It was Mr. Thaxton, the lawyer. He looked from one to the other, with inquiring and acute attention.
Mrs. Mildmay came forward, and held out her hand.
"Oh, Mr. Thaxton," she exclaimed, with agitated earnestness, "I am so glad you have come!"
"So am I, if I am needed," said Mr. Thaxton, bowing over her hand and glancing at the captain.
"This is Captain Murpoint."
The captain bowed, but, as he was pouring some eau de cologne upon Violet's handkerchief, he could not shake hands.
"Something dreadful has happened," continued Mrs. Mildmay, hurriedly; "we have only just heard of it; we did not know that Violet was in the room, and—and—oh, dear, oh, dear!"
And the simple, good-hearted lady burst into tears.
Violet rose, calm and terribly quiet.
"Do not cry, aunt," she said. "Mr. Thaxton, I am glad you have come; some terrible accident has happened."