Percy spoke to her hopefully and kindly, as he kissed her cheek at parting.
On the next morning, a letter, addressed to Mrs.Bowmore, was delivered at the cottage by private messenger.
Opening the letter, she recognized the handwriting of her husband's old friend, and her old friend--Major Mulvany.

In breathless amazement, she read these lines: "DEAR MRS.

BOWMORE--In matters of importance, the golden rule is never to waste words.

I have performed one of the great actions of my life--I have saved your husband.
"How I discovered that my friend was in danger, I must not tell you at present.

Let it be enough if I say that I have been a guest under Justice Bervie's hospitable roof, and that I know of a Home Office spy who has taken you unawares, under pretense of being your footman.