In the momentary silence which followed, the
even breathing of the woman in the adjoining room could be distinctly
heard. It seemed to affect Mr. Ransom deeply, though he strove hard to
maintain the business-like attitude he had assumed from the beginning
of this unofficial examination.
"She has confided nothing more to you since your return from the river
bank?" suggested the lawyer.
"No."
The word came sharply, considering Mr. Ransom's usual manner. The lawyer
showed surprise but no resentment, and turned his attention to the bag
both had noted lying open on two chairs.
"Nothing equivocal here," he declared, after a moment's careful scrutiny
of its remaining contents. "The only comment I should make in regard to
what I find here is that all the articles are less carefully chosen than
you would expect from one of your wife's fondness for fine appointments."
"They were collected in a hurry and possibly by telephone," returned the
unhappy husband, after a shrinking glance into the bag. "The ones she
provided in anticipation of her wedding are at the hotel in New York. In
the trunks and bags there you will find articles as elegant as you could
wish." Here he turned to the dresser, and pointed to the various objects
grouped upon it.
"These show that she arranged herself with care for her meeting with you
last night.
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