Vexing the dull ear of a drowsy man.
But there is surely no reason, dearest, why we should endorse the sentiment.”
“None whatever, Tom. You are kindness itself,” responded his wife, with a loving kiss.
“By the way, I have not as yet told you that a strange gentleman called at the works to-day. He wanted to see Mrs. Maitland upon very pressing business.”
“Ah, is that so? Who is he?”
“I haven’t the faintest idea. He said his name was Wrench. Do you remember if your mother ever knew a person of that name?”
“Not that I ever heard of. What did you tell him?”
“I gave him her address.”
* * * * *
Mrs. Maitland resided with her niece, whose house was within half a mile of Tom Gatliffe’s residence. While the foregoing conversation had been taking place the worthy old lady was having a tête-à-tête with the sagacious detective, who had explained to her his reason for waiting upon her.