"Much as we love one another," said Cuthbert when the lovers
were seated on the sofa. "I wonder you can talk of anything
but this horrid murder."

"Because there is nothing to talk of," rejoined the girl
impatiently; "according to Basil, the case is most mysterious,
so it is useless for us to worry over it until something
tangible is discovered. But I want to speak to you seriously--"
here Juliet hesitated.

"Well, go on," said Cuthbert, taking her hand.

"Mother says--" began Juliet, then hesitated again. "Promise
me you will keep to yourself what I am about to tell you."

"Certainly. I never was a fellow to chatter."

"Then mother says that this murder will put a stop to our
marriage."

Mallow stared, then flushed up to his ears. "What on earth
does she mean by that?" he asked aghast.

Juliet looked searchingly at him. "Do you know of any
impediment?"

"I? Of course I don't. I am sorry for the death of your
aunt, but I really don't see what it has to do with you and
me."