cause of the death was plain enough. Moreover, Emilia had no
relatives who cared to make inquiries. She left very little
money, so those she had, did not trouble themselves."

"It is a strange story," said Cuthbert, looking puzzled. "Had
you an idea that Emilia may have been pushed off the plank by
Selina?"

"Certainly not," rejoined Caranby indignantly. "She was a
good and kind girl. She would not do such a thing."

"Humph!" said Mallow, remembering the eagle nose and thin lips
of Miss Loach. "I'm not so sure of that."

"Isabella, who was passionate, might have done it," resumed
Caranby, "often did I wish to speak to her on the subject, but
I never did. And after all, the jury brought in a verdict of
accidental death, so there was no use making trouble."

"Had Emilia no relatives who might have made inquiries?"

"I believe she had a brother who was a clerk in an office,
but, as I said, she left no money, so he did not bother
himself. I saw him after the death, and the sight of him made
me glad I had not married his sister. He looked a thorough
blackguard, sly and dangerous. But, as I said, Emilia came of
low people. It was only her fine voice and great talents that
brought her into the society where I met her. I have never
heard of her brother since. I expect he is dead by this time.
It is over twenty years ago. But you can now understand why