She saw him grow pale as death, and he almost groaned:
"Liane? Where was she?"
"At her work, sir, at the store."
"Where is she now?"
"It is thought she has run away with some rich young man, sir. She is missing this morning, and all her clothes gone!"
"The old woman—where is she? I must see her at once!"
"Lordy, sir, the poor old creature ain't here this afternoon. She went out to look for Liane, vowing to kill the fellow that persuaded her away!"
Mr. Clarke had always liked Sophie when she was a member of his household. Her kind, intelligent face invited confidence.
"Do you think that her distress was genuine, or was she playing a part?" he asked, adding: "To be frank with you, Sophie, I have a deep and friendly interest in Liane Lester, and I suspect foul play on the old woman's part."