He recollected that her marriage to an impecunious young artist had caused some sensation in Society at the time.

Marriage had dealt hardly with her, and no trace of her beauty or vivacity remained.
"You are the late Mr.Turold's legal adviser ?" she continued, after a pause.
Mr.Brimsdown, always chary of unnecessary words, replied with a slight bow.
"I suppose you have come to Cornwall to investigate the cause of his death ?" Mr.Brimsdown remained silent, waiting to hear more.
"I--I wish to speak to you about that." Her lips quivered with some inward agitation.
"Will you not be seated ?" he said, placing a chair for her.
"Will you regard what I have to say to you in strict confidence ?" she queried, sinking her voice to a whisper.
"Is it about Mr.Turold's murder ?" "It--it may be." With the recollection of previous eavesdropping in that house, the lawyer rose and closed the door.

"I cannot make a promise of that kind," he said firmly, as he returned to his seat.
"No, no--of course not," she hurriedly acquiesced.

"I was wrong to ask it.
I have come here to tell you.

When I saw you this afternoon I realized that Providence had answered my prayers, and sent somebody in whom I could safely confide.