"Don't mention it. Won't you take a drink?"
This kind offer Mark declined rather to the colonel's dissatisfaction. He decided to call upon Mrs. Finn the next day.
CHAPTER XXIV.
WHAT MARK DISCOVERED.
As the clock on the Presbyterian church struck nine, Mark stood knocking at the door of the little cottage hard by.
The door was opened by a comely woman of middle age, who, not recognizing Mark, looked at him inquiringly.
"What can I do for you?" she asked.
"My name is Mark Manning," said Mark, introducing himself. "I have been directed to you as likely to give me some information about Mrs. Ransom, who—"
"Yes, yes," interrupted Mrs. Finn, not waiting for Mark to finish his sentence. "Poor dear! I know all about her. Come in, do!"
She led the way into the neat sitting-room, where she invited Mark to be seated. Then she changed parts with Mark and began to ask questions.