"That is so new an idea," said the lady, laughing, "that I must request an explanation."
"What new experience of its singularity has your wisdom made?" said his friend. "I thought you and the world knew each other's faces pretty well before."
"Then you have not heard the news?"
"What news?"
"Hum I suppose it is not about, yet," said Thorn, composedly. "No you haven't heard it."
"But what, man?" said Charlton; "let's hear your news, for I must be off."
"Why but it is no more than rumour yet but it is said that strange things are coming to light about a name that used to be held in very high respect."
"In this city?"
"In this city? yes; it is said proceedings are afoot against one of our oldest citizens, on charge of a very grave offence."
"Who and what offence? what do you mean?"