The Mystery of the Shadow

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1906 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XVII. FACE TO FACE. THE estranged lovers stared at one another, while Captain Rug looked at them both with a decidedly puzzled air. Alix was the first to break an embarrassed silence. "I did not expect to find you here," she said, addressing herself to Youle. "The surprise is mutual," he replied drily. "May I ask why you have come here, and how you learned the address of Captain Rug?" "I think those questions concern me," snapped Rug in a blunt way. "1 am in my own house, ain't I? This young lady called to see me, and not you, didn't she? Well, then" "There is no need to go on in this way, Rug," interrupted Youle stiffly. "I am far from claiming any right to control this lady's action, so I'll leave her with you for a time, and return to hear you finish your story." "It's finished," said Rug sharply; "and when you leave my house, you don't set foot in it again." "In that case I won't go out." "Yes, you will, so" 'Harold! Captain Rug!" Alix, who had hitherto preserved silence, now asserted herself. "There is no need to quarrel. I thought to see the Captain alone, but now that you are here, Harold, you may as well be present at the interview." Youle looked at her keenly, then bowed and walked back into the parlour. Alix lingered behind to exchange a word with Rug, and then followed slowly. Shortly Rug entered, and closed the door. As he did so it opened again, and Mary Jane appeared. "Won't Miss Parsons take something to eat and drink, father?" she asked, casting a curious glance at Alix. Rug stared. "How do you know this young lady's name?" he asked. "Old Barnacles showed me her portrait, and then I saw her in the distance with you, Mr. Youle, when father took me down to see Old Barnacles, two" Rug turned on his daughter with so...