"I am in sore need of a friend—to—to shelter me," she continued. "Great, desperate need!"
"Can I be that friend? Suffer me, if you can. Suffer me to be, Lady Adela. Dear! dear! what can have happened?"
"But it may bring danger upon you, difficulty, even disgrace. I believe I ought not to ask it of you."
"Danger and difficulty would be welcome, borne for you," returned Charley, in his loyalty. "Believe that, Lady Adela."
He could not imagine what was amiss, and he caught somewhat of her agitation. That she was in real trouble, nay, in terror, was all too plain. For a moment the thought occurred—was Mr. Grubb angry with her on his account? Oh, what a privilege it appeared to him, foolish but honest-hearted fellow, to be asked to shield her!
"I will trust you," she cried, her emotion increasing. "That cheque— but oh, Charles, do not you think ill of me! It was done in a moment of irritation."
"Say on, dear Lady Adela."
"That cheque—he did not give it me. I had asked for money, and he refused. I wanted it badly; and I was angry with him: so I drew out the cheque."
Charley felt all at sea: not comprehending in the least. She saw it: and was forced to go on with her painful explanation. The colour was coming and going in her cheek; now white as a lily, now rose-red.
"That cheque you cashed for me on Saturday morning, Charley. Mr. Grubb did not draw it. Mr. Howard's name was signed as well as his; and—and he is with my husband in the dining-room, and I am frightened to death."