"It's really about your niece I've called—I hope you will forgive the intrusion." He hesitated, finding it harder even than he had guessed it would be.
"Mrs. Uniacke's frightfully ill—but, of course, you know all about it?"
Her smile faded instantly; she drew herself up, very erect. "I haven't the slightest pity for her." Her voice was cold and definite. "Her conduct is inexcusable!"
McTaggart saw how the land lay and decided to be diplomatic.
"I rather agree with you," he said, "my sympathy is all for Jill."
"Disgraceful," the little lady continued, "my brother's name dragged in the dust. I think Mary must be mad!—And I hope this illness will be a lesson."
"You haven't seen her, I suppose?"
"And I don't intend to!" Her mouth snapped. "It's quite bad enough to think of Edward's wife in a common prison."
"I understand how you feel," McTaggart nodded his head gravely—"but the worst of it is it's killing Jill."
The little old maid started at this.