The Dugdale Millions — page 153: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

CONFLICTING INTERESTS. 143 By the latter, it was taken to mean that a point of more than usual significance had been reached in the search, but though burning with curiosity and greatly desiring to ask if the heir had been found, she puta curb upon herself and refrained from questioning. Mrs. Stanton, however, took an entirely different view. ‘‘Something extraordinary has happened,’’ she said, in whispered confidence to her niece. ‘‘Something dreadful. It must be very bad if they are driven to consult Mr. Hetlow. I have felt that something bad would occur, ever since I saw that woman here yester- day. Icut the cards last night, and the heart woman in a red shawl turned up every time.’”’ ‘‘Nonsense, auntie,’’ replied Wallis, with no little vexation. ‘‘I do not doubt but that Mr. Mason has found young Dugdale. From his serious manner, I should not wonder if something is wrong about him, now that he is found.’’ ‘*Young Dugdale!’’ cried Mrs. Stanton, in supreme contempt, too indignant to say more, as she swept away, leaving Wallis to follow at her leisure. The messenger returned, asking Dick to come over immediately. Mr. Hetlow awaited his visitors in the library, and as they entered, he exclaimed: ‘“‘O Mason! I see by your face you have made the discovery.’’ ‘‘It would appear so,’’ replied Dick gravely. The three men gathered about the hbrary table and Dick began his tale. He was possessed of one of those rare memories which carry words and incidents with vivid photographic accuracy. He related his experiences of the day clearly and minutely, omitting nothing, however trivial. When he had finished, Mr. Hetlow who, by the expression of his face, rather than by any comments made, had shown his disappoint- ment, said: ot be express no opinion, Mason. What do you nok of it?’’ 9 Comiclboolk<s C@ 3