The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 284: what you’re looking at

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CHAPTER XXV THE CRIME DEBATED STERN, resolute, and implacable in the purpose she had formed, Mrs. Ranger betook herself direct to the city, and on reaching the neighbourhood of Maravelli’s abode, she entered a wine-shop, answering to the description of a London ~ public-house, and desired to be shown to a private apart- ment. This demand was immediately complied with, and having ordered refreshments, for the sake of appearances, — though Heaven knows she was in no humour to eat, — she likewise directed writing materials to be brought up. Then, having penned a hasty note to Maravelli, she despatched it by the waiter of the wine-shop, whom she charged to answer no questions which might be put to him by any person save the doctor himselt. The man departed to execute his commission, and in ten minutes he returned, followed by Doctor Maravelli, whom he had found at home and who at once hastened to obey Mrs. Ranger’s summons. ‘““ My dear madam,” said the physician, who had scarcely been able to conceal his agitation in the presence of the waiter, and who now gave free vent to his alarms the mo- ment that individual had quitted the room, ‘‘ what, in Heaven’s name, means this mysterious proceeding? Why not come direct to my house, as usual? Why send for me hither? Ah! madam, a terrible presentiment of evil hangs upon my soul.”’ “Sit down, sit down,” said Mrs. Ranger, whose looks denoted a dark and sinister resolution. ‘‘ We have much to talk about.” “Good God! your tone and manner frighten me,’ said Maravelli, sinking upon a seat, as if in a state of exhaustion. | 267 y] CORNICLOOL! CS (C(O)