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 had taken his departure, she sat in a sort of stupor, taking no note of objects round her, and unaware that she was alone, when she was startled by the entrance of Mrs. Wilcox.

The air of that lady was portentous.

"Miss Semaphore," she said, "there is something I have been anxious to say to you for several days back, but did not like to speak while you were ill. Now, however, that you are able to receive visitors"—with sarcastic emphasis—"I think you are well enough to hear what I have got to say. It is this, that I desire that you will look for accommodation elsewhere, and leave my house at the very earliest opportunity."

"You mean to turn me out?" asked Prudence in alarm.

"Far be it from me to turn anyone out," said Mrs. Wilcox. "I merely request you to leave."

"But why?" said Prudence timidly.

"Why?" echoed Mrs. Wilcox almost in a shriek. "Why? I think you had better ask yourself that question, Miss Semaphore. I have always tried to keep my house respectable, and I must say, Miss Semaphore, if I was to die for it, that I looked to you and your sister to aid me in that endeavour,