The woman hesitated, and looked at Julian.
“I hardly know whether I ought to tell you, miss.”
Julian turned away to leave the library. Mercy stopped him by a motion of her hand.
“You know that I shall not get you into any trouble,” she said to the maid. “And you may speak quite safely before Mr. Julian Gray.”
Thus re-assured, the maid spoke.
“To own the truth, miss, I heard Mr. Holmcroft in my lady’s room. His voice sounded as if he was angry. I may say they were both angry—Mr. Holmcroft and my lady.” (She turned to Julian.) “And just before her ladyship came out, sir, I heard your name, as if it was you they were having words about. I can’t say exactly what it was; I hadn’t time to hear. And I didn’t listen, miss; the door was ajar; and the voices were so loud nobody could help hearing them.”
It was useless to detain the woman any longer. Having given her leave to withdraw, Mercy turned to Julian.
“Why were they quarreling about you?” she asked.
Julian pointed to the unopened letter in her hand.
“The answer to your question may be there,” he said. “Read the letter while you have the chance. And if I can advise you, say so at once.”