Bundle led the talk on to the topic of Gerald Wade’s death. Mrs. Howell was only too willing to talk about it, and was full of pitying ejaculations about the poor young gentleman, but Bundle gleaned nothing new.

Presently she took leave of Mrs. Howell and came downstairs again, where she promptly rang for Tredwell.

“Tredwell, when did Alfred leave?”

“It would be about a month ago now, my lady.”

“Why did he leave?”

“It was by his own wish, my lady. I believe he has gone to London. I was not dissatisfied with him in any way. I think you will find the new footman, John, very satisfactory. He seems to know his work and to be most anxious to give satisfaction.”