He sat for some seconds without speaking or stirring, like one in doubt what to do or say next. Then he said, sneeringly:
"Old people when they lie dying often get strange fancies into their heads, and give expression to all manner of ridiculous things. Sensible people take no heed of their ravings at such times."
"On the contrary, it is at such times that secrets long hidden come unexpectedly to light."
He bit his lip as if to restrain himself from saying something which he might afterwards have regretted. Having glanced at the seal, he was about to put the envelope into his pocket unopened, when Hermia said:
"Mr. Varrel, have you noticed what is written outside that packet?"
"No--what is it?" he demanded.
In the twilight he had overlooked the writing. He now crossed to the window and read it. Then for a little space he stood stock still, with eyes that seemed fixed on vacancy. Then, going back to his seat, he said dryly:
"My mother's writing, without a doubt, Miss Rivers. But it was scarcely worth while--was it?--to draw my attention specially to it."
"You are quite aware of my motive in drawing your attention to it." responded Hermia. "Those words were written within twenty-four hours of the time Mr. Hazeldine was found murdered."
He put down the packet with a sudden movement, as if it had scorched his fingers.