"All what?" asked Torry, wondering at her composure.
"One moment," said Miss Hargone, and touched the bell. When the servant appeared she gave him some instructions in a low voice; and when he withdrew returned to Torry. "I deny that I visited Mr. Grent," she said coolly; "and I can prove that what I say is true. You go by the evidence that I wore this ring on that day?"
"Yes; it is a peculiar ring, and was recognised when you removed your glove to pay the cabman."
"Well, we shall see. Here is Donna Maria."
The Spanish girl entered the room with a sad expression. She started when she saw Torry, but recovering herself, came forward with an air of composure, and bowed gravely. Then she turned to Lydia. "You sent for me, I believe," said she coldly.
"Yes, dear," replied the other, holding out the disputed ring in the palm of her hand. "I wish you to tell Mr. Torry how I lost this ring."
"How can that possibly interest him," said Maria, arching her brows.
"Pardon me, it does interest me," said Torry eagerly. "I should like to know."
"In that case I shall explain," answered Maria gravely. "Two months ago Miss Hargone lost her ring in the garden. We searched for it, but could not find it. A week before the death of my uncle, I picked it up in a flower bed, and slipped it on my finger, intending to return it. As you can see, I have done so. That is all."
"When did you return it?"