CHAPTER XII.
THE HOUSE ON WESTMINSTER ROAD.
An hour's ride through some of the most crowded streets of London brought her to her destination--a tall, dingy, three-storied brick house, in a block of the same.
She paid and dismissed the cab at the door, and then went up and rang the bell.
It was answered by an old woman, in a black skirt, red sack, white apron, and white cap.
"Well, to be sure, ma'am, you have taken me unexpected; but I'm main glad to see you so soon.

Come in, and I'll make you comfortable in no time," said the woman, with kindly respect, as she held the door wide open for her mistress.
"Any one been here sin' we left Mrs.Rogers ?" inquired the traveller.
"No, ma'am--no soul.

It is very lonely here without you.

Let me take your bag, ma'am.

It do seem heavy," said Mrs.Rogers, as she held out her hand and took hold of the handle of the satchel.
"Na, I thank ye.