Mrs.Dinneford asked no question about the dinner in Briar street, and no remark was made about it by either Edith or her father.

In half the usual time this meal was ended.

Mrs.
Dinneford left the table first, and retired to her own room.

As she did so, in taking her handkerchief from her pocket, she drew out a letter, which fell unnoticed by her upon the floor.

Mr.Dinneford was about calling her attention to it when Edith, who saw his purpose and was near enough to touch his hand, gave a quick signal to forbear.