Soon Coventry was heard returning. Jean listened with suspended breath to catch his first words, for he was not alone.
"Since you insist that it was you and not your mistress, I let it pass, although I still have my suspicions. Tell Miss Beaufort I desire to see her for a few moments in the library. Now go, Dean, and be careful for the future, if you wish to stay in my house."
The maid retired, and the young man came in looking both ireful and stern.
"I wish I had said nothing, but I was startled, and spoke involuntarily. Now you are angry, and I have made fresh trouble for poor Miss Lucia. Forgive me as I forgive her, and let it pass. I have learned to bear this surveillance, and pity her causeless jealousy," said Jean with a self-reproachful air.
"I will forgive the dishonorable act,
