They helped her into the automobile, and she fell back on the cushions, listlessly. The quiet of the drive revived her a little. The window was open, and the cold air fanned her hot cheeks. But, as the car reached the city streets, a despairing helplessness settled down upon her. It seemed to her that she could even hear the bell of St. Botolph’s, calling the congregation to listen to the confession which her husband would surely make.
On reaching the rectory, she bade the chauffeur wait, and then entered the house with faltering steps. She found Netty just ready to go out.
“Where is your father, Netty?” Mrs. Swinton demanded. 321
“Gone to the church, mother. He seems very strange.”
“Did he leave no message?”
“No, but Mr. Barnby was here a few moments ago, and Mr. Barnby saw the police officers; and they went away, after he showed them a letter from grandfather, absolving Dick from all blame about the checks.”
“Did he show your father the letter?”
“Yes.”
“What happened then?”
“He crushed it in his hand, and cried ‘Lies! lies! all lies!’ and went out of the house, muttering and staring before him, like a man walking in his sleep.”