May I ask if you happen to know whether he is likely to return; I mean, do you think he has gone away ?" Celia did not hesitate for a moment; it seemed to her as if she were inspired by an abnormal acuteness; instantly, she said: "I believe he has gone away.

The room is to let." She had spoken the truth, and it was evident, by the old gentleman's face, that he accepted her statement, for he regarded her with an expression of profound disappointment, combined with one of anxiety.
"Oh!" he said, thoughtfully.

"Indeed.

Thank you very much." He turned away, but again he paused.

"You would be doing me a very great favour, madam," he said, "if Mr .-- --" He checked himself and looked at her with sudden keenness.