But the morning
came as usual; and as the others said nothing of these singular noises,
Helen did not think it necessary to speak of them. All day long she and
the humble relative of Elsie's mother, who had appeared as poor relations
are wont to in the great prises of life, were busy in arranging the
disordered house, and looking over the various objects which Elsie's
singular tastes had brought together, to dispose of them as her father
might direct. They all met together at the usual hour for tea. One of
the servants came in, looking very blank, and said to the poor relation,
"The well is gone dry; we have nothing but rainwater."
Dudley Venner's countenance changed; he sprang to, his feet and went
to--assure himself of the fact, and, if he could, of the reason of it.
For a well to dry up during such a rain-storm was extraordinary,--it was
ominous.
He came back, looking very anxious.
"Did any of you notice any remarkable sounds last night," he said,--"or
this morning? Hark! do you hear anything now?"
They listened in perfect silence for a few moments.
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