May I, in justice to myself as well as others, inquire what it is ?" "I did not suppose you would press an inquiry on the subject," replied Mrs.Markle.

"But as you have done so, you are, of course, entitled to an answer." There came another pause, after which, with a disturbed voice, Mrs.
Markle said-- "For some time, I have heard a rumor in regard to you, that I could not credit.

Of late it has been so often repeated that I felt it to be my duty to ascertain its truth or falsehood.

On tracing, with some labor, the report to its origin, I am grieved to find that it is too true." "Please say what it is," said Mrs.Comegys, in a firm voice.
"It is said that you bought a dress at a dry goods store in this city, and that on its being sent home, there proved to be some yards more in the piece of goods than you paid for and that instead of returning what was not your own, you kept it and had it made up for one of your children." The face of Mrs.Comegys instantly became like crimson; and she turned her head away to hide the confusion into which this unexpected allegation had thrown her.

As soon as she could command her voice, she said-- "You will, of course, give me the author of this charge." "You are entitled to know, I suppose," replied Mrs.Markle.