A great deal may happen there at any moment." A waiter knocked and entered.

He handed a letter to Hume.
"From Nellie," said David hastily.
He opened the envelope and perused a short note, which he gave to Brett.
It ran:-- "DEAREST,--I have just heard from Jane, our under-housemaid, that Mr.Capella is leaving the Hall for London by an early train to-morrow.

Jane 'walks out' with Mr.Capella's valet, and is in tears.

Tell Mr.Brett.I am going to help Mrs.Eastham to select prize books for the school treat to-morrow at eleven.
"-- With love, yours, "NELLIE." "Who brought this note ?" inquired Hume from the waiter as he picked up pen and paper.
"A man from Sleagill, sir.

Any reply ?" "Certainly.