"The customer was Ralph Waring."
"Ralph Waring! And does the Little Missis know—did she see him?" and Bessie started up from her chair in her excitement.
"No; I want your advice. Reynolds has found out that he is lodging at 63 Dutton Street. Just fancy that!"
"63 Dutton Street!" repeated Bessie, quite bewildered.
"Yes; with Mrs. Coates. You know Mrs. Coates. Do you think I ought to tell her?"
"Tell Mrs. Coates?"
"No—the Little Missis, as you call her."
"Of course not. If his lordship does not choose to make himself known, why should you trouble her about him? She has had enough trouble with him already—at least, I think so."
"That is just how I have been thinking."
"Oh, dear, dear! Whatever in the world did he need to turn up again for! I wish to goodness I could run away with him, that I do!"