Is he sick?” demanded her mistress, turning upon her swiftly.
No, mum; I only meant to say the captain was gone away.”
“Gone away! When? Where?”
“He’s ordered to India, I believe, mum. He went away a month ago.”
Mrs. Middleton sank into her chair quite overcome.
Her joy was clouded, for the reward of her long and toilsome journey was snatched from her.
Did he not leave any message?” she asked. “Did he not call before he went away?”
“Yes, mum. He left a note.”
“Give it to me quick. Why did you not mention it before?”
“It’s the first chance I got, mum. The letter is in my own chamber. I took the best care of it. I will get it directly.”