The rector expressed his thanks for the hospitality which he had experienced, with that politeness which so eminently characterised his manners; and when he shook hands with Ellen, he pressed hers gently.
She thought that he intended to convey a sort of assurance that the secret which he had detected on the previous day, was sacred with him; and she cast upon him a rapid glance, expressive of gratitude.
Reginald then stepped into the carriage, which immediately rolled rapidly away towards London.
Upon his arrival at home, he proceeded straight to his study, whither he was immediately followed by the old housekeeper.
"Leave me—leave me, Mrs. Kenrick," said the rector; "I wish to be alone."
"I thought something had happened, sir," observed the old woman, fidgetting about the room, for with senile pertinacity she was resolved to say what she had upon her mind: "I thought so," she continued, "because this is the first time you ever stayed out all night without sending me word what kept you."
"I am not aware that I owe you an account of my actions, Mrs. Kenrick," said the rector, who, like all guilty persons, was half afraid that his conduct was suspected by the old woman.
"Certainly not, sir; and I never asked it. But after all the years I have been with you, and the confidence you have always reposed in me—until within the last week or two," added the old housekeeper, "I was afraid lest I had done something to offend you."
"No such thing," said the rector, somewhat softened. "But as the cares of my ministry multiply upon me——"
"Ah! sir, they must have multiplied of late," interrupted the old woman; "for you're not the same man you were."