"It is of the utmost consequence to me that I should regain possession of them," she said, with suppressed agitation.
"And, if possible, you shall do so." I rose as I spoke, and waited for her to rise. She did so, but advanced to the window and pulled the blind aside.
"My carriage is not back yet, Mr. Strange. A friend who came up with me has gone to do a commission for herself. It will be here in a few minutes. I suppose I can wait."
I begged her to remain as long as she pleased, but to excuse me, for I was already behind time. She drew up the blind a little and sat down at the window as I left her.
After giving some directions to Lennard, I hastened to keep my appointment, which was at the Temple with a chamber-counsel.
The interview lasted about twenty minutes. As I turned into Essex Street again, Lady Clavering's carriage was bowling up it. I raised my hat, and she bowed to me, leaning before another lady, who sat with her, but she looked white and frightened. What had taken her brilliant colour? At the door, when I reached it, stood the clerks, Lennard amongst them, some with a laugh on their countenances, some looking as white and scared as Lady Clavering.
"Why, what is this?" I exclaimed.
They went back to their desks, and Lennard explained.
"You must have seen Lady Clavering's carriage," he began.
"Yes."