HELENS HAPPY DAY
The sun was streaming in at Helen's little window, when she opened her
eyes at 7.45 the following morning. Jumping out of bed with a happy
feeling about her Helen lifted the lower sash of her window and lent out
as far as possible. The October morning air blew chill against her
lightly clad figure but the sun was high in the Heavens and with a sigh
of relief she closed her casement and began to get dressed.
"Let's see" she said opening her ward-robe and taking a view of the
costumes therein "I'll put on my best dress if Marshland has mended the
skirt" and so saying Helen shook out a pretty tweed dress trimmed with a
deep pointed collar of scarlet velvit and cuffs to match and proceeded
to button it on herself.
Here she was interupted by a loud knocking at the door and Alice thrust
her head in saying "If you please miss, Mr. Sheene says he dont know
what train you're a-going to Richmond by because its going on for 9 and
the breakfast is almost cold."
"Oh dear" cried Helen hastily pinning on her hat, "I'll be down
directly; what a time I've been dressing" she added. Seizing her gloves,
umbrella, and little gold bracelet, she dashed downstairs and into the
sitting room where a cold unpleasant breakfast greeted her, but Cyril
was in a very good temper and that was just what was wanted, thought
Helen as she gulped down her cold tea.
"Here" cried Cyril tossing her a sovereign on the table, "that's a
little contribution towards your pleasure trip."
"Oh thanks Cyril" cried Helen joyfully "but do you mind dear if I dont
go to the theatre; I have thought it over and I think I'll walk about
the town, go to the terrace gardens, see the churches, and perhaps go
on the river if it is fine, or if not go for a drive."
"Allright" replied Cyril carelessly "I think you're much wiser myself, I
always thought it was silly to go to the theatre; if you go to the town
for a day you naturally wish to see it thoroughly, as of course it is'nt
a place you're ever likely to go to again.
"Exactly" replied Helen with a smile, "now Cyril I'm off; when do you
start for Picadilly?"
"Not till 10.30" replied Cyril, "now hurry up or you'll be late; be back
by eight wont you" and he strode to the front door with her, where a
hansom stood waiting.
"Goodbye" cried Helen waving her hand to him: "Goodbye" replied Cyril
"I'm so glad you're going to have a happy day" And as she drove off,
Cyril thought what a bright pretty little blossom she looked with her
bright eyes and rosy cheeks, compared to many of the ugly looking men
who adorned the boxes of the London cabs.
PART II
CHAPTER 25
A CRISIS
To do Cyril justice, it will be only fair to say that he experienced no
slight pang at parting with his pretty little future wife for one day
only, for, cruel and hardened as he had become, he had a deep and
undying love for Helen in the bottom of his heart.
"What a dear she is," he muttered to himself, as the hansom disappeared
round the corner, "and what a beast I am; I've deceived her all these
months and I am still doing so. If it hadn't been for that villain
Palsey, I'd have told her long ago, but now I can't, it's too late--too
late," and thus making himself miserable and uneasy, Cyril entered his
office to give the customary orders, and then prepared to walk to
Picadilly.
Leaving Cyril, we must now follow Helen to Holburn station. The train
was in as she reached the station, and she had a rush for it; but she
succeeded in securing a fairly comfortable seat in a third class
carriage with only three people in it besides herself.
Having made some notes in her pocket book, she proceeded to read
"Pearson's Weekly," and soon became engrossed in its contents. By the
time the train stopped at Richmond, the carriage was empty, and Helen
was loth to leave her comfortable seat. Seizing her umbrella, she jumped
blithely on to the platform, and glanced quickly at every passenger. No,
Gladys had certainly not come to meet her. Giving up her ticket, she
found herself on the open platform, and ordering a cab, she got in,
telling the man to drive to number 8, Down Terrace. She then lent back,
determined to enjoy everything that came under her notice. "It seems a
big place" she said, as she drove through the crowded High Street of
Richmond, halting every now and then to let a dust cart or some other
vehicle pass over them.
At last the Terrace Gardens came in view and Helen knew it would not be
long before the cab stopped.
She was right; just then it stopped in front of a row of large well
built houses and having paid her fare Helen ran up the steps and rang
the bell.
It was answered by a stout middle aged woman.
In reply to Helen's enquiry she replied in hearty tones "Oh yes miss,
Miss Lincarrol is in right enough, she's been expecting you all the
morning almost.
Mrs. Norton had hardly uttered her statement, when Gladys herself came
flying downstairs and in a minute she had her arms round Helen's neck
and was hugging and kissing her to death.
"Oh Helen," she cried "how kind of you to come so soon, you dont know
what a lot I have to tell you."
"I am quite sure you have dear" answered Helen "I was delighted to be
able to come with out any bother"
"Did'nt Mr. Sheene mind?" enquired Gladys leading Helen up the richly
carpeted staircase." Oh not at all answered Helen brightly he seemed
quite pleased for me to have a holiday, and he gave me this" she added
holding up a bright gold piece.
At this juncture they arrived at Gladys's bedroom, and drawing back a
red plush curtain they emerged into a dainty little bedroom furnished
entirely in sea green and bamboo.
"Oh! what a charming room" gasped Helen thinking of her own plain room
at home compared to this perfect little paradise.
"Yes it is rather pretty" replied Gladys indifferently. all my rooms are
on this landing you know!
"How many have you?" asked Helen in surprise. "My sitting room is
opposite this, and there is a dear little conservatory opening out of it
in which I keep all my pet plants" replied Gladys "I think that is quite
enough for one girl dont you?"
"Quite" responded Helen "but where does Mr. Palsey sleep if you don't
mind me asking."
"Oh James has his appartments on the floor above this" said Gladys "now
do take off your hat, and come and chat in my cosy corner" and she
pointed to the richly cushioned seat as she spoke.
Helen lay back in the seat and putting her hands behind her head she
gazed wistfully round the room.
"Well Helen" laughed Gladys "are you longing to see my other rooms?"
"Oh no" replied Helen sadly, "this is quite lovely enough thank you,
but Gladys darling do pray tell me what your parents said in the
letter."
"Oh yes" said Gladys, and jumping up she opened a handsome little
morocoo writing desk and took from it a sheet of writing paper closely
written.
"This is it" she said sadly "I'll read it to you Helen, it makes me so
miserable."
Helen listened attentively while Gladys read in a most plaintive voice
the following letter:
"Speerin House
Endup Road,
Norwich.
Oct. 17th.
MY DEAR GLADYS,
As may be imagined your foolish letter caused both
your father and I great displeasure. We both
consider your suspicions concerning James Palsey
totally unfounded, and from what you say we think
our niece Helen Winston must be a very foolish
girl to put such notions into your head. Of course
we pity her very much, as no doubt it is very sad
to have one's father murdered, but to tell you the
truth we think she must be a little off her head.
(Violent exclamations from Helen). Referring to
your letter again I see that you are determined
not to Marry James. Now Gladys you must see for
yourself how very nonsensical this idea is. James
has every means of making you happy and what is
more he is very very rich and is by no means
stingy with his money, as proof the lodgings you
are now in. I am sure he loves you very
passionately and he is both truthful and
honourable; (sarcastic smiles from both Helen and
Gladys), and what is the use of forsaking this
good man, whom you know and ourght to love, for
some horrible scrapegrace whom you choose to
consider faithful? Think over what I have said to
you and try and change your mind as regards James.
If you resolve to marry him your father and I are
quite willing for it to take place at once; if
however you persist in this obstinate behaviour,
remember you are cut off from our wills and we
will not have you in our house, neither will we
receive any letters from you. We are not ones to
encourage foolish suspicions, and are quite in
favour of James. You may write again and tell us
what you intend doing.
Yours affectionate Mother,
ETHELREDA LINCARROL
P. S. We think the less you associate with Helen
Winston the better. Your sisters and brothers are
very upset and sincerely hope you will marry dear
James."
"A most impertinant letter" cried Helen with burning cheeks and flaming
eyes, "I had no idea my aunt was such a cruel, wicked person; I suppose
she is in league with _him_," and she pointed in the direction she
thought most likely Mr. Palsey had taken.
"Oh hush Helen" said Gladys "you really have no right to speak like
that!"
"Yes I have" stormed Helen, "she dares to say I'm off my head; it is far
more likely she is off hers."
"Helen!" cried Gladys "I really wont allow you to say such things about
my mother, it is most rude of you."
"I dont care" replied Helen "if I am to be privately insulted in this
way I declare I wont stand it, I have surely had enough trouble without
this--this----"
Whatever Helen intended to say she got no further, for she quite lost
her self-control and burst out crying, her hot tears falling through her
fingers and dropping on to her patent leather shoes. Poor Helen! it was
indeed sad to have all the miseries of her past life recalled by a few
thoughtless words expressed in a letter.
Gladys who was sympathy itself, jumped up and ran to Helen's side.
Putting her arms round her neck she kissed her, saying as she did so
"never mind Helen dear, dont cry, I should not have hurt your feelings
so, but cheer up and I'll tell you some news which will show you that we
have _some_ friends, who are not on Mr. Palsey's side."
Helen, who quickly got over her fits of sorrow dried her eyes and looked
up.
"What is it?" she asked.
Gladys sat down again and opening her mother's letter said "you know
what Mother says in the post-script, about my sisters and brothers being
very upset and longing for me to marry James?"
"Yes" answered Helen, "but how many have you got, I understood you were
a very small family?"
"Oh no, we are rather a large family" responded Gladys, "perhaps I had
better tell you our names or you wont understand the news."
"Yes please do" pleaded Helen.
"Well I have three brothers and three sisters," said Gladys, "Lionel is
the eldest of the family, he's about 25 or 26 I think, then there is
Wilelmina, we always call her Minna, she is 24, then Lawrence is about
23 I fancy. I am the next, and I suppose you know I have just come of
age. Ethel and Elsie (the twins) are just 19, and Hugh is the youngest,
he is between 17 and 18."
"You all seem to have very fanciful names" said Helen.
"Do we?" said Gladys "well Mother is just that kind you know, her name
being Ethelreda Aurora, I suppose she thinks we ought to have fancy
names."
"Yes I suppose so" replied Helen, "I certainly think you have sweet
names, Ethel and Elsie are very nice for twins, are they pretty?"
"Ethel and Elsie?" asked Gladys "oh yes fairly so they are both fair you
know."
"You must be a fair family" replied Helen
"You are fair yourself."
"Oh no we're not" answered Gladys, "Minna is like a gipsy almost and the
boys are all dark."
"Really?" said Helen "well Gladys what about this wonderful piece of
news?"
"Oh yes" said Gladys, "well when Mother wrote that postscript, I dont
believe she asked the others about it at all, because only the other
evening, I got a letter from Lawrence, (he is my favourite) and it seems
he is quite in favour of me _not_ marrying James."
"How lovely!" exclaimed Helen.
"I'll try and find the letter" said Gladys "it really is awfully nice,
he says he never liked the looks of James and he quite believes my
suspicions are right and he says he'll try and find out who murdered Mr.
Winston if he can, and he strongly advises me to mary Lord Beaufort, (a
friend of ours who has a regard for me). He also says that he will try
and come to see me, Minna is very much of his oppinion too it seems, but
I think that is because _she_ has her eye on James. The twins have not
much to say in the matter except they think I am silly to miss such a
chance, Lionel says so too, but then he is very high and mighty, you
know, so of course he wants me to marry some one rich."
"Well I dont see much good in looking for the letter now you have told
me all the news" said Helen laughingly, as Gladys having turned her
desk up side down, was rampaging about the bookcase.
"I suppose its not much good" replied Gladys wearily, "well now Helen
the question I want you to settle is this; what am I to write and tell
Mother, and when am I to expect Lawrence?
"Well my dear, as regards the latter question I am quite ignorant" said
Helen "your brother may turn up today for all I know."
"How jolly if he does" replied Gladys "it will be very awkward if James
is at home, because if ever a man knew how to make himself disagreable
James is that person."
"Is he really?" exclaimed Helen "well I hope Lawrence will come today if
that is the case, but now Gladys to business, you must write to your
mother you know, and have you decided what you will say?"
"Yes I have" said Gladys bravely "I will write at once and say that my
suspicions are none the less keen, and on no plea whatever will I marry
James."
"Gladys, you are good!" cried Helen, while her friend's lips trembled
and her eyes filled with tears, "but never mind dear" she added "you
will be well rewarded one day, when you find yourself the happy wife of
a good man, he may be rich too, because it is not always the bad that
are rich."
"I know" answered Gladys "and now Helen there is just time before lunch
for me to write my letter."
Arranging her writing table, Gladys sat down and wrote the following
letter:
8, Down Terrace,
Richmond.
Oct. 17th.
MY DEAREST MOTHER,
No words can express how sorry I am that my letter
should have caused you and father so much trouble.
My suspicions however have in no way diminished.
James is as bad as ever. He has a horrible
sneaking way of coming upstairs and he dreams too
and shouts out "oh why did I do it; murder!
robbery." So tonight I shall tell him that I have
found him out and could not possibly marry him. Of
course he will have nothing to do with me and I
shall be penniless, but as _you_ will have no more
to say to me, I suppose I am welcome to fall back
upon the kindness of my dearly beloved friend
Helen Winston. Now dear Mother, as this is the
last letter I shall ever write you, I beg that
you will give my very best love to dear Father and
all the rest, Remember me very kindly to all my
friends especially Lord Beaufort. Begging heartily
for your forgiveness (which I suppose you will
never grant me)
I remain, your devoted daughter
_Gladys_.
Having finished this epistle Gladys stamped and sealed it and handing it
to Helen said: "You will post this on your way home wont you?"
"Oh yes" said Helen and she placed the envelope in her pocket.
"Now the next best thing to be done is, to go and see if lunch is ready
exclaimed Gladys and leading the way, the two girls crossed the passage
and entered a charming little drawing room. A fire burnt brightly in the
grate and a table was spread in the middle of the room, on which a hot
pheasant was waiting to be carved.
"Is this a drawing room or a dining room" enquired Helen, looking at the
pretty pictures, the sofa and various drawing room articles.
"Both" replied Gladys "you see after meals, the flaps of this table are
let down, an Indian silk cloth put upon it, and it is a sweet little
table for the centre of a drawingroom,
"How dodgy" cried Helen in delight. Lunch was soon over and the girls
repaired to Gladys's bedroom, which was brighter and sunnier than the
drawing-room. Taking their seats by the window, they both sank into
silence.
Gladys was the first to break it.
"Helen" she said "when James comes home tonight, I shall tell him
exactly what I think about this matter; and if he turns me out of the
house, where can I go?"
"Dont despair" said Helen "your brother may arrive before that.
"Oh" said Gladys scornfully "its not likely; I must say Helen you are
very unsympathetic, perhaps if you were living with the prospect of
spending a night with no roof over your head, you would be nicer to me"
"I am not nasty" returned Helen; if such a thing does happen that you
dont know where to go, why you can come to me, you know you will be
welcome; you see Gladys I've had so much trouble myself, that I find it
easy to be calm during other peoples misery."
"Well it appears you do" replied Gladys, "but anyhow you will surely
help me pack my things, for if James turns me away I shall be quite
ready to start."
"Oh certainly" said Helen, and accordingly the next hour and a half was
spent in turning out Gladys's wardrobes etc. and by the time the trunks
were locked and the room set tidy, it was nearly tea-time.
Mrs. Norton (the Landlady brought some buttered toast and tea into the
bedroom, as it was more comfortable than the sitting room.
"Oh dear it has commenced to rain" cried Gladys, and walking to the
window she drew back the pretty muslin curtain.
Helen followed and the two girls stood for a moment looking out of the
window, through which a few rain-drops were splashing on to the thick
Turkish carpet.
Helens eyes wandered listlessly across the terrace gardens, but she did
not take in the scene before her, as she gazed intently at the lively
throng before her, her thoughts were far away in the dingy little
home-office, and she was wondering if Cyril would permit Gladys to dwell
under his roof.
All of a sudden Gladys clutched hold of Helen's arm, and pointed to a
figure in the street, which was coming quickly up the steps of the
house.
"Oh Helen he has come!" she cried "quick, quick we must come down
stairs!"
The two girls rushed to the door, but ere they had time to take a dozen
steps, they were met at the top of the stairs by _Mr. Palsey_.
Helen's cheeks and lips grew white as a sheet, and she crept behind the
welcome shade of Gladys's back, as the gaze of the man she hated fell
upon her.
"What is the meaning of this?" hissed Mr. Palsey between his teeth.
"The meaning of what?" enquired Gladys in a trembling voice.
"This--this--most un-called-for visit?" cried Mr. Palsey pointing to
where Helen stood trembling like a leaf in every limb.
"It means" cried Gladys in a loud tone, "that I know all Mr. James
Palsey, all your false deceitful ways, all your cruel treatment of my
cousin Helen and above all the murder of her father, and the robbery of
the safe!"
Mr. Palsey grew livid with fury and fear, and clung for support to the
bannisters.
"Oh you know all that do you?" he enquired sardonically, "For once your
imaginations have gone too far Miss Gladys Lincarrol, I did not murder
Mr. Winston as it happens, perhaps his daughter can throw light on that
subject."
"What do you mean?" cried Helen fiercely.
"What I say" replied Mr. Palsey.
"If you mean to infer Mr Palsey "that Cyrill has had anything to do with
the murder you are wrong, he is far too honourable for that."
"Of course he is" said Mr. Palsey sarcastically.
"Then dont talk about what you dont know anything about" retorted Helen.
Mr. Palsey was about to reply, when Gladys interupted him, "well it is
of no use to prolong matters James" she said "so I'll tell you straight
what I mean; of course I shall not dream of becoming your wife after
what I have discovered about you, and so I am going away; my parents
will not have me at home, so I am going back with Helen Winston, till my
brother Lawrence comes to fetch me, he will no doubt set me up
comfortably and then I shall at least be free from your clutches, even
if I am forced into marrying a poor man.
Mr. Palsey turned an ashy grey and his cruel green eyes gleamed
viciously "What?" he gasped "you say you're going away, going to leave
the man who has never been anything but loving to you; I tell you, you
shant do it, you young cat----" and seizing hold of Gladys's slender
wrists he tried to force her back into the bedroom.
Helen uttered a cry and with a blind idea of doing some good, she flung
herself across Mr. Palsey's arms. Seeing his chance Mr. Palsey thrust
Helen aside and tightning his grip on Gladys pinioned her to the wall,
violently shaking her by the shoulders every time she opened her lips to
speak.
At this critical moment, a loud ring was heard at the door quickly
followed by voices in the hall below, the next moment steps were heard
hastily ascending the stairs. Before anyone could speak, Mr. Palsey felt
himself violently punched in the back, and Gladys recovering herself in
a moment sank sobbing into the arms of _her brother_.
Lawrence Lincarrol was a tall, broad shouldered young man about 6 ft 2
inches. His hair was dark, rather curly and plentiful and was parted at
the side. He had dark blue eyes a dark moustache and great regularity
of features, but there was no resemblance to Gladys in his face
whatever. In age, our hero was about three and twenty.
Having embraced his sister and shaken hands with Helen Lawrence turned
his attention to Mr. Palsey who was shivering in the back-ground.
"Well!" he cried, after scanning the villian from head to foot, "this is
nice conduct I must say; may I ask what you were doing with my sister
when I came in?"
"Oh I was merely advising her to keep out of draughts," replied Mr.
Palsey glaring at the newcomer with hatred in his eyes.
"A most extraordinary way of giving your advice" replied Lawrence, "you
were shaking her as if she was an animal."
"She is obstinate" persisted Mr. Palsey.
"Don't talk nonsense" cried Lawrence hotly, "a man who can contrive
murders and robberies as well as you can, should be able to give a
reasonable answer to a simple question, tell me at once, why you were
shaking my sister in that horrible manner."
"If you think you can master me Mr. Lincarrol" said Mr. Palsey, "you
will soon find your mistake, stand out of my way or we shall come to
blows."
Lawrence did not move an inch, and Gladys and Helen waited with beating
hearts, to see what would follow.
Mr. Palsey's evil nature was roused in a moment with a cow-like jump,
and with the fury of a lion, he sprang upon Lawrence, dealing him a
terrible blow between the eyes.
But in his rage Mr. Palsey had forgotten how much weaker and smaller he
was than his combatant.
With wonderful coolness, Lawrence siezed Mr. Palsey by the shoulders and
after a brief struggle, succeeded in forcing him backwards into the
drawing room where he locked the door and slipping the key into his
pocket.
"I did not wish to fight on a lodging house landing," he said turning to
the girls "it might get talked about, Mr. Palsey will have time to grow
cool locked in there for a little, I'll let him out soon."
"Yes, dont forget" said Gladys "Mrs. Norton will think it so strange."
"Well Gladys" said Helen "I really must go now; Cyril will be expecting
me, and now that your brother has come you will be quite safe."
"Oh Helen!" cried Gladys "you cant go yet, Lawrence what are we to do?"
"I was going to tell you" replied Lawrence. "Lord Beaufort is living in
London now, 26 Portman Square, and as he knows I am here too, he wants
me to bring you Gladys to stay with him. I shall be there for a few days
longer before I go home, but I dare say you and Lord Beaufort will have
arranged matters by then.
Gladys blushed hard and pretended not to hear.
"We can all go to Holburn together by the next train" proceeded
Lawrence, "and then when we have seen Miss Winston safely into a cab, we
can drive to Portman Sq. where Lord Beaufort will be ready to receive
us."
It is very kind of you" said Helen "but I really feel very mean
presuming upon you like this."
"Not at all" replied Lawrence "it is the least we could do; and now
Gladys if you are ready, we ought to be starting."
"I shant be long" cried Gladys "I've only my things to put on, and my
boxes to strap."
"Well then I'll just go and see about a fly" replied Lawrence, glancing
at his watch as he spoke, "you be ready by the time I get back will
you?"
"Oh yes" answered Gladys, and darting back into her bedroom she
commenced to put on her hat and jacket while Helen wrote labels for the
luggage.
In a few moments Lawrence returned and running upstairs knocked at the
bedroom door.
"Oh come in" cried Gladys "I'm nearly ready."
"Do hurry we've not so very much time" replied Lawrence, dragging out a
large black trunk and carrying it to the landing where a cab man was
waiting to take it down stairs.
"Now, I'm ready" said Gladys, "come on Helen."
"I am coming" replied Helen and picking up her umbrella, she followed
the others downstairs.
"Oh I say we must'nt forget Mr. Palsey" cried Lawrence "I can hear him
muttering in there now, I expect he is awfully wild."
"I expect he is" laughed Gladys.
Lawrence produced the key from his pocket and was about to slip it
quietly into the lock, when Helen interupted him: "Mr. Lincarrol" she
said "dont you think it would be safer to give the key to Mrs. Norton,
because if Mr. Palsey hears you opening the door he would be sure to get
out and then there might be another scene."
"So there might" replied Lawrence, "well I think that would be the best,
come along Gladys, the sooner we get off the better."
"Let me out, let me out" screamed Mr. Palsey from within the drawing
room, "I'll tell the police of it; let me out this instant."
"Have patience" shouted Lawrence, but his words were hardly audible for
Mr. Palsey was releiving his feelings by kicking violently at the door.
"The hall door was open, and Mrs. Norton was standing by it waiting for
her lodgers to come down.
"Well miss this is short notice" she began in an injured tone.
"I am very sorry" replied Gladys "but I have to leave in a great hurry,
I would have let you know before had it been possible," and she handed a
few soverigns to the land lady.
"By the by Mrs. Norton" began Lawrance "here is the key of your drawing
room, Mr. Palsey is in there for reasons which I dont see fit to mention
now, but as I found him assaulting a lady when I arrived I shall see fit
to inform the police and no doubt you will be kind enough to take charge
of the key until my return."
"Oh yes sir" replied Mrs. Norton, who had no great devotion for that
cross-grained Mr. Palsey as she called him "you can trust me fully."
"Thank you" replied Lawrence, noting down Mrs. Norton's name and address
in his memoranda as he spoke.
A cab drew up at the door at that moment and the landlady and parlour
maid both walked down the steps with their lodgers.
"Am I to expect you back at any particular time sir?" enquired Mrs.
Norton.
"I cant say for certain" answered Lawrence, "but I will probably be back
sometime tonight."
"Very well sir, I'll keep the key safe in my pocket till then" and Mrs.
Norton slipped the key into its receptable.
"The old station" cried Lawrence and jumping into the cab he shut the
door with a bang.
The journey passed off very successfully, Helen and Gladys both taking a
doze in the train and waking up quite fresh at Holburn Station.
"I must go to the Police Station at once" said Lawrence "so I will see
you both started first; what is your address Miss Winston?"
"I could easily walk" replied Helen blushing, "but if you would rather I
drove the address is 132, Cannon Street."
Lawrence hailed two hansoms "now Gladys jump in as you have further to
go" he said, "26, Portman Square" he added to the cabman, who touched
his hat and drove off in an instant.
The second hansom was waiting and drew close up to the curb as the other
drove off. "132, Cannon Street, shouted Lawrence, "goodbye Miss Winston,
be sure and write to Gladys if you are in trouble, I am going there
myself late tonight as unfortunately I must go back to Richmond to see
about Mr. Palsey."
"Thank you very very much" replied Helen the tears gathering in her
pretty eyes as she spoke. But she soon wiped them away and leaning back
in the comfortable hansom she commenced to hum a little tune as she
arranged her ruffled hair at the little looking glass. Little did she
dream how very soon she would have to avail herself of Lawrence's offer.
A dismal sleet had begun to fall and being tired Helen was not sorry
when the hansom stopped at the dreary looking office. Lawrence had
already paid the man so Helen had only to collect her parcels and get
out.
A light was shining in the office room and also in Cyril's bed-room
which was just above it.
"How very strange" thought Helen as she mounted the steps. Before she
had time to lay her hand on the bell the door was violently opened from
within and there stood Netherby, looking very pale and trembling from
head to foot.
"Oh come in Miss, do come in" he cried in an agitated voice as Helen
stood staring at his strange appearance.
"Why Netherby, what _is_ the matter?" cried Helen entering the passage
and closing the door behind her.
"Oh dont ask me miss, please dont let me be the first to tell you" cried
Netherby and the poor man clung for support to the door handle.
"Very well, dont distress yourself" said Helen kindly and calmly and
seeing there was no more information to be got from him, she entered the
office.
It seemed to be in a state of utter confusion; papers littered the whole
room, Cyril's tea stood untouched by his desk, and Cyril's own private
chest was wide open and Wilson the other clerk was cooly reading the
papers and documents within. He glanced over his shoulder as Helen
entered and with an insolent grin returned to the parchment in his hand.
All Helen's pride and dignity was roused in a moment.
"Wilson!" she cried with an impatient movement of her hands, but keeping
perfectly cool the while "oblige me by telling me the meaning of this
conduct."
"The explanation is there" replied the clerk pointing to a half sheet of
paper lying on the desk.
It was a common bit of ruled paper and by the ragged edge had evidently
been hastily torn from a note book; a pin was run through the top of
the paper showing it had been attached to something.
"Where did you find this" enquired Helen before reading it.
"We found it pinned to Mr. Sheene's desk addressed to you miss," replied
Netherby who had entered the room, "it was Mrs. Marshland who told us to
open it.
"Very well" said Helen, and she read as follows.
"Darling. When you see this I shall probably be
miles away. This is written to bid you goodbye as
it is not likely we shall meet again. When you
read my story try and forgive me; for in spite of
all I always loved you and ever will.
CYRIL SHEENE.
This strange epistle was hastily scrawled in pencil and the signature
was very shaky, but Helen knew the writing in a minute, it was
undoubtedly Cyril's.
"It is not likely we shall meet again!!"
The words ran through Helen's bewildered head and repeated themselves
again and again. Cyril, whom she had loved so dearly and belived in so
faithfully had gone away, left her alone in the cruel heartless world;
Cyril whom she had never even had course or reason to call dishonourable
had written himself to ask her to try and forgive him. What did it mean?
And the story, where was the story?" The room seemed to swim round;" we
shall not meet again, "try and forgive me" The story where is the story?
And then all was darkness and Helen remembered no more.
CHAPTER 26
A REMOVAL TO PORTMAN SQUARE
When Helen recovered she found herself lying in a large comfortable bed
propped up with pillows. The room was large, cheerful and beautifully
furnished. A small table covered with a white cloth was by the bedside
with medicine bottles upon it. A bright fire burnt in the grate. The
blinds were down and warm red curtains pulled across the large bow
window.
A small lamp was carefully placed where no light or glare could reach
the bed and the very atmosphere of the room spoke of extreme comfort.
A nurse, in a white cap and apron was gliding noislessly about the room
arranging things here and there.
For a moment Helen lay quite still staring about her plerpexedly, but on
making a slight movement in the bed the nurse turned round, "So you are
awake at last miss?" she said in a slow gentle voice, "do you know you
have slept quite quietly for three hours."
"Where are am I?" asked Helen gazing from the kind face of the nurse
around the strange room.
"You are in Lord Beaufort's house in Portman Square" replied the nurse.
"Lord Beaufort?" repeated Helen, "I have heard the name before."
"Yes you have" said the nurse, "Miss Lincarrol is here you know, and her
brother, and your old servant Mrs. Marshland, so you see no one has
deserted you."
"Except Cyril" sighed Helen.
"You must not think of that now" replied the nurse soothingly, "all you
have to do is rest and keep quiet; I expect Miss Lincarrol will be up
soon, she has come twice already only you were asleep, now take your
medicine and then lay quiet; you will hear all the story soon from
other lips than mine."
Thus reassured Helen took her cooling draught and lay down, patiently
awaiting any visitor who would enlighten her as to past events. Her
thoughts naturally enough wandered back to the episode of Cyril's
departure and she was getting extremely restless, much to the nurse's
dismay, when the door softly opened and Gladys appeared in the room.
With a smile she instantly ran to the bedside and Helen tried to raise
herself to greet her friend, but her head instantly swam round and she
fell back on the pillow, white and gasping. The nurse gave her a dose of
medicine and she quickly came to herself again.
"You must not try to exert yourself too much" said the nurse kindly, "it
will do you no good, and will only hinder your recovery."
"Very well" said Helen faintly, "but how is it I get so queer?"
"Because your head is in a weak state" replied the nurse, "and it will
probable injure you very much to rampage."
It would take too long to relate the history of Helen's illness as Helen
heard it from Gladys's lips, with all the details and exagertions, so
we will go back a little bit and see what happened after Helen swooned
away.
CHAPTER 27
THE CONTENTS OF THE CHEST
As soon as Netherby (the clerk) saw what had happened he at once called
for Marshland, who was sitting in the parlour in a state of utter
collapse. On hearing that her precious Miss Helen had fainted, the good
old woman ran at once to the office room.
Helen lay perfectly white and still upon the floor with Cyril's fatal
letter clenched in her hand. Marshland instantly knelt down and placed
her head at Helen's heart. "She is not dead" she cried triumphantly.
"What can we do?" asked Netherby in a shaky voice.
"I'll tell you" said Marshland getting up off the floor, you must take a
cab and drive as fast as you can to Portman Square number 26, Miss
Lincarrol is staying there with Lord Beaufort and I think her brother
too; they are all staunch friends of Miss Helen's I know they will come
at once, we can make no move, friendless as we are, without the help of
Mr. Lincarrol or some one."
"Stop a bit" cried Netherby regaining his courage all of a sudden;
something tells me the story Mr. Sheene speaks of in his letter is
somewhere in the private chest, and as it is evidently meant for Miss
Winston's private reading, I'll trouble you Mr. Wilson to let those
papers alone and give me up the key."
"What right have you to the key any more than me?" asked Wilson
sullenly.
"None I suppose" replied Netherby "but I know that you are subjecting
yourself to the penalty of the law by ransacking that private chest, "I
shall inform the police if you dont instantly deliver the key."
Netherby's altered manner rather cowed Wilson so very sulkily he gave up
the key.
Then with a set determination Netherby collected all the papers etc:
which Wilson had strewn over the desks tying them firmly together placed
them back in the chest.
"Have you any more?" asked he before locking the chest.
"No" stoutly declared Mr. Wilson.
"I'm not so eager to belive you" replied Netherby.
"Why not?" enquired Wilson savagely.
"Because you're not extra fond of the truth" replied Netherby "and I'd
rather satisfy myself that you have no more papers about you before I
lock the chest."
"You'd better dare lay a finger on me" hissed Wilson.
"I dont want to" replied Netherby "but if you really have taken nothing,
what is your objection to letting me see the contents of your pocket?"
"Oh I'll let you see the contents drawled Wilson and he proceeded to
place a few articles on the desk.
Netherby was beginning to satisfy himself it was alright, when he
noticed Wilson shuffling about with the inner pocket of his coat.
"Hurry up" exclaimed Netherby impatiently.
"Alright" cried Wilson nervously drawing out a rather dirty
handkerchief; but fate was against him and with the handkerchief came a
roll of bank notes.
Marshland gave a cry as she beheld the sight of the unhappy Wilson slink
into a corner.
Netherby collected the notes placed them in the desk and without a word
put on his hat and went out. In less that five minutes he returned
accompanied by two policemen, who on a sign from Netherby advanced to
Wilson and before the astonished man could say a word he found himself
handcuffed and carefully guarded by the two officials.
Netherby and Marshland then gave an exact account of what had taken
place and Netherby ended by saying "you see Wilson if you had shut the
chest when I told you and concealed nothing I should have been the last
to call the police, but when it came to robbing the chest in justice to
Miss Winston I had to do my duty."
Wilson was too utterly dazed to say a word, and in a few moments
Netherby, not liking to leave the house sent a messenger to portman
Square.
In a couple of hours a cab drew up at the door, and out got Lawrence
Lincarrol, Lord Beaufort, and a short thin man, who turned out to be
Cyril Sheene's solicitor.
On hearing the story, Lord Beaufort said that Helen was to be taken at
once to his house and that Marshland should accompany her. Accordingly
the unconscious girl was lifted into the brougham and accompanied by
the old servant drove off. "Your things shall be sent on" said Lord
Beaufort to Marshland as he helped her into the cab "and a trained nurse
shall be got for Miss Winston, meanwhile my servants quite understand
what is to be done."
Then the cab drove off and Lord Beaufort entered the office.
Lawrence and Mr. Spriggs (the solicitor) were both busy interviewing
Netherby, who now that he had done his duty and shown much good sence
had relapsed into his old nervous state.
We had here better describe Lord Beaufort and Mr. Spriggs.
Lord Beaufort was a half Spaniard, his mother being of that nationality
and his father (who was dead) an Englishman.
He took after his mother in looks. He was moderately tall and thin and
might have been eight and thirty. He had straight black hair and beard
and moustache, to match, the former being small and well cut, not the
bushy kind. His handsome dark eyes were quite those of a foreigner and
his teeth were beautifully white. He was particularly well dressed and
even to his boots.
Very different indeed was Mr. Spriggs. A thin wiry little man about 5
feet 2 inches, with thin sandy coloured hair (a trifle bald), twinkly
little blue eyes, a very pink face and carroty coloured moustache. He
was attired in a rough tweed suit with knickaboccers, a turn down
collar, very untidily put on, thick grey stockings, clumping boots, a
green tie, and a dear stalker cap drawn well on to his head.
"Well the first thing to be done" said Mr. Spriggs in jerky tones "is to
open the chest, and I being the solicitor will proceed to do it," and he
stalked accross the room with a very high and mighty air and made a
great commotion with the keys.
The chest being opened the contents were carefully examined. A blue
envelope was first opened and contained the following information.
"This is to say that I, Cyril Sheene leave all my money, which is all in
bank notes to my intended Helen Winston; it is not very much and does
not exceed L150 but still I hope it will do as I can't afford any more.
Dated August 11th."
This was all written in violet coloured ink by Cyril himself; but at the
bottom of the paper a few lines were hastily scrawled in pencil.
"I hereby add that all my share of the money I stole from Mr. John
Winston is in the black leather bag at the back of the chest. Helen will
recognise the bag. Not a farthing has been spent and it is all to go to
Helen. Dated October 14.
"That was written on the day of Mr. Sheene's departure announced Mr.
Spriggs as he replaced the paper in its envelope, and this is the bag I
suppose," he added dragging at a black leather bundle in a remote corner
of the chest.
The bag it certainly was and on being opened L100 in ready gold tumbled
on to the desk, and with it a slip of paper on which the reader will
remember John Winston had written, "all this gold is bequeathed to my
daughter Helen on the day when I shall be called upon to die," and was
sealed with the writer's prifate seal.
Nothing else of great importance appeared except a bundle of white
manuscript carefully tied up and sealed, addressed to Helen and marked
"private."
"I know what that is!" cried Netherby excitedly "it is the story Mr.
Sheene wrote about, look here sir" and he picked up Cyril's letter which
had dropped from Helen's hand when she was lifted into the cab.
Mr. Spriggs carefully read the letter and placed it in the chest, "ah
yes" he said addressing Lord Beaufort and Lawrence, "that story is
evidently for Miss Winston's private eye, so it must be locked up till
she is able to read it."
"Which wont be for a good while judging from her present condition,"
said Lawrence, "but now to business, what about this office, it is a
difficult matter to carry it on without Mr. Sheene."
"As far as I can see, it must be kept on till Miss Winston's recovery"
replied Mr. Spriggs "if no more news is heard of Mr. Sheene till then
well Miss Winston can come and procure her money and various other
papers which will of course be hers and then this place can be sold."
"Yes" said Lord Beaufort and I suppose Mr. Netherby will be the head
man till then.
"Well yes" replied Mr. Spriggs "he must certainly be here to look after
the place, and of course I shall look in occasionally to see all goes
well; another young man can be got to be under Mr. Netherby as Mr.
Wilson has gone to prison for attempted robbery; do you agree to that
Mr. Netherby?"
"Oh yes sir" eagerly replied the clerk, who would not have disagreed for
the world.
"And if it comes to the place being sold" added Lord Beaufort "you can
come to me Mr. Netherby, I may have arranged something by then"
"Thank you very much sir" replied Netherby and after a few more matters
had been arranged the three men left the office leaving Netherby in
charge.
By the time Lord Beaufort and Lawrence got back home, a doctor had seen
Helen. He said that when she recovered her senses, perfect rest and
quiet would be all she needed, her brain being in a dazed condition. She
would not be able to leave her bed for some time probably though nothing
serious was the matter.
Helen remained unconscious all night and next day she was very
delirious but towards 4 o'clock she dropped asleep and woke up about
seven o'clock, her right senses returned to her, but still in a weak
condition.
CHAPTER 28
THE PROPOSAL
It was not untill the evening after Helen's recovery that Lawrence and
Lord Beaufort had an oppertunity of conversing together.
Mulberry Beaufort was seated in his luxurious study partaking of some
Burgundy wine and reading a detective story, when the door opened and
Lawrence, entered, tired after a long day in the city.
"Well Mulberry" he said throwing himself down in an arm chair and
lighting a cigar, "no news of Sheene in the Star I suppose?"
"Not a word" replied Mulberry, "it is a most misterious affair
altogether."
"Yes the odd part of it is that Palsey has made off too" answered
Lawrence.
"You dont mean that!" cried Mulberry.
"Yes I do" said Lawrence, "it appears the villain got off while I was
away; you know I locked him in the drawing room and as the landlady had
the key he would not have made his exit in that way.
"No" replied Mulberry "he certainly could not but you forget the
window."
"No I dont" responded Lawrence, "that is just where he did get out, for
when I opened the door of the drawing room, the window was wide open at
the bottom, and a bit of rope was fastenned to a hook on the window
ledge and hanging out of the window, so the wreatch made his escape that
way; it is a wonder he was not detected for the police are every where
on the look out for him and I am sure if ever a man deserved the gallows
he does."
"Yes indeed" replied Mulberry lazily puffing at his cigar "but in my
opinion the disappearance of Sheene is the most extraordinary it was so
very sudden and unexpected, but it was not at all an unlikely thing for
Palsey to do, he was so angry at being locked in."
"My idea is" answered Lawrence "that they both had their own reasons for
wishing to leave so abruptly. I shouldnt be at all supprised if the
villian Palsey knowing the police were on his track, dropped some hint
as to Sheene's share in the murder and so got the blame partly shifted
from himself."
"Then you think Sheene did share in the murder do you?" asked Mulberry,
his black eyes flashing.
"I do" replied Lawrence, "I bet you a shilling that story of Sheene's
will reveal everything. It strikes me Sheene made off on account of the
police too----"
"Well I only hope Miss Winston will soon be well enough to read the
story" replied Mulberry.
"I hope so too responded Lawrence heartily.
"I suppose Netherby still stays at the office?" enquired Mulberry.
"Oh yes" answered Lawrence, "but it will be a good thing for him as soon
as he can leave, he gets very little pay and he is really a very good
fellow indeed."
"Yes he is" rejoined Mulberry "I will try and get something for him as
soon as possible."
Just then the door opened and in came Gladys looking very pretty in her
evening dress of rose coloured silk.
She blushed on seeing the two men, but came forward gracefully enough.
"I came to see if you were coming into the drawing room" she said
"dinner will soon be ready and I have just been to see Helen."
"Oh how is she?" asked Lawrence.
"Better I think" replied Gladys "I am going up again after dinner."
"Well I will come to the drawing room" said Mulberry putting aside his
tumbler.
"Will you come too Lawrence?"
"Not yet thanks" replied Lawrence "I have a letter to write, I will join
you at dinner"
"We expect a few guests tonight" said Mulberry.
"Oh" said Lawrence "I'll change presently."
Mulberry opened the door and he and Gladys betook themselves from the
study.
Alone in the beautiful drawing room with the light from the tall
standing lamp falling on her fair features, Mulberry Beaufort became
entranced with Gladys's beauty.
He stood gazing into her lovely blue eyes with his own black ones, till
he could contain himself no longer.
"Gladys darling" he exclaimed passionately seizing her small white hand
"I love you."
Gladys blushed and tried to hide her face but Mulberry caught her other
hand and kept his eyes full on her.
"Answer me Gladys" cried the lover "I love you so much and if you will
only be my wife my happiness will be complete."
"Oh Lord Beaufort" cried Gladys "this is so unexpected."
"Call me Mulberry!" he almost whispered.
"Well Mulberry" murmured Gladys "I really dont know what to say."
"Think darling" cried Mulberry, "surely you dont wish to crush all hope
and happiness out of my life, my heart beats only for you Gladys, you
dont wish to stop it do you?"
"Oh no" earnestly replied Gladys.
"Then may I take that as your acceptation of me?" enquired Mulberry.
"I think you may" replied Gladys softly.
Mulberry was too overpowered with joy to say a word, he merely clasped
her in his arms and drew her head on to his shoulder, where it lay in a
state of bliss for the space of three minutes.
At length she slowly raised it and Mulberry taking one of her hands
pressed it tight saying, "then darling, we may consider ourselves
engaged?"
"Yes Mulberry!" murmered Gladys.
"Then dear accept this as a token" said Mulberry and as he spoke he
slipped a handsome diamond and saphire ring on her finger.
She had scarcely recovered her astonishment and pleasure when the butler
entered announcing Mr. and Mrs. Vermont.
CHAPTER 29
THE DINNER PARTY
The Hon: Mr. and Mrs. Vermont were only the first of great numbers who
flocked to Lord Beaufort's house that evening. By the time the dinner
gong sounded the large drawing room was filled with ladies and gentlemen
many of whom had brought instruments to play, as Mulberry intended it to
be a musical evening.
Mulberry eyed Gladys lovingly as he gave his arm to Mrs. Murry and
escorted her to the dining room.
The dinner table was a sight to behold!
Pink was the colour chosen for the evening.
The daintily arranged menus were set in white porcelain frames on which
pink roses were beautifully painted. In the centre of the table stood a
valuable vase in which large pink roses were arranged. The numerous wax
candles were covered with pink shades, and among the ferns and plants
which adorned the room hung little pink electric lights; and everything
that could be was ornemented with pink satin ribbon and bunches of
roses.
It may here be said that owing to Helen's illness Lord Beaufort had not
had late dinner so the sight was quite new to Gladys.
Three footmen with powdered hair and chocolate and drab livery were in
attendance.
"Oh Mulberry what is this?" asked Gladys, pointing to one of the menus.
"Oh that is the menu of my table d'hote" replied Mulberry carelessly,
"this is of nightly recurrence."
"How delightful!" cried Gladys and sitting down she carefully studied
her menu:
MENU DU DINER.
Wednesday, October 20th
----------
Hors d'[oe]vres.
Consomme Parsanne.
Creme d'asperges.
Sole normande.
Selle de mouton a l'anglaise.
Jambon de York a la Zingara.
Pommes maitre d'hotel.
Poularde a la broche.
Salade de saison.
Glace marigan.
or
Gateaux Mignons.
Fromage.
Dessert.
THE SECOND ENTREE MAY BE EXCHANGED FOR MACARONI.
As can be imagined the dinner took a good time, but when at length it
drew to a close the company proceeded to the drawing room where they
settled down for some good music. Mr. Vermont was the first to
contribute to the entertainment. He played "Intermezzo" as a solo
violin, and the beautiful melody only added to both Mulberry's and
Gladys's happiness. Many others also played and sang, and at last by
dint of great persuasion Gladys consented to sing. She had a magnificent
clear soprano voice and as he listened Mulberry Beaufort fairly trembled
for joy.
In the midst of the proceedings the dowegar Lady Beaufort entered
(Mulberry's mother). She looked a great deal older than she was but she
was still very handsome.
Her hair was silvery white, but her eyes and complexion were very dark,
and she very much resembled her son. She was attired entirely in black
silk and white lace.
The reader may think it strange that Lady Beaufort did not make her
appearance at the table d'hote but to tell the truth she considered
herself rather too old for such things, her age being 75. She generally
partook of a plate of fricassed ham and a glass of sherry, by her own
fireside, but the last two nights she had partaken of her meal with
Helen.
During her repast she usually read Household Hints and then on coming
into the drawing room she had plenty to talk about. She had given her
son a great deal of hints as to how he should propose and now hearing
that he was accepted she made her way to where Gladys was sitting and
proceeded to give her some advice as to her future housekeeping. It
rather bored Gladys but being so far very high in Lady Beauforts
estimation, she tried her best to look interested.
At about 10-30, Lady Beaufort got up and played God save the queen on
the piano and several of guests joined in the chorus on their violins
and harps, soon after which, the people began to depart.
"Shall you have guests tomorrow night Mulberry?" enquired Gladys as
soon as the last visitor had strayed from the drawing room.
"No dear I dont think so, they tire me if I have them every night"
replied Mulberry.
"But you'll have the dinner I suppose?" eagerly asked Gladys.
"Of course" replied Mulberry with a shrug of the shoulders "as I told
you Gladys it is a nightly performance here."
"How nice!" gasped Gladys "well now Mulberry dear I will go and see how
Helen is; shall I say good night now?"
"If it pleases you dear" answered Mulberry.
Gladys kissed him fondly and then turned to Lady Beaufort who
accompanied her upstairs.
Lawrence and Mulberry then retired to the study for another glass of
burgandy before going to bed.
CHAPTER 30
THE DAWN OF LOVE
Some few weeks had elapsed since the aforesaid dinner party took place
and day by day Helen grew stronger, till at length Dr. Durham pronounced
her to be well enought to get up; in fact he went so far as to say that
a drive in the fresh air would do her good. As may be imagined it was a
happy day for everybody, when Helen attired in her new winter clothes
made her appearance in the large hall, ready for her first drive in the
open air since her illness commenced.
Gladys was also there and the nurse whom Mulberry had thought it
advisable to keep a little longer.
It was a nice bright day such as is seldom seen in the month of
November. The victoria stood at the door and the two beautifully groomed
bay horses were pauing the ground, eager to be off. Mulberry and
Lawrence saw them safely off and then as they turned into the study
Mulberry said "I think if Miss Winston is well enough, it would be a
good thing to drive to Cannon Street this afternoon and see about
reading that story of Sheenes."
"I think so too" replied Lawrence.
Neither of the men seemed at all inclined to settle down and after
wandering about a good deal, Mulberry threw himself down in a chair and
gave a yawn. There was silence for a little while and at last Lawrence
unexpectedly broke it by saying "I say Mulberry how long is it since
you and Gladys Lincarrol have been engaged?"
Mulberry turned a dull red and began to light his pipe. "Why do you want
to know?" he stammered at last.
"I'll tell you presently" replied Lawrence with a smile.
"Well I think it is about three or four weeks" answered Mulberry
shuffling about from one leg to the other.
"Is that all?" enquired Lawrence.
"Yes" replied Mulberry, "now tell me why you wanted to know.
It was now Laurence's turn to grow embarresed, "well the truth is" he
said at length "I am thinking of proposing to Helen Winston, and as I
have had no experience I would like a few hints as to how I should go."
Mulberry laughed "well you should go to my mother for hints" he replied
"she helped me very much during my little romance."
"Well I am afraid it would hardly do for me to go up and ask Lady
Beaufort to give me some hints, as I am about to propose" replied
Lawrence "she would be very much taken aback I should think."
"Not she" answered Mulberry with a shrug of his shoulders" she would
take it quite as a matter of course; but still if you dont care to ask
her, why not scribble her a note describing your position and I'll send
one of the maids up with it; why she would write you pages of advice."
"I dont want as much as all that" cried Lawrence "I want just a few
gentle hints as to how to be loving and look as if I was in ernest."
"Well why not write to my mother?" again repeated Mulberry.
"It would look so silly" said Lawrence "and yet I'm hard up for advice
and _you_ dont seem inclined to give me any"
"No, because you'd get it much better and more original from my mother"
replied Mulberry.
"Well then I'll risk writing" said Laurence getting up as he spoke "but
mind if Lady Beaufort is annoyed you must take the consequences because
I should never have dreamt of doing this without you."
"Oh I'll answer for the consequences" said Mulberry with an amused smile
as his friend sat down and taking a sheet of crested note paper
proceeded to pen the following lines:
LADY BEAUFORT
I hope you will excuse the liberty I take in
writing you these few words--but speaking honestly
I am in the very same difficulty as your son was a
little time ago and out of which you so cleaverly
helped him. Would it be asking too much of you to
do the same for me. I am about to propose to Helen
Winston and dont quite know how to express myself.
I want it to be quite a short proposal and one
quickly got through. Do you advise me to do it out
of doors or in. I am afraid I should get so
nervous in a drawing room, but of course it is
just as you think best. Might I have an answer to
this as soon as possible please.
Believe me,
Yours faithfully
LAWRENCE E. G. LINCARROL.
"Here now if Lady Beaufort turns that to ridicule its not my fault cried
Lawrence hastily screwing his epistle into a cocked hat.
"No of course not" replied Mulberry encouragingly ringing the bell as he
spoke, "now when the butler comes I'll tell him to send it up at once
and mark my words Lawrence you'll have a reply within three minutes from
now."
"I feel an awful ass" responded Lawrence throwing the note on the table
"but now I'm going out for a bit perhaps as you say I shall find an
answer waiting for me when I come back."
"No doubt of it" said Mulberry and with that Lawrence disappeared into
the hall.
The day was beautifully fine as I said before so Lawrence walked further
than he had at first meant to and coming back he met Helen, Gladys and
Mrs. Chizzle the nurse and at Helen's request he got into the carriage
and made one of the party home.
Helen looked quite her old self again. The same bright red colour was on
her cheeks and the old light in her eyes.
"I think the drive has done you good Miss Winston" remarked Lawrence
noting the change in her face.
"Yes, I feel so much better" answered Helen "we drove all round Hyde
Park and the air is really lovely for London."
"It is" replied Lawrence and then turning to the nurse he added "I
should think you are pleased with the progress your patient is making."
"Yes" assented Mrs. Chizzle "I am."
"Do you think Miss Winston, you are well enough to drive to Cannon
Street this afternoon and read Mr. Sheene's "story"? enquired Lawrence.
"Perfectly" replied Helen with a smile.
Lawrence was astounded, "you must be prepared for bad news" he said.
"I am already prepared" said Helen.
"For the very worst?" queried Lawrence.
"For anything" returned Helen
"That's alright then" replied Lawrence.
"Mulberry and I are going to tea with the Vermonts this afternoon, but
we need not start till 4 o'clock" said Gladys.
"It would'nt matter if you were a little late" answered Lawrence.
Just then the victoria stopped and after having helped the ladies to
alight, Lawrence went quickly to the study where as Lord Beaufort had
predicted an envelope lay waiting to be opened addressed to Lawrence in
the dowegor lady Beaufort's hand writing.
Lawrence blushed as he took up the bulky package and retired with it to
the privacy of his own bedroom, where we will leave him to read it in
silence.
A copy of the letter is given below:
Nov. 4th 18--
DEAR MR. LINCARROL
It is with great pleasure that I comply with your
wishes. It is not the first time I have been
appealed to under such circumstances. There is an
art in proposing as well as in every thing. If you
are liable to nervousness, do not propose indoors.
There is a very nice little nook in the back
garden by the crocus bed, where my own romance
took place. It is quite unfrequented from 11 to 1
and from 3 to 6.
Be careful not to be too sudden or you will make
the girl shy, but do it by degrees. Keep as close
to her as you can after she has accepted (which if
you manage it with tact she is sure to do) draw
her to you and murmer soft words.
If you wish for more details do not hesitate to
write to me. Wishing you every success.
I remain
Yours etc.
CRISTINA BEAUFORT.
Lawrence folded the above and carefully put it in his blotting pad, and
then with a sigh of relief he brushed his hair and went down to lunch.
CHAPTER 31
Helen was pronounced quite well enough to drive to the office that
afternoon; so accordingly the victoria was again brought to the front
door and Helen, Lawrence and Mulberry all got in. It was not considered
necessary for Gladys to go too.
On arriving at Cannon Street Netherby opened the door of the office, for
he expected them all the morning. Mr. Spriggs (the solicitor) was there
too.
Helen was soon seated at the desk and the roll of paper, containing
Cyril's story was untied amidst a breathless silence.
It was very touchingly written and stated how Cyril, led away by Mr.
Palsey, had contrived to find out where Mr. Winston kept his money; and
how, still under Mr. Palsey's influence had gone up to Warwick to plan
the murder of poor John Winston. He fully acknowledged his guilt, but
declared over and over again that he never would have done it without
Mr. Palsey's aid. It ended by a heartfelt intreaty for forgiveness.
Helen's voice faltered a little in places, but she never really broke
down till the last word had fallen from her lips, then she sobbed
softly, while Mr. Spriggs bustled about and put away the papers.
Lawrence took Helen's hand and tried to comfort her but it seemed
useless.
Meanwhile Lord Beaufort sought out Netherby and engaged him as footman.
The poor man was highly delighted for he was getting no pay at present
and as every one knew Mulbery Beaufort was not at all scanty in the way
of wages.
Helen seemed very dull and depressed all the way home but she shed no
more tears.
Soon after 5 o'clock Lawrence began to grow very restless so lighting a
cigarette he strolled into the garden to enjoy the last glimpse of
day-light. Some how his steps led him to the crocus bed and here he
continued to walk up and down his thoughts occupied with Helen Winston.