"I have been to dinner," was the answer.
"Rob," said the woman, quietly, "ye might as well let that go—ye won't need Dick to-day."
Granger started, almost dropping the card he was using.
"What do you mean?" he asked, with an effort at indifference, resuming his work on Dick's shining mane.
"The lady's gone away," said Mrs. Rogers, steadily watching him.
"What!" cried Granger, glaring fiercely across Dick's back. "What did you say? Who's gone away?"
"The lady—Mis' Jerome," repeated the woman. "She come down herself to leave word for ye, seein' that you wa'n't at home. She was called away onexpected. Said she'd enjoyed herself first-rate this summer—an' was much obleeged to ye for your kindness."
Granger continued his labor, stooping so low that his mother-in-law could only see his shoulders and the jetty curls which clustered at his neck. She smiled as she looked—a somewhat bitter smile. She was a good and gentle creature, but Ruby was her daughter—her only child. After a moment or two she went away.
When she was out of hearing, Granger rose. He was pale as death, and his forehead was covered with heavy drops. He leaned weakly against Dick, who turned his fine eyes lovingly on his master and rubbed his head against his sleeve.