The
public proceedings had brought to light nothing whatever that seemed
in conflict with medical evidence and the finding of the coroner's
jury. One dangerous witness had necessarily come forward--Mrs.
Wade's servant; but the girl made no kind of allusion to Northway's
visit--didn't, in her own mind, connect it with Mrs. Quarrier's
behaviour. She was merely asked to describe in what way the
unfortunate lady had left the house. In Glazzard and Mrs. Wade,
Denzil of course reposed perfect confidence. Northway, if need were,
could and should be bought off.
Toby Liversedge got wind of the scandal in circulation, and his rage
knew no bounds. Lest his wife should somehow make the discovery, he
felt obliged to speak to her--representing the change in its
mildest form.
"There's a vile story going about that Lilian was jealous of Mrs.
Wade's influence with Denzil; that the two quarrelled that day at
the cottage, and the poor girl drowned herself in despair."
Mary looked shocked, but was silent.
"I suppose," added her husband, "we must be prepared for all sorts
of rumours. The thing is unintelligible to people in general. Any
one who knew her, and saw her those last days, can understand it
only too well."
"Yes," murmured Mrs. Liversedge, with sad thought fulness.
She would not speak further on the subject, and Toby concluded that
the mere suggestion gave her offence.
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