"'Perhaps I ought to tell you that Mr. Mainwaring behaved in a very singular way before he left my house.'
"There was something in the woman's manner which impressed me even more than her words. I felt my heart beginning to sink. I followed her into the little sitting-room where my husband and I had spent some happy hours, and begged of her to explain herself.
"She did so without a moment's hesitation.
"'It all happened early this morning,' she said. 'I brought up breakfast as usual. Mr. Mainwaring was standing by one of the open windows.
"'I am going to town,' he said, 'by the express. I shall pack my things immediately. Bring me my bill.'
"'I was leaving the room to prepare it, when he shouted to me.'
"'How is it those things have got into the room?' he said. 'Take them away.'
"'What things do you mean, sir?'
"'Those woman's things,' he said, very crossly. 'That work-basket, and that white shawl.'
"'Why, sir,' I said, staring at him, 'those things belong to your good lady.'