If Horace presented himself without any needless delay, the plain inference would he that she had succeeded in separating him from Mercy.

If his appearance was suspiciously deferred, she decided on personally searching for Mercy in the reception rooms on the lower floor of the house.
"What have you done with the letter ?" she asked.
"I left it on Miss Roseberry's table, my lady." "Very well.

Keep within hearing of the bell, in case I want you again." Another minute brought Lady Janet's suspense to an end.

She heard the welcome sound of a knock at her door from a man's hand.

Horace hurriedly entered the room.
"What is it you want with me, Lady Janet ?" he inquired, not very graciously.
"Sit down, Horace, and you shall hear." Horace did not accept the invitation.