Margaret was eyeing her in speechless consternation.
She had thought at first that this missive was an inquiry from the writer concerning herself; she had feared she was found out. But what darker suspicion was this which was entering her mind.
"Tell me first, dear lady Julie," she exclaimed, "if Captain Brand is a friend of yours?"
"Bring me that casket, if you please."
Margaret brought the casket and placed it before her.
"Do you see this ring," rapidly tossing rare chains, jewel cases and bracelets. "Yes, here it is. I am not superstitious about such things, but I don't like to be labelled 'out of the market,' so I do not wear it often; but it is my engagement ring—is it not magnificent? This ring was given to me by Captain St. Udo Brand six months ago, and some day I shall be mistress of Seven Oak Waaste."
Margaret clasped her hands and gasped.
To think of the hungry kestrel pouncing upon this innocent bird! To fancy the terrible Captain Brand wooing the affections of her Lady Julie!
"I did not know it," was all she could articulate.
"Of course you did not; how should you? But you have not told me how you came to know Captain Brand's writing?" insisted her ladyship.