“I was: I know that; and you hinted a while ago at something which had happened in my absence:⁠—nothing, probably, of consequence; but, in short, it has disturbed you. Let me hear it. Mrs. Fairfax has said something, perhaps? or you have overheard the servants talk?⁠—your sensitive self-respect has been wounded?”

“No, sir.” It struck twelve⁠—I waited till the timepiece had concluded its silver chime, and the clock its hoarse, vibrating stroke, and then I proceeded.