The clerk withdrew, and in an instant returned with a young lady who had a thick veil over her face. Having ushered her into the room, he withdrew and shut the door, leaving Mr Merton and his visitor alone.
No sooner was the door closed than the lady put up her veil and disclosed the features of Mabel Colherne.
'Why, Mabel!' said Mr Merton, appearing considerably more surprised than pleased at finding who his visitor was; 'what in the world brings you here?'
Mabel for her only answer put Wilfred's letter into his father's hands. He read it through without shewing any signs of either surprise or regret, and when he had finished it, handed it back to her without speaking.
'Well, Mr Merton?' she said, feeling impatient at his silence.
'Well, Mabel?' he returned.
'Have you read the letter?'
'Most certainly.'
'And have you nothing to say?'
'What am I to say?'