Nothing new transpired the remainder of those autumn days. November
was now close upon us. About this time I remarked a sudden falling
off of my hitherto prosperous school. Determined to know the cause, I
inquired of one of my assistants, in whom I confided, if she was aware
of the cause of this decline. She hesitated to reply to my question,
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 me and
speaking through his set teeth. “Go down stairs!” and he pushed me from
him violently.
I suppose his physical power and angry mood awed me, for I forgot my
determination to solve the mystery--forgot my own rights, and hurried
precipitately down the stairs.