"You know in your heart it is true. As to Miriam, I am sure. Mr. Gyde left us a detailed account of how she tried to spy on him, and a faithful description of her. Ever notice the mole on her right forefinger?"
She shook her head. "Oh, there'll be a horrible public scandal!" she wailed fretfully. "I'll be disgraced forever—though I have done nothing!"
"Except take his money," Jack put in dryly.
"How did I know? Where am I to hide my head now! Oh, I wish I'd never laid eyes on you!"
Jack took a new tack. "Well, I see I can expect no help from you," he said, making as if to go.
"Wait!" she said quickly. "Don't leave me! I shall go out of my mind if I'm left alone! If I tell you everything I know, will you promise to save me from public disgrace?"
"I'll do my best."
"Sit down. I'll have to go back to the beginning. It's a long story."