She smiled without reply and closed the door upon him, then went slowly upstairs, wondering how she was to obey his injunction and what there would be to report. It was her first experience in detective work, and she was naturally excited.
[CHAPTER XXXIII.]
Jessica stood alone in her room reading a note which a messenger had just left. The hand that held it trembled slightly, and she walked nearer to the window to read, although the light was still good, as it was not late.
"My Dear Jessica"—she read—"I will be unable to call this afternoon, on account of a matter of grave importance, but shall be most anxious about Carlita. You are so good to me—have been so good during all this distressing illness of hers—that I am sure you will not think it too much trouble to send me a line concerning her condition, which will reach me upon my return at eight o'clock this evening. Please let it arrive as near that hour as you can, so that I may receive the latest news, and know if any change has taken place. Yours gratefully and affectionately,
"Leith Pierrepont."
She read it through the second time, then crushed it in her hand, smiling grimly.
"Eight o'clock," she mused. "And Stolliker said the train from Albany arrived about nine, with the Mexican officer on board. I wonder if you would have written in a hand so firm if you had been aware of the sword that hangs above your head, my dear Leith? I wonder if the consuming tenderness of this great affection will receive a shock when you hear the truth tonight? How little we know in the morning the climax of the day!"
During all the remaining hours of the afternoon she sat quite still, thinking, thinking, planning, only once going to Carlita's room, but returning to her own when she saw that all there was as it had been. She even locked the door upon her mother, and would allow no entrance. She denied her maid admission, but going to the door, exclaimed:
"A cup of tea—that is all. But strong, strong—strong, mind you!"