He carried my luggage along the passage, and then up a long, twisting flight of stairs. Then there was another large, long passage. The floor was stone, and our footsteps sounded loud. At the end of the passage he opened a heavy door. I was very pleased to see that behind the door was a well-lit room in which a table was spread for supper. In a huge fireplace there was a great fire. Wood had been freshly added to the fire so it burned with a strong flame.

The Count stopped inside the room. He put down my bags and closed the door. Then he crossed the room, and opened another door. This led into a small many-sided room lit by a single lamp. There did not seem to be any windows in the room. He went through this room and opened still another door, and asked me to go inside.

I was very pleased with what I saw there For there was a large bedroom, well lighted, and warmed with another fire. Also this fire had been refreshed recently, for the wood on it was fresh, and the wind from its burning went roaring up the wide chimney. The Count left my luggage inside and left the room, and before he closed the door he said.

"After your journey you will need to refresh yourself by taking a quick wash. I hope you will find everything you need. When you are ready, come into the other room, where you will find your supper prepared."