For a few seconds Mrs. Hampton tried to maintain her composure. But the strain was too much upon her, so sinking down upon the steps, she buried her face in her hands. Grimsby was by no means affected by the woman's distress. He rather enjoyed it. He knew now that she was in his power. Drawing forth a package of cigarettes, he selected one, lighted it, and smoked in silent contentment. He had often seen his wife in just such a situation, so it was nothing new to him.
At length Mrs. Hampton lifted her head and looked at Grimsby. There were tears in her eyes, and her face was drawn and white. The comfortable, self-satisfied man annoyed her, and a wave of indignation swept upon her.
"Why have you come here to-day to torment me?" she asked.
"Torment you! In what way?"
"By your words of insinuation."
"Are they not true?"
"Suppose I deny them?"
"It would be no use, madame. I have all the necessary proof."
"Of what?"
"Don't you know? Do you wish me to tell what happened in a private hospital, twenty years ago, and how you exchanged——"