I wish to speak to him about the commission intrusted to him by my husband.

I confess Mr.Steele has not inspired me with the confidence that Mr.Packard feels in him and I rather shrink from this interview.

Will you be good enough--rather will you show me the great kindness of sitting on that low divan by the fireplace where you will not be visible--see, you may have my work to busy yourself with--and if--he may not, you know--if he should show the slightest disposition to transgress in any way, rise and show yourself ?" I was conscious of flushing slightly, but she was not looking my way, and the betrayal cost me only a passing uneasiness.

She had, quite without realizing it, offered me the one opportunity I most desired.
In my search for a new explanation of Mrs.Packard's rapidly changing moods, I had returned to my first suspicion--the attraction and possibly the passion of the handsome secretary for herself.

I had very little reason for entertaining such a possibility.