Which without the slightest unnecessary delay he did. First he opened the outer door, and whistled for his man as if whistling for a dog. Then he made a rapid inventory of a few articles in the dining-room, and after handing a paper to Mrs. Mortomley, took his leave.
Then appeared Williams, more erect in his respectability, more severe in his deportment, more correct in his speech than ever. He had made up his mind. He would give notice to Lord Darsham in the morning.
"Where would it please you, ma'am, for that person to pass the night?" he inquired.
Dolly went out into the hall where sat one of the men who had been such unwelcome visitors at Homewood.
Recognising her, he stood up and touched his forehead respectfully.
"It is you then," she remarked; "that is fortunate. Of course, there is no necessity for you to remain here."
"I am afraid I must, ma'am, orders is orders, and—"
"You can leave quite easily," she interrupted, "and you know that. You can come back in the morning. You must dress in black and wear a white cravat, and ask for Mr. Williams, and the servants will imagine you come from the undertaker. I will give you a sovereign if you oblige me in this matter, and I am sure Lord Darsham will not forget you either. Take the key with you if you like."
Still the man hesitated. He looked at the sovereign lying in his hand, and then at Mrs. Mortomley. Then he ventured,