I usually leave to Mary but which I thought it well to perform myself that night.
As I came down the stairs I saw Mary herself at the side window of the hall, which she closed and fastened as I approached.
“ ‘Tell me, dad,’ said she, looking, I thought, a little disturbed, ‘did you give Lucy, the maid, leave to go out tonight?’
“ ‘Certainly not.’
“ ‘She came in just now by the back door. I have no doubt that she has only been to the side gate to see someone, but I think that it is hardly safe and should be stopped.’
“ ‘You must speak to her in the morning, or I will if you prefer it. Are you sure that everything is fastened?’
“ ‘Quite sure, dad.’
“ ‘Then, good night.’ I kissed her and went up to my bedroom again, where I