Yes, money, no doubt; but I shall discover that from her presently, and may learn something of his plans into the bargain." Gilbert went into a stationer's shop and purchased a _Bradshaw_.

There was a train leaving Euston station for Liverpool at a quarter to eleven.
He might be in time for that, after seeing Mrs.Branston.That lady happened fortunately to be at home, and received Gilbert alone in her favourite back drawing-room, where he found her ensconced in that snug retreat made by the six-leaved Japanese screen, which formed a kind of temple on one side of the fire-place.

There had been a final rupture between Adela and Mrs.Pallinson a few days before, and that matron, having shown her cards a little too plainly, had been routed by an unwonted display of spirit on the part of the pretty little widow.

She was gone, carrying all her belongings with her, and leaving peace and liberty behind her.

The flush of triumph was still upon Mrs.Branston; and this unexpected victory, brief and sudden in its occurrence, like most great victories, was almost a consolation to her for that disappointment which had stricken her so heavily of late.
Adela Branston welcomed her visitor very graciously; but Gilbert had no time to waste upon small talk, and after a hasty apology for his untimely intrusion, dashed at once into the question he had come to ask.
"John Saltram was with you yesterday evening, Mrs.Branston," he said.
"Pray tell me the purpose that brought him here, and anything you know of his plan of action after leaving you." "I can tell you very little about that.