“Next day I started for the rambling old house in Vermont, if haply in the spot where I first saw her, I might come upon some clue to her present whereabouts. But the old inn was deserted, and whatever hope I may have had in that direction, perished with the rest.
“Concerning the contents of that bureau-drawer above, I can say nothing. If, as I scarcely dare to hope, they should prove to have been indeed brought here by the girl who has since disappeared so strangely, who knows but what in those folded garments a clue is given which will lead me at last to the knowledge for which I would now barter all I possess. My wife—But I can mention her name no more till the question that now assails us is set at rest. Mrs. Daniels must—”
But at that moment the door opened and Mrs. Daniels came in.
CHAPTER XIV. MRS. DANIELS
She still wore her bonnet and shawl and her face was like marble.
“You want me?” said she with a hurried look towards Mr. Blake that had as much fear as surprise in it.
“Yes,” murmured that gentleman moving towards her with an effort we could very well appreciate. “Mrs. Daniels, who was the girl you harbored in that room above us for so long? Speak; what was her name and where did she come from?”
The housekeeper trembling in every limb, cast us one hurried appeal.
“Speak!” reechoed Mr. Gryce; “the time for secrecy has passed.”