CHAPTER III.
DARK TIDINGS The news I bring is heavy in my tongue .-- Shakespeare.
The second day thereafter Shirley Claiborne went into a jeweler's on the Grand Quai to purchase a trinket that had caught her eye, while she waited for Dick, who had gone off in their carriage to the post-office to send some telegrams.

It was a small shop, and the time early afternoon, when few people were about.

A man who had preceded her was looking at watches, and seemed deeply absorbed in this occupation.

She heard his inquiries as to quality and price, and knew that it was Armitage's voice before she recognized his tall figure.

She made her purchase quickly, and was about to leave the shop, when he turned toward her and she bowed.
"Good afternoon, Miss Claiborne.