"Was she?"
"It was years ago, long before I first saw you. I knew her then, well. In fact—though I had not meant to reveal any personal interest in this question—I do not mind saying that she made a very strong impression on me then. But I was told that she was engaged; and I at once left the place."
"Fled! Without making sure if the report were true!"
"Perhaps I acted too precipitately. My information seemed reliable."
"It was not!" Lettice spoke decisively. "You were told what was untrue."
Mr. Kelly showed some slight agitation. "And all these years since—"
"All these years since, she has never been engaged." It seemed very strange to Lettice that Bertha's visit should have been just in time to prepare her for this interview. She could not but speak out, however, having the requisite knowledge.
"You are sure? It was a long while ago."
"I am sure: because I have heard particulars. Prue was not engaged at that time; and she has never been engaged since. I know so much, positively. There cannot be any mistake."
Mr. Kelly kept profound silence, and Lettice's heart beat fast. Would he ask any more? Had she said enough?