CHAPTER 26.
'And you're not surprised to hear this, Varden ?' said Mr Haredale.
'Well! You and she have always been the best friends, and you should understand her if anybody does.' 'I ask your pardon, sir,' rejoined the locksmith.

'I didn't say I understood her.

I wouldn't have the presumption to say that of any woman.

It's not so easily done.

But I am not so much surprised, sir, as you expected me to be, certainly.' 'May I ask why not, my good friend ?' 'I have seen, sir,' returned the locksmith with evident reluctance, 'I have seen in connection with her, something that has filled me with distrust and uneasiness.