"I accuse your lover, Jabez, of killing my poor uncle to steal that will and ruin Gerald Arkel, and I accuse you of aiding and abetting him."
"That is at least concise," said Miriam bitterly; "and your evidence?"
"I heard Jabez say that he would 'knife' Mr. Barton if he interfered with him."
"Quite so; well, as Mr. Barton did not interfere with Jabez, evidently the motive was wanting. As to my having been a party to anything calculated to harm either Mr. Arkel or Mr. Barton, that is a foul lie, such as only yourself could invent."
Mrs. Darrow rose and drew her shawl round her.
"We shall see what the inspector says," she said savagely. "I shall tell him all I overheard, and formally charge you."
"There is no need for you to do that," replied Miriam. "I shall go to the inspector myself and tell him everything."
"You dare not," cried the widow.
"Not only dare, but will! I leave your house at once, and apply to Major Dundas for the salary due to me."
"Yes, and take to your heels, no doubt—but I'll see you don't get very far, my lady."