'
Susie was curiously fascinated by the flaming lights. There was an awful
mystery in those unknown labours which absorbed Oliver Haddo night after
night till the sun rose. What horrible things were done there, hidden
from the eyes of men? By himself in that vast house the madman performed
ghastly experiments; and who could tell what dark secrets he trafficked
in?
'There is no danger that he will come out,' said Arthur. 'He remains
there till the break of day.'
He took her hand again and led her on. Back they went among the trees,
and presently they were on a pathway. They walked along with greater
safety.
'Are you all right, Porhoet?' asked Arthur.
'Yes.'
But the trees grew thicker and the night more sombre. Now the stars were
shut out, and they could hardly see in front of them.
'Here we are,' said Arthur.
They stopped, and found that there was in front of them a green space
formed by four cross-ways. In the middle a stone bench gleamed vaguely
against the darkness.
'This is where Margaret sat when last I saw her.
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