J. J. Bell

“ His eyes looked worried, but his smile at her asperity was good-humored. “I will do everything I can, Miss Gosling,” he said, “for I want the treasure, if it is there, pretty badly.”
“Don't you feel sure it's there?”
“I should not be surprised, now that I come to think of it. I was never particularly curious about my uncle's affairs, but I heard from a friend, a few hours ago, how much he had left, one way and another, and I confess the total sum struck me as small. I just wish I could imagine a reason for my uncle's extraordinary method of informing me of my good fortune.” ”

“ MISS GOSLING turned to Grant. Impatience had ousted penitence for the time being. “Really, you are a very trying young man! Are you going to do nothing at all? If there is a treasure waiting for you,—and I'm convinced there is,—aren't you going to make any effort to secure it?” ”

“ But she hoped you could put her up for the night, ma'am. She had a handbag with her.”
“Very well,” said Joan, suppressing her feelings with no small effort. “I will see Miss Lismore immediately.” She had no fault to find with the maid: Elm House knew no guest more familiar than Lottie Lismore.
“Which room shall I prepare, ma'am?”
“I will let you know presently.”
THE instant the door closed Miss Gosling exclaimed: “Go at once, Joan. Don't give her time to think, and you may learn whether or not she has overheard anything. ”