"I heard about the matter when I was at the Dolphin," observed Madame Guise, as if wishing to account for speaking of it. "It took much hold upon my interest; it seemed so strange and sad. Did you ever see that Mr. Anthony, Ethel?"
"Yes, I saw him twice. I was prejudiced against him at first, but I grew to like him. I should have liked him very much had he lived; I am sure of it: quite as a brother. Miss Castlemaine of Stilborough liked him: and I think the mystery of his loss has lain heavily upon her."
"What prejudiced you against him?" asked Charlotte.
Ethel smiled, and told the tale. She gave the history of their two meetings; gave it in detail. The tongue is ready when it has a sympathetic hearer: never a more rapt one than she who listened now.
Ethel rose as she concluded it. The disappearance was a subject she did not care to speak of, or dwell upon. Unable to believe Mr. Castlemaine otherwise than innocent, she yet saw that a prejudice had arisen against him.
"Then you will not come out with me, madame?"
"Many thanks, but no."
"What will you do with yourself all day to-morrow?" asked Ethel.
"I shall take holiday," replied Madame Guise, with a flush of colour.
For on the morrow the whole of the family were going from home, having promised to spend the day with some friends who lived near Newerton.