He insisted on carrying my luggage along the passage, and then up a long winding stair. Then there was another large, long passage. The floor was stone, and our footsteps sounded loud. At the end of the passage he threw open a heavy door. I rejoiced to see within a well-lit room in which a table was spread for supper, and on whose massive hearth a great fire of logs, freshly replenished, burned with a strong flame.

The Count halted. He put down my bags and closed the door. Then he crossed the room, and opened a door. This led into a small octagonal room lit by a single lamp. There did not seem to be any windows in the room. He went through this room and opened another door, and motioned me to enter.

It was a welcome sight. For here was a large bedroom well lighted and warmed with another log fire. Also this fire had been refreshed recently, for the top logs were fresh, and the sound of their burning sent a hollow roar up the wide chimney. The Count himself left my luggage inside and left the room, saying, before he closed the door.

"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."