Just when we have buried poor Alice." Mrs.Pendleton had not seen her brother's wife for ten years before her death, but she had no difficulty in bringing tears to her eyes at the recollection of her.

She dried her eyes with her handkerchief, and added in a different tone: "I fancy Robert is coming." A heavy step was heard descending the stairs.

Austin drained his glass, and Dr.Ravenshaw adjusted his spectacles as Robert Turold entered the room..