"How do you know," he asked, "that Mr. Russell arrives this evening?"
"Because Mr. Valentine rung me up on the telegraph, and said as I was to have the rooms ready by eight o'clock this evening."
"And who is Mr. Valentine?"
"Don't know no more than you, sir, except that he's the gent what took the rooms in August, as I'm a-telling you."
"Well, then," said Crouch, "I don't think you need trouble to stay. You can go back to Emily Jane. I and my friend will remain here until Mr. Russell arrives. We'll keep the fire alight, and make ourselves at home."
Mrs. Wycherley, who a moment since had been on the verge of tears, gathered her shawl about her shoulders, and beamed upon Captain Crouch.
"And it may be," said the little captain, "that Emily Jane will be none the worse for a few comforts, such as beef-tea and a jelly. On your way home, you might be able to get her something with that."
So saying, he banged down a sovereign on the table, which Mrs. Wycherley was not slow to accept.
"Then with your permission," said she, "I think I'll just be stepping round."
With that, and with a curtsey, she was off, with much more alacrity than she had shown before.