"For Archibald Mortomley,
"R. Halling."
and in a moment Dolly understood what had been done.
"The viper!" she said; "and he knew we were beggars when he robbed us of the money. And we had sheltered him and his sister and—"
"For mercy's sake calm yourself, Mrs. Mortomley," entreated Mr. Douglas, as she broke into a perfect agony of grief. "I would not for all the value of the money, I would not even for the worth of the colour, have so distressed you. I will destroy the receipt and never mention the affair again if you will only promise not to fret yourself about the matter."
"You will not destroy that receipt," she said, rising. "You shall come home with me and hear how my husband has been cheated, just as you have been cheated."
In utter silence they walked together through the wood to the little cottage which was Mortomley's home, at sight of which Mr. Douglas experienced an amazement impossible to describe.
On the threshold Mr. Mortomley, who had returned unexpectedly, met his wife and her companion.
"Dolly," he said, "where have you been? what is the matter?"
"This gentleman, Mr. Douglas, will tell you," she answered. "He wants to speak to you about the new yellow."
"Yes, I came to have a talk with you on that subject, and unfortunately I met with Mrs. Mortomley on my way here; unfortunately for her, I mean, for I am afraid I have, most unintentionally, caused her great distress. I dare say you know my name as a colour manufacturer, Mr. Mortomley. I have long known yours, and I am very happy to make your acquaintance."