"But out with the story! What's doing ?" "Something that I think will surprise you," said Mr.Pyecroft.
"Something that has completely astounded all of us--particularly this lady who is Mrs.De Peyster's housekeeper, and Miss Harmon, here, who has just returned from a quiet summer in Maine to attend her cousin's funeral.

The fact is, gentlemen, to come right to the point, there is to be no funeral." "No funeral!" cried Mr.Mayfair.
"No funeral!" ran through the crowd.
"No funeral," repeated Mr.Pyecroft.

"The reason, gentlemen, is that a great mistake has been made.

Mrs.De Peyster is not dead." "Not dead!" exclaimed the reporters.
"If you desire proof, here it is." Mr.Pyecroft, stepping aside, revealed the figure of Mrs.De Peyster.

He put his right hand upon her shoulder, gripping it tightly and holding her in her chair, and with his left he lifted the thick veil above her face.