The woman seemed to be shaking like a leaf, and to be only capable of stammering,--
"I--I don't think, miss, I--I can be well. I--I think that dreadful news has upset me."
"Dreadful news? Oh, I see. By the way, where is Cooper's Spinney?"
"I haven't a notion, miss. I--I only know just about the house."
Miss Arnott put another question as she was leaving the room.
"Has nothing been heard yet of the key of that wardrobe drawer?"
"No, miss, nothing. And, miss--I beg your pardon--but if you want to break it open, you can do it easily, or I will for you; and, if you'll excuse my taking a liberty, if those clothes are in it, I'll wash them for you, and no one shall ever know."
Miss Arnott stared at the speaker in unmistakable surprise.
"It's very good of you. But I don't think I need trouble you to step so far out of the course of your ordinary duties." When she was in her sitting-room she said to herself, "She will wash them for me? What does the woman mean? And what does he mean by writing to me in such a strain?" She referred to Mr Morice's note which she had in her hand. "'Do as I tell you--go.' Why should I go? and how dare he issue his commands to me, as if it were mine merely to obey. Plainly this was written before the news reached Oak Dene; when he hears it, it is possible that he may not stand upon the order of his going, but go at once. I'll answer him. He shall have his reply before he goes, unless his haste's too great. Then, perhaps, he will understand."
On the back leaf of the note signed "H. M." she scribbled.