The voice proceeded with increased emphasis,
advising his instant departure from the house--speaking of nameless
dangers--of murderous intrigue and conspiracy, and warning against even
the delay of a single instant.
The character of Ralph was finely marked, and firmness of purpose and a
ready decision were among its most prominent attributes. Hastily leaping
from his couch, therefore, with a single bound he reached the door of
his chamber, which, to his astonishment, he found entirely unfastened.
The movement was so sudden and so entirely unlooked-for, that the
intruder was taken by surprise; and beheld, while the youth closed
securely the entrance, the hope of escape entirely cut off. Ralph
advanced toward his visiter, the dim outline of whose person was visible
upon the wall. Lifting his arm as he approached, what was his
astonishment to perceive the object of his assault sink before him upon
the floor, while the pleading voice of a woman called upon him for
mercy.
"Spare me, Mr.
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