"Will you ask if it is convenient for me to see her? I have come hastily
from London on important business."

With all the solemnity an old family retainer displays on such
occasions, the butler led the way to the library.

"I will send your message to my lady at once, sir."

He went away and soon returned.

"My lady is dressing, but she will be with you in a few minutes." He
placed a decanter of the famous Ulverston sherry on the table, and
withdrew. Mr. Forster gladly helped himself to a glass. "I would take
that or anything else to give me courage," he said to himself. "How am I
to tell her? I know not."

In a quarter of an hour the door opened, and a stately lady,
magnificently dressed, entered the room. She was very dignified, of
queenly presence and bearing, with the remains of great beauty in her
face.

She bowed most courteously to the lawyer, and held out her white,
jeweled hand.

"Good evening, Mr. Forster," she said; "your visit has taken me by
surprise. You are well. I hope?"

"Quite well, Lady Carruthers, myself. Quite well, I thank you."

But his manner was so confused, his face so flushed, that the stately