more the society of ladies. But this business, madam, is beyond comment,
and I can only say that I rejoice and feel grateful that you decided as
you did, and have come at once to me."

"Oh, I am so glad, and such a load is taken off my mind!" exclaimed Miss
Plympton, fervently.

"Why, madam, I am utterly astounded at this man's audacity," cried Sir
Lionel--"utterly astounded! To think that any man should ever venture
upon such a course! It's positively almost inconceivable. And so you
tell me that she is there now?"

"Yes."

"Under the lock and key, so to speak, of this fellow?"

"Yes."

"And she isn't allowed even to go to the gate?"

"No."

"The man's mad," cried Sir Lionel--"mad, raving mad. Did you see him?"

"No. He wouldn't consent to see me."

"Why, I tell you, he's a madman," said Sir Lionel. "He must be. No sane
man could think of such a thing. Why, this is England, and the
nineteenth century. The days of private imprisonment are over. He's mad!
The man's mad!"