“The fact of her being a matron,” frigidly responded Manton, “considerably modifies the general character of the proposition which she has done me the honor, through you, to communicate. But, Doctor, I must finally and definitively state to you that I do not, at present, wish to cultivate any female acquaintance whatever in the city of New York. I propose to wait until I can select instead of being selected.” And rising at the same time with an impatient movement, which might or might not, be mistaken for a desire to be left alone, Mr. Manton politely showed Doctor E. Willamot Weasel, who had now taken the hint, to the door.
Almost the same moment after his discomfited visitor left, Manton hastily gathered up the scattered leaves of manuscript on his table, and muttering, as he thrust the roll into his pocket, “Curse the intrusion! this ought to have been in the printers’ hands an hour ago, and yet it is not finished!” and snatching up his cap, he passed from the room, and left the house.
Not long after, there came a sharp ring at the door of the Graham House, and the female servant, who hurriedly hastened to open it, was quite as sharply interrogated by a woman on the outside, who was closely veiled, and wore a sort of Quaker garb—
“Is Mr. Manton in?”
“No, ma’am, he has just gone out.”
“Where is his room? I have a letter for him, which I wish to deposit in a safe place with my own hands. What is the number of his room?” she asked, in an imperative manner.
“Ma’am, the gentleman is out. Can’t you leave the letter with me or the mistress? We will give it to him when he comes.”
“No, I choose to place it myself. What is his number?” And as she spoke, she slightly unveiled herself. The servant seemed to recognise her face even through the dusk, and said, though rather sullenly, as she gave way for her to pass—
“Yes, ma’am, walk in. His room is No. 26, on the third floor.” The female glided rapidly past, and as the servant attempted to follow her, exclaiming, “Ma’am, I will show you the number,” she answered hastily, “Never mind, I know where the room is now!” and darted up the stairs.