There was a letter on the table, which he opened at once. It contained
the following lines:--
'The double S are comparing notes, and various rumours are in
circulation amongst that set.'
He put the letter in his pocket, and, turning to Netta, told her to go
into the bedroom and take off her own and Minette's bonnet, as they must
stay for a little while where they were.
'Not here, papa,' said Minette, beginning to cry. 'I don't like this
place.'
'Hold your tongue!' said her father sternly, as Netta led her out of the
room.
'Netta,' whispered Howel, 'our name is Mills here--just for a time
only.'
When Netta went into the close, dark bedroom at the back of the
sitting-room, she took off her sobbing child's things, set her on her
lap, and by degrees soothed her to sleep. She laid her on such a bed as
she had assuredly never slept on before, and then returned to Howel.
She stood before him pale and resolute. He was pacing the room rapidly,
and muttering to himself.
'Howel, I must know all! What is the matter? What is to become of us?'
she said.
'We must not be seen by our friends for a time, dear Netta, because I
am liable to be arrested. Will you mind staying here a day or two alone?
I must go away for a short time on business but will return and remove
you when it is settled.
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