“Why couldn't she come herself?” muttered Rachel.
“The letter explains.”
“I don't see that it does.”
“It says that the same reasons exist for concealment as ever.”
“And what are they, I should like to know? I don't like mysteries, for my part.”
“We won't quarrel with them, at any rate, since they enable us to keep Ida with us.”
Aunt Rachel shook her head, as if she were far from satisfied.
“I don't know,” said Mrs. Crump, “but I ought to invite Mrs. Hardwick in here. I have left her alone in the front room.”
“I don't want to see her,” said Aunt Rachel. Then changing her mind, suddenly, “Yes, you may bring her in. I'll find out whether she is an imposter or not.”
Mrs. Crump returned with the nurse. “Mrs. Hardwick,” said she, “this is my sister, Miss Rachel Crump.”