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. CHAPTER XVII. With my mind filled with dreadful forebodings, I reached my own private chamber, entered it, and bolted the door, that I might consider, undisturbed, the best course of action to pursue under these fearful suspicions that haunted me. Hour after hour passed as I sat thus absorbed in thought which seemed to turn my very hair gray from its intensity.