The Mysteries of the Court of London — page 101: what you’re looking at

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

THE MISER 83 “Mr. Pollard,” said Lettice Rodney, for she indeed the visitress was, ‘‘ we meet again after a long interval.” “Tt is then you, Louisa,”’ said the old miser, and he took Lettice’s hand. “ Walk in; I have been expecting you. How is it that you came not before? You must speak loud, for I am afflicted with deafness.” “IT experienced an accident,’’ answered Lettice, ‘‘ which detained me for a few days.” “ What! on the railway? ” ejaculated Pollard. “Yes; I was in the train which ran off the lines and upset, causing such dreadful injuries and loss of life.” “Indeed! It was suggested to me,” continued Pollard, “that you might be a passenger by that ill-fated train, and I was not altogether without the apprehension that you yourself might have been the unfortunate lady who was not recognized. However, I am heartily glad that it is other- wise, and I give you such poor welcome as my house can afford. Step into the parlour;” then, as he led the way thither, he exclaimed, with an air of vexation, ‘‘ Dear me, how provoking. That housekeeper of mine has let the fire go out,”’ although he perfectly well knew that such was the case. “Pray, my dear Mr. Pollard,” said Lettice, assuming a tone and manner of the sweetest affability, “do not put yourself out of the way on my account. Indeed, I am well aware that it is an unseemly hour for me to call, but I con- sidered it my duty-to pay my respects the very first moment of my arrival in your town. I have only just stepped from the train —”’ “And you will take refreshment?” said Mr. Pollard, advancing toward the bell-pull. “No, I thank you,” responded Lettice, “‘ I am wearied, and still unwell from the effects of the recent accident. Now that I have paid my respects and satisfied myself that you are in good health, I will repair to some hotel, and to- morrow will wait upon you at any hour you may choose to appoint.” “T thought that perhaps you would make my house your home for a day or two,” answered Pollard; “ indeed, your bedchamber is in readiness. It is the very same you occu- pied ten years ago.” “You are exceedingly kind,’ answered Lettice, ‘‘ and CORNICLOO SS (E() im