“The master never sees any one on business out of office hours.”
Then, suddenly, the young woman realized who the visitor was, and a thrill of joyful excitement ran through her.
“Why, it’s Miss Bower, isn’t it? I’m sure Mr. Toogood will see you, miss.”
She led the way to a comfortable-looking library. A big fire was burning, and gratefully Jean sank into an easy chair.
Burning with curiosity and excitement, the girl hurried off to the dining room, where her master, while enjoying his tea, had been telling his wife and daughter every detail of Harry Garlett’s appearance before the magistrates and his committal for trial.
The maid was not lacking in a certain dramatic instinct, so when she came into the dining room she shut the door and said demurely:
“A young lady to see you, sir.”
Mr. Toogood looked up sharply. “No one on business, I hope?”
“It’s Miss Jean Bower,” announced the girl in a hissing whisper. “She do look miserable! I thought you’d see her, sir. She only wants to see you for five minutes, and says it’s very urgent.”
“Jean Bower!” exclaimed Mrs. Toogood. “And all by herself? You’re sure the doctor’s not with her?”