“This shows it will be absolutely necessary to establish the fact of his death,” observed Sir Bridgnorth. “What is the date of the letter you have received?”
“It was written yesterday,” replied Mildred. “But he is not alive now,” she added, solemnly.
“You believe he destroyed himself last night?” asked Mrs. Calverley.
“I firmly believe so,” she rejoined.
Mrs. Calverley then turned to Sir Bridgnorth, and with a coldness that appeared revolting to Mildred and Emmeline, said:
“Is any case of suicide reported in the papers this morning?”
“I have seen none,” he replied. “But it might have escaped me. I seldom read such cases.”
Emmeline rang the bell, and desired the butler to bring the newspapers.
The order was promptly obeyed, and search made, but no “mysterious death” or “supposed suicide” could be discovered.
“It is needless to ask if any address is given with your letter,” remarked Sir Bridgnorth to Mildred.