"You are mistaken," said the housekeeper quickly, showing some evidence of agitation.
"I have learned that the letter which lured Ben to a gambling house was concocted between you. The letter I have in my possession."
"Who told you such a falsehood? If it is Ben—"
"It is not Ben, Mrs. Hill. He is as much surprised as you are to learn it now. The letter I submitted to an expert, who has positively identified the handwriting as yours, Mrs. Hill. You were very persistent in your attempts to make me believe than Ben was addicted to frequenting gambling houses."
"I see you are determined to believe me guilty," said Mrs. Hill. "Perhaps you think I know about the opera glass and this stock gambling?"
"I have no evidence of it, but I know enough to justify me in taking a decisive step."
Mrs. Hill listened apprehensively.
"It is this: you and Conrad must leave my house. I can no longer tolerate your presence here."
"You send us out to starve?" said the housekeeper bitterly.
"No; I will provide for you. I will allow you fifty dollars a month and Conrad half as much, and you can board where you please."