Wanley was anxious for the Eldons to go their way, and leave the stage clear.
Everyone of course was aware that Mutimer spent his Sundays in London (a circumstance, it was admitted, not altogether reassuring to the ladies with marriageable daughters), and his unwonted appearance in the village on the evening of the present Saturday excited universal comment.

Would he appear at church next morning?
There was a general directing of eyes to the Manor pew.

This pew had not been occupied since the fateful Sunday when, at the conclusion of the morning service, old Mr.Mutimer was discovered to have breathed his last.

It was a notable object in the dim little church, having a wooden canopy supported on four slim oak pillars with vermicular moulding.

From pillar to pillar hung dark curtains, so that when these were drawn the interior of the pew was entirely protected from observation.