It is not possible--no, indeed!" "Well, John, when I left Harlow House that afternoon, I went straight to Hatton Hall.

It was growing late, but I expected to have a cup of tea there and perhaps, if asked, stay all night and have a good wise talk over the things that troubled me.

When I arrived at the Hall your mother had just returned from the village.

She was sitting by the newly-made fire with her cloak and bonnet on but they were both unfastened and her furs and gloves had been removed.

She looked troubled, and even angry, and when I spoke to her, barely answered me.