"Our reporter was about to put his plan into execution when Mrs. Middlemore clutched his arm. He instantly withdrew it.
"'Of course, Mrs. Middlemore,' he said, coldly, 'it is your house, and I can't commit a trespass without your permission.'
"'It ain't that, sir,' said Mrs. Middlemore, piteously. 'Sophy's a plucky little thing, and though I do give 'er a 'ard word now and then, I mean well by 'er, I do indeed, sir.'
"'Yer a good sort, aunty,' said Sophy. 'I don't mind yer 'ard words, not a bit.'
"''Old yer saucy tongue, and let me speak to the gentleman. Yes, sir, I mean well by Sophy, and I should never 'ave another minute's peace if anythink was to appen to 'er.'
"'What do you think will happen to her if I do what I propose?'
"'There's been one sudding death in the 'ouse, sir----.'
"'Go on, Mrs. Middlemore. Don't stop in the middle of a sentence; finish what you have to say. Time is very precious just now.'
"There's been one sudding death in the 'ouse, and now there's a man in there as won't or can't answer.'
"'You fear he might be dead. If so, he cannot do Sophy any harm. Eh, Sophy?'