“How so?”
“My dear papa’s requirements were so simple, and so few, and there were no men about except old Balhachet, and he was a dear, good old humbug. Here, I don’t know how many men there are, and who belong to the house, and who do not. They are in one day and out the next—and then Captain Coppinger is not like my own darling papa.”
“No, indeed, he is not. Shall I light the candles? I have something to show you.”
Miss Trevisa went into her room and fetched a light, and kindled the two candles that stood on Judith’s dressing-table.
“Oh, aunt! not three candles.”
“Why not? We shall need light.”
“But three candles together bring ill-luck; and we have had enough already.”
“Pshaw! Don’t be a fool. I want light, for I have something to show you.”
She opened a small box and drew forth a brooch and earrings that flashed in the rays of the candle.