"She had no other shelter. We have always regarded her as a child of our own. Her mother was my sister."
"I know it. Since she has been living permanently with you has Miss Farebrother heard from her father?"
"He wrote to her, but not in answer to any letter of hers."
"Did he not say in his communication that if she would obey him she could return to Parksides?"
"Yes," said Aunt Leth, amazed at the extent of Mr. Beeminster's knowledge, and in an agony of apprehension.
"Did Miss Farebrother reply to that letter?"
"No, she did not."
"I suppose that her conduct met with your approval? She would be guided by you?"
"I endeavoured to guide her aright. Her father showed no love for her."
"But you may be prejudiced. Since your marriage there has been no love lost between you and Miser Farebrother?"