“Of course it was not touched. She would not have been likely to wear colored clothing in her deep mourning.”
“No, of course she would not. But she would have been very likely to give that left-off colored clothing to the gypsy instead of the mourning suit, which would have been unsuitable to the girl.”
Again Hereward started, changed color and gazed at the speaker, but without uttering a word.
“Come, Hereward, let us send for Nancy and have her search through her mistress’ left-off clothing, to see if any portion of it is missing. Shall I ring?” inquired the doctor.
“If you—please,” faltered the young man, sinking back into his chair.
Dr. Kerr rang the door bell which was soon answered by Alick, who had reinstated himself in his place as butler at the Cliffs, but who was still a poor, broken-hearted old man, grieving for his young mistress, and accusing himself of being her murderer.
“Go and tell Nancy to come here,” said Dr. Kerr.
Alick ducked his head and disappeared.
Nancy soon stood in his place.
“Aunty,” said the doctor, speaking for his young friend and patient, “I wish you to open all Mrs. Hereward’s boxes of colored clothing, and examine every article and find out if any be missing.”