In her small experience, a telegram was associated with the communication of bad news.

She conquered her hesitation--opened it--read it.

The color left her face: she shuddered.

The telegram dropped on the grass.
"Read it," she said, faintly, as Alban picked it up.
He read these words: "Come to London directly.

Miss Letitia is dangerously ill." "Your aunt ?" he asked.
"Yes--my aunt.".