ion, but when pressed
for her opinion she informed me that my pupils were dissatisfied with my
relations with Mr. Richard, and also with his conduct respecting the
youth who had been imprisoned on the upper floor. They asserted they had
heard groans proceeding from the room he occupied, and feared to remain
in a house where mystery and secrecy were rife.

I was astonished and alarmed at this information. You, reader, will be
surprised to learn that I was at that time more ignorant of events that
transpired around me than my own pupils. But I was not of a suspicious
nature, and happy in my new life of love, the few weeks that had elapsed
since my marriage passed as in a delicious dream.

But now I was thoroughly aroused and ready to return to duty. I thanked
the teacher for her information and then dismissed her, as I wished to be
alone.

When left to the quiet of my own thoughts I reflected how best to proceed
in the matter. Richard was not at home, I could not question him, and he
had the key of his ward's room with him.

I finally concluded I would go to the door of this private room and
listen if I could detect any unusual noise from within.

With trepidation I ascended the back staircase leading to the secluded
apartment.

Near the door I paused against the alcove of the great window that
lighted the hall, and looked out. The sky was dull and leaden; a scanty
snow was falling, and the wind, blowing furiously, drove it hither and
yon. I stood for some moments looking out upon the gloomy prospect so in
accordance with my state of mind. Suddenly I caught a glimpse of Richard
crossing the street. I started when I saw him and was about to retreat,
when a thought arrested me. Why should I hurry away? Was I afraid of
Richard? Was he not the proper person to consult in my dilemma? I would
let him know that I desired to enter the room!

So thinking, I approached the door and tried it. It was locked, but at
the sound of the turning knob a sad, dreary moan arose from within--a cry
of mingled fear and weakness. The sound of that moaning voice seemed
familiar to my ear. What could it mean?

As I stood thus in suspense, listening for further development of the
mystery, I heard a step close beside me. I turned, and discovered
Richard. His fair, handsome face scowled at me fiendishly; his
countenance seemed transformed; his eyes gleamed like those of a panther.

"What are you doing here?" said he, laying a heavy hand upon