“How odd!” exclaimed Stranleigh. “I met Mr. Perkins just before he left his summer residence, and took the place furnished, acting for the present tenant. It is much too large for him, and some of the rooms are locked. Do you happen to have the key?”
“No; it is in the possession of the housekeeper. She is there still, is she not?”
“Yes; I took the house as it stood, servants and all.”
“I’ll write a note to the housekeeper, then. What name shall I say?”
“Please write it in the name of Mr. Challis. He’s outside now, in my car.”
“May I bring him in?” she asked, eagerly.
“Certainly,” said Stranleigh, with a smile. “It’s your house, you know.”
“Not for long,” she sighed.
“Ah,——” drawled Stranleigh, “Mr. Challis and I propose that this sale shall not take place. If I may have a short conversation with your husband, I think we shall come to terms.”
An expression of anxiety overspread her face.