Snippet #1513690

"All consigned to mystery and speculation I'm afraid." the Earl replied, a wistful smile on his face. "And yet we remain, for better or worse. Even so my dears, you must both be quite tired; it is well past midnight. Franklins will show you to your room."

The butler, still with a sombre expression, said "This way if you please." He led the girls up a wide staircase with carved wooden banisters. A landing at the top lead to various different rooms, each with a name plaque on the door. The butler stopped outside one which read 'Erasmus Room' and opened the door, wishing them a good night's sleep.

The room behind the door had been prepared. It was not large, but as huge mirror appeared to double it's size. Crisp white sheets had been folded back on the double bed, and a warm fire burned in the fireplace. The door closed as the butler left the room.

The girls knew that if they did not leave immediately they would not make tomorrow's appointment in time, but if it was true that there was no useable phone, what could they do?