e said, "and who will tell him
this? _I_ dare not."

Fanny feigned a carelessness that she was far from feeling.

"I don't know how that is to be managed, but I believe it is all for the
best. He can't kill either of us; that is some comfort."

Harry did not smile; his countenance wore an expression of grave
anxiety, such as had seldom appeared there.

"No, he will not hurt us, but I fear he will have _some one's_ blood
before all is done."

CHAPTER XXI.

It was past nightfall when Major Keene returned to Dorade. As he drove
past the hotel where the Tresilyans lodged he looked up at the windows
of their apartments, and was somewhat surprised to _see_ no light there;
but no suspicion of the truth crossed his mind. He had made all
preparations for the intended flight with his habitual skill and
foresight. The Levantine steamer left Marseilles early on the third
morning from this, and relays were so ordered along the road as to
prevent the possibility of being overtaken, and just to hit the hour of
the vessel's sailing. So far every thing seemed to promise favorably for
the accomplishment of his purposes, and Royston could not have explained
even to himself the reason of his feeling so moody and discontented. He
went straight to his own rooms, without looking in at the Molyneuxs';
for he was heated and travel-stained; and, under such circumstances, was
wont to postpone the greeting of friends to the exigencies of the
toilet. This was scarcely concluded when his servant brought him Mark
Waring's card, with a request penciled on it for an immediate interview.

Even the Cool Captain started perceptibly when he read the name. He was
well acquainted with the episode connected with it; for Cecil had kept
back none of her secrets from him, and this was among the earliest
confidences. _Then_ he had felt no inclination to sneer; but now his lip
began to curl cynically.

"_Coramba!_" he muttered; "the plot begins to thicken. What brings the
old lover _en scene_? I hope he does not mean to make himself
disagreeable. I haven't time to quarrel just now; and, besides, it would
worry Cecil. Well, we'll find out what he wants. Tell Mr. Waring that I
am disengaged, and shall be happy to see him."

The major advanced to meet his visitor with a manner that was perfectly
courteous, though it retained a tinge of haughty surprise.

"I can not guess to what I am indebted for this pleasure," he said.
"Pardon me, if I ask you t