seemed so well conducted, in spite of his lively manners. But--"

"But what?"

"Mrs. Ashleigh was, perhaps, imprudent to admit him into her house so
familiarly. He was certainly very handsome. Young ladies will be
romantic."

"How dare you, sir!" I cried, choked with rage. "And without any
colouring to so calumnious a suggestion! Margrave has not been in the
town for many days. No one knows even where he is."

"Oh, yes, it is known where he is. He wrote to order the effects which he
had left here to be sent to Penrith."

"When?"

"The letter arrived the day before yesterday. I happened to be calling at
the house where he last lodged, when at L----, the house opposite Mrs.
Ashleigh's garden. No doubt the servants in both houses gossip with each
other. Miss Ashleigh could scarcely fail to hear of Mr. Margrave's
address from her maid; and since servants will exchange gossip, they may
also convey letters. Pardon me, you know I am your friend."

"Not from the moment you breathe a word against my betrothed wife," said
I, fiercely.

I wrenched myself from the clasp of the man's hand, but his words still
rang in my ears. I mounted my horse; I rode into the adjoining suburbs,
the neighbouring villages; there, however, I learned nothing, till, just