"Of course she did, because she believes he is Francis. Depend upon it, Denham, she knows nothing, and if we bring her and Rose together there will be a revolution and a revelation."
"It's worth trying at all events. But how can it be managed?"
"By working on the natural jealousy of the sex. Tell Olivia that Felix receives a woman in his rooms every evening."
"Oh, hang it, Merrick," said I, reddening, "it wouldn't be delicate even to a married woman, let alone a girl."
"Of course I don't mean you to put it to her in that barefaced manner," said Merrick hastily, "but handle the matter delicately. Wrap it up in sugar. I leave it to your own judgment. In any case you must rouse the jealousy of Miss Olivia Bellin, and induce her to come with you to the chambers of Felix when he is interviewing Rose."
"She wouldn't come without her mother."
"Then bring her mother along with you. This is a serious matter, and it doesn't do to be squeamish."
"Then do it yourself," said I angrily.
"I!" said he, taken aback. "No! I don't know Miss Bellin. You are the proper person. Besides, it's better that she should know the truth, even at the cost of a shock to her delicacy, than be tied to a brute like Felix, as she certainly will be."
"Not if Rose can help it."