Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/100

 "I noticed this evening that you seemed uneasy when I spoke of attending the function on Wednesday, and so resolved not to go. When the festivities are finished, tell your husband I called, and ask him to pay me a visit at this hour on Wednesday night, as I wish to consult him about several matters relating to the estate."

The careworn woman departed after embarrassing him with her thanks. Stranleigh sat down again, deep in thought.

"Of course," he said to himself, "Wilson stole the five thousand, and her warning will give him time to bolt. He can be over in France, or off to America, before a slack man like me raises a hue and cry. He'll desert her, but I will grant her a pension, and that may be some consolation."

Imagine Stranleigh's astonishment when at nine o'clock on Wednesday evening he learned that Mr. Wilson wished to see him. On being shown into the study the agent bade his master a curt good-evening, but made no offer to shake hands. Without being invited, he helped himself to a chair, which he drew up to the table.

When he was announced, Stranleigh expected to meet an exaggeration of that cringing manner which always distinguished Wilson's approach when he