Good Books

Then he put out the light and left the room,
closing the door after him with careful noiselessness. Descending the
broad stairs slowly, his face changed from its late look of tenderness
to one of stern and patient coldness, which was evidently its habitual
expression. He addressed himself to Briggs, who was lounging aimlessly
in the hall.
"Her ladyship is out?"
"Yes, my lord! Gone to the theayter with Sir Francis Lennox."
Lord Winsleigh turned upon him sharply. "I did not ask you, Briggs,
_where_ she had gone, or _who_ accompanied her. Have the goodness to
answer my questions simply, without adding useless and unnecessary
details."
Briggs's mouth opened a little in amazement at his master's peremptory
tone, but he answered promptly--
"Very good, my lord!"
Lord Winsleigh paused a moment, and seemed to consider. Then he said--
"See that her ladyship's supper is prepared in the dining-room. She will
most probably return rather late. Should she inquire for me, say I am at
the Carlton.


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