"It is news which I only became acquainted with myself on entering this house." He waited again, and made another advance.

"I happened to meet your Ladyship's steward, Mr.Moody, in the hall--" "Where is he ?" Lady Lydiard interposed angrily.

"I can make _him_ speak out, and I will.

Send him here instantly." The lawyer made a last effort to hold off the coming disclosure a little longer.

"Mr.Moody will be here directly," he said.