He went quickly to Pall
Mall, and entered a coffee-house there. A man at once rose from a corner
to attract his attention. It was Martin Fairley.
"She evidently expected someone to-night," said Fellowes in a low tone
as they sat down together, "but I cannot guess who, nor whether it was
man or woman. Of one thing I am certain, whoever she expected, Mistress
Lanison was disappointed."
"Who was there?"
"Sir John Lanison for one, Martin. No, his niece did not expect him, nor
Lady Bolsover either. His arrival was a surprise to both of them."
"And to me," Martin answered; "but it is bad news. What brings him from
Aylingford? Can Rosmore be in town?"
"No, that is impossible," returned Fellowes. "He is busy with
preparations for the assizes, and is in command of the military force
placed at the disposal of Judge Jeffreys. For the present Rosmore is
tied to the West. I would he might find a speedy grave there."
"Sir John comes like an ill-omened bird; I wish I knew his reason," said
Martin thoughtfully. "Did he speak with his niece?"
"A few words only, and there was the courtesy as of strangers between
them. I could not hear what was said, but it was nothing that had any
special interest for Mistress Lanison.
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