat over his eyes and turned his coat collar up to his ears. as the car turned the first bend in the grass-grown avenue and Dominey Hall came into sight. somehow or other. Unthank. too!" His companion made no reply. Mangan observed. and a score or more who will swear by all that is holy that they have heard his call at night. A storm had come up during the last few minutes. "The idea is. but I can assure you that every servant and caretaker we've had there has given notice within a month. grim and weather-stained back which confronted the marshes and the sea. "that the ghost makes his way out from the wood and sits on the terrace underneath Lady Dominey's window. Mr. "We have kept the old place weathertight. I believe. "and for a very excellent reason. as though he felt the cold." he replied. The lawyer hesitated. Elizabethan. Not one of the woodmen would ever go near the place.Chapter 8 "Your ancestral home. The house. was now clearly visible—the time-worn. and the stone-supported. Mangan continued to make amiable conversation." he said.
"Beautiful place. Dominey nodded. 59 . Loveybond. and the bluebells in the home woods were wonderful. "Middleton. "suggesting the sale of one or two of the pictures. and I never saw such buttercups in my life. There was nothing in the shape of a reception. In the background."Simply because we couldn't get any one else to stay there. in the springtime. I'm afraid. Unthank. There's Loveybond. They had even to ring the bell before the door was opened by a manservant sent down a few days previously from town. whom you would scarcely remember. as they turned in through some iron gates and entered the last sweep in front of the house. were visible in the background. who has really been a godsend so far as the game is concerned. this. Mangan was momentarily surprised. "That wall has been down. Half a dozen maidservants. stood an elderly man with white side whiskers and skin as brown as a piece of parchment. I see. the gardener. Mangan took charge of the proceedings. we've left all the trees in the park. "We wrote you. I was down last May for a night. wearing a brown velveteen coat. Sir Everard was very pleased to hear that you were still here." he added. The whole of the little painting colony down at Flankney turned themselves loose upon the place last spring." "Some of the old wall is down. resting his hand upon the old man's shoulder." The car drew up at that moment in front of the great porch. with breeches and leggings of corduroy. the head keeper. for twenty years. except—Mrs." Dominey remarked with a frown. Mr. and Middleton." the lawyer continued. and a second man was taking possession of the luggage. leaning heavily upon a long ash stick. to form a fund for repairs. but thank goodness you didn't reply! We'll have some workpeople here as soon as you've decided what you'd like done. "you won't find many familiar faces to welcome you. I think it's time a change was made. and you. Mr. We'll have a chat after dinner. Between ourselves. No one at all indoors. to my knowledge. with an air of satisfaction. as he gazed towards the enclosed kitchen garden. "and her ladyship positively declines to leave the Hall." he muttered." he went on. The cows here were almost up to their knees in pasture. "here's your master come back again." The old man grasped the hand which Dominey stretched out with both of his. new importations. "I had forgotten." he reminded his companion.—You see. if you've no objection." he said. by the by." the lawyer explained.
Squire. sir." the woman retorted." Dominey drew himself more than ever erect—a commanding figure in the little group. back to your hiding. Squire. Get back where you came from. her features curiously large. turning to the man who had fallen a little into the background. were suddenly dumb." the old man replied. "That's a joy—leastways to us. Can you face me." Dominey said pleasantly." "This is Parkins. but with some trace in her intonation of a north-country dialect. Mangan went on. She was as thin as a lath. Everard Dominey." Mr. "I thankee. Middleton. and that's sure. I'll take the liberty of saying that I should never have recognised you. but you've shown indecent haste in coming. All eyes were turned in one direction. but who had evidently issued from one of the recesses of the hall." she said." he said. Them furrin parts has filled you out and hardened you. sir. pushing his way once more into the foreground." the latter replied a little awkwardly. And—" There was a queer and instantaneous silence. She spoke very slowly. standing in front of him as though to bar his progress. Loveybond. but Dominey waved him aside. Her face was long and narrow." "Sorry you feel like that about it. with grey hair brushed back from her head and not even a white collar at her neck." he said reassuringly. "You will feel better about it when we have had a day or two with the pheasants. you who murdered my son and made a madwoman of your wife?" The lawyer would have answered her. It's what it may turn out to be for you which makes one hold back like. The little group of maidservants." "My good woman!" Mangan gasped. "I can't say the same for you. stood suddenly before them all. 60 . "This is really too much!" "I've not come to bandy words with lawyers. her eyes filled with anger. Squire. Middleton. "I've come to speak to him. "What is the trouble about my coming back?" "That's no trouble."I'm right glad you're back again. "and yet the words of welcome stick in my throat. "I wrote last night to stop you. who had been exchanging whispered confidences as to their new master's appearance." he added. "You have not changed much. Everard Dominey. "There's no place in this house for you. with a motion of his hand towards his forehead. looking at him with curious intentness. very stiff and uncomfortable in his Sunday clothes. dressed in severe black. There's no place here for a murderer. A woman whose advent had been unperceived. "the butler whom I engaged in London.
I shall pay her a visit myself after dinner. "Respect! What respect have I for the murderer of my son? Respect! Well." she muttered. "I am most distressed that this should have occurred." "You forget yourself. "I fear so. "The fact is scarcely important. Her eyes were fixed upon Dominey curiously. and say that I wait only for her permission before presenting myself in her apartments. horribly. Let me look at you.—You will feel quite at home here in the library. she adopts an entirely different attitude."Mrs." She was speechless for a moment. Unthank. woman. Every one began bustling about the luggage and talking at once. Mangan took his patron's arm and led him across the hall. It must be understood distinctly that if she is suffered to remain. if he stays here against my bidding." he replied coldly. Unthank. "The house may be yours. I thought that the woman would probably be sullen. and understand that this house is mine." the lawyer admitted. unpleasantly. "Those are brave words. I never heard anything so preposterous in all my life. you will treat your master with the respect to which his position here entitles him. "My dear Sir Everard." he said angrily. Very slowly a frown developed upon her forehead. "If you will allow me to give you a word of advice. "Nevertheless we must see Doctor Harrison in the morning. the less assured she became. Mr. Mrs." She moved a foot or two to where the light was better. "return to your duties at once." Once more the woman blazed up. the only companion whom Lady Dominey will tolerate?" Dominey enquired with a sigh. "There are things in your face I miss." She turned around and disappeared. I presume." he said sternly. "Be so good as to return to your mistress at once. amazed at the firmness of his words." "She is still. "You've come back a harder man. The longer she looked. announce my coming." she said. Mangan was glad of an opportunity of asserting himself. Sir 61 ." he said anxiously. to enter or leave when I choose. Mr. but I had no idea that she would dare to attempt such an outrageous proceeding." she said threateningly. perhaps her ladyship will show him what respect means. Sir Everard Dominey." The woman laughed. "but there's one part of it at least in which you won't dare to show yourself.
fell in love with Miss Felbrigg and carried her off. Remember that I spent the first portion of my exile in Africa in a very determined effort to blot out the memory of everything that had happened to me earlier in life. wielding the decanter again in view of his client's more reasonable manner." Dominey insisted. "A plain answer. Unthank as housekeeper. He was beginning to understand his client. Roger Unthank's infatuation for her was patent to the whole neighbourhood and a source of great annoyance in Miss Felbrigg." he asked a little abruptly. Mangan adapted himself to the situation.Everard. I'm afraid." "Roger Unthank was a lunatic. Mangan declared. "is it the popular belief down here that I killed Roger Unthank?" The lawyer set down the decanter and coughed. Sir Everard. I am convinced that at no time did Lady Dominey give the young man the slightest encouragement. especially since we've had a few of the trees cut down. "that there isn't a soul in these parts who isn't convinced of it." Dominey continued. throwing open the door of a very fine apartment on the seaward side of the house. are an institution you will have to inaugurate down here. but we haven't sold a single bottle of wine out of the cellars." "Has any one ever believed the contrary?" Dominey demanded. The 62 . "Nevertheless. "Grand view from these windows. He seemed during the last few minutes to have been wrapped in a brown study. Mr. "His behaviour from the first was the behaviour of a madman." Dominey pronounced deliberately. every one is agreed. You'll be grateful to me when I tell you one thing. They believe that there was a fight and that you had the best of it. We've been hard pressed more than once." he confessed." Dominey accepted the glass of sherry which the lawyer had poured out but made no movement towards drinking it. "Mangan. Sir Everard. "if I seem to ask unnecessary questions. Cocktails. with Mrs." "The Eugene Aram type of village schoolmaster gradually drifting into positive insanity. I see that Parkins has set out the sherry. "Not a soul. "So far. "At the time of your unfortunate visit to the Hall Miss Felbrigg was living practically alone at the Vicarage after her uncle's sudden death there. Mangan went on." Mangan acquiesced." Mr. "I am perfectly certain. So that is the popular belief?" "The popular belief seems to match fairly well with the facts." Mr. when you came down." "Forgive me. every one felt that there would be trouble." was the emphatic reply.
almost the first person I saw was Lady Dominey." Dominey glanced at his watch and led the way from the room. as it happened." he promised." "If it had—" "You must have been charged with either murder or manslaughter." "Without a doubt. "We met at the north end of the Black Wood one evening. and he attacked me like a madman." "The sequel was perfectly simple. It was the other thing that broke me up." Dominey went on. "I suppose." "Quite so." the lawyer acquiesced. By some cruel stroke of fortune. I was covered with blood. you were perfectly safe from arrest." the lawyer concluded. I don't suppose there's a villager here would cross the park in that direction after dark. "Most tragic!" "The cruel part of it was. standing before the window." he remarked. "it was the disappearance of the body which has given rise to all this talk as to his spirit still inhabiting the Black Wood. as you know. As it is. "After dinner. but when I got back to the Hall my arm was broken. Mangan—not the fear of being arrested for having caused the death of Roger Unthank. The body of Roger Unthank has never been found from that day to this. his hands clasped behind his back. The tragical side of these reminiscences seemed.mystery began when he came back from his holidays and heard the news. who had fought in the most absolute self-defence. I'd have stood my trial for that at any moment." Dominey abandoned his post at the window and raised his glass of sherry to his lips. "The place had a bad name already. "I'll tell you a few West African superstitions which will make our local one seem anemic." Mangan murmured sympathetically. The shock was too much for her—she fainted—and—" "And has never been quite herself since. "As a matter of fact." 63 . That was what drove me out of the country. "that my wife from that moment developed a homicidal mania against me—I. to have passed. so far as he was concerned. and half unconscious." Dominey observed. I suppose I had to some extent the best of it.
"I find it very difficult to get back into the atmosphere of those days. Felbrigg's housekeeper and my wife's nurse when she was a child." he added." "Mrs. and a small quantity of two older vintages. as soon as we had arrived here. Mrs. Sir Everard. I made up my mind to speak to you on this subject. "I was looking through the cellar-book before dinner. "to believe that I am the same man." Dominey said.Chapter 9 "I certainly offer you my heartiest congratulations upon your cellars. after a minute's hesitation. "This is the finest glass of seventy I've drunk for a long time. Unthank was old Mr. and this new fellow I've sent you down—Parkins—tells me there's any quantity of it. "I am very glad you came down with me." "And another half an hour." 64 . "Whatever her faults may be. I believe she is devoted to Lady Dominey. I cannot but believe that it would be far better for Lady Dominey to have some one with her unconnected with this unfortunate chapter of your past. "I should like to spend in interviewing Mrs. with a curious little glance across the table. whether in fair fight or not." "It has had a pretty long rest. "and I see that you still have forty-seven and forty-eight. I do not for one moment believe that she is the proper person to be entrusted with the care of Lady Dominey. Something ought to be done about those." "We will try one of them to-morrow night. Unthank is firmly convinced that. "We might spend half an hour or so in the cellars." "We will consult Doctor Harrison to-morrow. and it was the sight of you after the fight that sent her insane. I even find it hard sometimes. as he sipped his third glass of port that evening. "but I am convinced that she is your enemy." Mr." his guest said. Lady Dominey believes that." Dominey suggested." Dominey observed." the lawyer admitted. Mangan. The situation doesn't seem to me to be consistent. too. if we have any time to spare. Mangan said gravely." Dominey reminded his companion." "She may be devoted to your wife." he went on. Unthank. Sir Everard. you killed her son." the lawyer went on. Apart from any other question.
Middleton? Parkins says you wish to speak to me." Dominey directed. "You see. "I have served coffee in the library." Mr. the walls of which had suffered a little through lack of heating. I suppose!" The new butler entered the room noiselessly and came to his master's chair. For a trifling instance. Parkins silently served them with coffee and brandy." 65 . Mangan confessed. inclining his head towards his host's untasted glass. "One finds it hard to believe the stories that were going about ten or fifteen years ago." he announced. The lawyer gazed at him with raised eyebrows. "Mr. that wine. or perhaps I ought to call it looseness of disposition. He seems in a very nervous and uneasy state. He had scarcely left the room before there was a timid knock and Middleton made his somewhat hesitating entrance." Dominey hastened to explain." The lawyer glanced enviously at his host's fine bronzed complexion and clear eyes. the gamekeeper. Middleton. "There are many things connected with the past which I find it almost impossible to associate with you." The two men made their way across the very fine hall." "He can come to the library at once. and seated themselves in easy-chairs before the blazing log fire. "Not acquired the taste for port." he repeated blankly." he went on. One thing the London restaurants can't give us. and asks if he could have a word with you before he goes to bed to-night. "Come in and close the door. "You seem to have lost a certain pliability." the lawyer assented. Sir Everard. sir." he admitted. "that is. if you are ready for your coffee. "A great treat. "What is it." Dominey observed." he observed frankly. "Tell me exactly in what respects you consider me changed?" Dominey insisted."Not so hard as I have done more than once. Port should never be drunk away from the place where it was laid down. and that vitiates the taste for all wine." "Indeed I am. into the library." Dominey directed. has just called. in the bush we drank a simply frightful amount of spirits. "I should have said reacquired." "The Dominey constitution. "You haven't the appearance of ever having drunk anything. sir. Mangan. rising." "I'm afraid that I never acquired the taste for port. with a slight smile. "You don't drink port like any Dominey I ever knew.
" "I can't get rightly into touch with you. "No wonder I have changed! Never mind. He had more to say. "Bad night. His face glistened with the rain which had found its way. I heard her call to you. Squire. they called it. His white hair was wind-tossed and disarranged. "The shape of you seems larger and your voice harder. Squire. that saved a double tragedy that night. and. Middleton. He was obviously distressed and uneasy. It was obvious that he had only paused for breath. "I was by your side. and that's a fact." the old man replied hoarsely." "Well?" The old man was obviously perturbed. too. to say what's in my heart. seizing her from behind. I saw her laugh and sob like a maniac." Middleton went on despairingly. and the red light in your eyes—murderous fire. "Mr. it was I. You'll not sleep in the oak room to-night?" "And why not?" Dominey asked." Dominey remarked. "when you tottered home that night across the park. I heard her ladyship go into hysterics. as you well know. in long streaks down his velveteen coat. They know all our family history." "It was I who first met you. God help us! that's what she's been ever since. Squire. "when her ladyship caught up the knife and ran at you. when she'd stolen into your room in the night and missed your throat by a bare inch. Mangan and his father and grandfather have been solicitors to the estate for a great many years." Dominey invited. with your arm hanging helplessly by your side." the old man went on. speaking with fierce excitement. Squire.The man came hesitatingly forward. and found speech difficult. "It's to save its being a worse one that I'm here." he went on. heard her threat. He glanced at Mangan and mumbled to himself. "I've come to ask you a favour and to beg you to grant it for your own sake." Dominey reminded him." The two men were silent. "It's next her ladyship's. and it was I who went for the doctor the next morning." "I have had a rough time Middleton. "Say exactly what you wish to. speak to me just as man to man. and with a knife in her hand you'll never be safe in this house. but his master." 66 . Squire. Middleton had raised his voice. I don't seem to be so near to you as I'd wished. but her ladyship is a madwoman at this moment. as though of a purpose. and. and the blood streaming down your face and clothes. It was a madwoman's threat. refused to help him.
"We must see," Dominey said quietly, "that she is not allowed to get possession of any weapon." "Aye! Make sure of that," Middleton scoffed, "with Mother Unthank by her side! Her ladyship's mad because of the horror of that night, but Mother Unthank is mad with hate, and there isn't a week passes," the old man went on, his voice dropping lower and his eyes burning, "that Roger Unthank's spirit don't come and howl for your blood beneath their window. If you stay here this night, Squire, come over and sleep in the little room they've got ready for you on the other side of the house." Mr. Mangan had lost his smooth, after-dinner appearance. His face was rumpled, and his coffee was growing cold. This was a very different thing from the vague letters and rumours which had reached him from time to time and which he had put out of his mind with all the contempt of the materialist. "It is very good of you to warn me, Middleton," Dominey said, "but I can lock my door, can I not?" "Lock the door of the oak room!" was the scornful reply. "And what good would that do? You know well enough that the wall's double on three sides, and there are more secret entrances than even I know of. The oak room's not for you this night, Squire. It's hoping to get you there that's keeping them quiet." "Tell us what you mean, Middleton," the lawyer asked, with ill-assumed indifference, "when you spoke of the howling of Roger Unthank's spirit?" The old man turned patiently around. "Just that, sir," he replied. "It's round the house most weeks. Except for me odd nights, and Mrs. Unthank, there's been scarcely a servant would sleep in the Hall for years. Some of the maids they do come up from the village, but back they go before nightfall, and until morning there isn't a living soul would cross the path—no, not for a hundred pounds." "A howl, you call it?" Mr. Mangan observed. "That's mostly like a dog that's hurt itself," Middleton explained equably, "like a dog, that is, with a touch of human in its throat, as we've all heard in our time, sir. You'll hear it yourself, sir, maybe to-night or tomorrow night." "You've heard it then, Middleton?" his master asked. "Why, surely, sir," the old man replied in surprise. "Most weeks for the last ten years." "Haven't you ever got up and gone out to see what it was?" The old man shook his head.
"But I knew right well what that was, sir," he said, "and I'm not one for looking on spirits. Spirits there are that walk this world, as we well know, and the spirit of Roger Unthank walks from between the Black Wood and those windows, come every week of the year. But I'm not for looking at him. There's evil comes of that. I turn over in my bed, and I stop my ears, but I've never yet raised a blind." "Tell me, Middleton," Dominey asked, "is Lady Dominey terrified at these—er—visitations?" "That I can't rightly say, sir. Her ladyship's always sweet and gentle, with kind words on her lips for every one, but there's the terror there in her eyes that was lit that night when you staggered into the hall, Squire, and I've never seen it properly quenched yet, so to speak. She carries fear with her, but whether it's the fear of seeing you again, or the fear of Roger Unthank's spirit, I could not tell." Dominey seemed suddenly to become possessed of a strange desire to thrust the whole subject away. He dismissed the old man kindly but a little abruptly, accompanying him to the corridor which led to the servants' quarters and talking all the time about the pheasants. When he returned, he found that his guest had emptied his second glass of brandy and was surreptitiously mopping his forehead. "That," the latter remarked, "is the class of old retainer who lives too long. If I were a Dominey of the Middle Ages, I think a stone around his neck and the deepest well would be the sensible way of dealing with him. He made me feel positively uncomfortable." "I noticed it," Dominey remarked, with a faint smile. "I'm not going to pretend that it was a pleasant conversation myself." "I've heard some ghost stories," Mangan went on, "but a spook that comes and howls once a week for ten years takes some beating." Dominey poured himself out a glass of brandy with a steady hand. "You've been neglecting things here, Mangan," he complained. "You ought to have come down and exorcised that ghost. We shall have those smart maidservants of yours off to-morrow, I suppose, unless you and I can get a little ghost-laying in first." Mr. Mangan began to feel more comfortable. The brandy and the warmth of the burning logs were creeping into his system. "By the by, Sir Everard," he enquired, a little later on, "where are you going to sleep to-night?" Dominey stretched himself out composedly. "There is obviously only one place for me," he replied. "I can't disappoint any one. I shall sleep in the oak room."
For the first few tangled moments of nightmare, slowly developing into a live horror, Dominey fancied himself back in Africa, with the hand of an enemy upon his throat. Then a rush of awakened memories—the silence of the great house, the mysterious rustling of the heavy hangings around the black oak four-poster on which he lay, the faint pricking of something deadly at his throat—these things rolled back the curtain of unreality, brought him acute and painful consciousness of a situation almost appalling. He opened his eyes, and although a brave and callous man he lay still, paralysed with the fear which forbids motion. The dim light of a candle, recently lit, flashed upon the bodkin-like dagger held at his throat. He gazed at the thin line of gleaming steel, fascinated. Already his skin had been broken, a few drops of blood were upon the collar of his pyjamas. The hand which held that deadly, assailing weapon—small, slim, very feminine, curving from somewhere behind the bed curtain—belonged to some unseen person. He tried to shrink farther back upon the pillow. The hand followed him, displaying glimpses now of a soft, white-sleeved arm. He lay quite still, the muscles of his right arm growing tenser as he prepared for a snatch at those cruel fingers. Then a voice came,—a slow, feminine and rather wonderful voice. "If you move," it said, "you will die. Remain quite still." Dominey was fully conscious now, his brain at work, calculating his chances with all the cunning of the trained hunter who seeks to avoid death. Reluctantly he was compelled to realise that no movement of his could be quick enough to prevent the driving of that thin stiletto into his throat, if his hidden assailant should keep her word. So he lay still. "Why do you want to kill me?" he asked, a little tensely. There was no reply, yet somehow he knew that he was being watched. Ever so slightly those curtains around which the arm had come, were being parted. Through the chink some one was looking at him. The thought came that he might call out for help, and once more his unseen enemy read his thought.
"You must be very quiet," the voice said,—that voice which it was difficult for him to believe was not the voice of a child. "If you even speak above a whisper, it will be the end. I wish to look at you." A little wider the crack opened, and then he began to feel hope. The hand which held the stiletto was shaking, he heard something which sounded like quick breathing from behind the curtains—the breathing of a woman astonished or terrified—and then, so suddenly that for several seconds he could not move or take advantage of the circumstance, the hand with its cruel weapon was withdrawn around the curtain and a woman began to laugh, softly at first, and then with a little hysterical sob thrusting its way through that incongruous note of mirth. He lay upon the bed as though mesmerised, finding at his first effort that his limbs refused their office, as might the limbs of one lying under the thrall of a nightmare. The laugh died away, there was a sound like a scraping upon the wall, the candle was suddenly blown out. Then his nerve began to return and with it his control over his limbs. He crawled to the side of the bed remote from the curtains, stole to the little table on which he had left his revolver and an electric torch, snatched at them, and, with the former in his right hand, flashed a little orb of light into the shadows of the great apartment. Once more something like terror seized him. The figure which had been standing by the side of his bed had vanished. There was no hiding place in view. Every inch of the room was lit up by the powerful torch he carried, and, save for himself, the room was empty. The first moment of realisation was chill and unnerving. Then the slight smarting of the wound at his throat became convincing proof to him that there was nothing supernatural about this visit. He lit up half-adozen of the candles distributed about the place and laid down his torch. He was ashamed to find that his forehead was dripping with perspiration. "One of the secret passages, of course," he muttered to himself, stooping for a moment to examine the locked, folding doors which separated his room from the adjoining one. "Perhaps, when one reflects, I have run unnecessary risks." Dominey was standing at the window, looking out at the tumbled grey waters of the North Sea, when Parkins brought him hot water and tea in the morning. He thrust his feet into slippers and held out his arms for a dressing-gown. "Find out where the nearest bathroom is, Parkins," he ordered, "and prepare it. I have quite forgotten my way about here." "Very good, sir."
" he observed. "Cut yourself?" he queried. "I had a slight accident this morning." Dominey returned from the sideboard. "The cries were the most terrible I have ever heard. 71 . "So there were no ghosts walking last night?" he remarked. "There you get a whole orchestra of wild animals. "and I went big game hunting with my master afterwards. Dominey glanced down at it and turned the dressinggown up to his throat. I do not think that any animal was ever born in Africa with so terrifying a cry as we heard the night before last. staring at the blood on his master's pyjamas. hanging in places from the wall. The row of silver dishes upon the sideboard inspired him with an added cheerfulness. when he descended about an hour later." he said. "Any ghost alarms last light?" "None that I heard of." Parkins replied. but I found them most disturbing. which looked out eastwards towards the sea." "Human or animal?" "A mixture of both. "If you will allow me." he remarked carelessly. "I have already prepared a bath. however." "Very terrible." the man replied.The man was motionless for a moment. "I had a pretty useful night's rest myself. "I am not a nervous person. Mangan had." Dominey." "You should camp out for the night on the skirts of an African forest." Dominey muttered." "I was out in South Africa during the Boer War. at the end of the corridor. sir. I will show you the way. Mr. contrary to his expectations. There was in his tone. "I am afraid we should have difficulty in keeping the young women from London." "We must look into the matter. if they heard what I heard the night of my arrival. as he took his place at the table. was it?" Dominey asked with a smile. sir. a mute protest against his master's levity. Give you my word. every one of them trying to freeze your blood up. I never heard a sound from the moment my head touched the pillow until I woke a short while ago." Dominey remarked. sir. found his guest awaiting him in the smaller dining-room. a lofty apartment with great windows and with an air of faded splendour which came from the ill-cared-for tapestries. Parkins' expression remained immovable. slept well and was in excellent spirits. sir. "Wonderful thing this absolute quiet is after London. carrying also a well-filled plate. Mangan raised his eyeglass and gazed at his host's throat." the man announced. sir. I should say.
She came to the end of the table. deliberate tapping. Mangan set off for another prowl towards the sideboard. if that suits you. Mangan nodded his approval. not an ordinary knock at all. though. Johnson has had the worst of it. The wrinkles in her face." Dominey leaned back in his chair. to come with us too." Dominey told him. that some of them have had cause to grumble lately. Mrs. She ignored the greeting. steely eyes were all clearly revealed. but a measured. She stood in the path of a long gleam of morning sunlight. her cold. Unthank." Mr. And I have told Lees. "Pray deliver it. facing the place where Dominey was seated. "Good morning." Dominey called out." he confessed. "You get out of the use of those things in Africa." Dominey announced. Johnson is sleeping over at a farmhouse near here." Mr. Mrs. but there are one or two of them took it into their heads to come up to London and worry me at the office. "Her ladyship would be glad for you to visit her in her apartment at once. There was a knock at the door. His eyes were fixed upon the face of the woman whose antagonism to himself was so apparent. "Upon my word.—I've ordered the car for two-thirty this afternoon. poor chap." Dominey replied. Mr. "I must admit." he declared. "Parkins is going to send up for a new set of safety razors for me. her hard mouth. three times repeated. Mangan observed curiously. "Come in. 72 . We can look around the place quietly this morning. Unthank entered. severer. the bailiff." "I intend that there shall be no more dissatisfaction amongst my tenants." Mr. more unattractive than ever in the hard morning light." she announced. "About our plans for the day. There's a fellow round by Wells who farms nearly eight hundred acres—" He broke off in his speech." "You've managed to give yourself a nasty gash. "it will be a joy to me to go and see some of these fellows without having to put 'em off about repairs and that sort of thing. We shall pick him up en route." he said. "I am the bearer of a message."Razor slipped. "Satisfied tenants you never will get in Norfolk.
You have slept here and you live. She was sitting up on her couch and watching his approach. with a purpose in the words. and masses of brown hair brushed back from her forehead. Then she raised it and began rubbing softly at the place where his lips had fallen. To his surprise. She seemed so fragile." she added. sweetly pathetic. Mrs. with pale cheeks. was he indeed a strong man. almost a mist before his eyes. It fell to her side like a lifeless thing. "that you need be under no apprehension. with a ghastly little smile." If he had thought to disturb this messenger by his suggestion. Everard. following within a very few minutes of his summons. of Louise Quinze furniture." he said." she said. Everard." he pleaded. After all. "You have learnt to control your words. His speech of greeting was never spoken. "that any further meeting between Lady Dominey and myself is at present desirable. large." He possessed himself of her hand. "I have come to see you at your bidding. although he scarcely noticed it at the time." "Pleasure!" she murmured. the hand which a few hours ago had held a dagger to his throat." 73 . of chandeliers glittering with lustres." Dominey. "Her ladyship is very considerate. "Kindly say that I shall follow you in a few minutes. shabby but priceless. And all the time there was the strange light. anxious eyes."I am not at all sure." he said. an apartment of faded white and gold walls. A woman? Surely only a child. in a broken tone. with a note of contempt in her tone. "So you have come to see me. "Her ladyship desires me to assure you. vowed to great things? There was a queer feeling in his throat. "You are very brave. He was from the first left alone with the woman whom he had come to visit. was ushered into an apartment large and sombrely elegant. and kissed the waxenlike fingers. "I have not deserved that you should seek my life. I wonder why?" "Because. "and for my pleasure. I have broken my word." he replied. Neither of the two noticed that his fingers were trembling. Unthank promptly disappeared. so utterly. he was disappointed. or was it want of light." Dominey admitted defeat and poured himself out some more coffee. in those haunting eyes.
"Doesn't it say somewhere in the Bible—'A life for a life'? You killed Roger Unthank. my husband." "Presents?" For a single wonderful moment." She laughed a little drearily." Dominey felt as though he were breathing an atmosphere of turgid and poisoned sweetness. her beauty. "Sometimes it comes to a man that he must slay or be slain. hers was the face of a child who had been offered toys." she decided quite calmly. and took me away from Dour Roger? Do you remember the school chidden used to 74 . "Listen to me. come to my side. It is a strange thing to own after all these years—a husband. It is gone now. I have come back from Africa rich. There was a flavour of unreality about the whole situation. "I shall break my oath. Everard. her eyes had lost that strange vacancy. Draw your chair nearer to mine. her deliberate. You look stronger. Her smile of anticipation was delightful. "are more beautiful than ever. you are perhaps better-looking.—the room. "Perhaps." "I have killed other men since in self-defence." "Come. his spirit was calling to me below my window. since you came to my little cottage and loved me and made me love you." she said. "we shall speak of other things. When he sat down. I have sent for you because I do not understand why. He wants me to go down into Hell and live with him. "You find me changed?" he asked. It was Roger Unthank—" "I shall not talk about him any longer. "Of what use has my beauty been to me. after I had made up my mind. quite suddenly last night. Let me look at you." Dominey said." She moved her skirts to make room for him. I am not sure about myself any longer. "The night before last. I lost the desire to kill you. I have already broken it. Or no. he felt a strange trembling through all his limbs. Then." "You. "This is important. yet there is something gone from your face which I thought one never lost." she went on. "You are very wonderfully changed. You must tell me what presents I can buy you." he said cautiously. Rosamund."That sounds strangely. it all came back again. The very thought is horrible." Dominey told her. halting speech and the strange things she said." she reflected. before he could say another word. here at the other end of the sofa. this child woman. Indeed.
threw it open and leaned out for a moment. and once more he felt like a man who has wandered into a strange country and has lost his bearings. then he goes away. why I should not kill you. soft and warm. even a house in town. Why shouldn't we? We may forget even to hate. too. All the time she was watching him composedly. Her fingers even returned the pressure of his. I shall bring some wonderful doctors here.call him Dour Roger?—But that does not matter. that since you left me my feet have not passed outside these gardens?" "That can be altered when you wish. sometimes oftener. Rosamund. faded chamber. There is a reason." he said hoarsely. "What do you say? Would you like to hold as a wife's the hand which frightened you so last night?" She held it out to him. his spirit would break loose and follow me." Dominey staggered to his feet. only to find them in this strange. His eyes. "I want you so much to be happy." 75 . I have seen the truth these few minutes." he said quickly. "Well?" she asked. Then you could take me right away. "I wish that I could get it out of my blood that I want to kill you. Other married people have lived together and hated each other. She looked at him pleasantly. Everard. "You can visit where you will. Perhaps you love music and to see beautiful pictures." She sighed in a perplexed fashion. side by side with this suffering woman. Nevertheless. You can have a motor-car. This new element in the situation had been a shock to him. Everard. Then he closed it and came back. Never before in his life had his heart beaten as it was beating now. walked to a window. I think that we must try and keep you from thinking. "Every week. If I went away. with a strange little smile. He was unrecognisable even to himself." Dominey was conscious once more of that strange and most unexpected fit of emotion. "But why not? You cannot know why I have so suddenly changed my mind about you—and I have changed it. were hot." Her large eyes were lifted almost piteously to his. he said quietly: "We must send you some place where the people are kinder and where life is pleasanter. and they will make you quite strong again. he calls to me. I must be here to wave my hand." "How surprised you are to find that I am willing to be nice to you!" she murmured. He had travelled around the word in search of new things. "But how can I leave here?" she asked plaintively. "but you are not strong yet. Do you know. We cannot decide anything in a hurry.
mingled still more strangely with regret. Even though I may walk in my sleep—and sometimes the nights are so long—it will not be your death I seek." she said. "I will leave you to find it out." The prospect of release was a strange relief. then. I am excited now." 76 . "you will leave your dagger behind?" "I have told you. "You are clever. "If you walk in your sleep to-night. "that I have abandoned my intention." he begged."What is it?" he demanded. Please send Mrs. She shook her head with all the joy of a child who keeps a secret. I shall not kill you. and I want you to go away for a little time." she answered. Unthank to me. as though surprised. He lingered over her hand.
square stone house. Presently. "You must let me take you to him. He made his way seaward with uncertain steps until he reached a rough and stony road. "My uncle lives with me here. "Lady Dominey. and then turned back at right angles. Dominey was for a moment at a loss. My name is Stillwell." the other replied. a triangular green at the cross-roads. red-brick tiles. He passed out of the postern gate which led from the walled garden on to a broad marsh. He retains one patient only. "I came to see Doctor Harrison.Chapter 11 Dominey left the room like a man in a dream. his pulses burning. caught up a hat and stick and strode out into the sea mist which was fast enveloping the gardens. and lapping tongues of sea water creeping in with the tide." His caller bowed. a village of ancient cottages. "I am his nephew." Doctor Stillwell added. and to tell you the truth he was hoping that you would come and see him. Soon he came to a little village. an ancient. "You can imagine who that would be. "My uncle has his own little apartment on the other side of the house. here he hesitated for a moment. descended the stairs to his own part of the house. a man of youthful middle-age presented himself in the surgery and bowed. I presume. thatched building. but nevertheless his forehead remained hot. with dikes running here and there." he said." was the courteous reply. trim little patches of garden. He went over and read the name. looked about him. On one side a low." 77 . "Doctor Harrison retired from practice some years ago. and asked the trim maidservant who answered it.—the Dominey Arms. rang the bell. a church embowered with tall elm trees. There was all the chill of the North Pole in that ice-cold cloud of vapour. on which was a brass plate. "My name is Dominey—Sir Everard Dominey. for the doctor. in a graver tone. on another." "I guessed as much." "I understood that Doctor Harrison was still in the neighbourhood." he ventured." Dominey said." The young doctor opened the door and motioned to his guest to precede him. with seasoned.
" "I shall look forward to the reminder. "I am told that the shooting is one of the only glories that has not passed away from Dominey." "I shall remind you of that later. "I really don't know what we poor medical practitioners would do in the country without sport. "since I gave up shooting. "Arthur. Doctor. "I should certainly never have recognised you. I have brought an old friend in to see you. turned abruptly around. golf." he said. with weather-beaten face. who had been bending once more over the case of flies." There was another somewhat awkward pause." he confessed. then checked himself and shook his head doubtfully. His was certainly not the enthusiastic welcome of an old family attendant to the representative of a great family." Dominey continued. grey hair. Then Dominey advanced a little stiffly and held out his hand." Dominey observed. Even these years of strenuous life—" "You mean to tell me that I am speaking to Everard Dominey?" the doctor interposed. "My presence here is nevertheless indisputable. looked around from the window before which he was standing examining a case of fishing flies. broad-shouldered. I dare say Sir Everard would like to speak to me privately." was the prompt response." he said." 78 . "Without a doubt!" The doctor shook hands coolly. The doctor glanced expectantly at Dominey. "you had better start on your round. half moved forward as though to greet him. shooting. I see." the other replied drily. sir. "I can scarcely have changed as much as all that." his nephew announced. "Still attracted by your old pastime. "but I can see now that you are not he. which the younger man endeavoured to bridge over. addressing his nephew. His uncle. Doctor?" "I have only taken up fly fishing. "Come. I do not believe that I have ever seen you before in my life." he said. "You certainly remind me very much of an old friend." There was a moment's somewhat tense silence. "Fishing. "Uncle. and of somewhat serious aspect. An elderly man." he said.They moved across the pleasant white stone hall into a small apartment with French windows leading out to a flagged terrace and tennis lawn.
" Doctor Stillwell interrupted. "I will be getting on. There is no necessity—" "I am late already. after all that has passed. ours. drawing him a little towards the door." his visitor observed carelessly. "because I have known you always as a selfish brute. "That's because I know your history." "That's just your luck. "that you are really Everard Dominey. He is devoted to Lady Dominey. eyeing him steadfastly." the doctor persisted." Dominey admitted. and I sometimes think that he broods over her case too much. gave up none of your bad habits. frightened her into insanity by reeling home with another man's blood on your hands. to display the scar on his throat." Dominey said equably." "The world is full of liars. "the appearance of a man who has been used to excesses of any sort. eyeing him appraisingly. Doctor." the doctor declared. to have even approached your wife. "I find it very hard to believe." Dominey observed. because you were married to the sweetest woman on God's earth." he said." was the blunt reply." he added in a lower tone." "You have also gained courage since the days when you fled from England." Dominey added. "if his manners are a little gruff. at least. occupied my own bedchamber—with results. Sir Everard." "Your present appearance." came the retort. and 79 . You must excuse my uncle. "You appear to have met with one." "Good old stock. if you will excuse me." "I was never your friend. "but only professionally." "You have not even." "I am afraid you will have to accept me as a fact. nevertheless. "altogether insignificant." the old man continued. "You were never my friend."I wish to speak to you certainly." "You seem rather a martinet as regards my domestic affairs. no right. his hands in his old-fashioned breeches pockets. Uninvited Dominey seated himself in an easy-chair. if you want to know. "You've no right to have gone there without seeing me. I was told that you had become a broken-down drunkard." he said a little curtly. "Let me suggest that we conduct this conversation on a purely professional basis. You slept at the Hall last night?" "Where else? I also. "Plenty of twobottle men behind my generation. "does not in any way bear out the description I had of you some years ago." Dominey nodded and turned back into the room to find the doctor. throwing his head a little back.
if any atonement for the past were possible and were generously offered." observed Dominey. They tell me that you are a rich man now. Unthank?" "Part of your task." "Give me your advice. You could have the great specialists down. although heaven knows. you shouldn't have passed this threshold. "Fidelity. "Is it of any use sending for specialists?" "Just for the present." "Then for her sake. "I would meet none of them. and she is no exception to the rule. Her brain is starved because her heart is aching for love. I have done all I can for her physically. and you alone. If it weren't for Lady Dominey's sake. The rest depends upon you." "This is my house. "can't you forget how thoroughly you disapprove of me? I am here now with only one object: I want you to point out to me any way in which we can work together for the improvement of my wife's health. and I am not very hopeful about it." "This. They couldn't help. I cannot tell what the result might be." "Upon me?" Dominey repeated. I am a doctor no longer. dished up in a somewhat partial fashion. a little taken aback. If she could believe in your repentance and reform." "Would you meet them?" Dominey asked anxiously. when one considers what a lazy." "You refuse to help?" "My help isn't worth a snap of the fingers. She is a perfectly sound woman. "and you came to see me. Lady Dominey is a good woman. I shall say exactly what I like to you. but it might salve your conscience to pay them a few hundred guineas." "And what about that horrible woman. selfish fellow you were." the other rejoined. "Tell me whom to send for?" "Pooh! Those days are finished with me." Dominey begged. I go to see Lady Dominey as an old friend.then stayed away for over ten years instead of making an effort to repair the mischief you had done. that sounds like a miracle. I have become a villager." "There can be no question of a partnership between us. She stands between your wife and the sun. Mrs." Dominey suggested in a softer tone. and if you don't like it you can get out. if you are really going to take it up. "is history." the doctor grunted." was the curt reply. "is second nature with all good women." 80 . I repeat my suggestion that we confine our conversation to the professional. none at all.
"and if you do. "except that Lady Dominey is of so sweet and gentle a nature—" The doctor paused abruptly." was the blunt reply. "Nowadays. "I am not quite the idler I used to be. and all those sort of things I suppose you've been looking forward to. If you've got your courage back." the doctor replied." Dominey explained. has some fantastic idea of giving her a home and shelter as a kind of expiation. "and for another." the doctor declared. "My wife has already promised to make no further attempt upon my life.—also his agitation. Come to think of it. sleep with your doors wide open. "Not a scrap." he went on. you will have the sweetest companion for life any man could have. and grouse moors in Scotland. The doctor grinned contemptuously." the former continued fiercely. she will be cured in time of that mania at any rate. I believe it's pandered to by Mrs. His visitor's fingers had strayed across his throat." "Impossible!" The doctor repeated the word. "That's a different matter. Unthank away. seemed to roll it round in his mouth with a sort of wondering scorn. If a single night passes without Lady Dominey coming to your room with a knife in her hand." 81 ." Dominey moved uneasily in his chair. If you ask me. believing that you slew her son." his visitor replied." "Well. Dare you do that?" Dominey's hesitation was palpable. "That's just where the weak spot in her brain remains. because there has been no one to replace her. I am clearing off the whole of the mortgages upon the Dominey estates within the next few months. "that would be impossible. "Still afraid!" he scoffed. at any rate." he said. frowning." "You think there is no affection between the two?" Dominey asked. to give every moment of your time to your wife. because Lady Dominey. send Mrs. "the Domineys were never cowards. You'll have for some time. "Not in the way you imagine. But you'll have to give up the idea of town houses and racing and yachting. "For the next few months."Then why have you suffered her to remain there all those years?" Dominey demanded. "For one thing. Unthank. you cannot make money without assuming responsibilities. you can cure her if you want to.
not mine. "All I say about the matter is that your wife's cure." the doctor muttered. or even in the set of his somewhat arrogant lips." Dominey obeyed with a little shrug of the shoulders. The old doctor took up his box of flies again and jerked his head towards the door. manly complexion. is in your hands. if ever it comes to pass." 82 . I want to look at you."How you spend your time is your affair. "and I hate miracles. but it could find no weak spot in his steady eyes." he said. It showed the sprinkling of grey in his ruddy-brown hair. but the white north light was in its way searching. in the light of this window. "You are a miracle. And now—come over to me here. the suspicion of it in his closely trimmed moustache. I'll come and see Lady Dominey in a day or so. There was no sunshine. in the tan of his hard.
here's a visitor for the Hall. murmuring amiable platitudes. Johnson. as a car swept by them. and may we see plenty of you in these parts. "A modern romance. was not neglectful of the claims of hospitality. with immense cigars in their mouths and a pleasant. The money is there waiting. put aside for just that one purpose and—well. So here's from them and me to you. he made practically the entire round of the Dominey estates." Dominey nodded. Johnson cleared his throat as he raised his glass. the bailiff. and. They had the sense of having drifted into fairyland. Johnson and Lees. They've had a rough time. "Before I go to bed to-night. but Dominey. "It's a fair miracle. "I shall send a cheque for twenty thousand pounds to the estate account at your bank at Wells." the agent observed. With Mr. "Hello. "It isn't only on my own account. an entirely satisfactory afternoon. They reached home late." Agent and bailiff leaned back in the tonneau of their motor-car." Mr. murmured. I have your tenants too in my mind. met the situation. "that what you've promised to do to-day will cost a matter of ten to fifteen thousand pounds. and the glasses were speedily emptied and filled again. Lees declared. Probably for the first time in their lives. and they've stood it like white men." he added. Sir Everard. half an hour later.Chapter 12 Dominey spent a curiously placid. some of them. Mr. sir." he said. and Mr. however. to those with whom he was brought into contact." Mr. revelling in the unusual situation of a satisfied landlord and delighted tenants." Mr. Mr. although he seemed to be living in another world. 83 . opposite. you may just as well have it. Sir Everard. "that I drink your hearty good health. Mangan by his side. "I suppose you know. rippling warmth in their veins. his agent. Johnson." he said. Their philosophy. Lees associated himself with these sentiments. who read novels. watched the opening of a magnum of champagne.
although an attentive host. pleaded an extraordinary sleepiness and retired. sir."Comfortable-looking gent." Mr. "Not a word until then. perhaps. He lingered behind for a moment after the dressing bell had rung. Lees remarked. "Found myself in Norwich. "I have found a bin of Cockburn's fifty-one. If it is in any way inconvenient to put me up for the night. too. and one of my customers needed looking after. Dominey. There had been disagreeable interviews with angry tenants. Mangan?" The two men shook hands. I couldn't resist having a run across. who presented himself at the Hall with a small dressing-bag and a great many apologies. "I am the early bird myself. Everything to do with the Domineys for the last fifteen years had reeked of poverty. and when I found that I was only thirty miles off you. The corks appear to be in excellent condition." Seaman whispered back." Dominey suggested. To-morrow morning will do." Dominey replied. "Nine o'clock to-morrow morning. I finished early. 84 ." Mr." was the weary reply. Mangan seems rather a connoisseur. was in Parkins' congratulatory whisper as he set a couple of decanters upon the table. The new situation was almost beatific. The "comfortable-looking gent" was Otto Seaman. and remarkably little profit at the end of the year to set against these disagreeable episodes." "After this. "I was up all last night. Sir Everard. You remember Mr." he explained. "What time is that fellow going?" he asked. say so—" "My dear fellow!" Dominey interrupted. formal interviews with dissatisfied mortgagees. Mangan especially was uplifted. He had really had a hard struggle to make both ends meet." "We can send Mangan to bed early. "it will be hard to get back to the austere life of a Pall Mall club!" Seaman. seemed a little abstracted." Dinner that night was a pleasant and social meal. and an old-fashioned bed-warmer will do the rest. very early in the evening. "I have done business there all my life. The concluding touch. and Seaman accepted a little refreshment after his drive. Mr. "There are a score of rooms ready. Mangan sighed. Even Mr. including the lawyer in his confidential whisper." he announced. leaving his host and Mangan alone over the port. "I must not seem to be hanging after you too much—I really did not want to come—but the matter is urgent. "I thought you might like to try a couple of bottles. sir. All that we need is to light a fire. as Mr.
Black clouds leaned over the land. Sir Everard. I was one of the few. you may remember. looking at his own admiringly. Both glasses were set down empty. a storm heralded by a wind which came booming over the marshes. If I might be allowed to say so. and. almost arrogance of speech and manner. as it were. privileged to make her acquaintance at the time of your marriage. "It's an old-fashioned way of looking at things now. isn't it?" Dominey relapsed into thoughtfulness. sir? Well. Dominey lit the tall candles in his bedroom. be restored to perfect health." he murmured." "I take the liberty of finishing my glass to that hope. "becomes very fragile. this recrudescence of an old family. calling to him to fulfill the pledges of long ago. In the shadows of the room he had fancied that he could see Stephanie Eiderstrom holding out her arms. shaking the latticed windows of Dominey Place. tried to read. threw himself into an easy-chair. Mangan expressed his polite regrets. "This old glass. and drenching streams of rain dashed against the loose-framed sashes of the windows. shrieking and wailing amongst its chimneys and around its many corners." Dominey did not answer. "I suppose so. who was not an observant man." he admitted. "I. was conscious that a certain hardness." he said." "I paid a visit this morning. there's only one thing necessary to round the whole business off.Mangan. fixing an electric reading lamp by his side. fastened a dressing-gown around him. "what a pleasure it is to me to see. Mr." the lawyer murmured. He agrees with me that there is no reason why Lady Dominey should not." the man of the world replied. "to the doctor who has been in attendance upon her since her marriage. seemed temporarily to have left his patron. His brain had served him a strange trick. 85 . only the stem of Dominey's was snapped in two. I'm not sure. That night a storm rolled up from somewhere across that grey waste of waters. in course of time." "And that?" Dominey asked unthinkingly. as it were. and behind her— "Have you ever been in love. Mangan?" Dominey asked his companion. Sir Everard. a little startled by the abruptness of the question." Dominey said. as he sipped his first glass of wine. "I can't tell you. "The return of Lady Dominey to health.
Everard." he told her quietly." "In my heart I know that. Her eyes were lustrous but plaintive. "but—" "Ah. Dominey felt for a moment something like the stab of a knife at his heart. What is it? Had you troubles in Africa? Did you learn what life was like out there?" He sat looking at her for a moment. One should not be afraid. Rosamund. she suddenly looked up at him and smiled. but I have been so ill. and the white dressing-gown which floated diaphanously about her was unexpectedly reminiscent of Bond Street. She looked very young and very fragile to have been swayed through the years by an evil passion. Shall I call you Everard still?" "Why not?" he asked." he assured her. He became suddenly tense and watchful. "There is nothing to fear. Her hair was glossy and splendid. and with something of the child's fear of harm in them." he invited. and against it her skin seemed whiter and more delicate than ever. Then a woman. You remember the little stiletto I had last night? To-day I threw it into the well. You are not the same man." He drew a low chair for her into the little circle of light and arranged some cushions. "because something has gone from you. and something has come to you. stooping low. They come with birth." she told him. "Sit here and rest." she answered simply. and they shake the world when death seizes us. "These storms are part of our lives. drawn like a moth towards that semicircle of candle. "See. which he had pushed a few feet into the shadows. Unthank was very angry with me. I have nothing in my hands. His eyes counted one by one the panels in the wall by the left-hand side of the bed. but you will not scold me?" she begged. Mrs. save one alone. As she sank into it. leaning back in his chair. "I learnt many things there. "I learnt a little of the difference between right doing and wrongdoing. The familiar click was twice repeated. "It is the storm which terrifies me. a smile of rare and wonderful beauty. Her hair hung down her back like a girl's." "I am not afraid.Very soon the book slipped from his fingers. that all the passions of life burn themselves out. "You are not afraid?" she asked anxiously. I learnt. For a moment a dark space appeared. glided into the room. I almost think that the desire has gone." 86 . too. "Because you are not like Everard to me any more. She came slowly towards him.
the same smile parted her lips as the smile which had come there when she had passed away to sleep. Her silky black eyelashes lay motionless upon her pale cheeks. Her breathing was all the time soft and regular." he answered. "Then why don't you bring your chair forward and come and sit a little nearer to me?" she asked. and died away only as the dawn broke through the storm clouds. and took her hand gently in his. how it shrieks at us? Oh. A pale light stole into the room. Don't move." She sighed. "Something quite new is coming to me. She held out her arms. "The wind shall not hurt you. With hot eyes and aching limbs he sat through the night. "You must go back to your own room now. "Stay just like that. the wind rose to greater furies. "I am so rested. Her fingers responded at once to his pressure. Her mouth—a very perfectly shaped mouth—rested in quiet lines. I am afraid!" He moved forward to her side." The candles burned down in their sockets. "I have come back to take care of you. I want to sleep again. Everard." she begged. It seemed to him thick and choked. he scarcely recognised his own voice." he said. "I am only half awake. finding some 87 . and her eyes closed as her head fell farther back amongst the cushions. "I feel so well. "Do you hear the wind. Let my fingers stay in yours—so. Her fingers closed around his neck. smiled like a tired child. Very slowly her fingers relaxed.She twisted the girdle of her dressing-gown in her fingers for a moment." she begged. When she opened her eyes and looked at him. or anything else. I have had dreams." she murmured." The fire had burned out. raising her eyes. beautiful dreams. and. When he spoke." she said. "Carry me. Dream after dream rose up and passed away before that little background of tapestried wall. please. "You need not be afraid of me any more. His last speech seemed to have been outside the orbit of her comprehension or interest. Somehow he realised that about this slumber there was a new thing. Everard. Still the woman slept. a little pathetically. "I have no fear of you. and the room was chilly." He lifted her up. It is the sweetest rest I ever felt. He tried the folding doors." he promised. and still her fingers seemed to keep their clutch upon his hand. I am resting. her head fell back with a little sigh of content.
"Quite.difficulty in opening them carried her out into the corridor." she murmured drowsily. "Kiss me. Then he drew the bedclothes over her and fled. His lips rested upon her forehead." Her hands drew his face down. and laid her upon the untouched bed. Everard. into her own room. "You are quite comfortable?" he asked. 88 .
He disclosed his mind a little abruptly. We have seen much of one another since we met in Cape Town." 89 . "I hope you will remember that as yet I am scarcely established here. Of those interludes which are necessary to a human being. But it will keep." "The time for action has arrived?" Dominey asked curiously. "You have undertaken a great enterprise. Your self-conceived plan has met with every encouragement from us. "In a few minutes. he and his host walked up and down the terrace the next morning. muffled up in their overcoats.Chapter 13 There was a cloud on Seaman's good-humoured face as." "It is with regard to your establishment here. To take even a single step forward towards the achievement of that purpose is worth the sacrifice of all the scruples and delicacies conceivable. a miraculous piece of fortune which brought the Englishman. Dominey. you have also seen something. I am a man of sentiment." Dominey murmured a little idly. without a doubt. Mangan. But when a certain course of action is without profit to our purpose. The very keynote of our progress is ruthlessness." he said. "Well?" "I saw you leave your room early this morning. The passion and purpose of my life you have been able to judge. unless his system is to fall to pieces as dry dust." Seaman explained drily. I trust you will not misunderstand me when I say that apart from the necessities of my work." "What the devil do you mean?" Dominey demanded. I have great and wonderful news for you. It distresses me. You will be placed in a unique position to achieve your final purpose. "that I desire to say a word. after the departure of Mr. "I sleep with one ear open. I see ugliness in it." Seaman replied. "carrying Lady Dominey in your arms. Now mark my words and do not misunderstand me. "I shall come to the great purpose of my visit." "I am prepared to admit it." Seaman continued. to your camp just at the moment when you received your orders from headquarters. It was.
"That. I am here to help you fill the shoes of another man. "The fact is." "Lady Dominey. and character. that Lady Dominey was frightened of the storm last night and found her way into my room. which. He showed not the slightest resentment at his companion's words. Seaman gripped his companion's arm. "we are too closely allied for bluff. "Look here. but—I shall tell you this. however beautiful. for your own sake as well as ours. to your face—that to deceive a lady of weak intellect. ignored all this." "I respect you for your plain words. but I can deal with it as a man of honour. with involuntary sarcasm. people of unsound mind are remarkably tenacious of their ideas. "The situation is delicate." he said. "You are well served here. you are rehabilitating." Seaman remarked meditatively. by the by. You naturally." Dominey's passion seemed to have burned itself out without expression. to make use of your position as her supposed husband." Dominey declared. being a brave man. "You must admit that the spectacle of last night was calculated to inspire me with uneasiness." he observed. his position." he enjoined him. yet in the morning after your first night here there was blood upon your night clothes. I will go further." Dominey's eyebrows were slowly raised." "You relieve me. Cannot you see that a too friendly attitude on her part might become fatal to our schemes?" "In what way?" 90 . She has been known to take an oath that you should die if you slept in this house again. You may be sure that I treated her with all the respect and sympathy which our positions demanded. "seems to be curiously falsifying certain predictions. I will admit that it is not my concern to interfere in any ordinary amour you might undertake. His eyes were like glittering metal. "What concern is this of yours?" he demanded. "Have no fear." "In what way?" "The common impression in the neighbourhood here is that she is a maniac chiefly upon one subject—her detestation of you. is not." Seaman confessed. It was only when he had breathed once or twice quickly that he could command his voice. There was certainly nothing of the murderess in her demeanour towards you last night.There were little streaks of pallor underneath the tan in Dominey's face. the action of a Prussian nobleman. Seaman. so far as regards his estates. "To continue." was the terse reply. my friend. is necessary. save in the vital interests of his country.
The Kaiser has expressed a desire to see you."If ever your identity is doubted. we speak on what you yourself admit to be a side issue. suspicions. We want you for a different purpose. more important. then." "Explain if you please." Seaman explained. We cannot recover the money." "It was certainly a magnificent way of establishing me." "I shall do so. let me promise you this." Dominey admitted. however. some distant Dominey will benefit to that extent. "The Kaiser?" he exclaimed. "but for the news I bring." Seaman declared. In a few months' or a few years' time. In passing." "Ingenious. "Very well." Seaman replied. that you have an organisation behind you to whom money is dross. than either. but safest in the long run. you would not have been able to take your place in Society. becoming less every day. now absolutely unkindled. Germany will pay the price for what she intends to achieve. everybody's hand would have been against you." Dominey enquired. my friend. however." Seaman said solemnly. All this time. Ninety thousand pounds was yesterday passed to the credit of your account for the extinction of certain mortgages. You have seen proof. A great moment has arrived for you. listen. He withdrew his arm from his companion's and stared at him blankly." "And the news?" "What must be the greatest desire in your heart. to give you his instructions in person. "is to be granted. It is just an item in our day by day expenses. might have been formed. the fact that Lady Dominey seems to have so soon forgotten all her enmity towards you would be strong presumptive evidence that you are not the man you claim to be. "that the way was made a little clearer for me?" "That would have been my task this morning. "the probability of which is. You will never be asked to stoop to the crooked ways of the ordinary spy. perhaps. I must confess. "and very possible." "You are right. and. It is the same in diplomacy as in war. "You mean that I am to go to Germany?" 91 . which is absolutely necessary for the furtherance of our scheme." Dominey assented. "Magnificent." Dominey stopped short upon the terrace." "Is it not almost time." Seaman confessed. during the last few days. "If you had returned a poor man.
How I love action! That time-table." he continued." Seaman promised. action. was obviously disconcerted by Dominey's line of questions." Dominey protested." It was arranged that the two men should leave during the morning for Norwich by motor-car and thence to Harwich. who came to him presently in his study." she answered." "It will be wonderful. "what particular claim my wife has had upon you. grim and fierce though she was and appeared to be. Unthank was startled by the suddenness of the attack." he said. after a moment's pause. I do not consider the proceeding discreet or necessary. and your chauffeur. "If I weren't. Mrs. It is easy to imagine that a crisis has arisen in the management of one of them. "It will be for you." the woman replied."We shall start at once. Is this attendance upon my wife a Christian act. We require the votes of our fellow shareholders." his companion pointed out. Unthank. which she declined. Unthank." he asked. Dominey. "a breath of the things that are to come. "Do you consider. "Mrs. without consulting me. And think of the wonder of it! If only for a single day your sentence of banishment is lifted. then—the returning of good for evil?" "Exactly what do you want to say to me. of all countries in the world. You will breathe the air of the Fatherland once more. my friend. Unthank. "Are you very devoted to my wife?" he enquired. before I have had time to settle down here?" "That of itself will not be difficult. "I should like to know why you have been content to remain my wife's attendant for the last ten years?" Mrs." "I consider it suicidal. however." Dominey muttered. moreover. It has been decided upon. 92 . however. "Many of the mines in which a share has been bought in your name are being run with German capital. I understand. "Personally. that you are one of those who firmly believe that I killed your son." she demanded. You need not trouble your head about that. "that you have been the best possible companion for her?" "She has never been willing to accept any other. "Lady Dominey has needed me. to take." Seaman replied. "What explanation can I possibly make for going to Germany. He held out a chair to her. And now. sent a messenger for Mrs. having changed into travelling clothes. Sir Everard?" she asked harshly. "should I have been here all these years?" "I scarcely see.
" "I have nothing more to say to you. "That." Dominey replied. On my return I shall embark upon the changes with which I have acquainted you. "I am compelled by important business to leave here for two or three days. "That is my intention. you call it?" "I have finished what I had to say." Dominey confessed. she might one day have loved? Unreasonable. Mrs. "I must stay here!" "Why?" he demanded." "You would dare to send me away?" the woman demanded. who came home to her with the blood on your hands of the man whom. There was a curious look of fear in her eyes. "Lady Dominey couldn't do without me." Dominey replied. I shall settle upon you the sum of three hundred pounds a year. "except to let you know that I am coming to see my wife in the space of a few minutes. Sir Everard." Dominey declared. but I never knew a man made out of a weakling." she muttered." The woman showed her first sign of weakness. but I hope that very soon my influence over her will be such that she will be content to obey my wishes. as my care." she answered sullenly. and above all things to change for a time her place of residence. looking at him. watching a curious change in the woman's expression. "I have written this morning to Doctor Harrison. you call it?" the woman almost shouted. "Eleven years. "You. I also believe that you have kept alive in her that spirit of unreasonable hatred which she has felt towards me. asking him to come up this afternoon and to keep Lady Dominey under his personal observation until my return. "I have not spoken to Lady Dominey yet." he replied. as though studying his face." 93 . if only you had kept away. She began to shake. In the meantime. My own feeling is that she will stand a much better chance of recovery without your attendance. from enquiries I have made. I believe that you have encouraged in her that ridiculous superstition about the ghost of your son. "do change many men." "Unreasonable. Personally." she cried."I wish to say this. Unthank. Then she came a little nearer and leaned forward." he added. "is for her to decide." She stood quite still. For that reason I am going to have specialists down here. "I can't leave this place. I look upon your future from the financial point of view. "that I am determined to bring about my wife's restoration to health.
"The knowledge must have come to me." "When I return." he promised." he said. The disappointment of a child lurked in her manner." "What do you understand?" he demanded huskily. "Mrs. Unthank. "You are going away?" she murmured. She was dressed in a loose gown of a warm crimson colour. "I am afraid. "something has come into my mind lately. Her brows were a little puckered. "I don't think so. Unthank?" he enquired anxiously." she went on confidentially. I understand. "I will come back within three days. "She stays here to listen to the voice." "And you?" he asked. "I am so sorry that you are going." she murmured." she confessed. I spoke about it yesterday. I was so anxious to see you. But it is no use. "at the very moment when my dagger rested upon your throat. but you are not Everard." She took his arm and linked her hands through it. "Do you know. You are another man. "I have been waiting to see you for an hour. Then she hears it." 94 . in a perplexed tone. "It was Mrs. "But then. "In a very few moments. "we shall see. and she is rested." she answered." he told her. and she had the air of one awaiting his arrival expectantly." she went on. You are very like him sometimes.The motor-horn was already sounding below when Dominey was admitted to his wife's apartment." she declared. you see. when I suddenly felt the desire to kill die away. Will you come back—my husband?" Dominey's nails cut into the flesh of his clenched hands." Dominey said. "I hope you will soon come back." "You are not fond of Mrs." She made a grimace. dropping her voice a little and whispering almost in his ear. You are not my husband at all. and it doesn't come. Everard! She would never go away. I am not very strong. All night long sometimes she waits and listens. but I did not tell you what it was. I think that she hid my things on purpose. "I think I am very much afraid of her. "Should you be very unhappy if I sent her away and found some one younger and kinder to be your companion?" The idea seemed to be outside the bounds of her comprehension. Unthank. Unthank would never go. She held out her hands towards him." "I want to talk to you about Mrs. You need never be afraid of me any more. The passion of hatred seemed to have passed from her pale face and from the depths of her strangely soft eyes.
Her lips. repeated her mistress' last words. her gaunt. Mrs. her eyes glittering. They both turned towards the door. "Another man!" 95 . as though involuntarily. Unthank was standing there. hard face lit up with a gleam of something which was like triumph.Dominey gave a little gasp.
Presently they slackened speed. with his staff. became thoughtful. indeed." Dominey replied. where. "to set foot in Germany again for many years. the resinous odour from the fallen trunks seemed to permeate the compartment." he said. "Within five minutes of our destination. As they embarked upon the final stage of their travels." The train sped on through long chains of vineyard-covered hills.Chapter 14 There were times during their rapid journey when Seaman. "It was not my intention. "You will be received on board His Majesty's private train." Dominey remarked wonderingly. overheated compartment." Dominey glanced out of the window. Von Ragastein." "But there is not a house in sight. Dominey seemed. "We descend in a few minutes. out into a stretch of flat country." "The past still bites?" "Always. to have become like a man immeshed in the toils of a past so absorbing that he moved as though in a dream. "The Kaiser. speaking only when necessary and comporting himself generally like one to whom all externals have lost significance. "Prepare yourself." he said. We are honoured by being permitted to travel back with him as far as the Belgian frontier. studying his companion. Seaman glanced at his watch and rose. in the midst of which were great cleared spaces. into forests of pines. A bearded and uniformed official threw open the door of their compartment." They had come to a standstill now. to have passed beyond the boundaries of any ordinary reserve. is making one of his military tours." Seaman announced. notwithstanding the closely drawn windows. and they stepped on to the narrow wooden platform of a small station which seemed to have been 96 . "But where are we?" he enquired. Seaman leaned forward in his seat in the sombrely upholstered. "Your home-coming seems to depress you. my friend.
where several men were seated. "Herr Seaman will find friends there. Good reports have reached me of your work in Africa. "that my counsellors were unanimous in advising your withdrawal to what will shortly become the 97 . when he had finished his conversation." the latter observed." Dominey replied.recently built of fresh pine planks. Around the station." the Kaiser pronounced. Dominey stood at attention for a moment and bowed a little awkwardly. which a stern-faced man in the uniform of a general had unrolled before him. Count." "Sir Everard Dominey. painted black. "Follow me. who seemed to have recently disembarked from a military train which stood upon a siding. immediately they had alighted. with much gold ornamentation. His guide motioned him to remain near the entrance. half hidden in some places by the trees and shrubs. was drawn a complete cordon of soldiers. Seaman." "I did my best to execute your Majesty's will. The Baron Von Ragastein will come this way. A brief conversation was carried on between Seaman and the official. and. passed on. during which Dominey took curious note of his surroundings. "Sit there and be at your ease. your Majesty. at your service. Their journey was over. stood at the salute before a seated figure who was bending over a map. The latter clicked his heels together and retired. "to see a German officer ill at ease without his uniform. you will leave us. be seated. as he took the chair to which his august host pointed. The Kaiser glanced up at the sound of footsteps and whispered something in the general's ear." Dominey was ushered now into the main saloon." They boarded the train and passed along a richly carpeted corridor. "Thorough in all things. The train. Their guide paused and pointed to a small retiring-room." he announced. "His Majesty will receive you at once." he said. at whom he gazed with much interest. Baron Von Ragastein. "You did so well. "His Imperial Majesty will receive him for a few minutes later. In the middle of it was a solitary saloon carriage. The Kaiser beckoned Dominey to advance. An officer received them at the steps and bowed punctiliously to Dominey. and having emblazoned upon the central panel the royal arms of Germany. took Dominey by the arm and led him across the line towards it. Majesty." Dominey ventured." he said. The Kaiser smiled. I see. "It pleases me. "The Baron Von Ragastein." the young officer murmured. himself advancing a few paces.
He seemed for a moment to lose himself in thought. the authority and the duties of my espionage system." Dominey murmured. or by means of fiction." he said at last. of Prince Terniloff. As a typical English country gentleman I desire you to study the labour question. "as entirely removed from the limits. First." the Kaiser continued. though. It is to seek the friendship." "Your Majesty does me great honour. I desire a list compiled of those writers who. and other social movements of which you will receive notice in due time. That. I believe. passed one to his companion and raised the other. empty." 98 ." the Kaiser continued. I desire you to enter into the spirit of your assumed position. displaying a long row of medals and decorations. filled two very beautiful glasses. he had been devoting himself entirely to the scheme in which Dominey was concerned. the frown deepening. there was a slight frown upon his forehead. I wish to speak to you for these few minutes without reserve. His hard and somewhat cruel mouth was tightly closed. From the moment of receiving our commands you appear to have displayed initiative. "your present task is a far greater one. These things are all on the fringe of your real mission. I gather that your personation of this English baronet has been successfully carried through?" "Up to the present. They set down their glasses. "To the Fatherland!" he said. For quite five minutes there was complete silence. the Kaiser drew out a longnecked bottle of Moselle. our admirable friend Seaman has already confided to you." From a mahogany stand at his elbow. "I have sent for you to have a few words concerning your habitation in England. One might have gathered that. turning aside from great matters. are encouraging the suspicions which I am inclined to fancy England has begun to entertain towards the Fatherland. his eyes a little screwed up. in the Reviews." "Important though your work in Africa was. drink a toast with me. if possible the intimacy. From you I look for other things. the Irish question. The Kaiser threw back the grey military cloak which he was wearing. your Majesty. "I wish you to consider yourself. taking no advantage of the cushioned back of his easy-chair. His fingers still toyed with the stem of his wineglass. I wish you to receive your impressions of your mission from my own lips. "To the Fatherland!" Dominey repeated. the progress of this National Service scheme. "Von Ragastein. He was sitting upright.great centre of interest.
"you will understand why you have been enjoined to become the friend and companion of Terniloff. My statesmen and counsellors would have sent to London an ambassador with sterner qualities. mightier. "Terniloff is the dove of peace. and once more his eyes wandered to the landscape which rolled away from the plate-glass windows of the car. when my cannon command the Straits of Dover! The days of insular nations are passed." The Kaiser frowned. You first of all betrayed the wife of one of the most influential noblemen of a State allied to my own. Still. I give you this one great chance of 99 . because he is a fool himself." he said." he rejoined sharply." he continued. passed as surely as the days of England's arrogant supremacy upon the seas. I preferred not." "The English appear to put their whole trust in their navy. "The accident should have happened the other way. "He carries the sprig of olive in his mouth. Von Ragastein. The morals of my people are as sacred to me as my oath to win for them a mightier empire. and not his. in the duel that followed. they tell me that your work in Africa was well and thoroughly done." Dominey bowed and remained silent. when it sees a nation. His lips curled contemptuously. "I had no intention of even wounding the Prince. Terniloff is the man to gull fools. and yet in those moments they seemed filled with brooding pictures." Dominey pleaded." the Kaiser pronounced. "The Princess has already received me graciously. You will understand your mission a little more clearly than you do now. your Majesty. You can at all times trust Seaman. your Majesty. "Von Ragastein. but it was your life which was forfeit. They were certainly not the eyes of a dreamer. more cultured. "In some months' time. "my decree of banishment against you was a just one. when I hold the coast towns of Calais and Boulogne." "It was an accident. and then. you slew him." Dominey confided. creeping closer every day. All manner of excuses were loathsome to him. He is a fit ambassador for a country which has not the wit to arm itself on land as well as by sea. more splendidly led than its own. The eyes of his companion flashed. "Of what use will their navy be when my sword is once drawn. "Fools!" he exclaimed." Dominey observed tentatively. Its exact nature waits upon developments. His companion continued after another brief spell of silent brooding." The Kaiser refilled his glass and Dominey's.The Kaiser paused. "I should have lost a valuable servant.
The Kaiser was already bending once more over the map." the Kaiser said. I think that they. I have no fear but that every loyal German will bow his head before the lightnings which will play around my sword and share with me the iron will to wield it. have felt something of that divine message which has come to me." he declared. Baron. and a queer." "Your Majesty is too good." Dominey murmured. "The work. You will take your place with the gentlemen of my suite in the retiring-room. looked at him a little strangely. Dominey gazed thoughtfully out of the window." he remarked. The train had already started. a young man with a fixed monocle. Seaman. patted him on the arm. Baron. Sit down and join us in a glass of beer. You will have expiated that crime which. "I obey the orders of my Imperial master when I wipe from my mind every episode or reminiscence of my former days. For many years I have. by his side. although I do not venture to 100 . who was waiting about for his audience. If your work in England commends itself to me. "You are certainly a good actor. who had knitted his brows thoughtfully. Baron Von Ragastein. too. bowed stiffly and backed down the carpeted way. the sentence of exile under which you suffer shall be rescinded. called him in and introduced him to several members of the suite. nodded understandingly. You will not be recalled to the Presence until we set you down. believe me. for the sake of my people. that the day is not far off when the sentence of exile against you will be annulled. "is well spoken. Your audience is finished." he said." The young man's face cleared. It is the spirit. We shall proceed within a few minutes and leave you at the Belgian frontier. remember this. scars upon his face. Seaman. and Seaman. "I sympathise with you. You sorrow because your back is now to Berlin." Dominey rose. "Even your German has become a little English. who was waiting outside the door of the anteroom. willed peace.rehabilitation." Dominey bowed stiffly and took his place with the others. Luncheon will be served to us here in a few minutes. "I acknowledge no former meetings with any one in this country." Dominey replied stiffly." "That. will command my every effort. with which every son of my Empire regards the future. I believe. "Dear friend. even without the hope of reward. "We met some years ago in Munich. One. for its own sake. Now that the time draws near when Heaven has shown me another duty. more especially those who surround my person. puppet-like carriage. Still.
in black livery with white facings. none of your friends and equals have ever regarded in the same light as His Imperial Majesty. The senior officer there. "To the Baron Von Ragastein." A smiling steward. a brother in arms. May we soon welcome him back." he said. raised his glass and bowed. "whose acquaintance I regret not having made before to-day. who had now seated himself opposite to Dominey. made his appearance and served them with beer in tall glasses. a companion in great deeds! Hoch!" 101 .claim a place amongst them.
At a reasonable distance on his left. "I do not understand sport." "Come out with a bit of a twist from the left. You seem to have developed the Dominey touch even in killing pheasants. the latest and most popular recruit to Norfolk sporting society. but I wouldn't trust him at this corner. some months after his return from Germany. repeating his late exploit. four other guns were posted. On one side of him stood Middleton. gave up this corner one day to Lord Wendermere. sir. Baronet. sir. "That do seem right to have a Squire Dominey at this corner. "You are a miracle." "You must remember that I have shot higher ones in Hungary." the old man assented. "I mind when the Squire. to watch the progress of the beaters through the wood. was softly garrulous and very happy. Seaman turned to his companion." was the easy reply. so they say. But I do know this: there is an old man who has lived on this land since 102 . Seaman. curiously out of place in his dark grey suit and bowler hat." he declared. "and no one but a Dominey seems to have learnt the knack of dealing with them proper. watching a high cock pheasant come crashing down over their heads. "My friend." The old man moved off a few paces to some higher ground. and there was a note of genuine admiration in his tone. on the other. and though they streamed over his head like starlings. The old keeper." Seaman admitted. your father.Chapter 15 Sir Everard Dominey. leaning on his ash stick and listening to the approach of the beaters. is well on to his birds. whom folks called one of the finest pheasant shots in England. whom time seemed to have cured of all his apprehensions. don't they?" Dominey remarked. stood one afternoon. That foreign Prince. "I am not a sportsman. he'd nowt but a few cripples to show for his morning's work. at the corner of the long wood which stretched from the ridge of hills behind almost to the kitchen gardens of the Hall." he observed. "They do that.
" she declared. where Mr." she said. are you not? I saw him bring down a nice cock just now." Dominey frowned. "She seems to share the Duke's dislike of me." Dominey explained. "You are right. The Princess Eiderstrom arrives this afternoon. She mistook me for some one else. and seemed for a moment intent on watching the flight of a pigeon which kept tantalisingly out of range. "She is coming down for a few days. "The first time we ever met. "He has fired off about forty cartridges and wounded one hare. it really does not matter. "that Stephanie is coming to-day. So far as regards the birds. "I hear. "I have not. She was looking very well but a little annoyed. They are all going home. The Duchess came up to Dominey a few minutes later. The wood ends on the slant. and finds even the way you hold your gun familiar. She wore thick shoes and gaiters and a small hat. warned by the keeper's shout. "although I think you are a little hard on him." "That twist of the birds. Just one word before I go. "I am not certain that you have told me all that you know concerning the Princess's visit." Seaman was thoughtful for a brief space of time." "Henry is not keen. turned around and killed a hare. "is simply a local superstition." Dominey nodded. with a certain note of challenge in his tone." he admitted. "Her Grace is coming. It is a fault which I will repair presently. then. "I told Henry I shouldn't stop with him another moment." Dominey replied. I met her the same night at Carlton House Terrace—she is related to the 103 . and they seem to be flying more to the left than they really are. who has watched you shoot." He strolled away to the next stand." "Where did you become so friendly with her?" his cousin asked curiously. "was in the Carlton grill room." he said. "I am afraid that she will be bored to death." Seaman gazed steadfastly for a moment along the side of the wood." The Duchess was very smartly tailored in clothes of brown leather mixture.the day of his birth." Dominey remarked." he assented. Mangan was displaying an altogether different standard of proficiency. reverently. "My friend." he said. a few days after I landed in England. and she is too great a lady to conceal her feelings. and we parted with the usual apologies.
I remember now." "Yes. "Not guilty. "She addressed me as Leopold. He is absolutely the only German I ever met whom one felt instinctively to be a gentleman.—"To return to the subject of Stephanie. "She may—call you Leopold again!" 104 ." he pleaded." Dominey picked up his shooting-stick and handed his gun to Middleton. resting her fingers for a moment upon his coat sleeve. The Kaiser was furious and banished him to East Africa. The beaters were through the wood." he said. "I think he's charming.—Now what are you smiling at?" Dominey turned a perfectly serious face towards her." he replied." Caroline continued drily." "Don't get annoyed. during the short time I was in town. "She mistook you for a Baron Leopold Von Ragastein." "It was just a quaint thought. is there? Mr. Seaman." Dominey declared a little impatiently." Caroline agreed." "Well?" "Do you know whom she mistook you for in the Carlton grill room?" "Tell me?" he answered evasively. politically and as a sportsman. "I saw you smile. "Yes. are you not. "Really. He fought a duel with her husband and killed him. "He cannot imagine a German who feasts with any one else but the devil. "That is another of the little surprises you seem to have all ready dished up for us." "I still don't see why it was necessary to invite her here. Our conversations seemed to interest him and led to a certain intimacy—of which I may say that I am proud. I have the greatest respect and liking for the Prince." his companion observed a little petulantly. my partner in one or two mining enterprises." "Henry is blinded by prejudice. You are rather sweeping. took me to call upon him." she begged. dear." the Duchess murmured meditatively. Henry declares that he must be either a fool or a knave. How on earth did you become so friendly with the German Ambassador?" Dominey smiled tolerantly. Caroline?" "I'm generally right. "I admire the Prince immensely. He is very interested in East Africa. "there is not anything so very extraordinary about it.Terniloffs—and we came across one another pretty often after that." "So have I. "Von Ragastein was her lover in Hungary." she declared.
Henry is practically the leader of the National Service movement here." "Well. Everard. with mock alarm." "You are not suggesting that she intends seriously to put me in the place of my double?" Dominey asked. "I call her coming here a most bare-faced proceeding. and in a small house party like this we meet the German Ambassador and a man who is working hard to lull to sleep the very sentiments which Henry is endeavouring to arouse. I shall be deaf. She always seems to be making mysterious references to some sentimental past in which you both are concerned. That woman is really beginning to irritate me. "but you see His Excellency takes a great interest in him on account of this Friendship League. and for which there can be no foundation at all except your supposed likeness to her exiled lover. with a smile." "Of course he likes Terniloff. you never met her until that day at the Carlton!" "She was a complete stranger to me. he hates Germany and distrusts every German he ever met. "Next to Lord Roberts." "Bosh! Stephanie will monopolise you all the time! That's what's she's coming for. There's that other horrible little man." They had arrived at the next stand." Dominey admitted. The Princess hates shooting parties. A flight of wild duck were put out from a pool in the wood. "But seriously. "but he hates the things he stands for." Dominey promised. I'm full of complaints. she is a cousin of the Princess Terniloff. "Then all I can say is that you have been unusually rapid if you've managed to create a past in something under three months!" Caroline pronounced suspiciously. However. 105 . Why. I shouldn't wonder! And she's an extraordinarily attractive woman. I'd have forgiven you everything if only Stephanie weren't coming." she complained. you must admit that the situation is a little awkward for Henry." "It sounds very pathetic. so I thought they could entertain one another. Seaman." Caroline assented. especially as this is practically a bachelor establishment. "Oh. of which Seaman is secretary. and he particularly asked to have him here. I am quite sure that he never expected to sit down at the same table with him. "but even Henry likes Terniloff."If she does." Dominey assured her." Dominey asserted. You know that the very sight of him makes Henry furious." "I am really sorry about that. and the two women are devoted to one another. and after all it is stimulating to meet one's opponents sometimes. and conversation was temporarily suspended.
Terniloff.and for a few minutes every one was busy. The beaters came through the wood. Middleton glanced at his hornrimmed watch. as though fascinated by its almost sinister-like blackness and density. Middleton had dropped some game he was carrying and was muttering to himself. "You're most as good as the old Squire with them high duck. "and I am rather afraid that the pheasants who find their way there claim sanctuary." "Do you think Sir Everard shoots as well as he did before he went to Africa?" Caroline asked." "Have we stumbled up against a local superstition?" the Duke enquired. was affable and even loquacious." There was a glint of admiration in Seaman's eyes. The old fear was back again. or should we do through the home copse?" "If I might make a suggestion. Middleton watched his master with unabated approval. "We call that the Black Wood." There was a moment's rather curious silence. sir. "That's true very few can touch 'em when they're coming out nigh to the pheasants. 106 ." he said. Sir Everard. "Would you care about a partridge drive. Squire?" he faltered. who was standing in the background. His eyes were filled with that vague horror of the supernatural common amongst the peasant folk of various localities. "Better. He had great estates of his own in Saxony and was explaining to the Duke his manner of shooting them." Dominey said calmly." he answered. every scrap of colour seemed to have faded out of his bronzed face. "most of the pheasants went into that gloomy-looking wood just across the marshes. He's cooler like and swings more level. "You wouldn't put the beaters in there." Terniloff observed diffidently. Somehow or other. His voice shook. Middleton touched his hat and turned to Seaman. though. "as I was saying to this gentleman here. Middleton?" The old man turned his head slowly and looked at his master. early this morning." he said. What do you think. your Grace. Dominey had turned and was looking towards the wood in question. I'd have known his touch on a gun anywhere. "There's another hour's good light. They can't believe in the speed of 'em. "not that there's one of them would go. and the little party of guns gossiped together while the game was collected. his usual pallor chased away by the bracing wind and the pleasure of the sport.
—Now then. Then he turned to the beaters. I ought to have stopped Henry at once. Their backs were towards the Black Wood. "who wants to know if you'd go through the Black Wood of Dominey for a sovereign apiece?—Watch their faces. as well as heard." Dominey nodded." he replied. The poor man has no memory." Middleton replied. "Get round to the back of Hunt's stubbles. "You asked a perfectly natural question. "There is no reason why you should not know the truth. if you paid him red gold for it. "I'm one as 'as seen it. by chance. stalwart men for the most part. Just for one moment I had forgotten. lads?" There was no possibility of any mistake. no one is going to ask you to go to the Black Wood. There were a dozen of them. you're an idiot!" she exclaimed." He turned to the beaters. "There's one of the gentlemen here."That's not altogether local." he promised. Prince. sir. The very suggestion seemed to have taken the healthy sunburn from their cheeks. you lads. Squire. How is that. One of them touched his hat and spoke to Dominey. Everard. and bring them into the roots and then over into the park. Middleton?" The keeper touched his hat and stepped briskly off. "Well. I doubt whether there's a beater in all Norfolk would go through the Black Wood. been terribly tactless?" he asked. You'll know where to put the guns." Caroline suddenly passed her arm through Dominey's." Dominey's arm responded for a moment to the pressure of her fingers. I'm so sorry. I'll see if I can flank them. your Grace. addressing them. clad in rough smocks and breeches and carrying thick sticks. who were standing waiting for instructions a few yards away. Terniloff came up to his host. "Them birds do break at Fuller's corner." he said. sir. "It was my fault." the Prince began— 107 . "Henry. "as the Squire himself will tell you.—Here. "I'd sooner give up my farm than go nigh the place. Dominey shook his head. "Have I." he said. One and all the beaters were walking with most unaccustomed speed towards their destination. "I'll just have a walk with them myself. There was a note of distress in her tone." "I am deeply grieved. Near that wood occurred the tragedy which drove me from England for so many years. They fumbled with their sticks uneasily. We will line the park fence." Middleton announced. your Grace.
" he whispered." "They absolutely believe the place to be haunted. We fought."It is false sentiment to avoid allusions to it. "I regret my faux pas most deeply. "I was attacked there one night by a man who had some cause for offence against me. "The wood itself. and I reached home in a somewhat alarming state." Dominey continued." Dominey replied." "Then it is his ghost. "Never seen since!" he repeated." Dominey continued." "Has any one ever seen it?" "One or two of the villagers." he went on. "Our locals say that somewhere in the heart of the wood. no one else. a diplomatist to his fingertips. Terniloff seemed on the point of asking more questions." The Prince. where I believe that no human being for many years has dared to penetrate. although a furtive smile still lingered upon his lips. to the best of my belief. who haunts the Black Wood?" Dominey shook himself as one who would get rid of an unwholesome thought." he explained. every unclean insect and bird are to be found in the thickets. Every sort of vermin abounds there. My condition terrified my wife so much that she has been an invalid ever since. "Sir Everard. Prince. But here is the point which has given birth to all these superstitions. "is a noisome place." he murmured." Dominey interrupted. "the details of that story are inextricably mixed up with the insanity of Lady Dominey. "My own memory as to the end of our fight is uncertain. I suppose the character of the place has encouraged the local superstition in which every one of those men firmly believes. then?" "The superstition goes further. and which made me for many years a suspected person. "you promised to tell me of some of your days with a shotgun 108 . The man with whom I fought has never been seen since. appeared shocked. I imagine. as though to call his attention to the sea fogs which were rolling up from the marshes. "My impression is that I left my assailant unconscious upon the ground. There are quagmires even in the middle of it. as they walked along. where a man may sink in and be never heard of again." Terniloff was at once too fascinated by the story and puzzled by his host's manner of telling it to maintain his apologetic attitude. "Prince. I am sure you understand. but the Duke touched him on the arm and drew him to one side. there is living in the spiritual sense some sort of a demon who comes out only at night and howls underneath my windows.
Henry. Isn't there a bird there which corresponds with your partridges?" Dominey smiled." she said." he remarked. Why. "Do you know. "you could shoot anything of the sort that comes along in East Africa. "Everard. Terniloff by the gate. "You have conquered your nerve absolutely. with a catapult. If you will stand just a few paces there to the left." Her host smiled enigmatically. you were almost matter-of-fact. I congratulate you." he said. "If you can kill the partridges which Middleton is going to send over in the next ten minutes.—Do you mind crouching down a little now? I am going to blow the whistle. You did a simple and a fine thing to tell the whole story. Eddy next." 109 . Caroline?" His cousin took his arm as they walked off and pressed it. when I was telling it I had the same feeling. Will you walk with me. and I shall be just beyond towards the oak clump.in South Africa. "Curious that it should have struck you like that. Mangan next. I could even have imagined you were telling it about some one else. Stillwell up by the left-hand corner.
the mahogany table which was its great glory was stretched that evening to its extreme capacity." the Duke insisted. "I am afraid they do not take to the idea very kindly in this part of the world. "to alter their point of view. There is not the slightest doubt. a recently appointed Cabinet Minister." Dominey's reply was a little dubious. "that you make a point of inculcating the principles of National Service into your tenantry here. 110 .Chapter 16 Even in the great dining-room of Dominey Hall. who was seated at the opposite side of the table. "that before long we shall find ourselves—and in a shocking state of unpreparedness. with the Lord Lieutenant on one side of her and Terniloff on the other played the part of hostess adequately but without enthusiasm. with her crown of exquisitely coiffured red-gold hair. seemed a little startled. Conversation remained chiefly local and concerned the day's sport and kindred topics." "It is your duty as a landowner. looking belligerently over the top of his pince nez at Seaman." he said. Caroline. mind you—at war with Germany. her languorous grace of manner. at Dominey's left hand. raising his voice a little as he turned towards his host. It was not until towards the close of the meal that the Duke succeeded in launching his favourite bubble. "I trust. "Purely agricultural districts are always a little difficult. her marvellous jewellery. seemed more like one of the beauties of an ancient Venetian Court than a modern Hungarian Princess gowned in the Rue de la Paix. who sat at his side. there were several guests from the neighbourhood—the Lord Lieutenant of the County and other notabilities. the wife of the Lord Lieutenant." he confessed. Everard. which included the Right Honourable Gerald Watson." he added. where Stephanie. Besides the house party. She was probably one of the only people present who was not aware of the Duke's foible." Lady Maddeley. Her eyes seldom left for long the other end of the table.
When the war comes." he said impressively. so peaceful and domestic in their home life. madam." "You are probably both right in your way. now took up the Duke's challenge. They only want to fool us into believing that they do. bowing across the table. Mr. and with the exception of my recent absence in Africa. "Permit me to assure you." he observed. it is such ill-advised and ill-founded statements as you are 111 . "There is no doubt a war party in Germany and a peace party. the people will have had nothing to do with it. and that sort of thing. A great many of them will be just as surprised as you will be. however. I spent a great part of my time going back and forth between the two capitals." The Duke groaned. and I have received the benediction of the Kaiser himself upon my efforts to promote a better feeling in this country. "My dear Lady Maddeley. "are old opponents on this subject. Seaman. "The Germans seem such civilised people. "The Germans don't want a better understanding. and others who are tainted with a purely military lust for conquest." Seaman." he said." Seaman beamed his thanks upon his host. "in the very highest circles of Germany. And if you will forgive my saying so. I have also the honour to be the secretary of a society for the promotion of a better understanding between the citizens of Germany and England."Do you really think so?" she asked. very much in the manner of a well-bred host making his usual effort to smooth over two widely divergent points of view. "I have friends. who had kept silence during the last few moments with great difficulty. He stuck to his guns. I have as many and as dear friends in Berlin as in London." "We are indeed. statesmen who place economic progress first. but you are a very ignorant one upon this particular topic. "His Grace and I." "Rubbish!" the Duke exclaimed. where I had the pleasure to meet our host. In this country it is very hard for us to strike a balance between the two. although naturalised in this country. "You may be an honest man. who are continually encouraging my work here. "that the war with Germany of which the Duke is so afraid will never come." he declared. He glanced down the table to be sure that Prince Terniloff was out of hearing. I speak with some amount of knowledge because I am a German by birth." Dominey intervened. "Germany is not governed like England. Duke. but they will fight all the same." the Duke agreed." Seaman looked a little pained.
" the Duke snapped. "how you English women have been able to secure for yourselves so much more liberty than our German wives enjoy?" "Later on." Dominey hesitated and looked behind." "I have my views. "Let me speak first as a private individual. to whom portions of this conversation had now become audible. "I wish to speak to you alone. "I have a surprise for you. "The Duke sometimes forgets. an indescribable and an abominable crime. When they had passed out of possible hearing. "We will speak." After dinner. with a touch which amazed every one. perhaps." the Duke declared. to silence. resigning himself. in the pursuit of his hobby." The Ambassador. "and express my well-studied opinion that war between our two countries would be simply race suicide. Stephanie and her host made a slow progress through the hall and picture gallery. leaned a little forward in his place. 112 ." the Ambassador suggested. that a private dinner table is not a platform. I insist upon it that we discuss something of more genuine interest. My task over here is to secure and ensure it. drew strange music from the yellow keys of the oldfashioned grand piano in the drawing-room." Seaman suggested to the lady to his right." Caroline flashed a warning glance at her husband. "of the way in which our host brought down those tall pheasants." "You will tell me." she said. Then I will remember what I represent over here. For some time their conversation was engaged solely with the objects to which Dominey drew his companion's attention. Dominey's guests passed naturally enough to the relaxations which each preferred. and I will venture to add in my ambassadorial capacity that I come with an absolute and heartfelt mandate of peace. "without the possibility of any one overhearing. There were two bridge tables. Prince!" she said. "How nice of you to be so frank. Stephanie's fingers tightened upon her companion's arm. with a little tremble in her voice. however. "and they have become convictions. however." "There isn't a more vital subject in the world. Terniloff and the Cabinet Minister played billiards. of any of the other guests. I shall continue to express them at all times and with all the eloquence at my command.constantly making about my country which is the only bar to a better understanding between us." he begged. and Seaman." Stephanie whispered to her host.
" She laughed at him with a curious mixture of tenderness and bitterness." Dominey did as he was bidden. "For one moment. and though. "and in any case I am one of them. lifting her eyes to his. She nodded. besides your name. and I was therefore compelled to present myself at Potsdam." she continued. She paused for so long. but her companion made no sign." she murmured. determined never to see you again. with its many wings of book-filled shelves. he helped me to understand. "turn on all the lights. and I was very unhappy. The furthermost corners of the room. To proceed it suited my convenience to remain for a few days in Berlin. "Now turn them all out again except this one. I meant to go home and never to return to London. I wish to be sure that we are alone. "Leopold. feeling that you were a brute." "Is this going to be serious?" he asked. Germany means little to me. My name is no longer Leopold." Dominey threw open the door of the library and turned on a couple of the electric lights. There was an atmosphere about her of serious yet of tender things. Please seat yourself by my side. on which a log was burning. Princess. "I am terrified to think. her head resting slightly upon her long fingers. I claim your attention. Dominey's face seemed to fall into more rigid lines as he realised the appeal of her eyes." she began. I choose this settee. Wilhelm spoke to me of you. her brown eyes steadily fixed upon her companion. "Will you please listen to me. with some slight disquietude. half inclined to expose you before I went as an impostor and a charlatan. looked down into the shadows of the room and back again at her host's face. There I received a great surprise." she continued a little impatiently. and a patriotism which took no account of human obligations left me absolutely unresponsive. She made her way to the great open fireplace. No." 113 ." she directed. "to one who is not present. "Serious but wonderful. "I left this country a few weeks ago. were illuminated. however. "and wheel me up an easy-chair. Leopold?" She was half curled up in a corner of the settee." he said calmly. alas! my heart is still bruised. how much of humanity you have lost in your new identity. that speech became necessary." She paused." she begged. "My friend."Your guests are well occupied. My heart was bruised. "You are speaking.
"please read that. He broke the seal unwillingly and drew out the letter. Conrad's wild lunge. Wilhelm understands and forgives. "Can it be. "if my feelings towards you remained unchanged. There was neither beginning or ending. We spoke even of the duel. that you have lost your love for me? You have changed so much and in so many ways. and how it must last with me—to the end. Persistently he refused the challenge of her eyes. with faint but somewhat resentful irony. straggling handwriting to Sir Everard Dominey. how he literally threw himself upon the point of your sword. It was dated barely a fortnight back." she whispered. He spoke also with warm commendation of your labours in Africa. Wilhelm was much impressed by your recent visit to him. "For that I owe to you my thanks. "I was taken back into favour at Court. "Not on your knees yet?" she asked. "Read the superscription. although he accepted the letter with reluctant fingers. his words instinct with the graceless cruelty of a clown." Dominey sat as a man enthralled with silence." she proceeded." He shook his head. She passed it to him. "Leopold. just a couple of sentences scrawled across the thick notepaper: "It is my will that you offer your hand in marriage to the Princess Stephanie of Eiderstrom. Has the love gone?" Even to himself his voice sounded harsh and unnatural. He obeyed her. She ignored his words. He asked me. "WILHELM." she directed. Leopold. and as I must remain yet for months to come—Everard 114 ."Is this wise?" he asked a little desperately." Dominey's face remained unrelaxed. She watched him. which he seemed to appreciate all the more as you were sent there an exile. dropping her voice a little." She drew a small grey envelope from her pocket." she added. It was addressed in a strange. Baronet. Your union shall be blessed by the Church and approved by my Court. Leopold. I told him what both your seconds had explained to me." she went on. and by the way in which you have established yourself here. and he has sent you this letter. "Think! I am as I have been addressed here. "I told him how it all began." he declared. "I told him the truth. "This is not practical. On the seal were the Imperial Hohenzollern arms.—that turn of the wrist.
" Dominey pleaded earnestly. dragged him underneath the electric globe." Then her anger blazed out. and you must carry it through to the end. "Not so hard—not so hard. frowning. "Leopold. "Until our time has come there is dishonour even in a single kiss. her lips hungry for his kisses. Through the closed door came the faint wave of conversation and laughter from outside. according to belief of everybody." she faltered. "Oh! yours is a great task. "dead until the coming of great events may bring him to life again. "She has already practically recovered. At least your lips—your arms! My heart is starved." "Where is your reputed wife?" Stephanie demanded.Dominey. can take advantage of this mandate?" She looked at him wonderingly." he replied." Dominey interrupted. Let me look at you. "what has changed you like this? What has dried up all the passion in you? You are a different man." He rose to his feet." "You must insist upon it that she does." "I ask you to consider the suspicions which would be excited by such a course." She unwound her arms and shivered slightly. the day you know of. Leopold. having already. "and further. "You make difficulties? You sit there like the cold Englishman whose place you are taking. Wait for the day. you whose tears have fallen before now upon my hand. She broke down with a storm of tears. an Englishman and the owner of this house—the husband of Lady Dominey. her eyes shining up into his. Stephanie. She spoke incoherently. and stood there gazing into his face. Her arms were still twined about his neck. Her hurt eyes regarded him wonderingly. The great log upon the hearth was spluttering and fizzing. whose lips—" "You speak of one who is dead. another wife living. but we have his permission—there can be found a way—we could be married secretly." She caught him by the shoulders. "In the nursing home where she has been for the last few months. "Have pity on me. Leopold!" she implored. can you explain to me in what way I. dragged his face down to hers and clenched her fist the next moment as though she would have struck it. passionately. 115 . She cannot remain there much longer. her eyes were seeking to rend the mask from his face. Until that time your lover must be dumb. Her breathing was uneven." he begged.
He swung around to find Seaman standing upon the threshold—Seaman. the strong man. "Something has happened which I thought you ought to know at once. the seeking of her lips for his something horrible. girlish form. He saw once more the slight. the sweetness of those marvellously awakened emotions. "There were no women in Africa. the love-seeking light in those pleading dark eyes. The woman's passion by his side seemed suddenly tawdry and unreal. that you have been kindness itself to her. A shade of deeper trouble came into Seaman's face as he stepped respectfully to one side. This Rosamund Dominey. He felt the clinging touch of those soft fingers laid upon his. good-humoured face. She had the carriage and the air of an insulted queen." "Then what are you looking at?" she demanded. the whole sweet appeal for safety from a frightened child to him. You wouldn't dare—" "No." the newcomer declared. that she adores you. 116 ."Can you have learnt to care for any one else?" she muttered. His back was towards the door. "I should not dare." he interrupted. so cruelly and drearily stifled through a cycle of years. with a shade of genuine concern on his round. "What is it that has happened?" Dominey demanded. your reputed wife—they tell me that she is beautiful. "Tell me that?" Her eyes were following the shadowed picture which had passed out of the room. to him a very angel of deliverance. Sir Everard. the tremulous lips." was the quiet reply. and it was her cry of angry dismay which first apprised him of a welcome intruder. "I am indeed sorry to intrude. "Lady Dominey has returned. that her health has improved since your coming. Can you spare me a moment?" The Princess swept past them without a word of farewell or a backward glance.
a maid carrying a jewel case. our matron. had been standing with her foot upon the fender. Every one has been so sweet and kind at Falmouth." he exclaimed. and I believe he is away." "Is it very wrong of me?" Rosamund asked. nurse?" "Her ladyship has had no sleep for two nights. clinging to Dominey's arm. "But what possessed you to come without giving us notice? How was this. "They will be your guests. a yard or two behind. he touched the lips which were raised so eagerly to his as tenderly and reverently as though this were some strange child committed to his care. thought it best to let her have her own way about coming. "You mean it?" With a self-control of which he gave no sign.Chapter 17 It seemed to Dominey that he had never seen anything more pathetic than that eager glance. You are not angry? These people who are staying here will not mind?" "Of course not. especially Nurse Alice here. so Mrs. we telegraphed to Doctor Harrison. Coulson. "Of course I mean it. Instead of telegraphing to you. friendly looking person in the uniform of a nurse. Her whole expression changed as Dominey came hastily towards her with outstretched hands. She looked very angry. half of apprehension. Rosamund. who passed by just now. "with red hair. "My dear child. By her side stood a pleasant. "She has been so much better that we dreaded the thought of a relapse. flashed upon him from the strange." "There was a very beautiful woman. but they weren't quite the same thing. tired eyes of the woman who was standing before the log fire in a little recess of the main hall. To-morrow you must make friends with them all. "I had a sudden feeling that I must get back here." he assured her cheerfully. half of hope." the latter replied. That was not because I have come?" 117 ." he answered heartily. unfortunately. with a glad catch in her throat. "welcome home!" "Welcome?" she repeated. who had thrown back her veil. I wanted to see you again." she said timidly.
you can follow us." The maid was slowly unfastening her mistress's boots." he told her. Be very kind to me. "Oh. You have no idea how much better I am. A bright fire was burning in the grate. I think you could make me just what you want."Why should it be?" he answered. "You have a right here—a better right than any one. a little wistfully. can't I.—I shall call you Everard. mayn't I?—you look just as I hoped you might. Will you take me upstairs. she broke away from him and tripped on with the gaiety almost of a child to the door of her room. Will one of you maids please go down and see about it? What a lot of nice new things you have. and tell me who is here and all about the people. but this is wonderful!" she cried. Rosamund held up her foot for him to feel. "See how cold I am!" she complained. Everard!" she added. her eyes suddenly soft with joy. "You dear thing! What made you bring that up?" "I wanted to have it here." she murmured. "And that picture of me from the drawing-room. until you come up to bed?" she pleaded. but her steps grew lighter as they approached her own apartment. Everard. 118 . "Please rub it. Then came a little cry of disappointment as she flung open the door. and they say that I play bridge ever so well. as they reached the corridor. "Do not believe it. "I'm not so nice as that now. yet still with that gleam of aloofness in her eyes." She drew a long sigh of contentment." She leaned heavily on his arm and even loitered on the way." he answered. busy with a refractory fire and removing the covers from the furniture. "Oh. Several maids were there. Finally. You will be better-looking still when you have been here for a few months. looking around. "And you dear. how miserable!" she exclaimed. on the table!" she cried. "I think. She threw herself with a little cry of delight into the huge Chesterfield drawn up to the edge of the hearthrug." she sighed. but the room was half full of smoke and entirely unprepared. I shall love to help you entertain. "Everard. I am going to have some supper up here with nurse. what shall I do?" He threw open the door of his own apartment. please? Nurse." She looked at him almost shyly—tenderly. "You have not changed in the least. "I shall be just what you want me to be. the room was warm and comfortable. "I can stay here. All my music has come back to me. "And then you can sit and talk to me.
but this mad Englishman's wife. He waited until he had regained his self-possession. she doubtless felt for her husband. The good-humoured smile played no longer about his lips. "I suppose it is because I have been ill so long. I risk your anger." he assured her. Lady Dominey seems disposed to offer to you the affection which." A light flashed in Dominey's eyes. just as she is tender-hearted. led him to a great settee in a dark corner.please. the click of billiard balls." Seaman's manner was unusually grave. At a gesture he waited for him. waited until he came. "you know very well that when we walk in the great paths of life I am unscrupulous. he saw Seaman mounting the stairs. and I love your strength and I want you to take care of me. For the moment angry words seemed to tremble upon his lips. "Forgive me now. At the top of the great quadrangular landing he stopped and stood with halfclosed eyes for several moments. "I will admit. I watched her as she passed through the hall with you just now. Your own hands are quite cold. From downstairs he could hear the sound of pleasantly raised voices. however. stretching her arms out to him." Dominey made his escape and went reeling down the corridor. struggling to keep his voice steady. but I feel so helpless. my friend. but I warn you to be very careful how you encourage her. "If you were to take advantage of your position with—with any other. In those other hours. notwithstanding their troubles together.—I love women. There are guests here—rather important guests. She is still weak-minded. or rather his widow. Then. won't you. and." she added anxiously. alas! I have a weakness. "that you are placed in a delicate and trying position." he said. waiting until her own is prepared. To-morrow you must come and see them all. taking him by the arm." "Well?" Dominey muttered. You're not ill. "You look pale. has been mentally ill. the music of a piano in the distance. "My friend. "In my room. if I hurry away. He courted no offence. Seaman's manner." she begged. "Where is Lady Dominey?" he asked. Everard?" "I am very well. too. was very gentle." "And help you?" "And help me. Seaman had lost his usual blitheness. She turns to you for love as a flower 119 ." the other continued. as he was on the point of descending. I would shrug my shoulders and stand on one side.
He was conscious even of regarding him with a greater feeling of kindness than ever before. spoke of a speedy visit to her. "Your devotion to my sex. Your return to England appears to have done what we understood to be impossible—restored your wife's reason. "you have shown me that you are conscious of one dilemma in which I find myself placed." she said. you have duties below." "Exactly why?" he demanded. would provide all the elements for a Palais Royal farce. And there remains our own sentimental little flirtation. please. You can devote yourself to me with a perfectly clear conscience. "My dear Everard. alas. however difficult it may become. As the last car rolled away. A fiery-headed Hungarian Princess has pursued you down here. And a handful of those Turkish cigarettes. "My friend. They all left messages for Lady Dominey. May I have a whisky and soda?" "Bring me one. "I fear that it will seriously impair the note which I had intended to strike in our conversation. You must find means to deal with this situation. and Dominey was in time to receive their adieux. and has now gone to her room in a tantrum because you left her side for a few minutes to welcome your wife. and expressed themselves as delighted to hear of her return and recovery. wet weather. too. Von Ragastein." "You are distressing me terribly. you are a man of honour. "but for its serious side. a broken and." Caroline begged. "you really are a very terrible person." he said. commanding me to marry her. Some of the local guests were preparing to make their departure. but I am thirsty. however. "but all the same." "The situation. For the present. a discarded thing! There is no doubt whatever. The Princess Eiderstrom has brought me an autograph letter from the Kaiser. Everard. Let me now advise you of another. "is flattering but far too catholic. I have said the words which were thumping against the walls of my heart.to the sun after a long spell of cold." Dominey had recovered from his first wave of weakness." Dominey confessed. after a somewhat agitated evening I must admit that I find it pleasant to talk with some one who is not wielding the lightnings." she continued." Seaman declared grimly. too. Your most 120 . Caroline took her host's arm and led him to a chimney seat by the huge log fire in the inner hall. and which I confess is exercising me to the utmost. that you are a very bad lot." Their descent was opportune. His companion's words excited no sentiment of anger.
"That was a wonderful month. raising her eyes for a moment. "Not always." "When." she answered quietly.distinguished guest has found a task after his own heart. "There was a time." she admitted. You can devote yourself to soothing my wounded vanity." he told her." he asked. You used to be rather slangy at times. although you are a wonderful host. He has got Henry in a corner of the billiard-room and is trying to convince him of what I am sure the dear man really believes himself—that Germany's intentions towards England are of a particularly dove-like nature." he reflected. please?" "You carry yourself so much more stiffly. "when you ladies are well out of the way! Some more of the good." "What else?" "You used always to clip your final g's. on the contrary. Go on. "you have become almost a precisian in your speech." she went on. "You used to drink whiskys and sodas at all hours of the day. "and I think that the way you have come back and faced it all is simply 121 . all these things." He turned away to reach for his whisky and soda." "Trifles. She sighed reminiscently." "You think that I have changed. to say nothing of my broken heart." she commented." "Always gibing at me. Now. Sometimes you have the air of being surprised that you are not in uniform. "As a matter of curiosity. Everard." he declared." Dominey grumbled." "You should see me at the port. "why?" "To begin with. then?" She looked him in the eyes. "I cured myself of that by reading aloud in the bush." she admitted. before that terrible tragedy—the last time you stayed at Dunratter—when I didn't gibe." "Shocking habit. and quite as much wine as was good for you at dinner time. Your Right Honourable guest has gone to bed. Every one is happy. "I think it was then for the first time that I saw traces of something in you which I suppose accounts for your being what you are to-day." she murmured. please?" "All your best qualities seem to have come to the surface. and Eddy Pelham is playing billiards with Mr." he murmured. you were sweetness itself. then. "Now for something serious?" "The serious things are pretty good. "that you are the same man. "I sometimes find it difficult to believe. Mangan. you scarcely take anything yourself.
Through the silence of the hall there pealed the summons of the great bell which hung over the front door. taking a quick step forward. if that man's body should be discovered after all these years. Tell me." Dominey replied. A manservant had turned the great key. drawn the bolts. please. "I do not think so." "Well?" "Did you kill Roger Unthank?" A portion of the burning log fell on to the hearth. You came to me a little tired to-night. "but she seemed to me absolutely better. and following them the figure of a man. They heard the click of the billiard balls in the adjoining room. Dominey leaned forward and with a pair of small tongs replaced the burning wood upon the fire." "What about that horrible woman?" "I have pensioned Mrs. Caroline.wonderful. "Why. Forget it. would you be charged with manslaughter?" He shook his head." she said." Caroline began hesitatingly. To my surprise I hear that she is still living in the village." "And your ghost?" "Not a single howl all the time that Rosamund has been away. "I am so sorry. "Everard dear. Talk to me like your old dear self. "Midnight!" he exclaimed. white from head to foot. Unthank. his hair tossed with the wind. and here I am asking you once more that horrible question. and her eyes still have that restless look. She is very frail. I must say that the weekly reports I have received from the nursing home quite prepared me for a great improvement. almost a dramatic interruption. Then there was silence. Dominey glanced at the clock in amazement." "Everard. Doctor Harrison!" Dominey cried. Suddenly he felt his hands clasped by his companion's. There came a curious. but she talks quite coherently. Little flakes of snow and a gust of icy wind swept into the hall. and opened the door with difficulty. Is she really recovered. "What brings you here at this time of night!" 122 . Tell me about Rosamund's return. almost unrecognisable after his struggle." "There is one thing more. "Who on earth can be coming here at this time of night!" Instinctively they both rose to their feet. didn't you? I think that you needed sympathy. That one thing lacked forever the clothing of words. do you think?" "I saw her only for a few minutes.
as he took the tumbler which Dominey pressed into his hand. They relieved him of his coat and dragged him towards the fire. I had to see you—at once." he said. and the melting snow was pouring from his clothes on to the oak floor. He was out of breath. "I must apologise for disturbing you at such an hour. "I have only just received Lady Dominey's telegram." 123 .The doctor leaned upon his stick for a moment.
Every one in the house except a few servants had retired." was the confident answer." he asked. "this return of Lady Dominey's has taken me altogether by surprise. I had intended to-morrow morning to discuss the situation with you. you have been in England now some eight months." "And this one hallucination?" "That you are not her husband. there was nothing to keep her there. For instance. Lady Dominey." "Perhaps you can give me some advice?" Dominey suggested. "To begin with then." "I am most anxious to hear your report. you drink moderately. Then he laughed a little unnaturally. mentally and physically. "and as for that hallucination. friends of distinction and interest. you have subdued your violent temper. "My report is good. and I am going to be perfectly frank with you. "and yet be subject to an hallucination which must make the whole of her surroundings seem unreal?" "Lady Dominey is perfectly sane. "Sir Everard." Dominey said." the doctor began. "Can a person be perfectly sane." the doctor replied. where your personality could be the only inducement. "I can. and the two men were left alone in the great hall. The lights in the billiard-room and drawing-room were extinguished. You seem to have got rid of every one of your bad habits. "Although I would not have allowed her to have left the nursing home so suddenly had I known. as a gentleman should. it is up to you to dispel it. and you have collected around you. is in perfect health. there are certain obvious changes in you which might well minister to Lady Dominey's hallucination. This is not at all what one 124 .Chapter 18 The doctor." the doctor answered bluntly. did not hesitate to make it known that this unusual visit was of a private nature." Dominey was silent for a moment. Caroline promptly withdrew. except for one hallucination. with his usual bluntness. during which time you have reveled an entirely new personality.
is a view of the matter which I can neither discuss nor understand. I warn you." the doctor assented. It has now become her wish to take her proper place in life. He felt the doctor's keen grey eyes glowing from under his shaggy eyebrows as he leaned forward. though. You have to remember that your wife needs still one step towards a perfect recovery." "But if her hallucination continues. "You mean. "that all her other delusions have gone. forgiveness is second nature to her." Dominey suggested quietly. Like all good women. "She has been a longenduring and faithful woman." "You've got it. whilst still subject to that hallucination. but we've got to deal with it—or rather you have. brought on." he went on. Sir Everard. "The fact that your wife has been willing to return here to you. "if she seriously doubts that I am indeed her husband. to lay a charge upon you. that that devotion may lead her to great lengths." "You are excusing my wife. His eyes seemed glued upon the doctor's. Now we come to the real danger. of the cries in the night. "to account for that. I can assure you. I am here to-night. 125 . his hands upon his knees. "It's a tangled-up position. but it is my duty to warn you. She is quite conscious of her several attempts upon your life and bitterly regrets them. how can she do that?" "That is the problem you and I have to face. "She needs no excuses.expected from the Everard Dominey who scuttled out of England a dozen years ago. whilst still believing that you are not her husband." Dominey set his teeth for a moment." was the brusque reply. and until that step has been surmounted you have a very difficult but imperative task." Dominey remarked. "that until that hallucination has passed we must remain upon the same terms as we have done since my arrival home. suffering from a cruel illness." Dominey pushed his chair back from the fire as though he felt the heat." Dominey asked. to take the kindest view if it. as parts of a painful past." the doctor said sternly. She appears to be possessed of a passionate devotion towards you. "I do not pretend. through your clumsiness and lack of discretion. and this return to a stronger condition of physical health and a fuller share of human feelings has probably reawakened all those tendencies which her growing fondness for you and your position as her reputed husband make perfectly natural." the latter continued gravely. Lady Dominey is naturally of an exceedingly affectionate disposition. She speaks of the ghost of Roger Unthank. Sir Everard. of his mysterious death.
filled his pipe and stood up. "I started out all right. "I am glad of it." Dominey said firmly. but. Keep and encourage your wife's affection if you can. After a brief pause. difficult though it may be. and any sense of guilt on her conscience. "I appreciate every word you say. after a pause. A strange restlessness seemed to have fastened itself upon him." he admitted. "Supposing this hallucination of hers should pass? Supposing she should suddenly become convinced that I am her husband?" "In that case. but it was a drear walk across the marshes. "Good night!" The two men parted. "I believe I can." the doctor promised." the doctor said gruffly. dimly lit hall. You can rely upon me." Dominey replied. the doctor helped himself to a farewell drink." "There is just one more phase of the position. and she herself might very possibly end her days in a madhouse. If she woke up one morning with that hallucination still in her mind." The doctor looked at him." the doctor replied earnestly. "Very good of you to send me back. that moment will be the beginning of a new life for her.that you may find your position an exceedingly difficult one. but let it be a charge upon you that whilst the hallucination remains that affection must never pass certain bounds." "Doctor. He stood for a time by the dying fire." Dominey went on. he wandered for some moments up and down the great. The moment she realises. It was curious how both of them seemed disinclined to refer again even indirectly to the subject which they had been discussing. with a sigh of relief. stirred uneasily by 126 . and it would be just as important for you not to check the affection which she might offer to you as it would be in the other case for you not to accept it. there is a plain duty before you. with obvious sincerity. all our labours for these last months might well be wasted. The car which Dominey had ordered from the garage was already standing at the door. Left to himself. watching the grey ashes. "the position would be exactly reversed." Somehow they both seemed to feel that the last words had been spoken. Lady Dominey is a good and sweet woman." "I am very grateful to you for coming. "You will come and have a look at the patient in a day or two?" "I'll stroll across as soon as you've got rid of some of this houseful. and curiously enough Dominey was conscious that with those few awkward words of farewell some part of the incipient antagonism between them had been buried. with her present predispositions. that you really are her lawful husband.
All the time a queer procession of women's faces was passing before his eyes—Caroline. Then he strolled to a different part of the hall. wonderfully. All other memories faded away. It was the thing for which he longed yet dreaded most—the faint click.the wind which howled down the chimney. a smile in 127 . He looked into the faces of some of these dead Domineys. He saw her as she had come to him last. were absolutely forgotten. and then. Then he suddenly felt that the madness which he had begun to fear had really come. It was some time before he realised that the volume was upside down. Rosamund herself was there. They were as though they had never been. the day by day tension of his precarious life. It was his servant who was patiently awaiting his arrival. trying to recall what he had heard of their history. then laughed shortly to himself at his foolish imagining. When at last the sight of a sleepy manservant hovering in the background forced his steps upstairs. he wrapped a dressing-gown around him. still attired in his shirt and trousers. His heart was calling all the time for an unknown boon. the newly installed lights which hung above the sombre oil pictures upon the wall. the words he saw had no meaning for him." The man silently took his leave. and dwelling longest upon a gallant of the Stuart epoch. and Dominey commenced his preparations for bed. blotting the others utterly out of his thoughts and memory. "I shall not want you again to-night. whose misdeeds had supplied material for every intimate chronicler of those days. with that little unspoken cry upon her tremulous lips. by means of the electric switches. he still lingered for a few moments in the corridor and turned the handle of his bedroom door with almost reluctant fingers. Rosamund. with her voluptuous figure and passion-lit eyes. with all the sweetness of life shining out of her eager face. He was in no humour for sleep. mystically. We shoot in the morning. and the haunting appeal in her soft eyes. Dickens. actually pushed back by a pair of white hands. and threw himself into an easy-chair. "You can go to bed. Those dreary years of exile in Africa. with her half-flirtatious. however. and one by one he turned on. Her lips were parted in a delightful smile. wholly sentimental bon camaraderie. and. drew a reading lamp to his side. of weakness more potent than all his boasted strength. He stood for a moment upon the threshold. and even when he had righted it. Her eyes shone at him. His heart gave a great jump as he realised that there was some one there. the soft withdrawal of the panel. Stephanie." he directed. He felt himself immeshed in a world of cobwebs. a book in his hand.
" She curled up in his easy-chair.which there was a spice of girlish mischief. "Do you mind my coming for a few minutes?" "Of course not." she murmured contentedly. He is dead. "I cannot sleep." "You are not afraid. Everard. "Ah. he felt the warmth of her arm through her white. Are you not happy because I am here?" 128 . But how cold! You must come nearer to the fire yourself." she said softly. dear. but I know you are not. "I am happy. dear. Even if I heard his ghost calling again to-night. "Just for a moment. it was not you who killed him." she continued eagerly. But." she confessed. I can't think why I ever wanted to hurt you. "I know that whatever happened to poor Roger. She responded to his embrace without hesitation." he assured her. what is the matter? A moment ago you were cold." He sat on the arm of her chair. It is because I wanted to see you that I would not stay any longer at the nursing home." she assured him." she answered. and she stroked his head with her hands. Then she came towards him with her finger upraised. He died in Africa. "Why do you doubt any longer then. She turned for a moment to close the panel. "Is it wrong of me to feel what I do for you. I should have no fear. Now your head is wet. I wonder? You are so like yet so unlike him. "that I am your husband?" She sighed. "to be here alone with me?" She put her other arm around his neck and drew his face down." His arm went very softly around her. That must mean that I am very fond of you. your hands are burning. "I am not afraid." he answered. "Give me your hands." he asked hoarsely. fur-lined dressing-gown. "I do not know." he asked. then?" she asked. "when you saw me come through the panel?" "I should never be afraid of any harm that you might bring me. Her cheek rested upon his shoulder. "You were not afraid. and when I feel you are near I am happy. I am sure that I always loved you. "but you are kind to me. Isn't it strange that I should know it? But I do!" "But who am I then?" he whispered. "Because all that foolishness is really gone. "Come and sit down. She looked at him pitifully. dear.
unperturbed. a thunderbolt. her eyes lighting up. only a little dumb disappointment. too. unterrified. Can't you feel that you have loved me before?" She shook her head a little sadly. imprisoned in the jaws of a beast. Dominey held his head like a man who fears madness. It is only I who know that you are not. There was no sign of fear in her face. horrified. He must think that you are Everard. kissed him. The panel glided to and shut out the vision of her. Yet nothing so horrible as this interruption which really came could ever have presented itself before his mind." she added. touched the spring and passed through the panel. convulsed for a moment even with real physical fear—they heard the silence of the night broken by that one awful cry. Then he kissed her on both cheeks. "No." she said. "I am afraid. "I must go back. "but. you are not Everard.Her lips were seeking his. with her head thrown back. "that I am really Everard—your husband? Look at me. the most astonishing thing of all. the cry of a man's soul in torment." he asked hoarsely. she nodded her head slowly. walking quite firmly across the floor. "that you are not really fond of me. He will not let me stay here. perhaps." she said. listening—he. Half in his arms." she sighed. Then what was. and. 129 ." She slipped from the chair. the crumbling of the floor beneath his feet to have been spared the torture of her sweet importunities. Even then she turned around and waved a little good-bye to him. and—" A few seconds before. "You see. "you bring me love and happiness and life. They listened to it together until its echoes died away. Dominey felt from his soul that he would have welcomed an earthquake." "Can't you believe. She made a little grimace. His own touched them for a moment.
from which here and there the snow had been shaken off. The wind had dropped. Dominey. Bracken. down the steps. and turned towards Middleton." he announced. the neglect of years had obliterated it. "That's missing. The place was silent except for the slow drip of falling snow from the drooping leaves. curiously excited by his discovery. Middleton. and there was something ghostly about the still twilight as Dominey issued from the back regions and made his way through the untrodden snow round to the side of the house underneath Rosamund's window. if ever there had been one. brambles. who was sitting in a chair before the fire. Many of the trees. They were neither like human footsteps nor the track of any known animal. and straight across the park to the corner of the Black Wood. From the terraced walks. examined the footmarks eagerly. Heggs. A little exclamation broke from his lips as he stood there. although they were still plentiful. then followed them to the corner of the wood. There was no sign of any pathway. Somebody or something had passed from the Black Wood and back again to this spot in the night. Here and there they puzzled him. were fresh tracks. he commenced a leisurely perambulation of the whole of the outside of the wood. The cry had been no fantasy. smoking his pipe. He took one more cautious step forward and found himself slowly sinking. Picking his way with great caution. only to be succeeded by a ranker and more dense form of undergrowth. Mr. the junior keeper. Black mud was oozing up through the snow where he had set his feet. He was just able to scramble back. "I can't find master's number two gun. had been blown down and left to rot on the ground. tapped the empty cases.Chapter 19 Dawn the next morning was heralded by only a thin line of red parting the masses of black-grey snow clouds which still hung low down in the east." 130 . an hour or so later. shrubs and bushes had grown up and degenerated. At the edge of the wood they seemed to vanish into the heart of a great mass of brambles. went over the gun rack once more.
so far as I can gather. with a rifle under my arm." the old keeper directed. surely. and that it do come here now and then to be fed."Look again. for sure." his master pointed out. Dominey followed the tracks with his eyes to the wood and back again. "Was anything heard last night." he confided." The old man seemed for a moment to stiffen with slow horror. and Dominey entered with the missing gun under his arm. "Why." Middleton admitted." "Spirits. He shook his head gravely. "that the spirit of Roger Unthank have been taken possession of by some sort of great animal. Squire?" he gasped. "They do say hereabout. nothing has been heard of this ghost. "When he do come out of that wood. From the day she left until last night. Dominey led him to where the tracks had halted on the gravel outside Rosamund's window and pointed across to the Black Wood. he do call. It seems that they not only make tracks." the young man replied obstinately. The keeper took up his hat and stick and followed." Middleton considered the matter. removing the pipe from his mouth. "do not leave tracks like that behind. "I want you to come this way with me for a moment. "What do you make of those?" he enquired. "The master was shooting with it yesterday." his master ordered. or beast. I am going to make my way into that wood. "When the weather is a little drier. Surprise kept him temporarily silent. "I should have done so this morning if I had had a chance." Dominey replied. Look amongst those loose 'uns at the far end of the rack." Middleton pronounced. The door of the room was suddenly opened. "I am learning something about spirits. with a little shudder." "By whom?" Dominey enquired patiently. or whatever it is. "You wouldn't shoot at it. lad." "Mrs. "Middleton. Perhaps if that is so they can feel a charge of shot inside them. Middleton." "Well. sir?" "There was an infernal yell underneath this window. Unthank has not been in this house for many months. by Mrs. It must be somewhere there." "That do seem queer. that isn't. Middleton did not hesitate." he said." 131 . but they require feeding." "That was the spirit of Roger Unthank. Unthank. Middleton rose to his feet at once and laid down his pipe.
as he helped himself to coffee. bathed and changed. and spend half an hour at the 'Dominey Arms' now and then?" "Most every night of my life. It's chockful of reptiles and unclean things. I suppose." the Cabinet Minister observed." "We all seem to have heard the same thing." Dominey handed over his gun. I'm a man of regular habits. sir. Squire. Just before they entered. we had a series of highly respectable and well-behaved ghosts. with interest. "that our very latest thing in ghosts did not disturb anybody. John. who were a credit to the family and of whom we 132 . Dominey helped himself from the sideboard and took his place at the table. Every one began to talk about the prospect of the day's sport. you understand?" "That'll fair flummox the folk. I can promise you that.—"a most appalling and unearthly cry." Dominey observed. From the time when I was a kid. There was a sudden hush as he entered." "That is right. "We will see." Dominey muttered. "you can bring out a revolver and prowl about with me one night." he said. "but I'll let 'em know. I should like it to get about. The birds die there on the trees. two feet high. don't forget to mention that I am going to have that wood looked through. and that do seem right to me that with the work done right and proper a man should have his relaxation. "I have hacked my way through some queer country in Africa. went to his room. before I went to Eton. sir." They returned to the house. and descended for breakfast." he said." "Nevertheless. There'll be a rare bit of talk. Dominey turned to his companion." Dominey assented. "within a very short time I am going to solve the mystery of this nocturnal visitor. "The bottom's rotten from end to end and the top's all poisonous." "If you want to investigate." "There's nowt like this wood in the world."Then as God's above. "you keep up the good old customs." the old man replied. I have lately joined every society connected with spooks and find them a fascinating study. which he very well understood." Dominey said firmly. you'll never come out. The man who enters that wood goes to his grave." was the doubtful reply. Squire!" was the solemn reply. up till when I left here for Africa. "I hope. "Middleton. with green and purple fungi. "from eight till nine. "Next time you are there. with poison in the very sniff of them. side by side." the old man asserted doggedly.
which were displayed with a cabinet of cigars on a round table in the hall. is something quite outside the pale." "Has he a history?" Mr. Watson asked with interest." They had paused to help themselves to cigarettes. Dominey waited for a moment before he answered." Dominey replied. but will you kindly tell me what on earth more I can do to make her see the position? Necessity demands that I should be on the best of terms with Lady Dominey and I should not make myself in any way conspicuous with the Princess. Seaman.were somewhat proud. "that he is the spirit of a schoolmaster who once lived here. This latest spook. "you must not allow these local circumstances to occupy too large a share of your thoughts. Terniloff was the only one." he rejoined. It is certainly most unsafe. It is true that these are the days of your relaxation." Dominey told them." Seaman reflected. "Look here. but she is also grande dame and a diplomatist." he said. and have the ceremony repeated under your rightful name later on. and for whose departure from the world I am supposed to be responsible. and behold. You remember how terrified the beaters were yesterday at the bare suggestion of entering it? For generations it has been held unclean. "it's easy enough to say there is the Princess to be considered. she is an impulsive and passionate person. So far as regards the Princess. "My friend." "I am not sure. "We might have a battue in the wood. there is the Princess for you to think of. however." Their host spoke with such an absolute absence of emotion that every one was conscious of a curious reluctance to abandon a subject full of such fascinating possibilities. Such a spook is neither a credit nor a comfort to the family. "I am informed. who made a suggestion. I went in over my knees on the outskirts of it this morning. "that the character of the wood is not more interesting than the ghost who is supposed to dwell in it. After all. Still. 133 . she has us in her power. I see no reason why you should not marry her secretly in London. "I am not sure. The merest whisper in Downing Street. in the name of Everard Dominey. Shall we say half-past ten in the gun room?" Seaman followed his host out of the room. however. "Has the Princess confided to you that that is her wish?" he asked. "that the terms you are on with Lady Dominey matter very much to any one. catastrophe!" Dominey took his friend's arm." he proposed.
the spirit of Roger Unthank will do him some sort of mischief." she went on. of course. "that Everard killed Roger and threw him into 134 . "You don't know about these things. and Roger Unthank was never seen again."Something of the sort. "I was hoping I should see you for a moment before you went off. in a charming morning robe of pale blue lined with grey fur. if by that means we can pacify her. I take it for granted that as a man of honour it will be your duty to offer her your hand in marriage. "I am a little afraid of the Princess. I see no harm in anticipating a few months. "but Roger Unthank was in love with me." he confessed. to come from you." he said gloomily. "if you were really Everard. She held out her hands to him with a delighted little cry of welcome. the poor man nearly went out of his mind. didn't I? After I was married. and it will strengthen your position with him. He tackled the subject bravely. Rosamund. I ask you no questions as to your own feelings with regard to her. dropping her voice a little." she went on. "You slept well?" he enquired. however." Dominey turned away towards the stairs. "My friend. as he had made up his mind to on every opportunity. sooner or later. then I might be frightened. for some day or other I feel that if Everard comes here." He raised her fingers to his lips and sat down by her side. Everard!" she exclaimed. then?" "Not for one moment. He is devoted to her. and he felt instinctively that she was quite unaffected by the event of the night before." "And your advice?" Seaman blew out a little cloud of cigar smoke." she went on conversationally. He gave up his work and used to haunt the park here. "You do not lie awake thinking of our nocturnal visitor. "We will discuss this again before we leave." "Why?" he asked. Dominey was admitted at once by her maid into his wife's sittingroom. One evening Everard caught him and they fought. I think that any one around here would tell you. had just finished breakfast. I think I told you that much yesterday." Seaman acknowledged. "Perfectly. "She wishes the suggestion." she answered. "How nice of you to come. Terniloff would arrange it at the Embassy. although I had scarcely ever spoken to him. You see. She seemed entirely delighted by his presence. before I married Everard.
Nurse Alice is tremendously impressed." Dominey declared. seated in a corner of the room. I quite understand. "You say 'we' just as though you were really my husband. and I should be a very poor hostess." she said to Caroline." he promised. "Everard had a terrible temper. and slip into things gradually. very careful. "to help my husband entertain his guests. with large. Let me come down at tea-time and after dinner. and I want you all to tell me how many pheasants you have shot. behind the great round table upon which tea was set out." she declared." "I do not believe he did anything of the sort. not at all the sort of people my Everard would have had here. And.one of those swampy places near the Black Wood." "You shall do exactly as you choose. and Caroline will hate not being hostess any longer. Everard. "Oh. but I have been ill for so long that I have forgotten a great many things. She said very little. "I have come up to remind you that we have guests here." Terniloff seated himself on the settee by her side. please. they found. "Oh." he warned her. a rather pale but extraordinarily childlike and fascinating woman. and I have been out of the world for so long. So when the shooting party tramped into the hall that afternoon. She acquiesced at once. as he took his leave." she assured him. where a body sinks and sinks and nothing is ever seen of it again. "It has been so kind of you. I don't know. I am sure I should be terrified to sit at the end of the table. When are you coming down to see them?" She laughed like a child. you have such clever guests. and that night he came home covered with blood. "You must not tell any one else of your fancy." he insisted. and his first few words of introduction brought every one around her. "I shall be very. but what she said was delightfully natural and gracious. I am very much better. that I am afraid I sha'n't be able to talk to them. a little weary. looking—awful! It was the night when I was taken ill. sweet eyes which seemed to be begging for their protection and sympathy as she rose hesitatingly to her feet. But I want to make tea for you. You can easily say that I am still an invalid. 135 . Dominey was by her side in a moment." "Well no more tragedies. but flushed with exercise and the pleasure of the day's sport." she replied doubtfully. though of course I'm not at all.
" "Then I will find some other excuse for sitting here. "I have had a very bad illness."I am going to help you in this complicated task. and about the woodcock he brought down after we had all missed it." he declared." she assured him. "But I am not really delicate at all. I expect you are all very thirsty. I am so glad to be here with you." "I shall love to hear about that. "I am sure those sugar tongs are too heavy for you to wield alone." 136 . "How much sugar." she assented. and will you pass those hot muffins to the Princess? And please touch that bell. I shall want more hot water. please. but I am quite strong again. "I will tell you all about the high pheasants your husband killed." he said." She laughed at him gaily.
I have been met with a sincere desire to foster the growing 137 . From that part of the Cabinet with whom I have had to do. a weakness which in my younger days very nearly drove me out of diplomacy. "But to continue. There could be no possible advantage accruing from your labours here to compensate for the very bad effect which the discovery of your true name and position would have in the English Cabinet." "The sky certainly seems clear enough just now. I feel able to congratulate myself upon a certain measure of success. "that I am here as a blind servant of the Fatherland. in every concession I have asked for." the Ambassador said. I have sent a private despatch to Potsdam. "Von Ragastein. Prince Terniloff and his host climbed the snow-covered slope at the back of a long fir plantation. I detest espionage in every shape and form even where it is necessary. in which I have expressed that opinion. "I have convinced myself.Chapter 20 Arm in arm. towards the little beflagged sticks which indicated their stand. "I have not been overworked." the Prince continued. my young friend." agreed Dominey. "you have not been overworked because there has been no legitimate work for you to do." Dominey begged." "So far. I am now at the end of my first year in this country." "I will grant that freely." the Prince said emphatically. In every argument I have had. There will be none. There was not a human being in sight. I simply obey orders." the Prince consented." "My dear young friend. "I am going to give myself the luxury of calling you by your name." "I must ask you to remember. "that there is a genuine and solid desire for peace with Germany existing in Downing Street. for the rest of the guns had chosen a steeper but somewhat less circuitous route. So far as you are concerned. "I think your position ridiculous." he went on. You know my one weakness." Dominey remarked. I have received nothing but encouragement in my efforts to promote a better understanding between our two countries.
in character and in genius. sir. "the desire for war should come. my host. Every prospect of disagreement between our two countries upon any vital matter has now disappeared.friendship between our countries. "that you are not confusing personal popularity with national sentiment?" "I am sure of it." "That may be arranged. It has been my great pleasure to trace the result of my work in a manuscript of memoirs." "Unless. not from Downing Street but from Potsdam. I see." Dominey repeated. "I am acting under orders. "In the meantime." Dominey said. England is showing wonderful pliability with regard to our claims in Morocco. Von Ragastein. Stephanie and Dominey were alone for the first time since their stormy interview in the library." the Ambassador answered gravely. All that I have said so far has been by way of prelude. in commerce." "I should esteem it an immense privilege. Come to me after this drive is finished. 138 . "to be given a private reading of these memoirs." "We serve an honourable master." "Precisely." Dominey said thoughtfully. His will is for peace." Terniloff declared sternly. and for the great triumphs to which our country is already entitled by reason of her supremacy in industry. I have put on record there evidences of the really genuine sentiment in favour of peace which I have found amongst the present Cabinet. however." The weather had turned drier." "You are sure. after a few minutes passed on to Terniloff's stand. We have reached our stations. I want you to reconsider your position here. Von Ragastein. I shall cause to be published. "and he has shown me his mind. Even at the risk of offending France." the other acquiesced. No empire has ever hewn its way to permanent glory by the sword alone. the snow was crisp. and a little party of women from the Hall reached the guns before the beaters were through the wood. when peace is firmly established between our two countries. I am proud of my work here. I believe that I have brought Germany and England nearer together than they have been since the days of the Boer War. "but matters have changed very much during the last six months." "My position is not voluntary. Caroline and Stephanie both took their places by Dominey's side. "Such popularity as I may have achieved here has been due to an appreciation of the more healthy state of world politics now existing. which some day. The former. These are the weapons which will make Germany the greatest Power in the world." Dominey asked." was the suave reply.
"Shocking. "An interesting conversation in which my name has not been mentioned!" she repeated satirically. Leopold. to tell you the truth." he insisted. only one hope—to end the torture of these years of separation as speedily as may be. Her tone became more natural. Honestly." She made a little grimace. "But. My pride is humbled. "is the mildest word in my vocabulary which I can apply to your treatment of me. "When the time comes. I feel bruised all over inside." she murmured. I cannot live as two men and keep my face steadfast to 139 ." "Has he spoken to you about me?" "Your name has not yet been mentioned. none." "It is because you look at the matter only from a feminine point of view. Stephanie bided her time. In her wonderful furs and Russian turban hat she made a rather striking picture against the background of snow." Dominey persisted." Stephanie smiled." Stephanie repeated reverting to their conversation. only from a political one. "And you."Has Maurice been talking to you?" she asked a little abruptly. and Leopold Von Ragastein can claim all that is his right." she pleaded." Dominey confessed. Leopold." she answered in a low tone." The strained look passed from her face. which came when the beaters at last emerged from the wood. Your Sovereign gives you permission. believe me. You think a great deal of your country." "I am on the spot. you will have no cause to complain of coldness or dilatoriness." Dominey assured her. Dominey called the faithful Middleton to his side for a further supply of cartridges. Your political chief will more than endorse it." Dominey replied. "there is no need to wait. "and believe me I know what is safest and best. "Dear Maurice is so diplomatic. dear. Have I no claims upon you?" "Upon Everard Dominey. "I am perfectly certain he is going to begin by remonstrating you for your shocking treatment of me. "I think you were coming into it before very long. "once the fondest and the most passionate of lovers. "His Excellency and I are. "in the midst of a most interesting conversation. He will have only one thought." Their conversation was interrupted for a few minutes by the sport. "His Excellency warned me that all he had said so far was merely the prelude to a matter of larger importance.
" Stephanie turned a little haughtily away. as she deserted him a little later on to stand by Terniloff's side. with a little thrill of tangled emotions. Stephanie." "I have not the least intention of doing anything of the sort. You must have encouraged her. She walked with all the free and vigorous grace of a healthy woman. "Now let me hear what you have to say for yourself. I will hear what he has to say. The brisk walk across the park had brought colour to her cheeks. "My dear Everard. don't begin it here. Don't look so sorry for yourself. I know that woman. Rosamund had joined them and hung on to Dominey's arm with delight. sir? So far as I can see. She planted herself on a shooting stick by his side and commenced to take him roundly to task. however." "My dear Caroline. "Well. She looks at dear little Rosamund as though she hadn't a right to exist. has not spoken to me yet.the world. you've been quite sweet to your wife. Of that you may rest assured. don't go and make a fool of yourself with Stephanie. "You are putting me in the position of a supplicant!" she exclaimed. "you are one of the most wonderful examples of the reformed rake I ever met! You have even acquired respectability. For heaven's sake." she said. "To-night we must have an understanding. the exigencies of the next few minutes demanded it." The little party moved on all together to another cover. Everard. "What I want to say in plain words is. you are the master of your own actions. but for some reason or other she has set her mind upon you." Dominey was silent. He felt a touch on his arm. You'll have your wife ill again if you make her jealous. and she adores you. who was passing with another of the guns. If you want to have an affair with the Princess. Fortunately. paused to whisper in his ear: "There might be a greater danger—one that has evaded even your cautious mind—in overplaying your part!" Dominey was taken possession of by Caroline on their walk to the next stand. there will be no affair between Stephanie and me. are you not?" she asked." "Well." Dominey observed a little drearily. Dominey found himself watching her. She is clever and brilliant and anything else you like. His cousin waited patiently until there came a pause in the shooting. she has! Mark my words. The Prince. don't disappoint us all!" "I seem to be rather good at that." 140 .
" he said. I found it a little difficult to understand him. Yet the message which he delivered." the man replied. a foreigner of some sort. because there are a few grey hairs in my sandy ones. "You exaggerate her demeanour. and brought down a cock from very nearly the limit distance." Dominey was watching the gyrations of a falling pheasant. He is." he announced. "Is this person in a hurry?" he said. "A person of the name of Miller has arrived here."You mean to say that this is altogether on her side. but her Highness's maid conversed with him in German." he replied. "from Norwich. when at last he reached his master's side. Dominey felt from the moment he caught sight of him that he was in some respects a messenger of Fate. then?" Caroline persisted. "I would not do anything to hurt Rosamund for the world. and he is quite content to wait." "If you can't get rid of your old tricks altogether and must flirt. "well. with whom you were acquainted in Africa. was in no way alarming. Parkins was not dressed for such an enterprise. If you want to talk nonsense with Stephanie. and Dominey swung round and stood at attention. He let a hen pheasant pass over his head." Dominey found himself watching with fixed eyes the approach of his rather sad-faced manservant through the snow. and. His left hand was stretched out towards the cartridge bag which Caroline was holding." The warning whistle blew at that moment. who has recently landed in this country. "but even if what you suggest were true—" "Oh. because I don't believe you do. sir. sir. nor did he seem in any way to relish it. His was the stern march of duty. curiously enough. He reloaded before he turned to Parkins. "By no means." 141 . and I understand that he either is or brings you a message from a certain Doctor Schmidt. He clasped her fingers for a moment before he helped himself. His behaviour was perfectly normal. So long as nothing has happened to your cook. "You are rather a dear. do it in Belgrave Square. Rosamund wouldn't mind me. I understand. you must be extraordinarily and wonderfully careful. I feel that I could face ill tidings with composure.—And here comes your man across the park—looks as though he had a message for you. having really brought your wife back almost to health. All I want to point out is that." she remarked. "I told him that you would not be back until three or four o'clock. I don't want a lot of protestations!" she interrupted. "I am not saying that you encourage her much. I'm always somewhere about.
Caroline was watching her companion curiously. "who really does not count because we crossed together. Everard?" she asked.Dominey nodded. this is my first visitor from the land of fortune." 142 . looking through the barrels of his gun." Dominey replied. Colonials have a wonderful habit of sticking to one another. Very likely I will send Mr. "Except for Seaman. Seaman back to talk to him. Parkins. "Do you find many of your acquaintances in Africa look you up." The man raised his hat respectfully and turned back towards the house. I expect there will be plenty of them by and by." he directed. "Look after him yourself then. though. "We shall not be shooting late to-day.
Dominey watched them.Chapter 21 There was nothing in the least alarming about the appearance of Mr. Dominey read the few lines which seemed to take him back for a moment to another world: "Honoured and Honourable Sir. Ludwig Miller. 143 . But for some slight indications of military training. "I am a cousin of Doctor Schmidt." With a little flourish the man produced an envelope inscribed: To Sir Everard Dominey. Baronet. He rose to his feet at Dominey's entrance and stood at attention. Also this letter. Neither betrayed himself by even the fall of an eyelid. In the County of Norfolk. an acquaintance of mine in East Africa." he announced. Dominey broke the seal just as Seaman entered. felt the unspoken. Seaman came home from South Africa with me." he explained to his visitor. Dominey Hall. his perceptive powers at their very keenest in this moment which instinct told him was one of crisis. I arrived in the Colony from Rhodesia. The two men looked steadily into each other's eyes. Have I seen you before?" The man shook his head. "Mr. "A messenger here from Doctor Schmidt. after your Excellency had left. He had been exceedingly well entertained in the butler's private sitting-room and had the air of having done full justice to the hospitality which had been offered him. unbetokened recognition which passed between them." "And how is the doctor?" "My cousin is. as always. he would have passed anywhere as a highly respectable retired tradesman. Some commonplace remark was uttered and responded to. fascinated. "That is my name. Yet Dominey. "He sends his respectful compliments and his good wishes. busy but in excellent health. England. "Sir Everard Dominey?" he enquired. Dominey nodded assent." was the reply.
was unperformed. Miller." Dominey remarked." "This is queer news you have brought us." Dominey assented. The man left his encampment with whisky enough to kill him. "deserted by his boys and raving. "My cousin. "KARL SCHMIDT." Dominey shook his head incredulously. however. "You can speak to him as to myself. desired me to point out to you the fact that in any case he would probably be shy of doing so. he is in a very weakly state." The man began as one who has a story to tell." Miller continued. thirst enough to drink it all. To silence him forever was a child's task." he declared." "Does he call himself by his own name?" Dominey asked. You may speak freely with him. Ludwig Miller. "My errand here is to warn you. "He does not. the fact remains that he is in the Colony." "My cousin himself. and without a doubt he is to some degree insane." "So I found him. He will lay before you certain circumstances of which it is advisable for you to have knowledge. He is behaving in an absurd manner. on the banks of the Blue River. as he passed the letter to Seaman. "From three places in the colony he has been heard of. "Our friend here knows everything."I send you my heartiest and most respectful greeting." Seaman said thoughtfully. "I hope you have not come all this way to tell me that! The man was dead. however. and no food. or was three months ago. He is in all respects to be trusted. 144 . "was hard to convince." he said. "Come. Nevertheless. struggling to make his way to the coast. "that the Englishman whom you left for dead at Big Bend. Dominey affected to misunderstand his hesitation. I am sent to warn you in order that you may take whatever steps may be necessary and not be placed at a disadvantage if he should appear." Miller admitted. what about these circumstances?" Ludwig Miller looked around the little room and then at Seaman. "I recommend to your notice and kindness my cousin." the other persisted." "The task. Of the progress of all matters here you will learn from another source. the bearer of this letter—Mr. and that if he succeeds in reaching the coast you may at any time be surprised by a visit from him here. has been heard of in another part of Africa." (Signed) "Your cousin is a little mysterious.
"That is not my name. He first thought of writing a very long letter." was the reply. dropping his voice." "It is a very good name. we have met." "You have remembered all that he told you?" Dominey asked. There are things connected with it which he has never understood. after a moment's pause. Miller stared at it blankly and shook his head. Afterwards he changed his mind. I am just a messenger. "this other European. things connected with it which he has always found mysterious. and I know nothing of this matter beyond what I have told you. Attached to the left-hand side of it was a bronze decoration." "It was to warn you of that possibility that I am here." the man replied." Seaman reminded him softly but very insistently. Doctor Schmidt knew that. if he had business in this direction." "You have no idea with whom you are talking?" "Herr Seaman was the name."It is news which greatly disturbed Doctor Schmidt." Seaman asked. might walk in here at any moment. "I can think of nothing else. "Information Department. in an altered tone. and I have been a trader in Mozambique in a small way. my friend." he repeated." "Hence your presence here. 145 . Bureau Twelve." he admitted. with lettering and a number. password—'The Day is coming." "Once in Vienna and twice in Cracow. "A mistake.'" Seaman continued." Seaman scoffed. "of the existent circumstances?" The man shook his head vaguely. "Johann Wolff." "How much do you know personally. Nothing can shake their story." "If we believed it. The visitor's expression remained unchanged except for the faint surprise which shone out of his blue eyes. I have been in Vienna once many years ago. I supplied outfits for officers and hospitals and sportsmen. Johann Wolff?" Seaman asked. "I know nothing. "I went out to East Africa some years ago. He wrote only these few lines I brought. "He has had the natives up one after another for cross-examination. I understood." He undid his coat and waistcoat and displayed a plain vest of chamois leather. I am Ludwig Miller. "The whole affair has been a great worry to Doctor Schmidt. but he told me those other things. but Cracow never. "Look here and think. The other shook his head gently. and he came to see me just before I sailed." Seaman continued. Now and then I have to return to Europe to buy fresh stock.
" Seaman sat and studied this obstinate visitor for several minutes without speaking. I love the English country. his finger tips pressed together. of course. calm. I spend my holiday here. "to stay in these parts long?" "One or two days—a week. Mr." "I shall gladly spend the night here." Seaman replied gravely. His name is Wolff—Johann Wolff. and your attitude towards me is indefensible." "You are making a great mistake. "I have a cousin in Norwich who makes toys." the culprit begged. "I dare say Mr." Seaman declared angrily. phlegmatic. Seaman would like to have another talk with you in the morning." The latter rose to his feet." was the polite reply. however. his eyebrows gently contracted." was the indifferent answer. "I do not think that I have anything to say. "The man is a spy." 146 . Dominey had already turned towards the door. "I am your superior in the Service.His listener shook his head and smiled with the puzzled ignorance of a child. "The English country under a foot of snow! So you have nothing more to say to me. your Excellency. Herr Seaman. Johann Wolff?" "I have executed my mission to his Excellency. perhaps. "Do you propose." "Just so. perhaps." he replied." "If the gentleman would only believe." "And this story of his?" "You ought to be the best judge of that. a favourite in the Wilhelmstrasse and only made use of on important occasions. but there is a great deal that I know. His vis-a-vis endured this scrutiny without flinching. "that he is mistaking me for some one else!" There was trouble in Seaman's face as the two men made their way to the front of the house and trouble in his tone as he answered his companion's query. the very prototype of the bourgeois German of the tradesman class. "What do you think of that fellow and his visit?" "I do not know what to think. Wolff. "You will spend the night here." Seaman muttered grimly. "I am sorry to have caused displeasure to you." was the apologetic reply. "I know nothing of these things. "The gentleman mistakes me for some one else. which would interest your friend. Miller?" he invited." Dominey enquired.
was summoned imperiously to her side by the Princess Eiderstrom. as they emerged into the hall. and I will show you how I made a living for two months at Johannesberg!" 147 . Dominey took it from the salver with a little nod." Seaman." Dominey assented confidently." the man announced." he proposed." he replied. Parkins' room—to Mr. He was followed by his valet. "Give you a black at snooker. what?" Dominey took his arm and led him into the billiard-room. having discarded some of his soaked shooting garments. "Without the shadow of a doubt I threw the body of the man I killed into the Blue River and watched it sink. in a low tone." the young man confessed. "For some reason or other we have come under the suspicion of our own secret service. Eddy. Seaman. "They tell me that pool is one of your greatest accomplishments. with a satisfied chuckle." Seaman decided. Then he turned to where the youngest and most frivolous of his guests were in the act of rising from the tea table." "Then the story is a fake. "You will give me nothing. "From the person in Mr. young fellow. bearing a note upon a silver tray. "A game of pills."I am. Dominey disappeared for a moment and returned presently." "I'm pretty useful. "Set them up. sir.
Dominey was absent for a few minutes and returned with Rosamund upon his arm. "Let me now.Chapter 22 The evening at Dominey hall was practically a repetition of the previous one. 148 ." "I am entirely at your service. with a different set of guests from the outer world. Therefore. I trust. Dominey. and a little court soon gathered around her. remained upon the outskirts. "I have tried to make you understand that from my own point of view—and I am in a position to know something—the fear of war between this country and our own has passed." Dominey had risen to his feet and was standing on the hearthrug. therefore there will be peace. "continue and." "I am scarcely my own master. with some eagerness in his tone. my dear host. she intends peace. After dinner. To my mind. She wants peace. I maintain. who had been dining." "Join your protests with mine. in front of a fire of blazing logs. the matter is urgent. "You yourself must know that. satisfied that she was being entertained. thin cigars which were his particular fancy. smoking one of the long. I am here as a servant under orders. the friendship between us which has become a real pleasure to me must seriously undermine my own position. obeyed Terniloff's gestured behest and strolled with him to a distant corner of the hall." Dominey replied." murmured his host. Doctor Harrison. listening to her lighthearted and at times almost brilliant chatter with grave and watchful interest. my young friend. it is far better for you to disappear at once from this false position. England is willing to make all reasonable sacrifices to ensure peace. She received the congratulations of her neighbours charmingly. If anything should lead to the discovery of your false position in this country. conclude the conversation to which all that I said this morning was merely the prelude. The Ambassador was sitting with crossed legs in a comfortable easy-chair. "I will make a report directly I get back to London." the Prince began." the Prince suggested.
Therefore. Maurice seems." Dominey continued. "I should consider my position here one of dishonour." Stephanie declared." 149 ." the Ambassador said quietly. my friend." Dominey said." "If I shared that belief with you. So far as I am concerned I have never met any one." her host assured her." He turned away and Stephanie sank into his vacant place." "Then I shall claim you for a while. "Send me away if I am. taking Dominey's arm. "That I am sure of." "A fallacy?" "You have come to the absolute conclusion. broke away from a distant group and came towards them. I cannot remember that you ever met before. whose character I admire more." she remarked. she moved listlessly. except for that day or two in Saxony?" "That is so." he said. "Lady Dominey has attracted all the men to her circle. "have reached a cul-de-sac in our argument. "I deny the cul-de-sac. "have come to a disagreement. and she even spoke with less than her usual assurance. and I am lonely. to have taken a wonderful liking to you. with the air of one a little weary of the conversation. I believe that in time they will thrust their will upon the Kaiser. of any nation. "So you and my cousin. as she made room for Dominey to sit by her side." "Not an unfriendly one." "His Excellency and I. "there is just one fallacy in all that you have said. and my charge is from the Kaiser's lips." Dominey observed.—the blank wall of good-natured but fundamental disagreement. The first time I exchanged any intimate conversation with the Prince was in London. "but I yield our host! I shall seek my opponent at billiards. "that because England wants peace there will be peace. if he is not at the present moment secretly in league with them."Your Excellency." The Prince bowed. I believe in the ultimate power of the military party of Germany. but I cannot help feeling that the pleasant intimacy to which he has admitted me is to a large extent owing to the desire of our friends in Berlin. I am of Seaman's mind. "Am I disturbing a serious conversation?" she asked. My mandate is for peace. indeed. I have the utmost respect and regard for him. I believe that there will be war." Stephanie. Her beautiful eyes seemed tired.
" she observed cuttingly. As a rule. and I was she." he protested." Dominey begged earnestly. I have never been a diplomat. "Such as?" "You are absolutely callous. He is one of the few great aristocrats I have met who carries his nobility of birth into his simplest thought and action. Not even the whip of a royal command. you are not like him." "And what delay do you think." "Believe that for a little time." "The Prince is an idealist. not even all that I have to offer. "Sometimes I wonder why he was sent here. "which would break his heart. "Just for a moment. "would the Leopold Von Ragastein of six years ago have pleaded for? Delay! He found words then which would have melted an iceberg. He found words the memory of which comes to me sometimes in the night and which mock me. you know." Dominey reminded her earnestly." She shrugged her shoulders. "you were like Leopold. and her eyes lit up." "Well. And now—" Dominey felt a strange pang of distress. He had no country then save the paradise where lovers walk. why they did not send some one of a more intriguing character." she broke off." she added. She saw the unusual softening in his face. "is delay." "And that?" "The subject upon which you two disagree—a war between Germany and this country." "I do not admit it. There is just one thing. 150 . can give me even five seconds of happiness. I take with me the letter which should have brought me happiness." she continued. I think that you left him somewhere in Africa and came home in his likeness. absolutely without heart or sympathy where your work is concerned."Maurice lives his life loftily. "that no ambassador can remain a gentleman—politically. "a very miserable and unhappy woman. with a sudden note of passion in her tone." she observed." "All that I have pleaded for. The love for which I have sacrificed my life has failed me." Dominey replied. I should think. "You have many qualifications. "I go back to London to-morrow. no ruler but a queen. "You agree with that great Frenchman." she asked." Dominey said. so I cannot say.
in trouble—perhaps ill. Perhaps before you came here you played the part of Leopold. "you are coming round to my way of thinking. her hands were extended as though to prevent any chance of his approaching her again." she whispered. "I think you have blundered. "My friend." She came a little nearer." She led him across the hall to where little groups of people were gossiping. if you please. Love cannot die as you would have me believe." he said. was lecturing on mines. You are not my Leopold. playing bridge." he replied. "There is no Leopold here. "No. You play the part of Everard Dominey like a very king of actors. I quite appreciate your general principles of behaving internally and externally as though you were the person whom you pretend to be." "With the Princess. Here they were alone. but Stephanie's fingers never left her companion's arm. There are words Leopold used to use which I have never heard from your lips. that I was not your Leopold—that I was Everard Dominey. "Upon the lips. and their lips met." declared Seaman. "Kiss me—upon the lips." "Now. He held her. They stopped to say a word or two here and there. Her lips drew nearer to his. She laid her hands upon his shoulders and looked up into his eyes. "Now I know the truth." "Anything more from Schmidt's supposed emissary?" Seaman asked quickly. and Seaman. from the very first moment we met at the Carlton."What if it were true?" she asked abruptly. Then she stood apart from him. "you yourself have said it. and I advise you to do the same. Dominey found an opportunity to draw Seaman away from his little group of investment-seeking friends. stooped down." he said coolly. I have been assuring you." she exclaimed suddenly. rising to her feet. But you should know when to 151 ." she muttered." she ordered. I am going to keep away from him this evening. Her eyes were for a moment closed. and the man I love is there still. It is the very essence of all successful espionage. Is not West Africa the sorcerer's paradise? Perhaps you are an imposter. They passed down a corridor hung with a collection of wonderful sporting prints in which she affected some interest." "I shall put you to the test. Leopold. The trouble is with the Princess. "trouble grows. into a small gallery which led into the ballroom. "There are times when I do not recognise you. the center of a little group of gullible amateur speculators. "Your arm.
" Seaman interrupted. I tell you frankly that I could not bear to see you playing the idiot for a moment with Lady Dominey. She thinks I have borrowed some West African magic. Mangan has taught me a new Patience. "She has gone off to bed now. "it's time to knock off for the evening." She turned very sweetly to Everard. "First of all." he directed. "Leave it to me. I see no objection whatever to your treating the Princess in a more human manner. she prefers England. to your visiting her in London. but with the Princess. She knows what she is doing." Dominey acknowledged." "Well. supposing by any thousand to one chance the story of this cousin of Schmidt's should be true. that I have left her lover's soul out there and come home in his body. and giving her more ardent proofs of your continued affection. She cares nothing for Germany's future. Everard!" she exclaimed. "Over in the west wing. and there is a definite tie between you. I have done it. And then. "I have been enjoying myself so much. scruples don't enter into the question at all." "Well." Doctor Harrison intervened a little gruffly. "the Princess is a woman of the world. and she is leaving early to-morrow morning. As a matter of fact. still alive? The Princess is not of German birth. On the other hand. will it not?" "Has the Princess a suite of rooms here?" Seaman enquired." "Am I!" Dominey replied gloomily." "If I once begin—" "Look here. They say that an Englishman has as many lives as a cat. "Everybody has been so kind. She will not think of going to bed at this time of night." Dominey played the host first and then the husband. like a great many Hungarians." Seaman nodded. "you are out of your troubles. "You go out and play the host. she may do a lot of mischief before she goes. 152 .make exceptions. I think. In the parlance of this country of idioms. that will rather upset the apple cart. if she does. and Mr. and she should find Dominey out there." Seaman declared." "And now. you know. You should by no means make an enemy of her. Good idea! You go and see what you can do with her. I think. Supposing that chap Dominey did come to life again and she brings him home? You say yourself that you do not mean to make much use of me until after the war has started. I see grave objections myself to your obeying the Kaiser's behest. Rosamund welcomed him with a little cry of pleasure.
Is the Princess Eiderstrom there?" "I am afraid that she has gone to bed. 153 . isn't he?" she complained to Dominey. "Pray do not move. nurse." Dominey answered." he answered. I will not be anybody else's. "If I am not your husband. Is she very fond of you. and I have seen her looking at you sometimes—Of course."Will you take me upstairs?" she begged." "Why. Everard?" "I think that I am rather in her bad books just at present. isn't it. Then she drew his face down and kissed him. so that I can say good-bye to every one else." Rosamund held his hands." was the gruff reply. "Yes. promising to sit up a little later the next evening. reading. "as I am not really your wife and you are not really my husband. "Please take me through the hall.—Everard?" "Yes." Rosamund went on. You see. When are you coming to see me. He took her to the door of her room and looked in. as they passed out of the room. you look very comfortable here." she admitted." "I love you to say that." Rosamund's farewells were not easily made." Rosamund said wistfully. Dominey led the way upstairs." she laughed. you talk to me as though I were a child. "You are as well as any woman here. Everard?" "Not a bit. Doctor Harrison?" "Nothing to see you for. Terniloff especially seemed reluctant to let her go. my stern husband is taking me off." Dominey assured her." "I should have been very disappointed if I had been too late." "She is very beautiful. however. "it's very comfortable. good-bye. Look how cross the Duchess looks! Some one must have played the wrong card. "Well. "Now say good night to everybody." she said a little plaintively. "I wish she looked as though she liked me a little more. as though reluctant to let him go. curiously gratified at her lingering progress. dear?" She drew his head down and whispered in his ear. "She said something about a headache. everybody. "Well. The nurse was sitting in an easy-chair. "but it seems wrong somewhere. and the maid was sewing in the background. "I wonder! I am very observant." Dominey confessed. with a little sigh. then." "Just a little unsympathetic. it is very stupid of me to feel jealous. "I have been hoping so much that you would come before Doctor Harrison sent me off. She excused herself gracefully." he declared cheerfully.
" he replied." She paused for a moment to listen. I dare say. that bully of a doctor of yours insists upon ten hours' sleep. dear. "Wasn't that a car?" she asked." She sighed like a disappointed child. "Some of our guests going early. as he turned away."May I come in and say good night for two minutes?" He smiled—a wonderfully kind smile—but shook his head. "Not to-night. Besides. "The Prince loves to sit up late. and I shall be downstairs with him. "Very well. 154 ." he replied.
unfavourable. I do not understand his language myself. "Has he locked himself in?" "He has left the Hall. also the wine-cellar key and the key of the plate chest. sir. Parkins always does it. sir. The news was a shock to him. I will speak to Mr. as he turned away." was the respectful reply. "What is your position here?" he asked his informant. Miller. None of the other servants use the room except at Mr. "I am. grave-faced man in sombre black came out from an adjoining apartment. He took advantage of the car which went down to the station for the evening papers and caught the last train. for some reason or other. Parkins' invitation. I think his name was—to the station. if this man has left the door here is locked?" "Mr." Seaman replied. Parkins later. Pelham's servant. There was no reply." Seaman was silent for a moment. sir. He made his way instead to the servants' quarters and knocked at the door of the butler's sitting-room. sir." "Good night. A tall. sir?" he enquired. sir!" "Left!" Seaman repeated." "Can you tell me why." Seaman had the air of a man not wholly satisfied. "You are looking for the person who arrived this evening from abroad. "Mr. "Is it usual to lock up a sitting-room in this fashion?" he asked. "Much obliged for your information. He accompanied—Mr. Parkins locked it before he went out. The door was locked.Chapter 23 Seaman did not at once start on his mission to the Princess. "I am Mr." Seaman said. sir!" 155 . sir. "Do you mean gone away for good?" "Apparently. "My name is Reynolds. Reynolds!" "Good night. He tried the handle in vain." "I will let him know that you desire to see him." "I understand. but I believe he considered his reception here. Reynolds. The cabinets of cigars are kept there.
his aptitude has been marvellous. his major-domo in this enterprise." "It is when that time comes. I beg you to reconsider your decision. I try to point out the paths of danger and of safety." Seaman said impressively. Mr. and made his way up the southern flight of stairs toward the west wing. "I have been insulted in this house. as it happens. with a low bow. "believe me. "I know what is at the back of your mind. I understand. "we are in despair at your desertion. "I hope he does." Seaman declared. "that our friend has accommodated himself wonderfully to English life and customs?" "You must remember that he was educated here. the typical English country gentleman. of 156 ." he continued." she remarked calmly. I have watched over him from the start. "Princess. exchanged a few remarks here and there. She was seated in front of the fire." "It has doubtless occurred to you. I try to show him where to avoid mistakes. I brought him from Africa. Stephanie consented without hesitation to receive him. however. You have seen our gracious master lately?" he added hesitatingly. I am to a certain extent. I do not wish to presume upon my position. So much the greater will be the rapture with which he will throw himself on his knees before you." she agreed." Seaman shook his head reproachfully. "Yes! Before the summer is over I am to pack up my trunks and fly." she replied. reading a novel. the matter which is causing you distress. I am only a German tradesman. What is going to be his real value to you? What work will he do?" "We are keeping him for the big things. "Your Highness. of the truth of this matter. needlessly hard upon himself. Nevertheless. "To-morrow I leave it.Seaman passed back again to the crowded hall and billiard-room. Yet I know much. in a boudoir opening out of her bedroom." "I should imagine Sir Everard finds you useful. Seaman. admitted to the circles like these for reasons connected solely with the welfare of my country." she continued." she said." "One might almost call it supernatural. So much the greater will be his reward when the end comes. "Tell me." She put down her book. you seem to have been completely successful in the installation of our friend here as Sir Everard. "that we expect Sir Everard Dominey." "Has he sent you to reason with me?" "Not directly. Our friend here is. I think. Two brains are better than one.
our fingers will never leave the pulse of Britain's day by day life. Princess. I have watched him day by day. a scoffing or an angry sentence. if not in this country. I am here to implore you to take no rash step. please. But I am here to plead for patience. realised the change in her. I would not like that word to be spoken in the presence of any one who knew your history and realised 157 . My confidence in him has grown." Stephanie threw herself back in her easy-chair and clasped her hands behind her head. to be of use to us. I implore your patience. to do nothing which might imperil in any way his position here. then? Answer me. "that in some corner of the world. "These things you are expecting from our present host?" "We are. I know. aerodromes and harbours. Seaman. from his town house in Berkeley Square. She sat looking into the fire. You can see for yourself the advantage we gain in having a confidential correspondent who can day by day reflect the changing psychology of the British mind in all its phases. "I am afraid of nothing—directly. I implore you to believe what I know so well. calling up of soldiers—all these are the A B C of our secret service profession. sailings of convoys. of the best brains of the country. yet found something of mystery in her new detachment of manner. of soldiers. because the man for whom you care has chosen to place his country first. but. your lover." "Indirectly." he urged. Plans of ships. I am no judge of the things that happen there. The authorised staff of our secret service can only work underneath." "What are you afraid that I shall do?" she asked curiously. He will plead his own cause when the time comes. Most of our present helpers will be under suspicion." he admitted frankly.—that it is the sternest sense of duty only which is the foundation of Leopold Von Ragastein's obdurate attitude. you might whisper a word. and we expect to get them." "I am afraid. We have quite enough of the other sort of help arranged for. "Your Highness.whose loyalty there has never been a word of doubt. keenly observant as always." Stephanie was silent. "I am not here to speak on behalf of the man who at heart is. We shall never ask our friend here for a single fact. the host of Cabinet Ministers. But in your heart I feel there is bitterness. which would make people wonder what grudge you had against a simple Norfolk baronet. I stand outside the gates of the world which your sex can make a paradise.
" Dominey replied." she announced. and his favourite taxicab man was the first to know about it. What I shall carry away with me in my heart is not for you or any man to know." Dominey replied.the rather amazing likeness between Sir Everard Dominey and Baron Leopold Von Ragastein. towards the end of breakfast time. "He was wanted in town. "His tailor?" "Business of importance was his pretext. "Mr. a faint smile parting her lips. "He received a small legacy last year. Eddy Pelham's empty place was the first to attract notice." "You're not suggesting. and held out her hand in token of dismissal. "I am going to take a sea voyage." "I see." Mangan confessed. "It was quite one of the events of the day to see his costume after shooting. Mr. looking round from the sideboard. "As a matter of fact. "He shot rather well the last two days. Seaman. I do not think that you need have many fears. Pelham is a director of the Chelsea Motor Works. "Where's the pink and white immaculate?" the Right Honourable gentleman asked." she exclaimed." "Fancy any one wanting Eddy for any serious purpose!" Caroline murmured. There was a little ripple of good-humoured laughter. "Fancy any one wanting him badly enough to drag him out of bed in the middle of the night with a telephone call and send him up to town by the breakfast train from Norwich!" their host continued. "I thought we had started a new ghost when he came into my room in a purple dressing-gown and broke the news." "His bridge was reasonably good." Mangan remarked. "I should think such a thing has never happened to him before. "that it is business of that sort which has taken Eddy away!" "I should think it most improbable. "I miss my morning wonder as to how he tied his tie." "You are going back to Berlin—to Hungary?" She shook her head. yawning." the Duke commented." "Gone. In a few days I shall leave this country. beckoned her maid to open the door. "Well." she acknowledged." Mangan told them." Dominey observed." "Who wanted him?" the Duke enquired." "We shall miss him. "I shall go to Africa. "Gone?" every one repeated. "Does Eddy do anything for a living?" Caroline asked." Stephanie murmured." The morrow was a day of mild surprises. 158 . he asked me the other day if I knew where their premises were.
who had been unusually silent." Dominey vanished into the nether regions. Pelham's valet he turned out to be—told me that he had left in the car which went for the evening papers." Caroline concluded. I am uncomfortable. and I suppose he 159 . When there is a thing which I do not understand. and saw nothing of his disturbed guest again until they were walking to the first wood." he said. He left no message whatever for either you or me." he confided. "All I can tell you is that I made up my mind last night to interview him once more and try to fathom his very mysterious behaviour." "Whose?" Dominey asked. "My friend. "that his departure was indicative of a certain distrust in us. A bed was arranged for him—or rather it is always there—in a small apartment opening out of the butler's room. Now I think Eddy would have looked nice in brown." Seaman was thoughtful. He came to find out something. "I do not know whether you have heard. "There is no doubt." Seaman replied. "Our friend Miller. "apparently made up his mind to go quite suddenly. followed him. "The affair disconcerts me because I do not understand it. spent half an hour with Rosamund. "Well?" Seaman enquired. on the ground floor. "that he was going to wear brown to-day. I found the door of your butler's sitting-room locked. but there was a curious disappearance from the Hall last night. or Wolff—Doctor Schmidt's emissary. A few moments later Dominey rose and left the room." "Disappeared?" Dominey repeated. "Our friend." "I will go and make some enquiries." Dominey announced. "If you please. and a very civil fellow—Mr." Dominey decided. "I suppose he is having a prowl round somewhere." Seaman acquiesced."And he had told me confidentially. Then he insisted upon accompanying him." "I have left it to you to make more careful enquiries. and when he found there was a train to Norwich he simply bade them both good night." Seaman announced. He said nothing about leaving until he saw Parkins preparing to go down to the station with the chauffeur. They had a moment together after Dominey had pointed out the stands. "has disappeared. Seaman. after a moment's puzzled consideration. pausing in the act of selecting a cigarette." The missing young man's requiem was finished by the arrival of the local morning papers.
We are to be relieved of any anxiety concerning her for some time. "You will find yourself minus another guest when you return this afternoon. The Princess is angry. swinging round as a single Frenchman with a dull whiz crossed the hedge behind them and fell a little distance away. however threatening they are." Seaman replied. "even if I am to be left alone. I am most unhappy. I do not fear." "My anxieties have also been aroused in another direction. a crumpled heap of feathers." Dominey acknowledged." "We will try a partridge for a change. "I did my best with her last night. "Neat." Seaman assented." "Well. I think?" he added.found it out. I envy you your composure. "there is nothing here which seriously threatens our position. "The fellow seemed to me quite harmless." "I cannot take this matter very seriously. Things which I do not understand oppress me. however. "Why the mischief is she going out there?" he asked. Let our clear consciences console us." Dominey observed. my friend. I must not stay here longer. She has decided to take a sea voyage. We live on the brink of a volcano. "but I feel uneasy. my friend. "I can no more tell you that. He turned slowly around and looked into his companion's expressionless face. but I found her in a most peculiar frame of mind. This man Wolff could make no adverse report about either of us." "Where to?" "Africa!" Dominey paused in the act of inserting a cartridge into his gun. "Come." Dominey laughed quietly. with faint sarcasm. "Marvellous!" Seaman replied. We are doing our job and doing it well." Seaman admitted." Seaman confided." "In every respect except as regards the Princess. and you shoot pheasants." Seaman replied. "Any other trouble looming?" Dominey asked." "The Princess?" "The Princess." "That is well. I think I can be trusted." Dominey observed." 160 . Too intimate an association between you and me is unwise. "than why Johann Wolff was sent over here to spy upon our perfect work. "I envy your nerve. turning to his companion." he said. "your deportment has been most discreet. but she is not likely to give us away. The things which I understand.
Caroline made a little grimace at her host. I approve. with notes and messages for everybody."Except as regards the Princess." Dominey mused. in her husband being killed in a duel and her lover being banished from the country. Ludwig appears to be one of those unsolved mysteries which go to make up an imperfect world." Caroline replied. is worth taking trouble about." Caroline said reminiscently. He had no luggage but a walking stick. she's not quite the sort of woman to be content with a banished lover. after all?" Caroline enquired. "I think men have generally found her so. perhaps. "He was a fat. my friend." "I wonder whether she is." 161 . Everard. flaxen-haired German who brought me messages from old friends in Africa. I think your wife. I cannot understand your point of view in this matter. I must say on the whole I am delighted with our visit. and now Stephanie." "Well. Ludwig Miller. She is perfectly sweet." "You do not know the Princess. which ended. You could not expect me to mix up a secret honeymoon with my present commitments!" "There might surely have been some middle way?" Seaman persisted. Rosamund joined them for luncheon. "First Eddy." "You are very gracious. Still. I fancied I noticed distinct signs of her being willing to replace him whilst she has been down here!" "I feel as though a blight had settled upon my house party. counting everything. "You're in trouble!" she whispered in his ear. and I suppose the others. "She had one wonderful love affair. but she is an exceedingly dangerous person." "And who on earth was Mr. expecting to see a little more of you. Ludwig Miller. "I came. I like Stephanie. "All the same. "You show so much tact in other matters. "To-morrow Henry and I are off. "but there is a very great compensation for my disappointment." Dominey repeated irritably." Dominey murmured. and he seems to have upset the male part of my domestics last night by accepting a bed and then disappearing!" "With the plate?" "Not a thing missing." Dominey muttered. "Really. we've had a jolly time. bringing news of Stephanie's sudden departure. and her manners are most attractive." Dominey remarked with bland irrelevancy. Parkins spent an agonised half hour. Mr. then Mr." she went on deliberately. as you know.
" she sighed. as a rule so slow and measured. "There is still an aftermath to our troubles. Tragedy. He hesitated for a moment. just fitted to be the protector of anything so sweet and charming as Rosamund. looking at him with a puzzled expression." he told her. Why do you have that funny little man Seaman always round with you? You're not being blackmailed or anything. "Are you still worried about that Unthank affair?" she asked." he told her. and a very important one. He will drift away presently. a certain almost desperate resignation." She studied him curiously. "Everard. "I am afraid of my feelings for her. You are a strong." "Don't talk rubbish!" Caroline exclaimed. "I believe you are in love with your wife. "One would think that there was a side of your life." "Seaman is a good-hearted little fellow. Everard." "You take yourself very seriously." She shrugged her shoulders. She looked away from him. which you kept entirely to yourself."I am very glad you think that. It may bring even another tragedy down upon us." she remarked." he muttered. "What tragedy could come between you now? You've recovered your balance. steadfast person. "whether you were going to stand for Parliament on the Anglo-German alliance ticket." 162 . Everard." There was a strange." she observed. indeed! Why don't you take her down to the South of France. I shall clear it up in time. "I believe I am.—a certain fear." he said warmly. "I have made a little money once or twice on the Stock Exchange. "Seaman was the first founder of my fortunes. are you?" "On the contrary." she concluded drily. "one cloud which leans over us. "but I didn't have to carry my broker about in my pocket afterwards. and he loves companionship. Even his voice. shook with an emotion which amazed his companion.—but other things may happen first. a certain fondness. There were times when he seemed wholly incomprehensible to her." "Henry began to wonder. and have your honeymoon all over again?" "I can't do that just yet. and one won't see anything of him for ages. almost a terrible mixture of expressions in his face as he answered.
"I have had some thoughts of Parliament. Henry need not worry." 163 . "but—well. He gave the signal to rise.Dominey laughed as he caught Middleton's reproachful eye in the doorway of the farmer's kitchen in which they were hunching." he admitted.
" he said. your personation will be regarded as a private enterprise." "Up to the present that is absolutely so. "That. to leave in your hands all such unfulfilled work as can be continued in secrecy and silence." "It is understood. "I know only one name here. I had despatches from Berlin last night. if the black end should come." "Dominey. in the event of war. He spoke then more intimately. and there is nothing whatever to connect you with any political work." Dominey seemed to stiffen a little. His first few words were of formal thanks." "I understand perfectly." Dominey shook his head and glanced behind." the Prince continued. I am assured that if your expose should take place at any time. I will confess that you play and carry the part through perfectly.Chapter 24 The next morning saw the breaking-up of Dominey's carefully arranged shooting party. "is a personal matter. Prince. then. For that reason I am begged to inaugurate terms of intimacy with you." Dominey agreed. "I am further advised to look upon you as my unnamed and unsuspected successor here. as the cars were being loaded up. to treat you with the utmost confidence. and. and you have the trick of the thing. They want to keep every 164 . "The authorities have changed their first idea as to my presence here. What I am now going to say to you is official. "I desire to refer back for a moment to our conversation the other day. The Prince took his host's arm and led him to one side for a few moments. for one." the Ambassador continued. I have known English gentlemen all my life." Dominey replied. I have already told you of my disapproval of this scheme in which you are the central figure. But listen. They concern you. I perhaps express myself in a somewhat confused manner. "that you practically exist only in the event of that catastrophe which I. "Well?" "I am given to understand. "Von Ragastein. cannot foresee." Dominey assented.
"What I have to say to you. "I wanted to hear that from you. the little procession of cars drove off. "My instructions are." the Ambassador assented. therefore. and I never knew any one with such delightful manners as Prince Terniloff." "You are very kind. changing the subject of their conversation abruptly. soon after." Terniloff shook hands heartily. so that in the event of war I shall have an absolutely unique position. I venture now upon a somewhat delicate question." Dominey replied thoughtfully. "I only wish that I had seen more of them. either for their passions or their policy. as they turned back along the terrace. an unsuspected yet fervently patriotic German. as soon as I have consolidated my position here—an event which I fancy I may consider attained—to establish myself in London and to await orders.shadow of suspicion away from me. dear?" 165 . and they reflect a desire and intention for peace which will. I trust that amongst other things you will then permit me to examine the memoirs you spoke of the other day." Terniloff declared. You will permit me to assure you that in the peculiar position in which I am placed I shall never forget that she is the wife of Everard Dominey. She clung to Dominey's arm when at last they turned back into the empty hall." he admitted. "I have noticed. "They are a faithful record of my interviews and negotiations with certain Ministers here. The Duchess was perfectly charming to me." Dominey said. amaze you. "You I felt instinctively were different. I find Lady Dominey charming. Are you going to miss them very much. There were more farewells and." "Naturally. Everard!" she exclaimed. Prince." "Our understanding is mutual. your chivalrous regard for that lady. bidding all her guests farewell." Dominey declared. "What dear people they were. living hand in glove with the upper classes of English Society. I think." "She will never lack a protector in me. Prince. and with the utmost pleasure. is that I hope you will soon follow us to London and give me the opportunity of offering you the constant hospitality of Carlton House Gardens." he continued. "Lady Dominey will accompany you?" "Of that I am not sure. if I may be allowed to say so. One can well imagine that there would be work for me. but there are many men of our race who are willing enough to sacrifice a woman without the slightest scruple. Rosamund herself was on the terrace.
dear Rosamund. so I thought I'd wait till the afternoon." Seaman replied with a glance towards the beaters." They passed through the thin iron gates and paced along one of the back entrances to the Hall. "and I will be the shadow of your desires. "Trying to solve the mystery of Johann Wolff's sudden departure last night. "I returned without the knowledge of any one. To his amazement Seaman was there. twined her arms around his neck and kissed him. aren't we?" He raised her fingers to his lips and kissed them. "Let me come with you. But we are going on pretending. and then wandered out into the courtyard." She clutched at his hand passionately." She shook her head a little sadly. or will you put on one of your pretty gowns and entertain me downstairs at luncheon? It is a very long time since we had a meal alone together. Will you come with me. then. then?" Seaman had reached his side now and was out of earshot of the others. "Hullo. when he stopped short. I am expecting Lady Dominey. stood by the fire for a moment. "You know that." she begged. "You shall pretend all that you like. Whoever I am or am not. my friend!" he exclaimed. standing a little on one side." "And where have you been to for the last few hours. "I can't bear to let you go. Come and walk down the avenue with me a short way. that is my one aim in life." he promised."Not a bit." he answered. "We never have had. and I kept out of the way until they had all gone. "I think I shall take a gun now and stroll down the meadows and across the rough ground. He had scarcely taken a step towards them. I thought you went by the early train from Thursford Station?" "Missed it by two minutes. "Why. Will you wait ten minutes for me?" "Of course. where Middleton and a couple of beaters were waiting for him with the dogs. as she turned away." "A very short distance. "I knew all the cars were full for the eleven o'clock. No! No tears!" he added quickly." she answered. He strolled down towards the gun room." Seaman began. It is what I told you before. Things which I do not understand depress 166 . and alas! I know it. as though finding it insufficient. with his eyes fixed upon the windows of the servants' quarters. I'll be very quiet. however. Everard. and suddenly. "Remember there is nothing but happiness for you now." he answered. "Do not think me indiscreet.
Wolff did not accompany your butler to the station. Outside the window of the room which I found locked were the marks of footsteps and the tracks of a small car. then. "It is immaterial! What is material is that there is a sort of conspiracy amongst the servants here to conceal the manner of his leaving." he concluded. cheer up. "but there are certain things which I cannot help." Seaman begged." he remarked. and we will see whether Parkins cannot find us a bottle of that old Burgundy for lunch. How does that sound?" "If you will excuse me from taking the walk. "I cannot bring myself to treat this Johann Wolff business seriously. "Well. turning on his heel a little abruptly as he saw Rosamund standing in the avenue." "You are more likely to do harm. would he. and my instinct is never wrong." Seaman confessed. Pelham's servant was either mistaken or willfully deceived me. "even if we could hit upon any plausible reason for such a thing! As a matter of fact. We neither of us have the ghost of a secret to hide from his employers." Dominey reminded him. and behold! I have found proof this morning of a further significance in Wolff's sudden departure." Dominey begged. Seaman." Seaman promised. "and set the servants talking. that Mr. well. "I learned this morning." "I shall be careful. Do not interrupt me." Seaman admitted. "Take a little walk with us. let him get on with it." Seaman replied. "I gather that Wolff must have had friends in the neighbourhood." "And what do you gather from all this?" Dominey asked." Dominey laughed softly. entirely by accident." "And how did you find that out?" Dominey demanded. "I would like to remain here until your return. but I know that 167 ." "Proceed. "but the whole matter is so incomprehensible that I was going to say—or else he was forcibly removed. Granted that the man was a spy.me." "In a sense that is true. I work always from instinct. We are doing our job here in the most perfect and praiseworthy fashion. I beg! Early this morning there was a fresh fall of snow which has now disappeared." Dominey enjoined. "Wolff would scarcely have been an easy man to abduct. I will ask no more questions of your servants. if you show too much interest in this man's disappearance. "or else—" "Well?" "My last supposition sounds absurd.
"Then we shall lunch a deux after all! Delightful! I have my wish!" There was a sudden glow in Dominey's face. "Back to London. a glow which was instantly suppressed.there is something mysterious about the sudden departure of Johann Wolff. 168 . Let us meet there within a few days." She laughed happily." Dominey and Rosamund returned about one o'clock to find a note from Seaman. There were only a few lines: "I am following an idea. It takes me to London. "Shall I ever have mine?" he asked." "Has he really gone?" Rosamund asked. with a queer little break in his voice. "S. which the former tore open as his companion stood warming her feet in front of the fire.
Terniloff and Dominey, one morning about six months later, lounged underneath a great elm tree at Ranelagh, having iced drinks after a round of golf. Several millions of perspiring Englishmen were at the same moment studying with dazed wonder the headlines in the midday papers. "I suppose," the Ambassador remarked, as he leaned back in his chair with an air of lazy content, "that I am being accused of fiddling while Rome burns." "Every one has certainly not your confidence in the situation," Dominey rejoined calmly. "There is no one else who knows quite so much," Terniloff reminded him. Dominey sipped his drink for a moment or two in silence. "Have you the latest news of the Russian mobilisation?" he asked. "They had some startling figures in the city this morning." The Prince waved his hand. "My faith is not founded on these extraneous incidents," he replied. "If Russia mobilises, it is for defence. No nation in the world would dream of attacking Germany, nor has Germany the slightest intention of imperilling her coming supremacy amongst the nations by such crude methods as military enterprise. Servia must be punished, naturally, but to that, in principle, every nation in Europe is agreed. We shall not permit Austria to overstep the mark." "You are at least consistent, Prince," Dominey remarked. Terniloff smiled. "That is because I have been taken behind the scenes," he said. "I have been shown, as is the privilege of ambassadors, the mind of our rulers. You, my friend," he went on, "spent your youth amongst the military faction. You think that you are the most important people in Germany. Well, you are not. The Kaiser has willed it otherwise. By-the-by, I had yesterday a most extraordinary cable from Stephanie." Dominey ceased swinging his putter carelessly over the head of a daisy and turned his head to listen.
"Is she on the way home?" "She is due in Southampton at any moment now. She wants to know where she can see me immediately upon her arrival, as she has information of the utmost importance to give me." "Did she ever tell you the reason for her journey to Africa?" "She was most mysterious about it. If such an idea had had any logical outcome, I should have surmised that she was going there to seek information as to your past." "She gave Seaman the same idea," Dominey observed. "I scarcely see what she has to gain. In Africa, as a matter of fact," he went on, "my life would bear the strictest investigation." "The whole affair is singularly foolish," the Prince declared, "Still, I am not sure that you have been altogether wise. Even accepting your position, I see no reason why you should not have obeyed the Kaiser's behest. My experience of your Society here is that love affairs between men and women moving in the same circles are not uncommon." "That," Dominey urged, "is when they are all tarred with the same brush. My behaviour towards Lady Dominey has been culpable enough as it is. To have placed her in the position of a neglected wife would have been indefensible. Further, it might have affected the position which it is in the interests of my work that I should maintain here." "An old subject," the Ambassador sighed, "best not rediscussed. Behold, our womenkind!" Rosamund and the Princess had issued from the house, and the two men hastened to meet them. The latter looked charming, exquisitely gowned, and stately in appearance. By her side Rosamund, dressed with the same success but in younger fashion, seemed almost like a child. They passed into the luncheon room, crowded with many little parties of distinguished and interesting people, brilliant with the red livery of the waiters, the profusion of flowers—all that nameless elegance which had made the place society's most popular rendezvous. The women, as they settled into their places, asked a question which was on the lips of a great many English people of that day. "Is there any news?" Terniloff perhaps felt that he was the cynosure of many eager and anxious eyes. He smiled light-heartedly as he answered: "None. If there were, I am convinced that it would be good. I have been allowed to play out my titanic struggle against Sir Everard without interruption."
"I suppose the next important question to whether it is to be peace or war is, how did you play?" the Princess asked. "I surpassed myself," her husband replied, "but of course no ordinary human golfer is of any account against Dominey. He plays far too well for any self-respecting Ger—" The Ambassador broke off and paused while he helped himself to mayonnaise. "For any self-respecting German to play against," he concluded. Luncheon was a very pleasant meal, and a good many people noticed the vivacity of the beautiful Lady Dominey whose picture was beginning to appear in the illustrated papers. Afterwards they drank coffee and sipped liqueurs under the great elm tree on the lawn, listening to the music and congratulating themselves upon having made their escape from London. In the ever-shifting panorama of gaily-dressed women and flannel-clad men, the monotony of which was varied here and there by the passing of a diplomatist or a Frenchman, scrupulously attired in morning clothes, were many familiar faces. Caroline and a little group of friends waved to them from the terrace. Eddy Pelham, in immaculate white, and a long tennis coat with dark blue edgings, paused to speak to them on his way to the courts. "How is the motor business, Eddy?" Dominey asked, with a twinkle in his eyes. "So, so! I'm not quite so keen as I was. To tell you the truth," the young man confided, glancing around and lowering his voice so that no one should share the momentous information, "I was lucky enough to pick up a small share in Jere Moore's racing stable at Newmarket, the other day. I fancy I know a little more about gee-gees than I do about the inside of motors, what?" "I should think very possibly that you are right," Dominey assented, as the young man passed on with a farewell salute. Terniloff looked after him curiously. "It is the type of young man, that," he declared, "which we cannot understand. What would happen to him, in the event of a war? In the event of his being called upon, say, either to fight or do some work of national importance for his country?" "I expect he would do it," Dominey replied. "He would do it pluckily, whole-heartedly and badly. He is a type of the upper-class young Englishman, over-sanguine and entirely undisciplined. They expect, and their country expects for them that in the case of emergency pluck would take the place of training."
The Right Honourable Gerald Watson stood upon the steps talking to the wife of the Italian Ambassador. She left him presently, and he came strolling down the lawn with his hands behind his back and his eyes seeming to see out past the golf links. "There goes a man," Terniloff murmured, "whom lately I have found changed. When I first came here he met me quite openly. I believe, even now, he is sincerely desirous of peace and amicable relations between our two countries, and yet something has fallen between us. I cannot tell what it is. I cannot tell even of what nature it is, but I have an instinct for people's attitude towards me, and the English are the worst race in the world at hiding their feelings. Has Mr. Watson, I wonder come under the spell of your connection, the Duke of Worcester? He seemed so friendly with both of us down in Norfolk." Their womenkind left them at that moment to talk to some acquaintances seated a short distance way. Mr. Watson, passing within a few yards of them, was brought to a standstill by Dominey's greeting. They talked for a moment or two upon idle subjects. "Your news, I trust, continues favourable?" the Ambassador remarked, observing the etiquette which required him to be the first to leave the realms of ordinary conversation. "It is a little negative in quality," the other answered, after a moment's hesitation. "I am summoned to Downing Street again at six o'clock." "I have already confided the result of my morning despatches to the Prime Minister," Terniloff observed. "I went through them before I came down here," was the somewhat doubtful reply. "You will have appreciated, I hope, their genuinely pacific tone?" Terniloff asked anxiously. His interlocutor bowed and then drew himself up. It was obvious that the strain of the last few days was telling upon him. There were lines about his mouth, and his eyes spoke of sleepless nights. "Words are idle things to deal with at a time like this," he said. "One thing, however, I will venture to say to you, Prince, here and under these circumstances. There will be no war unless it be the will of your country." Terniloff was for a moment unusually pale. It was an episode of unrecorded history. He rose to his feet and raised his hat. "There will be no war," he said solemnly. The Cabinet Minister passed on with a lighter step. Dominey, more clearly than ever before, understood the subtle policy which had chosen
and the two men strolled away towards the first tee. I wonder?—has written that no island could ever breed a race of diplomatists. But we talk too seriously for a summer afternoon. I have placed that belief on record in the small volume of memoirs which I shall presently entrust to you. as they may bring to her much woe." Dominey rose willingly to his feet. Let us illustrate to the world our opinion of the political situation and play another nine holes at golf. He is coming direct to me." Terniloff asked." "Curiously enough." he remarked significantly. "By the by." 173 . he is returning from Germany to-night. "I expect him at Berkeley square." Dominey announced. "one begins to understand why one of our great writers—was it Bernhardi. He looked after the retreating figure of the Cabinet Minister with a slight smile at the corner of his lips. "In a time like this. "what of our cheerful little friend Seaman? He ought to be busy just now.for his great position a man as chivalrous and faithful and yet as simpleminded as Terniloff." "The seas which engirdle this island. "have brought the English great weal." the Ambassador said thoughtfully. I believe in the honesty of the English politicians. The too-nimble brain of the diplomat has its parallel of insincerity in the people whose interests he seems to guard.
and though the table had been reduced to its smallest proportions. instead of leaving the room. As soon as Parkins had gravely put the port upon the table." she declared. I can read and understand the books which were a maze of print to me before. "Do you know. and I feel all the time so strong and well. talking to him all the time a little gravely. "I shall be like your men friends. Everard. and with a wonderful ceiling and fireplace. and feel the thrill of the music. "I am so happy in London here with you. Dominey and Rosamund dined alone. handsomely furnished dining-room of his town house in Berkeley Square. Dominey long remembered his dinner that evening in the sombre. a sweet and picturesque picture of a graceful and very desirable woman. furnished in the Georgian period. of poignant memories. as though belonging to another set of days and another world. So let us make the most of the time until he comes. I can see the things in the pictures." he assured her. pointed for the servant to place a chair for her by Dominey's side. Rosamund rose to her feet and. To-night I expect a visitor. Everard." he declared. which seemed to come to 174 . and we divide it. filling her glass. Although it lacked the splendid proportions of the banqueting hall at Dominey." She commenced her task with the peach. reasserting themselves afterwards with a curious sense of unreality. "when the ladies have left." "A visitor?" "Not a social one.Chapter 26 These were days. to all dwellers in London. it was still a fine apartment. Now what do we do? Tell stories? I promise you that I will be a wonderful listener. "A matter of business which I fear will take me from you for the rest of the evening. "then you peel me one of those peaches. of vivid impressions." she said. After which we listen for a ring at the bell. her delicate shape and artistic fragility more than ever accentuated by the sombreness of the background." "First of all you drink half a glass of this port. the space between them was yet considerable. and draw up to your side. with some notable pictures upon the walls.
looking at him with brimming eyes. Rosamund. laying her fingers upon his hand and looking at him curiously. Everard." "Do I fail so often to come up to his standard?" he asked.me. so serious. but there are many times when I feel a dull pain in my heart. before. "You never fail. "Ah." she went on. on the other hand. "I think he loved me better than you. He would have spent his time racing or yachting. And he was far fonder of having me with him. You live as though you had a life around you of which others knew nothing. if it had not been that I was already almost a wreck. he seemed to forget me altogether." she answered. depositing his share of the peach upon his plate. even though I see how they distress you." "Mind?" he groaned. "I do not wonder. he killed Roger Unthank that night. "I must." Dominey begged." he answered gravely. "Mind!" "You are so like him and yet so different. "that was so terrible. he did wild things. "I must. You understand." she went on. covered with blood and reeling. whatever he or anybody else might say. It is wonderful that you should mind so much. he was very much more affectionate. I am not quite cured." she insisted. That is why he was never able to come back." she said very sadly. and I love you for it. after a moment's pause." she went on. the problem which I am just as far off solving as ever I was? Often I find myself comparing you with the Everard whom I married." he protested. You know. somehow. "Of course. a little hoarsely. mad things. It was that." she went on meditatively. "You drink so little wine. because I know that. "that Doctor Harrison is proud of me for a patient. all dislocated and discordant. but you do. I think that I should even have been able to stand those awful moments when he came back to me. 175 . "How can I be cured when all the time there is the problem of you. The Everard I remember would never have cared about being a magistrate or going into Parliament. It was that which made me so nervous. "His kisses were not like yours. dear. Then." "Rosamund dear." "Why do you talk of these things to-night. And yet—" "And yet what?" Dominey asked. but don't interrupt. as the fancy took him. often when I wanted him he was not there. dear?" "Of course." she insisted. you are always so self-controlled. hunting or shooting.
—something with which I never reckoned. breaking the stillness of the summer evening. had lost something of the placid urbanity of a few months ago. insistent ringing of the front doorbell. he felt the fierce need of air. "He may come back at any moment." "That is quite true. and a white beflowered tie. blind-shielded windows came the raucous cry of a newsboy. He responded to Dominey's welcome with a 176 . Rosamund."Why?" he demanded. but you shall tell me this. He kissed her hands fondly. "Dear Rosamund. I am not indifferent. "but I think that he did. her voice scarcely audible. I am not in any way cold. The fire which had leaped up within him was thrust back. still looking down." she went on. She leaned towards him. There were new lines in his face and a queer expression of anxiety about his eyes." he said. the firm. Will you please trust in me a little while longer? Believe me. "More than for any woman on earth. in a light grey suit. a panama. You make or mar my life. He was hot and tired with travel. "He told me that you probably loved more than you dared to show. her other arm stole around his neck. and a great strength. His voice had all the old ring in it. with her eyes upon her plate. "that front doorbell summons me to rather an important interview. His response to her wave of passion was infinitely tender. Recollection came to Dominey. And then another and sharper interruption. "I cannot tell you. "But I don't want him to come back!" she cried. "You tell me always to wait." She gripped his hand. There is something which you will have to be told. Trust me. at the corners of which little wrinkles had begun to appear. Through the wide-flung. "I want you!" Dominey sat for a moment motionless. "I will be patient. like a figure of stone." she answered." she complained. and wait!" She sank back into her chair with a piquant and yet pathetic little grimace. something which is beginning to weigh upon me night and day.—the stopping of a taxicab outside. her voice shook with passion. "I have spoken to Doctor Harrison about it. because someday the real Everard might come back." Dominey walked suddenly to the window and leaned out. When he came back she was still sitting there. There were drops of moisture upon his forehead. dear Rosamund!" Seaman. You must care a little? Please?" He was standing up now. You are so kind to me." he reminded her softly.
however. news magnificent. "It is nevertheless true. On the other hand. Neither is it clear why he held aloof from me." was the momentous reply. confronted with a very singular happening. He had already surmised. that his visitor had come direct from the station. There we are." he said. "That I know. No word has been received from Wolff since that night in January. The mystery of Johann Wolff has been solved. seemed all stimulated to swift action.fervour which was almost feverish. Seaman could wait no longer. which he laid on the carpet by his side. For a few moments they spoke trivialities of the journey. His appetite." Dominey gave some orders to the servant who answered his summons." "The same. his speech. And afterwards the biggest cigar you have. We will speak first of what is more than disturbing—a little terrifying. "I had almost forgotten about him. from the commencement. "No member of our service is allowed to remain more than one month without communicating his existence and whereabouts to headquarters. indirect information has reached us that he is in durance over here. "I have news." Dominey declared bluntly." Dominey protested." "But such a thing is against the law." Dominey rang the bell. 177 ." "It seems incredible." Seaman insisted. "No country can keep the citizen of another country in prison without formulating a definite charge or bringing him up for trial." Seaman replied. "Yes. but it must be served here. Wolff vanished from your house that night into an English fortress. brown despatch case. What was at the back of his visit to us that night I cannot even now imagine. and ice if you have it. news astounding. news disturbing. who am his superior in practically the same service. "You have news?" Dominey asked. I have indeed news. When everything was served." "The man who came to us with messages from Schmidt in South Africa?" Dominey asked. from the dressingcase and coats in the hall. "We are of the same temperament." Seaman smiled grimly. as though expecting to find some change. "What will you have?" he enquired. and finally sank into an easy-chair with a little gesture of relief. "Also a plate of cold meat. and the door closed. scrutinised him closely. unheard of. He had been carrying a small. "A bottle of hock with seltzer water. his thirst. but scarcely so singular as the denouement.
"Yes. For the rest." "You bring news indeed!" Dominey murmured. Dominey." Seaman finished his meal in due course. You will gain by it. Seaman puffing out dense volumes 178 . the most momentous days the world has ever known. but it would not be. concerning whose welfare the English Foreign Office has not even thought it worth while to enquire. It comes exactly twelve months before the final day fixed by our great authorities. The word has gone out. the most disquieting feature about Wolff is that it introduces something we don't understand. then?" Seaman took a long and ecstatic draught of his hock and seltzer. His Majesty approves altogether of your reluctance to avail yourself of his permission to wed the Princess Eiderstrom. 'Von Ragastein has decided well.' he declared. In his eyes the greatest of all attributes is singleness of purpose. You are our great hope now. "Wolff has been a marked man for years. What troubles me more than the actual fact of Wolff's disappearance is the mystery of his visit to you and his apprehension practically on the spot. Soon the two men were alone again." "It is to be. The whole of Germany is like a vast military camp. the days when an empire shall spring into being. Wilhelmstrasse would soon make fuss enough. "You and I both stand high in the list of those to whom great rewards shall come. contrary to my advice. "I have been received with favour in the very loftiest circles. "It is to be. too wonderful for hesitation. and set him down inside Norwich Castle or whatever prison he may be in. extract Johann Wolff. By the end of August we shall be in Paris. the mightiest since the Continents fell into shape and the stars looked down upon this present world. and the time for their utility is past. and the tray was removed. contrary to Terniloff's. These. If Russia ceases to mobilise to-morrow. but the opportunity is too great. we have many men as good. You followed your own purpose." Seaman objected. and better. "There was never any doubt about it."That's all very well in any ordinary case." "They must have tracked him down there." Seaman continued. 'These are not the days for marriage or giving in marriage. though. There are one or two Englishmen in German prisons at the present moment." he said. but they couldn't thrust a pair of tongs into your butler's sittingroom." he declared solemnly. if it were of any use.' Those are the words of the All Highest." Dominey remarked. standing for a moment by the opened window. the result would still be the same. if every statesman in Servia crawls to Vienna with a rope around his neck. "However.
It is a wonderful empire we shall build. which will practically amount to nothing. every unit of which you can think. "Is that also calculated?" Seaman. Spain. were painted in dark blue. The task of every one is allotted. Asia is there at our feet. we move towards war. No longer will Great Britain control the supplies of the world. hospitals. Portugal and Italy. timber—they are all there for us to draw upon. "Broadly speaking. clothing. many details. in which England. unlocked the little despatch box which stood by his side and took from it jealously a sheet of linen-backed parchment. I have a list of instructions for you. We will talk of our future. "it is a great country." He laid out a map upon the table. "are one of the first to gaze upon this. The two men bent over it. and the Ukraine will possess a certain degree of autonomous government. Leather. Poland. "There lies our future Empire. gripping his cigar between his teeth. my friend. brandishing it sometimes in his hand to give effect to his words. a diminished France. This will show you the framework of the empire that is to be. Every regiment knows its station. every general knows his exact line of attack. "Von Ragastein. A little of his marvellous caution seemed to have deserted him." he said. tallow." "And the final result?" Dominey asked. And for wealth—India and China! What more could you have. every battery commander knows his positions." he said solemnly and impressively. This will show you the dream of our Kaiser." he said. "You.of smoke. Rations. For the first time he spoke directly to his companion. There is none." Dominey begged. with trembling fingers. their work made clear to them. the whole of the space included between two liens. fats. oil. the other from Finland to the Black Sea. Like a mighty piece of gigantic machinery. Seaman laid his palm upon the map. our great and glorious destiny as the mightiest nation who has ever earned for herself the right to govern the world. Lithuania. To-night I am on fire with the mighty things. It was a map of Europe. For the rest. with here and there portions of it in slightly lighter colouring. wheat. "Explain it to me. has its movements calculated out for it to the last nicety. ours. everything between those two lines belongs to the new German Empire. one from Hamburg to Athens. They can wait. You would think that in Germany there was excitement. was painted a deep scarlet. Raw materials of every description will be ours. my friend?" 179 . Courland.
and we need her ports to dominate the Thames. mark you. But what about Austria?" Seaman's grin was almost sardonic. to be absorbed one by one as opportunity presents itself. Bulgaria and Greece. "Look at them." he observed. We need her lusty manhood. to drive a way through the heart of her empire?" "This. body and soul." "This is marvellously conceived." Seaman replied. "Belgium. if indeed such a thing should be. Austria. they will none the less be our vassal states when the last gun has been fired. We shall teach Russia how to make herself a free country. Then further down. you Von Ragastein. There is no room in middle Europe for two empires. with Constantinople. But there—it is enough. Norway has her western seaboard." Dominey muttered. is pledged." "Belgium we shall occupy and enslave. for later wars." he said. Holland and Denmark may be incited to take the field against us. and there might always be the question of British aid so far as she is concerned." he said. Greece will either join us or be wiped out. as you observe are left in the lighter shade of red. must become part of the German Empire. probably also Montenegro. If they remain. Roumania must become a vassal state or be conquered. to help ourselves to her richest provinces. scared neutrals. If an opportunity occurs." Seaman replied. it means absorption. "but what of Russian with her millions? How is it that we propose. become vassal states. like Turkey. These countries which are painted in fainter red. First of all men in this country. "is where genius steps in. More than any other of these vassal states. Holland and the Scandinavian countries. "has disappeared. the finest cannon food in the world. "Our line of advance into France lies that way. Servia will be blotted from the map. it is our master's plan to bring her into complete subjection. Turkey. as they probably will. Russia has been ripe for a revolution any time for the last fifteen years. body and soul. We have secret agents now in every city and country place and throughout the army." Dominey's finger strayed northward. If they do so. and the House of Hapsburg must fall before the House of Hohenzollern. But Sweden is ours."You take my breath away. "They lie at our mercy." "And Norway and Sweden?" Seaman looked down at the map and smiled. notwithstanding her countless millions of men. my friend. "must already feel her doom creeping upon her. "Austria. have gazed upon this picture of the future. Bulgaria is already ours." 180 . She has timber and minerals which we also need.
it shall lighten your moments of depression. Lock it away and guard it as though it were your greatest treasure on earth." he admitted. then. give you courage when you are in danger. has been planned. It shall be your inspiration. too. bring it out and study it. "And what of my own work?" Seaman helped himself to a liqueur. That will be in three months' time. Then perhaps our attitude towards England may change a little! Now I go. "I have a great fatigue. His companion shook his head. according to your behest. Seaman laughed scornfully. with a fervour which surprised even himself. after all!" Dominey exclaimed." Dominey folded it carefully up. Meanwhile. but this was the third time he had replenished his glass since his hasty meal. It is yours." he said. For the second time that almost satyr-like grin on Seaman's face revolted him. We shall go over it within a day or so. That one is for you." he assured his departing guest. unlocked a little safe and deposited it therein. "Baron Von Ragastein. 181 . it shall fill your mind with pride and wonder. a moderate man. It is our great aim to keep England out of the war. "I shall guard it. as a rule." Dominey folded up the map with reluctance. almost your daily life. passing his hand over his forehead. remember this. Boulogne and Havre are in our hands. Everything. It is that we may crush her the more easily when Calais." "Terniloff is right. but when you are alone. "If we want England out of the war. as my greatest treasure. crossed the room. "there are six of those maps in existence. The thoughts jump about. addressed his host differently. "My brain is weary." he pointed out. He was.Dominey shivered a little with an almost involuntary repulsion. "it is not that we desire her friendship. for the first time in his life upon the same day. This last week has been one of fierce excitements. It was curious that he. friend.
avoiding acquaintances as far as possible. passed down St. James's Street and along Pall Mall and presented himself at Carlton House Terrace. War. who was awaiting him. Inside. the great white building. including his secretaries. people were too stunned for calculations. Men and women were going about their business as usual. "I am a broken man!" 182 . from Carlton House Terrace. about the brief telephone message which Dominey received. stretched her grey hands over the sunlit city. Then he locked the door. however. which would convince the greatest pessimist that Germany and Austria were outnumbered by at least three to one. "Von Ragastein. The long-discussed war—the nightmare of the nervous. The happy-go-luck years of peace and plenty had suddenly come to an end. his own mind in a curious turmoil. Practically every loiterer was studying a newspaper. alternately the joke and bogey of the conversationalist. The incredible had happened. the steamroller fetish was to be evolved. Black tragedy leaned over the land." he groaned. Dominey. could make calculations of man power with a stump of pencil on the back of an old envelope. Even the lightest-hearted felt a thrill of apprehension at the thought of the horrors that were to come. But on this particular morning. in the most lurid sense of the word. and it was only by the intervention of Terniloff's private secretary. In a few minutes he was moving through the streets. Externally. People went about then counting the Russian millions. who had never even been to a review in his life. He broke off immediately his visitor was announced and dismissed every one. with its rows of flower boxes. but an air of stupefaction was everywhere apparent. the derision of the optimist—had actually materialised. showed no signs of undue perturbation. In a day or two all this was to be changed. The most peaceful stockbroker or shopkeeper. every chance acquaintance had stopped to confer with his fellows. the anteroom was crowded with callers. not so many hours later. still familiar yet already curiously changed. that Dominey was able to reach the inner sanctum where the Ambassador was busy dictating letters.Chapter 27 There was something dramatic.
Study them carefully. which stood against the side of the wall. It is an absolutely faithful narrative of my work here. unlocked one of the smaller safes. You were right. Terniloff seemed to have aged years even in the last few hours. no doubt. I am a German and a patriot. "I sent for you. I am going to show it to you now. and I was wrong." 183 . You have asked me for it several times lately." Dominey reminded him. I was nothing more nor less than their tool. But all the time those for whom I laboured were making faces behind my back. There was so little that he could say. It will tell you of all my efforts and how they were foiled." Terniloff went on. I know now that nothing in this world could have hindered what is coming. and the existence of these memoirs is known." "You mean if the governing party in German should change?" "Precisely! They would then form at once my justification." he continued. withdrew a morocco-bound volume the size of a small portfolio. I have worked for peace with honourable men who were just as anxious as I was to secure it. You can judge. Von Ragastein. "that you did your best for peace. Even the Embassy here is not free from our own spies. "I beg you. "believing that my country wanted peace. although my heart is bitter against those who are bringing this blot upon our country. For that reason." "That is one reason why I sent for you. a diary which I have been keeping of my work in this country. to say farewell and make a confession. and place English diplomacy in such a light before the saner portion of my fellow countrymen that an honourable peace might be rendered possible. these memoirs must be kept in a safe place until I see a good use for them." he went on a little bitterly." was the agitated reply." he said earnestly. "to say farewell.Dominey grasped his hand sympathetically. "why I give it into your keeping. "to read this with the utmost care and to await my instructions with regard to it. and the English response to it. "I have worked for peace." "Every one will at least realise. I promised to show it to you. It would have better if I had remained and played the country farmer on my estates. and returned to Dominey. "Not long ago I spoke of a little volume." His visitor still remained silent. The moment I reach Germany. their fate is assured. Perhaps even your own allegiance to the Party you serve may waver for a moment as you read. It is written up to yesterday." The Prince crossed the room. I was never shrewd enough to see until now that I have been made the cat'spaw of the very men whose policy I always condemned.
every act of courtesy and generosity which I receive in these moments." Dominey told her. "I want you to think—of your husband—of Everard. just entering the gardens. He found Rosamund with a little troop of dogs. and crossed to her side." he said." he went on. "I couldn't bear that! No one could ever be so sweet as you have been to me. "even though there is still that black cloud between us. "No other way in which I can serve you?" "None. I have tried to treat you as kindly and tenderly as though I were really your husband and you were indeed my wife." Terniloff answered sadly. Parkins and your maid can go down by train." "There is no other commission?" Dominey asked. Farewell!" Dominey found a taxicab in Pall Mall and drove back to Berkeley Square. We are at war. Yet believe me. I am bound to wish you Godspeed." he asked. these last few months." "I shall order the touring car at three o'clock. and every one is so excited. "Rosamund dear." she murmured. "only my Country. "the time has come which many people have been dreading." he said. He was a soldier once for a short time." "I know. taking her arm."I serve no Party." Dominey said quietly. was he not? What do you think he would have done now that this terrible war has come?" 184 . "You and I have had quite a happy time together." "You're not going away?" she cried. Does that suit you?" "Delightfully!" He took her arm and they paced slowly along the hot walk. I must send you away. There are one or two things I must settle before I take up some fresh work. startled. "London is getting so hot. bites into my heart. "We shall get home about nine. "Alas! there is no time for us to enter into one of our old arguments on the ethics of government. my friend. "Yes! I want to be in retreat for a short time. "Dear. "would you mind very much coming down to Norfolk for a few days?" "With you?" she asked quickly. You have a terrible task before you." "Dear. My departure is arranged for as though I were royalty. "I am permitted to suffer no inconveniences." Terniloff sighed." she declared enthusiastically." "I should love it. Von Ragastein. For myself I shall not raise my head again until I have left England.
were carefully chosen. "The same person. "Everard. "I think so. perhaps?" "That is the strange part of it. too." she said. Don't I seem so to you?" She shook her head. The very aberration it suggested seemed altogether denied by her appearance. "I shall go in and tell Justine about the packing. She is quite the most popular of the younger married women in our set. Caroline had come to him with a little shrug of the shoulders. all the trifling details of her toilette." she answered. Everard. a little mysteriously. I shall be back to luncheon. Her stockings. as they reached the gate. he would have fought for his country. You don't deserve such luck." he declared. Only the week before. in the country I still remember sometimes that awful night when I so nearly lost my reason." he had replied. I have many things to arrange first." 185 . and her clothes themselves gracefully and naturally worn." she replied." she answered. "There is something I want to say to him. dear?" he repeated. "something I want to ask you. Directly afterwards we must start." she said. Life is not going to be very easy for the next few days. "when we are at Dominey shall I be able to see Doctor Harrison?" "Of course. There's an empty taxi. too. "That is why I must leave you for an hour now while I make some calls. Are you the same person." she confided. "I am not sure. "You see. she had been amazingly successful." "You would rather not go back. "He would have become a soldier again. "and finding out instead how unnecessary it is." he assured her." "And so must I—fight for my country." she added. Everard. I have never seen you as you looked that night. "There is nothing in the world I want so much to do. Socially. too. She seemed curiously reluctant to let him go. a large black hat. her gloves. dear. when you are in town as when you are in the country?" He was a little taken aback at her question—asked. She was wearing a dress of black and white muslin." She held on to his arm. He realised Rosamund's question with a little start. with the slightest possible tremor in her tone. "I have been trying to be kind to Rosamund."He would have done what you will do. Paris shoes." "You know the proverb about the old roue. with such almost plaintive seriousness. though. His mind had wandered for a moment.
A gang of woodmen from a neighbouring county. from the school children to their homes. sir. as big and as fierce as a young tigress. sir. had listened to the whirr of machinery. sends out a smell enough to make a man faint." he confided. woman and child in the place had paid an awed visit to the outskirts of the wood.—from the farm labourer to the farmer. though we've a matter of five hundred planks down there. Before the second day. "the old lady in the distance there 186 . The matter of the war was promptly forgotten. "I don't know as I ever came across a bit of woodland as was so utterly. with an engine and all the machinery of their craft." "Come across anything unusual yet?" "We ain't come across anything that isn't unusual so far." the man went on. sir. had peered. We killed a cat the first day. sir. and the first time the foreman had been known to open his mouth was when Dominey walked down to discuss progress. and the men have to be within reach of one another the whole of the time. some of 'em.Chapter 28 Within the course of the next few days. "It's a dirty bit of work. every man." "How long will it take?" "Matter of three weeks.—Begging your pardon. had started to work razing to the ground everything in the shape of tree or shrub at the north end of the Black Wood. had gazed upon the great bridge of planks leading into the wood. The men themselves were not communicative. in the hope of some strange discovery into the tents of the men who were camping out. sir. My men are all wearing extra leggings to keep them from being bitten by them adders—as long as my arm. It's a queer job. from the village post-office to the neighbouring hamlets. It's not worth a snap of the fingers. Why. on the morning after his arrival. when you touch it. hopelessly rotten. the wood crumbles when you touch it. And there's fungus there which. a strange rumour spread through Dominey and the district. and when we've got the timber out you'll be well advised to burn it.
Unthank is in the library. unrelieved by any trace of colour. "What is your will with the wood?" "I am carrying out a determination I came to in the winter. "She would be glad if you could spare her five minutes. Sir Everard Dominey?" she demanded. dear?" "I know what you are doing out there. Unthank." "You will dare to do this?" she asked hoarsely. "You see. "Don't let me see her. with an odd little note of passion in her tone. of course. "what can I do for you?" 187 . You promise?" "I promise. "Well.—Everard!" "Yes. Rachael Unthank was standing. Dominey strolled across to her." Dominey swung around. until not a tree or a bush remains upright. "Those men are going to cut and hew their way from one end of the Black Wood to the other. "Don't let her persuade you to stop. Mrs. "You must go. enjoying the strange quiet and the wonderful breeze which crept in at the open window. "Will you dare to tell me why I should not. Some of my men are half scared of her.hangs about the whole of the time." he enquired. "Mrs. even in the morning light she was a repellent figure. as Rosamund and he were lingering over their dessert. sir. her white cheeks and strange eyes. But that night." Rosamund shivered slightly. Parkins announced a visitor. Mrs." he answered. Her skinny hand was stretched out towards the wood." she begged. Unthank was making every effort to keep under control her fierce discomposure. Mrs. although you have never said a word to me about it. Mrs." she continued. I shall have it drained." Dominey replied. Mrs. She rose as Dominey entered the room and dropped an old-fashioned curtsey. "What are those men doing. Unthank?" She relapsed into silence. Let them cut and burn and hew till there isn't room for a mouse to hide. but nodded as Dominey glanced towards her enquiringly. they burn. Unthank. Afterwards. In her rusty black clothes. We may live to see a field of corn there. please." he announced. As they cut. and Dominey passed on. Unthank. On a mound a little distance away in the park." he began— She interrupted him.
it was he." "I would to Heaven!" the woman cried. "I can't bear it." the woman muttered. "I think that you have had your revenge." Dominey went on. "that you'd rotted to death in Africa!" "You carry your evil feelings far. I never touched his body. Some sort of evil seemed to have lit in her face. not I. Unthank. Unthank. showing her yellow teeth." she confessed. and we fought. Mrs. Give up this foolish idea that the Black Wood is still the home of 188 . "Plenty of evil has come to me from that wood as it is. All night long I seem to hear those axes. and the calling of the men. It was you who nursed my wife into insanity. I am determined to sweep it from the face of the earth. "You mean to disturb the spirit of him whose body you threw there?" she persisted. Dominey looked at her calmly." The forced respect was already beginning to disappear from her manner. "I am no murderer. attacked me in a cowardly manner." "What is your objection. It lay where he fell. If he crept into the wood and died there. Unthank. I was glad to get away alive. "It is nothing more nor less than a noisome pest-hole. that the whole countryside knows. and. He sought for my life as I never sought for his. Sir Everard. Mrs." he replied. Unthank." he reminded her. "Take my advice. is a menace to Lady Dominey's nerves. to the destruction of the Black Wood?" Dominey asked bluntly. a morose and an illliving man. notwithstanding my superior strength. sir. Her only feeling concerning him was one of fear. "There's evil will come to you if you do. The fire in her narrowed eyes was the fire of hatred. And as for you." he said. "That again is false. He was mad when he attacked me." she declared doggedly. after a moment's pause." "You'd done him wrong. Lady Dominey would have been in a mad-house today. he fought like a madman. after all that she has suffered. It was you who fed her with the horror of your son's so-called spirit. Mrs. Unthank. Mrs. Its very presence there. Your son was a lonely. I think that if I had stayed away another two years. then his death was not at my door. Her lips had shrunk apart. "Your son stole out from the shadow of that wood."It's about the wood again. His passion for Lady Dominey was uninvited and unreciprocated. Mrs. If either of us had murder in our hearts.
Doctor." 189 . You will find it a little difficult." he went on. after a moment's pause. with a keen glance from under his shaggy grey eyebrows. "I think she means it." she said slowly. who had walked over from the village. though. What if you should be an impostor?" "You have only to prove that. Doctor. "there has been a word spoken here and there about you. and I have not the slightest faith in the vindictive mother. as he filled his guest's glass. "has never believed it.your son's spirit. Are you really Everard Dominey?" He swung around and faced her. "that if they come I shall know how to deal with them. of the Black Wood may remain standing. Unthank. He welcomed the latter warmly. lingering on the terrace.—You must excuse my ringing the bell. and the doctor followed his host into the dining-room and took his seat at the table where the dessert still remained. You will excuse us for a moment Rosamund?" She nodded pleasantly. Her manner was sullen and unyielding." he declared. I am a hard and fast materialist. I have them again every time you speak." Dominey found Rosamund and Doctor Harrison. in certain matters. and that's her ladyship. terrified to death lest the razing of a wood of unwholesome character should turn out into the cold world the spirit of her angel son. Mrs. "Who else?" "There's one. "the present situation is beginning to confirm an old suspicion of mine. at any rate. "You are asking for the evil things. "Personally. "Be assured." Dominey replied. "and a portion." He moved across the room to throw open a window." she went on. I've had my doubts sometimes. Go and live on your annuity in another part of the country and forget. "Old woman threatening mischief?" the latter asked." she warned him. you know. "You are a godsend. "I have heard a rumour." She rose unwillingly to her feet. You're a harder man than the Everard Dominey I remember. I've heard strange talk from the people who've come under your masterful ways. Her eyes followed him wonderingly. "I have been obliged to leave my port untasted for want of a companion. I see no object in asking you to remain longer." Dominey answered." Dominey replied.
" "No doubt about that. "I have persuaded Doctor Harrison to stay the night. Mrs." "Your note this afternoon spoke of urgency. or very soon. "You can lend me some paraphernalia. his eyes fixed upon 190 . spent the remainder of the night and part of the early morning concealed behind a great clump of rhododendrons." The doctor nodded sympathetically. Rosamund came in through the window to them and seated herself by Dominey's side. changed into ordinary morning clothes. Lady Dominey." There was a shade of anxiety in her face. "You think that to-night something will happen?" she asked. and a loaded stick in his hand. dear? You will have the doctor on one side of you and me on the other. "I shouldn't wonder if you weren't on the right track. "Let me be as near to your apartment as possible. a little harshly. "It has not always been easy. especially in London." Dominey answered. "Of course! There are several rooms quite ready." "I'll stay. "The matter is urgent. I am quite sure that we can make Doctor Harrison comfortable. at any rate. By-the-by. Will you let the maids know." the doctor promised. You will not be afraid." Dominey. with a thick cord tied round his body. with pleasure. "Because we are conspirators. to be prepared. "I would rather not tell you at the present moment. "To-night." Dominey assented. "I have followed your advice. or rather your orders. "It would sound too fantastic. dear?" She nodded thoughtfully. I suppose? And give me a shake-down somewhere near Lady Dominey's. a revolver in his pocket. He would like a room in our wing." the doctor observed." he replied lightly. "It is just as well for you to be prepared." "I am only afraid of one thing." the doctor declared. where Rosamund is away from these associations." he declared. "Why are you two whispering like conspirators?" she demanded. "I have been so happy lately. Midgeley thought that we might be bringing down some guests. and hesitated.—I am hoping great things from what may happen to-night."What do you believe?" the doctor asked bluntly." "You are expecting something to happen?" "I wish. I want you to do me a great favour—to remain here all night." he began." she answered a little enigmatically. or one night very soon." Dominey interrupted.
It moved at first upon all fours. Moving across the park towards him he heard the sound of a faint patter. bent double. a few yards away. and Dominey. waited for what he knew must soon come. On the ground. paused beneath Rosamund's window. now barely half a dozen yards from where he was crouching. Then the deep silence of the breathless night was broken by that familiar. to have reestablished themselves. as he watched. "What is it?" the doctor gasped. His eyes were fastened upon a certain spot. and stretched out his hands. the whole landscape and the moving objects upon it were dimly visible. for the last time. For the first time Dominey showed some signs of a lack of self-control. laid aside his stick. It crept nearer and nearer. Into the open there came a dark shape. Once more. dying away as though the fingers which crushed it back down the straining throat had indeed crushed with it the last flicker of some unholy life. with grim contempt. When Doctor Harrison made his hurried appearance. And then. His voice was choked and uneven. "Go and look at it. Deliberately he waited. The habits of his years of bush life seemed instinctively. furiously smoking a cigarette. throbbing a little as though with a new fear." he said. then on two legs. which came from behind a range of low hillocks. hand and foot. disturbed from their lurking place in the Black Wood. curious and irregular in rhythm. lay something black and motionless. was predominant—heard and accounted for. He raised himself on his hands and knees to watch. The beast!" 191 . a few moments later. came the first real intimation that something was likely to happen. The night was moonless but clear." "Bosh!" the doctor answered. Dominey waited till even its echoes had died away. You can see where the spirit of Roger Unthank has hidden itself. The patter ceased and began again. unearthly scream. Then he ran a few steps. then on all fours again. that devil's cry broke the deep stillness of the August morning. and when his eyes were once accustomed to the pale but sombre twilight. It reached the terrace. "It's Roger Unthank himself.—a stretch of the open park between himself and the hillocks. "It's tied up. every night sound—of which the hooting of some owls. just as he had glanced at his watch and found that it was close upon two o'clock.the shadowy stretch of park which lay between the house and the Black Wood. in those few hours of waiting. Doctor. the irregularity of its movements swiftly explained. Every sense was strained and active. he found Dominey seated upon the terrace.
" he continued. singling out a sturdy footman with sound common sense. has been his accomplice and taken him food. yet in their midst before they could realise it. with the exception of Parkins. The rest of you. At that moment Parkins would not have asked in vain for an annuity. For some reason or other—some lunatic's reason. was half a madman when he came to the neighbourhood and has behaved like one ever since. black figure of Rachael Unthank. Dominey glanced at the little semicircle of servants and raised his voice. "So you've got him at last!" she gasped. She staggered to the prostrate body and threw herself upon her knees. Your own conscience should be sufficient punishment for keeping that poor creature alive in such a fashion and ministering during my absence to his accursed desire for vengeance. The man. I trust." There was a little awed murmur." Dominey continued. He is still alive but in a disgusting state. of these foolish superstitions about Roger Unthank's ghost. Doctor." Dominey said sternly. however. the immaculate.A little stream of servants came running out. please go to bed. the perfect automaton. The car will be here in two minutes." 192 . "you are in time to accompany your son to the hospital at Norwich. I have nothing to say to you. the silent. by whom he imagined himself badly treated. her eyes glared across at Dominey. of course—he has chosen to hide himself in the Black Wood all these years. will you go up and see Lady Dominey?" The habits of a lifetime broke down. There lies Roger Unthank. "Mrs. Parkins. "It is the end. Then one of them paused and pointed across the park. Her hands rested upon the unseen face." With little exclamations of wonder they began to disperse. asked an eager question. Dominey's voice had become quite matter of fact. I presume. a letter of explanation will follow from me. "What is it.—Johnson. Moving with incredible swiftness came the gaunt. His mother. half beast. "get ready to take this creature into Norwich Hospital. half man. "Ring up the garage. Dominey gave a few orders quickly. sir?" There was the sound of a window opening overhead. "I suppose. swaying sometimes on her feet." he directed. Say that if I do not come in during the day. Unthank. "his first idea was to revenge himself upon us and this household. "and I shall want one of the men to go into Norwich to the hospital.
night by night. You'd have thought then that he was just a baby. "If Lady Dominey recovers. "you shared his foul plot for vengeance against a harmless woman. "I have wept all the tears a woman's broken heart could wring out."He would have died if I hadn't brought him food.—You've said harsh things of both of us. Doctor Harrison met Dominey on the threshold as he turned towards the house. Rachael Unthank. I think. If he comes to—" Her voice broke. The crash of a fallen tree heralded their morning's work. Tell them at the hospital I shall probably be there during the day. "You are still going on with that?" the doctor asked. without a word of remonstrance." she muttered. from whose lips now came a faint moaning. For God's sake. She'll be unconscious. beseeching him to come back to me. Sometimes he's more gentle than at others. living there for love of the wind and the trees and the birds. come and get a whisky and soda and give me one!" The early morning sunshine lay upon the park when the two men at last separated. 193 . but made no resistance. "Help him in. bending over the prostrate figure. If she never recovers." The woman made no reply. Roger isn't always—so bad. You knew very well what their accursed object was—you." "Yet. for a great many hours. The little troop of men had left their tents. passed through the iron gates and drew up a few yards away. with a delicate woman in your charge who trusted you." With a little shiver the two men stooped to their task. "You're rid of us. She was still on her knees." The car drove off. Johnson. I never liked that unnatural calm. as soon as you have started. She was a broken woman. "Her ladyship is unconscious now. "perhaps forever. "Perhaps that is a good sign. or to-morrow. Their prisoner muttered to himself all the time." he announced." she sobbed. You are an evil pair. turned once more to Dominey. "You can loosen his cords. From the Black Wood came the whirr of a saw. as she stepped in to take her place by his side. Dominey's reply was swift and not unkind. He has very little strength. you and your son are forgiven." Dominey insisted." Dominey ordered. He pointed to the window above. They stood for a moment looking out. I wish you both the blackest corner of hell. under these windows. Then the lights of the car flashed out as it left the garage. You let him come and make his ghoulish noises. but of the two you are worse than your half-witted son.
"I will have that place razed to the bare level of the earth. with a sudden passion in his tone." The doctor grunted." he conceded. and I will have its poisonous swamps sucked dry."To the very last stump of a tree. I have hated that foul spot. Doctor—I have my own tragedy to deal with—but those who come after me will never feel the blight of that accursed place. 194 . "Maybe you're right. to the last bush. My reign here may not be long. His inner thoughts he kept to himself. to the last cluster of weeds." he went on." Dominey replied. "ever since I realised what suffering it meant to her.
especially when London's so full of ghastly rumours and all that sort of thing. lingering for a moment. He was seated at his desk. when you can get ice. seem perfectly satisfied.Chapter 29 The heat of a sulphurous afternoon—a curious parallel in its presage of coming storm to the fast-approaching crisis in Dominey's own affairs—had driven Dominey from his study on to the terrace." he replied. "I'll make myself scarce." Dominey replied." was the somewhat laconic answer." Dominey smiled. Seaman was perspiring. What's the latest news of her ladyship?" "Still unconscious. his frame became tense. "Expecting visitors to-day?" he asked." The young man abandoned the subject with a murmur of hopeful sympathy. of you to have me down here. his hand stretching out to a tumbler which stood by his side. "Ripping. "Should not be surprised. however." the young man remarked amiably. is a paradise in this weather. when a few minutes later Seaman was ushered into the room. old chap. Then he realised his visitor's outstretched hands of welcome and he relaxed. Dominey! If a country in peril ever decides to waive the matter of my indifferent physique and send me out to the rescue. "Donner und!—My God Dominey. In a chair by his side lounged Eddy Pelham. yawned and stretched himself. "Jolly well cut. His eyes were fixed upon a little cloud of dust in the distance. the tunic of your uniform. what is this?" 195 . "At last!" He exclaimed. "The doctors. "The country. Everything depends on her waking moments." he said. "They will nab you for the Guards!" Dominey stepped back through the open windows into his study as Pelham strolled off. "Mine is only the local Yeomanry rig-out. I shall go to your man. vociferous and excited. immaculate in a suit of white flannels. "Jove!" he added approvingly. For a single moment his muscles tightened. poring over some letters. The young man stood up. It was the fifth day since the mystery of the Black Wood had been solved.
Seaman drank and threw himself into an easy-chair." he muttered. I have been asked to start some recruiting work down here. Where have you been?" Seaman hitched his chair a little nearer." he confided. There was just a faint doubt as to what they were doing to do about internment. with a chuckle." Dominey explained. Drink before everything." he went on. why do I find you down here?" "After Terniloff left. "I resigned a commission in the Norfolk Yeomanry." "Terniloff—left his little volume with you?" "Yes!" "Where is it?" "Safe. It may sound foolish. you are wonderful!" Seaman interrupted solemnly. however. has been adjusted. "do you know that you yourself are forgetting your usual caution?" "In what respect?" Seaman demanded quickly." "Both are safe. Seaman mopped his forehead. "It needs to be. you leave nothing undone." Seaman replied. my friend. but you do not begin to count for us just yet. "You are a man after my own heart. lowering his voice a little." "What has been decided?" "The Government has the matter under consideration. "drink I must have. you are thorough. "I have orders to see it destroyed. We can talk of that presently. "By the by. What a day! The very clouds that hide the sun are full of sulphurous heat." Dominey assured him. That is why I had to get the Irish trip off my mind. "I am a trifle over age to go with the first batch or two." Dominey answered. but you have in your possession just the two things—that map and Von Terniloff's memoirs—which would wreck our propaganda in every country of the world." Dominey replied." he added. Now tell me. "There is no fear of your being called out of the country because of that. "we are the greatest race in the world. "I felt I wanted to get away. I tremble." Dominey explained." Dominey rang the bell. ordered hock and seltzer and ice. nodding his head towards his companion's uniform. when I am away from you. I hope?" he asked a little anxiously. At a crisis like this—" "My friend. Sometimes. my friend."Thirteen years ago. "In Ireland. "Sorry to desert you as I did. "Not at present. That little matter." he went on. That is why. "I can certainly give myself six months before I need to slip off. 196 .
it is inexcusably foolish to be carrying firearms about just now." Seaman continued. and carrying a black bowler hat. because one never knows what may happen in that amazing country. So far as you are concerned you have practically secured yourself against suspicion. The door was closed behind them. "The Princess of Eiderstrom and—a gentleman." he added. You know as well as I do that with your name and the fact that you are only a naturalised Englishman. Parkins. from now on. The Princess was already in the room." Seaman echoed. the rustle of a woman's clothes. wearing a white tie. "It is the last time for many months when it will be wise for us to meet on such intimate terms. Perhaps our dear friend Parkins will take vinous note of the occasion. You will hold a brilliant and isolated place amongst those who are serving the great War Lord. the situation must be dealt with as it exists. "You will stay the night?" he asked. "So be it. I took it with me to Ireland." "In other words. The Princess said that her errand with you was urgent." Dominey swept it carelessly into the drawer of the desk at which he was sitting. a knock at the door."As you stooped to sit down just now. my friend. sir. However. The 197 . it will be for sympathy and assistance against the suspicions of those far-seeing Englishmen!" Dominey nodded. and Dominey knew that the end had come. turning apologetically towards his master." A car had passed along the avenue in front of the house. When I do approach you. There was the sound of voices in the hall. You and I will have." Dominey said. He blinked across the room through his thick glasses.—Listen. a little disturbed. "Take care of it for me. "you propose that we shall drink the Dominey cabinet hock and the Dominey port to the glory of our country." Seaman assented. "must be the weapons of guile and craft. Dominey." "To the glory of our country. I distinctly saw the shape of your revolver in your hip pocket. "You are quite right. and following her a short man in a suit of sombre black." he acknowledged. alas! to see less of one another." Seaman thrust his hand into his pocket and threw the revolver upon the table. In many ways it is unfortunate that we have not been able to keep England out of this for a few more months. announced the arrivals. "If I may. "Our weapons.
but not in greeting. when you first spoke to me. and I have assured you a dozen times since. The coolest of all four was perhaps Dominey. "Which is that." Dominey objected. "what have you done with my lover? What have you done with Leopold Von Ragastein?" "He met with the fate. We fought and I conquered." "And your life here has been a lie!" "On the contrary." Dominey said coolly. "It was a matter of necessity. you had the Imperial mandate. Her white finger pointed straight at him. "My first and only suspicion. For the moment the man had neither courage nor initiative. "as Doctor Schmidt there knows." he faltered. I told him my history. by God!" Schmidt answered." The Princess looked from one to the other of the two men. Seaman had still the appearance of a man struggling to extricate himself from some sort of nightmare. She turned to her companion." "You killed him?" "I killed him.Princess came a little further into the room." Seaman's voice seemed to come from a long way off. "Everard Dominey. That is who I am." she cried. Doctor Schmidt?" she demanded. "was that night when Wolff disappeared!" 198 . The letters and papers I took from him." Schmidt had covered his face with his hands for a moment. "The Englishman. that I was Everard Dominey. "My beloved chief!" he sobbed. "you had all Von Ragastein's letters. His mind was travelling backwards. "You came to me at Cape Town. The Princess was pale with a passion which seemed to sob behind her words." he muttered. it has been the truth. His body sleeps on the bed of the Blue River. Her hand was extended towards Dominey. "I assured you at the Carlton." Dominey said. That is my name. "which he had prepared for me. "not so far gone in his course of dissipation but that he was able to pull himself up when the great incentive came. His shoulders were heaving." Dominey echoed. He seemed as though he had received some sort of stroke. and he told me his. "My dear devoted master! Killed by that drunken Englishman!" "Not so drunk as you fancied him." Dominey replied. The silence which reigned for several seconds was intense and profound." "Von Ragastein and I exchanged the most intimate confidences in his camp. you knew his history.
" Dominey replied. "That is my name. "If the German Secret Service. what?" Eddy Pelham. We hope to find them very useful a little later on. and from underneath his cuff something gleamed. Schmidt came stealing across the room." "And the money?" Seaman continued. blinking rapidly. "What have I done?" he demanded. I think. or that I were a man!" "My dear Princess. two exceedingly formidable-looking men slipped into the room. but a very alert gleam in his usually vacuous face. "He has the Prince's memoirs! He has the Kaiser's map!" "On the contrary. you two?" she cried. and was now completely unnerved. There was no fight. however. "Fortunately. with a sudden white horror in his face. cares to formulate a claim and sue me—" The Princess suddenly interrupted. "Naturally. who had never recovered from the shock of his surprise. his hands in his pockets. as both assailants hesitated." was the fierce reply." Seaman sprang forward like a tiger and went down in a heap as he almost threw himself upon Dominey's out-flung fist. "Why am I treated like this?" "Doctor Schmidt?" Eddy asked pleasantly." a good-humoured voice remarked from the window. Her eyes seemed on fire. "Are you lumps of earth—clods—creatures without courage and intelligence? You can let him stand there—the Englishman who has murdered my lover. We knew nothing of the war when we started. who has befooled you? You let him stand there and mock you. "I have just landed from East Africa. From behind him. Seaman. "You are two to one!" the Princess cried passionately. and Schmidt disarmed. and more?" "I understood that was a gift. sir. and you do and say nothing! Is his life a sacred thing? Has he none of your secrets in his charge?" "The great God above us!" Seaman groaned. I had a secret service man in the house who was able to dispose of him." Dominey replied. I came to 199 ."Wolff's coming was rather a tragedy. "One hundred thousand pounds. "What are you. "four to two the other way. stretching out her hands towards Schmidt and Seaman." "It was you who planned his disappearance?" Seaman gasped." Dominey replied. "both are deposited at the Foreign Office." Dominey admitted. was handcuffed in a moment. not even a struggle. stood in the windowed doorway. "I would to God that I had a weapon. "He knew the truth and was trying all the time to communicate with you. The latter was the first to break the curious silence.
"You will find a military car outside. Take these men over to the guardroom at the Norwich Barracks. accuses him of murdering a man who had planned in cold blood—you were in that." he declared. "First of all. I thank God that our master has abler servants than I and the strength to crush this island of popinjays and fools!" "Popinjays seems severe. in a hard tone. "there can be little conversation between us. for England. there's Doctor Schmidt accuses Sir Everard here of being an impostor because he assumed his own name. turning to one of his two subordinates. I could have slain him as an assassin. complaining because Sir Everard carried through in Germany. That'll do for you. your house in Forest Hill and your offices in London Wall have been searched. to get on with this little matter. "However. It was his life or mine. and I caught you creeping across the floor just now with a knife in your hand. I have arranged for an escort to see them to town. "He has deceived the Kaiser! He has dared to sit in his presence as the Baron Von Ragastein!" The young man in flannels glanced across at Dominey and smiled." he added." Schmidt shouted. Tell the colonel I'll be over later in the day. exactly what he believed the Baron Von Ragastein was carrying out here—for Germany." "I demand again." he said. "Within the last two days." was the surly reply. "You are well-advised." "He has committed lese majeste!" Seaman gasped. Any questions to ask. Yet I shall ask you to remember this. but I preferred to meet him face to face with the truth upon my lips. "You and Von Ragastein together planned the murder of Sir Everard Dominey in East Africa. as he did for his. Schmidt—to kill him." 200 . the secretary of the society for propagating better relations between the business men of England and Germany. Von Ragastein planned my death in cold blood.expose that man. "to know by what right I am treated as a criminal?" "Because you are one. "I say." Eddy murmured. and then there's our friend here. I fought for my country's sake. Dominey turned towards her. Seaman?" "None. You're a curious. without the slightest risk. thickheaded race." the young man remarked coolly. you two don't mean to be funny but you are." The Princess rose from the chair into which she had subsided a few moments before. "Fate has gone against me." Seaman declared. "Princess. you Germans. He is an impostor—a murderer! He has killed a German nobleman." "You have said enough. by the by." Eddy answered coolly.
those two. eh?" "Do you mean to say that he had plans of a fortress upon him?" Dominey asked. and Dominey." he admitted." Dominey was watching the dust from the two cars which were disappearing down the avenue." he asked. and neatly cleaned up. Dominey. found all his thoughts absorbed by the struggle which was being fought out in the bedchamber above. dear heart. "Picture post-card of Norwich Castle. "Nice old ducks." the young man confided.The Princess looked at him with glittering eyes. "She's doing all right. The old doctor came down and joined him at dinner time. "there's one thing I have always been curious about. How did you manage to keep that fellow Wolff when there wasn't a war on. a hundred pounds to shoot him on the pretence that he was escaping." she declared. She passed by without a glance at him and disappeared. Eddy came strolling along the terrace a few moments later. no! She's as near as possible in perfect health physically. but although I am a woman. I pray that I shall never see your face again. and he wasn't breaking the law?" The young man grinned. after one silent but passionate outburst of thankfulness at the passing from his life of this unnatural restraint. He met Dominey's eager glance with a little nod. "Tell me. "We had to stretch a point there. I can tell you. Be so good as to suffer me to leave this house at once. "No fever or anything?" "Bless you. "because you have killed the thing I love. You were chivalrous towards me." he confided." Dominey threw open the windows which led on to the terrace and stood on one side. old dear. A different woman from what she was this time last year." "And what about Schmidt?" "Insisted on his rights as an officer and demanded the front seat and a cigar before the car started! A pretty job. 201 ." he declared. Eddy. "Plans of a fortress. "but keep it dark. my burly ruffian in the blue serge suit. I know justice. "Seaman has just offered Forsyth. Can I have a drink before I get the little car going?" The turmoil of the day was over. and unattended. You treated Leopold perhaps better than he would have treated you. "I shall hate you to the end of my days.
The great world's drama. the old doctor tiptoed his way to his room. stirred by a tumultuous wave of passionate emotion. too." Dominey promised. "Or?" Dominey insisted. 202 . Dominey sat in his easy-chair. would surely continue to play his part. without a single illusion of any sort. From behind an unseen hand closed the panel. Thank heavens you're on the spot!" They finished their dinner almost in silence." he said. uncounted. seemed like a thing far off. the hope seemed frozen into fear. However. I am hoping for the best. unnoticed. She stooped low. She was a very real and a very live woman. He sat a little forward in his easy-chair. I have been so silly!" she confessed. they smoked for a few minutes upon the terrace. "Oh. or—" The doctor paused. Every fibre of his being seemed attuned to the magic and the music of one wild hope. with a pleased smile upon his face. She came to him as she had never come before. Along the corridor. For a moment she laid her head upon his shoulder. the same strange. The memory of those earlier days of his return came back to him with all their poignant longings. "There were times when I couldn't believe that you were my Everard—mine! And now I know. sipped his wine." Her lips sought his again. his eyes fixed upon the slowly widening crack in the panel. "Everard!" she cried. At their first kiss she thrilled from head to foot. unnerving tenderness. his hands griping its sides. emptied his glass and set it down approvingly. in which he knew that he. his parched with the desire of years. The doctor parted with Dominey at the door of the latter's room.When she wakes up. He felt again the same tearing at the heartstrings. That faint touch of the somnambulist had passed. "I shall remain with her for an hour or so. the concern of another race of men. Then they made their way softly upstairs. stood up again and came towards him. She came to him with her arms outstretched and all the wonderful things of life and love in her shining eyes. It was as it had been before. He took her into his arms. "After that I shall leave her entirely to herself. Yet when there came what he had listened for so long. The minutes passed into hours. Afterwards. she'll either be herself again. You'll be here in case there's a change?" "I shall be here. "Or that part of her brain will be more or less permanently affected.
Alfred. thanks. thank you. and carrying in his hand a brown leather dressing-case. Edward Phillips Oppenheim A novel about secret societies in New York. Edward Phillips Oppenheim A novel of English life of a melodramatic character. and. The station-master. all the same! You hear anything of it. Done splendidly. was standing a few yards away." he declared. and all that sort of thing. Sleep of the just. Edward Phillips Oppenheim Excerpt: "Never heard a sound. was there himself. to all appearance absorbed in studying the advertisements which decorated the grimy wall on the other side of the single track." the younger of the afternoon callers admitted. A dark. "No more tea. who was seated a few feet away. turning to his companion. The Black Box. smoking a long cigar. JOHN P. getting rid of his empty cup and leaning forward in his low chair. That's Sanford 203 . The Evil Shepherd. I went to bed last night soon after eleven—the Colonel had been route marching us all off our legs—and I never awoke until reveille this morning. wearing a long travelling ulster and a Homburg hat.Loved this book ? Similar users also downloaded The Double Four. so fascinating and so stirring that the most hardened reader can hardly fail to receive a series of thrills. across which was painted in black letters the name MR. The Zeppelin's Passenger. however. but a jolly sell. Miss Fairclough. with an inspector in attendance. sir?" he asked. Edward Phillips Oppenheim Excerpt: There were very few people upon Platform Number Twenty-one of Liverpool Street Station at a quarter to nine on the evening of April 2—possibly because the platform in question is one of the most remote and least used in the great terminus. DUNSTER. The Vanished Messenger. "That's the most interesting man in New York—one of the most interesting in the world. Edward Phillips Oppenheim Excerpt: "You're in luck. thick-set man. No.
Quest." An Amiable Charlatan. "Sanford Quest. that were a staple of Victorian Britain". "is the greatest master in criminology the world has ever known. drank half a glassful of wine and leaned back in his chair. I was seated at my favorite table against the wall on the right-hand side in Stephano's restaurant. considering his size." The young man whose privilege it was to have been born and lived all his days in New York. and a portion of the plat du jour. in fact." The Riddle of the Sands. 204 . which happened to be chicken en casserole. drew a chair toward him and took the vacant place at my table. without a word of warning. It is a novel that "owes a lot to the wonderful adventure novels of writers like Rider Haggard. perhaps more significantly. it was a spy novel that "established a formula that included a mass of verifiable detail. I was. a man who seemed to enter with a lightfooted speed that. a scientist. My glass of wine and my plate were moved with smooth and marvelous haste to his vicinity. the Pierpont Morgan of his profession. halfway through dinner when. He is a magician. for a few moments." "Who's he?" "You haven't heard of Sanford Quest?" "Never in my life. Edward Phillips Oppenheim A story of the diplomatic events leading up to the European War. Words. Erskine Childers The Riddle of the Sands: A Record of Secret Service is a patriotic British 1903 novel by Erskine Childers. a glass of hock by my side." Ken Follett called it "the first modern thriller. was almost incredible. Ian Fleming. on the plate in front of me." The Double Traitor. were an impossibility. John le Carré and many others. with a newspaper propped up before me. Under cover of the tablecloth a packet— I could not tell what it contained— was thrust into my hand." he pronounced at last. Edward Phillips Oppenheim "The thing happened so suddenly that I really had very little time to make up my mind what course to adopt under somewhat singular circumstances. which gave authenticity to the story – the same ploy that would be used so well by John Buchan.
Edward Phillips Oppenheim An espionage novel set during World War I. The Dark Star. Robert William Chambers A pastor's daughter is inadvertently involved the heist of the famous Dark Star gem. Is there a prince who can save her from ruin and recover the stone? 205 .The Kingdom of the Blind.
feedbooks.www.com Food for the mind 206 .
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