The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 242: what you’re looking at

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

THE DOCTOR’S SECRET 295 he issued forth from Doctor Maravelli’s establishment, to institute certain inquiries necessary for the carrying out of his mission with regard to the Princess of Wales. In the meantime, and very shortly after Jocelyn had left Mrs. Roberts in the drawing-room, in the forenoon, according to the suggestion of Doctor Maravelli, the new lodger, Mrs. Montague, arrived at the establishment and was received by the physician. She was accompanied by her lady’s-maid, and was evidently of rank and distinction, as she was as- —suredly of great personal beauty. In none of these particu- lars had the doctor at all exaggerated. Mavolta, being likewise in attendance, at once escorted Mrs. Montague to the drawing-room, but the moment she threw open the door and the eyes of the newcoming English lady encountered those of Mrs. Roberts, who had risen trom her seat to receive her, each started with the suddenness of an amazed recognition. . Mavolta did not observe what thus passed, but closing the door behind Mrs. Montague, left her and Mrs. Roberts alone together. “Is it possible? ’’ exclaimed one. ‘‘ And I also ask, is it possible? ”’ cried the other. Then there was a pause, a very awkward pause of upwards of a minute, during which the two ladies evidently knew not exactly what course to pursue toward each other. But at length Mrs. Roberts advanced, extending her hand, and saying, “ We meet under circumstances that should quench all hostile feeling.”’ “ Agreed,’’ returned Mrs. Montague, and they shook hands accordingly. But here we must leave them, for the present, to discuss their several grievances, compare notes of their plans, and, in a word, indulge in those reciprocal outpourings of con- fidence which were so natural with two females in their condition. COMMICLOO <S) (C(O) im