Alfred's next visitor was the Robin. He came whispering, “It is all right with Garrett, sir, and he has got a key of the back gate; but you must get back to your old room, or we can't work.”
“Would to Heaven I could, Robin; another night or two in the noisy ward will drive me mad, I think.”
“Well, sir, I'll tell you what you do: which we all have to do it at odd times: hold a candle to the devil: here she comes: I think she is everywhere all at one time.” The Robin then sauntered away, affecting nonchalance: and Alfred proceeded to hold the candle as directed. “Mrs. Archbold,” said he timidly rising from his seat at her approach.
“Sir,” said she haughtily, and affecting surprise.
“I have a favour to ask you, madam. Would you be so kind as to let me go back to my room?”
“What, you have found I am not so powerless as you thought!”
“I find myself so weak, and you so powerful that—you can afford to be generous.”
“I have no more power over you than you have over me.”
“I wish it was so.”
“I'll prove it,” said she. “Who has got the key of your room? Hayes?” She whistled, and sent for him; and gave him the requisite order before Alfred. Alfred thanked her warmly.