"Then why do you avoid saying so!"
"I do not, but on that same day these four trunks were forwarded here. If you remember, I only took one trunk on our—wedding journey. I supposed these four would be quite safe in this house. But look here, Robert," she continued, lifting a set of valuable ermine furs, "these were given me by Mrs. Priestley. They were of the most exquisite purity, but they look now as if they had been dipped in a light solution of Indian ink."
"The Glasgow rain," he answered carelessly. "Ducie, I do not think we shall blame you."
"Sir, I will take no blame, either about things spoiled, or stolen."
"There is no question of theft. If the ladies using these rooms for a day or two——"
"For three weeks, sir."
"Used also some clothing found in the rooms——"
"Not found, sir, I beg pardon, but locked trunks were opened for them, which the men in the kitchen say is clear burglary—perhaps wishing to frighten me, sir. But this way, or that way, sir, things have been ruined that cost no end of money, and when I saw my lady's spoiled gowns and furs, and broken jewelry, they fairly took my breath away! Yes, sir, they did."
"You may go now, Ducie."
"I cannot and will not be blamed, sir, and I want that fact clear."