Richard Forrest, Bachelor — page 54: what you’re looking at

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

THE YOUNG WIDOW. 45 was something familiar about her, but as her back was toward her, Mrs. French did not recognize her at once. As she stepped through the portieres, however, the caller turned her head, and a half-suppressed exclamation broke from Mrs. French. ‘‘Miss Delmar!’’ she cried. ‘ Yes,’’ was the answer, ‘“‘it is I. Are you so surprised, then, to see me, Mrs. French?”’ ‘Somewhat, I must confess,’’ replied Mrs. French, strug- gling to regain her composure. ‘‘I believe this is the first time I have ever had the pleasure of a visit from you. But pray sit down.’’ “Mrs. French,’’ began Rose, without further prelimi- nary, “‘I have come to you for news of my sister. Two weeks ago she went away from home, leaving me no word except a note saying that it would be useless for me to try to follow her. Of course I should have done so, notwith- standing, had I been able, but the shock made me seriously ill, and this is the first time I have been out since she left. Knowing how intimate you and she were, and that it was at your house certain events took place, I thought—no, I am sure, you can give me some clew as to her where- abouts. ”’ Her white face and uncertain voice told what an effort this speech cost Rose. ‘“Why, Miss Delmar——’’ began Mrs. French, but Rose interrupted her. ‘‘Do not beat about the bush,’’ she said, ‘‘for you cannot deceive me. You can put me on her track if any one can, and I beg you for pity’s sake to do so.”’ ‘**But, my dear Miss Delmar,’’ re-commenced Mrs. French, Gomichbookseeco im