"Am I to understand that you are the housekeeper ?" "I am acting as housekeeper at present," was Mirrable's answer.

"When my lord went to town, after my lady's death, the housekeeper went also, and has remained there.

I have taken her place.

Lord Elster--Lord Hartledon, I mean--has not lived yet at Hartledon, and we have had no establishment." "Then who are you ?" "I was maid to Lady Hartledon for many years.

Her ladyship treated me more as a friend at the last; and the young gentlemen always did so." "_Very_ good," cried the untrue voice.