Sounds of the tray being dumped on a hall-table ensued, and the hurried tread of the old woman showed that she was looking into various empty rooms.
"What made you think such a queer thing, dearie?" whispered she, presently, through the key-hole. "I seen him go out, plain as plain can be."
Margaret opened the door, and held out her hands for the tray.
"What did he say to my message?"
The housekeeper gave an expressive shudder.
"Ugh! He swore like a blasphemer at me, Miss Margaret, dear."
"Keep watch lest any of the doors be left open to-night, Mrs. Chetwode."
"Oh, yes, miss—though I'm sure Purcell is very careful. My goody! Miss Margaret, how wild you look! Surely you can't be well?"
"Oh, yes. Do not let any one disturb me to-night again, if you please. Good-night."
"Sleep soundly, miss. Good-night."