As she entered the house, she clung to the arm of Vernon, as though she was entering the abode of evil spirits; for, with all the memories of the past, she could not forget that the home of her childhood was inhabited by her inhuman uncle.

She had been but a short time seated in the old, familiar drawing-room, like a stranger now, when De Guy entered, to request her presence in the library.  She rose, and looked at Vernon, who, understanding the glance, approached, as if to bear her company.

“This gentleman had better remain here,” suggested De Guy.

“I prefer that he should attend me,” said Emily, firmly, even while her heart rose to her throat, at the thought of meeting her uncle.

“But really, madam, his presence would embarrass the business of the interview.”

“He is a friend,” stammered Emily, “and is acquainted with all the circumstances of this affair.”

“I will attend her, sir,” said Vernon, who had before remained silent.

“Pardon me,” said the attorney, looking sharply at Vernon, “but it will be impossible to transact any business in presence of others.”

“Lead on,” said Vernon, sternly; “I will attend the lady, in spite of all objections.”

“Sir, you are insolent!” said the attorney, tartly, though without the loss of his self-possession.

“The gentleman will not in the least retard the business.  Pray pass on,” interposed Emily, fearful of a collision between the parties.

“It is impossible, madam.  I must insist that he remain here.  Such is Mr. Dumont’s express order.”

“Will you say to Mr. Dumont that the lady demands my attendance?  Perhaps he will yield the point,” answered Vernon.

“I will see him, but it is useless.  I know his views;” and De Guy left the room.

“Do not hesitate to go with him, Miss Dumont; I will be close at hand; but no violence will be offered you.  I see my father and Captain Carroll coming up the road,” said Vernon, looking out the window.  “Yield, if necessary, and fear nothing.”

“Mr. Dumont persists in his purpose of meeting the lady alone,” said De Guy, as he reentered the drawing-room.

“The lady, in your absence, has concluded to dispense with my attendance,” replied Vernon.

“This way, madam,”—­and the attorney, with punctilious politeness, led the way.

Vernon threw himself upon a sofa, as they were leaving; but no sooner had the door closed, than he rose in haste, and left the apartment.  Reaching the veranda of the house, he met Dr. Vaudelier and Henry Carroll, who followed him back to the drawing-room.

“This way, silently, if you please,” said he, and then closed the door.  A moment sufficed to inform the new comers of the position of affairs; then Vernon left the room, and went to the library door, which he found, by Henry’s direction.  Stationing himself in a recess behind some coats, he waited till his presence should be needed.