She felt sick with relief--nay, with a joy which was almost pain.

She had not known till that moment how hungry she was--how eager for--a good meal.
"That would be all right, sir," she murmured.
"And what are you going to charge me ?" There had come a kindly, almost a friendly note into his voice.

"With attendance, mind! I shall expect you to give me attendance, and I need hardly ask if you can cook, Mrs.Bunting ?" "Oh, yes, sir," she said.

"I am a plain cook.

What would you say to twenty-five shillings a week, sir ?" She looked at him deprecatingly, and as he did not answer she went on falteringly, "You see, sir, it may seem a good deal, but you would have the best of attendance and careful cooking--and my husband, sir--he would be pleased to valet you." "I shouldn't want anything of that sort done for me," said Mr.
Sleuth hastily.