"Exactly. That is my opinion."
"But not by him."
"Not by him? What do you mean?"
"By you. I was in my room this afternoon, and heard steps in his chamber; I knew that it was not Robert, for I had sent him out on an errand. Presently you came downstairs. It was you who placed the ring where it was found, Frederic Vernon," she said sternly.
"If that is the opinion you have of me, aunt," said Vernon, who could not help betraying confusion, "I will bid you good-evening."
"You may as well. Your attempt to ruin the reputation of your successor by a false charge is contemptible."
Vernon did not attempt to answer this accusation, but turning on his heel left the room.
"Thank you for your justice, Mrs. Vernon," said Robert gratefully. "I was afraid you might believe me a thief."
"I should not, even if I had not positive knowledge that Frederic had entered into a conspiracy against you. He has done himself no good by this base attempt to blacken your reputation. We will let the matter drop and think no more of it."