The Countess standing near the Duke, felt some pity for the wife of that cropped-headed, tight-skinned lunatic at large, but deeper was the Countess's pity for Lady Jocelyn, in thinking of the account she would have to render on the Day of Judgement, when she heard her ladyship reply-- 'Evelyn is not here.' Captain Evremonde bowed profoundly, trailing his broad white hat along the sward.
'Do me the favour to read this, madam,' he said, and handed a letter to her.
Lady Jocelyn raised her brows as she gathered the contents of the letter.
'Ferdinand's handwriting!' she exclaimed.
'I accuse no one, madam,--I make no accusation.

I have every respect for you, madam,--you have my esteem.

I am sorry to intrude, madam, an intrusion is regretted.

My wife runs away from her bed, madam, and I have the law, madam, the law is with the husband.

No force!' He lashed his cane sharply against his white legs.