As we have seen, she knew and felt that it would be vain to oppose her grandfather's wish to have Mrs. Stillwater in the house, especially as he had already invited her and sent her the money to come—unless she should tell him of that secret interview she had witnessed between Mr. Fabian and Mrs. Stillwater. That, indeed, might banish Rose from Rockhold, but it would also bring down a domestic cataclysm that must break up the household and separate its members.
No, she could say nothing, do nothing that would not make matters worse. She must let events take their course, bide her time and hope for the best, she said to herself, as she arose and rang the bell.
John, the footman, answered the call.
"It is Martha whom I want. Send her here," said the lady.
The man went out and the upper housemaid came in.
"You wanted me, ma'am?"
"Yes. Do you remember the room occupied by my nursery governess years ago?"
"Yes, ma'am; the front room on the left side of the hall on the third story."
"Yes; that is the room. Have it prepared for the same person. She will be here to-morrow evening."
"Good—Lord!" involuntarily exclaimed old Martha; "why, we haven't heard of her for a dozen years. What a sweet creeter she was, though, Miss Cora. I thought as she'd a married a fortin' long ago."