The Lonely Bride by Fred M. White

Had she paused a moment for reflection, Grace would have seen what was the prudent thing to do. She felt practically certain that it was Max who lay a prisoner on the bed there, for she had not only heard his voice, but it seemed to her also that she could recognise the outline of his form. It was quite evident that Max had suffered some violent treatment, or he would not have been in the semi-unconscious condition as indicated by the question addressed to Bessie Fenton. He had been brought there for some purpose, doubtless of a sinister nature, and he was not likely to be moved for some little time. It was evident that those in the plot deemed themselves to be quite safe; it would not have entered into their calculations that there was any possibility of a visit from those who were searching for the missing man. In the circumstances Grace's obvious duty was to have returned home at once and place the information she had derived in the hands of the police.

But she did not stop to think now, she was too deeply concerned in the welfare of her lover. She could not bear the suspense; her heart was beating fast now; come what may, she made up her mind to know the worst before she slept that night.