We have ascertained that she called at half-past two at Mr.Huxtable's lodgings; that she found he was away, and not expected back till eight in the evening; that she left word she would call again at eight; and that she never returned.

Mr.Huxtable's statement is--he and the young lady have never set eyes on each other.
The first consideration which follows, is this: Are we to believe Mr.
Huxtable?
I have carefully inquired into his character; I know as much, or more, about him than he knows about himself; and my opinion is, that we _are_ to believe him.

To the best of my knowledge, he is a perfectly honest man.
"Here, then, is the hitch in the case.

The young lady sets out with a certain object before her.

Instead of going on to the accomplishment of that object, she stops short of it.