"I've just recollected that my husband left a key with me, which he charged me to give you when I could find an opportunity." "A key!" exclaimed Wood eagerly.

"I lost a very valuable one some time ago.

What's it like, Joan ?" "It's a small key, with curiously-fashioned wards." "It's mine, I'll be sworn," rejoined Wood.

"Well, who'd have thought of finding it in this unexpected way!" "Don't be too sure till you see it," said the widow.

"Shall I fetch it for you, Sir ?" "By all means." "I must trouble you to hold the child, then, for a minute, while I run up to the garret, where I've hidden it for safety," said Mrs.Sheppard.
"I think I _may_ trust him with you, Sir," added she, taking up the candle.
"Don't leave him, if you're at all fearful, my dear," replied Wood, receiving the little burthen with a laugh.