That morning's post brought with it a letter from Miss Gerace, which bore on the envelope these words:—
"Immediate delivery is requested."
"What on earth can be the matter with my aunt now?" thought Dolly as she opened it.
Next moment Lenore called out, "Mamma, mamma!" and Esther, happening to be bringing in the kettle at that instant, exclaimed, "Oh! ma'am, what has happened?"
But Dolly put them both aside, and sitting down all of a tremble, spread the letter on the table, for her hands were shaking so she could not hold it steady, and read to herself,
"Dreadful news has reached us to-night; a telegram to say Mr. Werner is dead. Leonora is like one distracted, and poor Mrs. Trebasson completely prostrated. Leonora left by the express, and I write to entreat you to go to her at once. We forgot to ask her Lord Darsham's present address. Get it and telegraph to him immediately. Mrs. Trebasson wishes me to go to London to see if I can be of any use, so I shall see you soon. Do not lose a moment in going to Leonora.
"Yours,
"A. G."
Dolly rose up like a person who had received some dreadful blow.
"Fetch me my hat and shawl, Esther," she said. "I must go to London by the next train."
"But you have not had any breakfast ma'am," expostulated the girl.