It gave great satisfaction to Mr. Nugent, as it confirmed his judgment in selecting so young a messenger. At times it had occurred to him that he was perhaps unwise in throwing so much responsibility on a boy of sixteen, yet it had not seriously weakened his faith in Gerald.
The letter removed all doubts.
Two hours after the letter was received he was told that a lady wished to see him.
"Who is it?" he asked; but the servant was a new one, and could not answer.
"Show her up!" he said, briefly.
Directly Mrs. Lane entered his presence.
"Take a seat, Mrs. Lane," said Mr. Nugent, courteously. "Is there anything I can do for you?"
"I wish to know if you have heard from Gerald?" said Mrs. Lane, abruptly.
"I have just received a letter from him."
"May I see it?"