What had been done already by Lenore, left me under the impression that she would still further aid me in establishing the truth. I felt confident, that she would not object to letting us know on what day and hour we might meet Adkins at her mother's house; and with this confidence, I wrote a note to her, containing the request that she would do so. Then, in pleasant expectation of soon having an opportunity of clearing my character, I awaited the answer. Volume One, Chapter XIII. A RECKONING UP. Lenore did not disappoint me. Two days after getting out of the prison, I received her reply--informing me that Adkins would be at her mother's house the next day, and advising me to call with my friends, about half-past ten. I had made known to her the object of my desire to meet him. After receiving her note, I went immediately to Mason and Wilton; and we appointed a place of rendezvous for the next morning. That evening, I was as uneasy as the commander-in-chief of an army on the eve of a great battle. I had an enemy to confront and conquer--a reputation already sullied to restore to its former brightness. I could not help some anxiety as to the result. In the morning, I met my friends at the appointed place; and as the clock struck ten, we started for the residence of Mrs Hyland. As we came within sight of the house, I perceived Lenore at the window. She recognised us, rose from her seat, and disappeared towards the back of the room. When I rang the bell, the door was opened by herself. Without hesitating, she conducted us all three into the parlour, where we found Adkins and Mrs Hyland. The latter appeared to be no little astonished by our unexpected entrance; but as for Adkins himself, he looked more like a frightened maniac than a man. "What does this mean?" exclaimed Mrs Hyland, in a voice that expressed more alarm than indignation. "These gentlemen have called to see you on business, mother," said her daughter. "There is nothing to fear from them. They are our friends." Having said this, Lenore requested us to be seated; and we complied. Adkins did not speak; but I could read from the play of his features, that he knew the game was up, and that he had lost.