"It is not true; It is not true. Remember," said Lydia with a sneer, "it was not I who called at Mr. Grent's chambers."
"I know it; but it was you who sent my maid Julia to see Mr. Grent in Mortality-lane."
"Ha!" cried Torry, much surprised. "Are you sure of that?"
"I am. I can prove it."
Lydia was pale and uneasy, and avoided the eye of the detective. Nevertheless, as the situation was awkward, and even dangerous, she assumed a defiant air to mask the fear she felt.
"How can you prove it?" she demanded.
"By means of that fawn-coloured mantle trimmed with black lace."
"Your mantle?" said Torry, recollecting a previous conversation with Maria.
"No, not mine; it belongs to Miss Hargone."
"But you said--"