He did not hesitate, but went at once to the curate's door and rapped. No one answered. He rapped again, and touched the bell, half hoping, even while he did so, that there was no one within to hear.
But an inquiring head appeared in the area, observed, and was sharply withdrawn. Steps sounded in the passage, and the maid Ellen presented herself, looking somewhat disordered.
"Yes, sir?" she said.
"Is Mr. Chichester at home?"
"He is in, sir, poor gentleman," replied the maid. "Did you want to see him?"
"Yes."
"I'm sure I don't know whether he will see you, sir."
"Is he ill?"
"Not to say ill, sir. But haven't you heard?"
"What?"