Chapter SixThe Marquis came in late, and although he was tired he lay for some time, finding it difficult to sleep.
There was a great deal on his mind that turned over and over before finally he slept.
He awoke with a start and realised that what had awakened him was a very unusual noise.
An animal was scratching at his door, whining as he did so. Then there was a sharp bark, and he was aware that it was a dog.
For a moment he thought he must be in the country and it was one of his own dogs, then as he was fully awake he knew it was Sirius.
He lit a candle, then got out of bed and opened the door. Sirius, who was still scratching on it, seemed almost to fall into the room.
Then he gave a sharp bark, and running away from the Marquis down the passage he stopped and looked back, then r
