“One of your servants is ill, I suppose. My husband is very busy. Will to-morrow do?”
“On the contrary, madam, it is entirely a personal matter.”
“A personal matter, Mr. Strong?”
“Strictly personal.”
“Please explain.”
“With pleasure, madam.”
John Strong, drawing out his pocket-book with studied deliberation, unfolded a much-soiled sheet of note-paper and spread it upon his knee. The doctor’s wife watched him with the sincerest curiosity. As yet there was no suggestive irony in the appearance of the crumpled document.
“I have here, madam,” he said, “a certain letter.”
Mrs. Marjoy was sitting very stiff and straight in her chair.
“A letter that was written to my late daughter-in-law—”